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FY2020 Annual Report · Schweitzer-Mauduit International
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25 August 2020 

Company Announcements Office 
Australian Securities Exchange Limited 
20 Bridge Street 
SYDNEY  NSW  2000 

2020 ANNUAL REPORT 

Seven West Media Limited (ASX: SWM) attaches the Annual Report for the full year 
ended 27 June 2020. 

Ends. 

This release has been authorised to be given to ASX by the Board of Seven West 
Media Limited. 

For more details: 

Alan Stuart 
Investors/Analysts 
T: +61 2 8777 7211  
E: astuart@seven.com.au 

Julia Lefort  
Media 
T: +61 415 661 128 
E: jlefort@seven.com.au 

Seven West Media Limited  / 50 Hasler Road, Osborne Park WA 6017 Australia  /  PO Box 7077, Alexandria NSW 2015 Australia 
T  +61 2 8777 7777  /  ABN 91 053 480 845

 
 
 
closer  
to the 
moments 
that  
move us

Annual
 Report 
2020

Contents

Our Strategy
Who We Are 

Our Strategic Framework 

Executive Letter
Letter from the Chairman 

Letter from the  
Managing Director and  
Chief Executive Officer 

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

Seven  

The West Australian 

Other 

Corporate Social 
Responsibility
Risk, Environment & People  

Seven in the Community  

1

2

4

6

8

12

16

18

 20

25

Governance
Board of Directors 

Corporate Governance  
Statement 

Directors’ Report 

Remuneration Report 

Auditor’s Independence  
Declaration 

Financial Statements
Financial Statements  

Directors’ Declaration 

Independent Auditor’s Report 

Investor Information 

Shareholder Information 

Company Information 

28

31

43

48

71

 72

133

134

140

141

143

Who We Are
Transforming to lead

Seven West Media is being transformed to drive  
long-term success. 

We are an audience-centric business that 
creates and delivers premium content.

We cultivate Australian audiences by 
engaging them through our news, sport  
and entertainment content across television, 
newspapers and our rapidly growing digital 
platforms.

We are talent-led. Bringing Australians 
closer to the moments that move them, our 
people deliver compelling content across our 
network to inform, inspire and entertain.

Our deep connections with advertisers, 
technology, data and insights are core 
to our existence and we invest in these 
accordingly.

We will emerge from the transformation 
of Seven West Media a leaner, stronger 
business – positioned to win as a media 
company of the future.

Broadcast

Digital

1
1

Our Strategic Priorities and 
Performance Dashboard

We defined a new strategy in FY20 with the aim to accelerate 
the transformation of the company, position it as a media 
company for the future and grow shareholder value. 

Our strategic priorities focus on three key pillars to drive our long-term growth strategy. Our performance 
dashboard tracks the accomplishments and progress against these strategic pillars.

The COVID-19 pandemic has been highly disruptive to the media sector, with productions delayed, 
cancellation of sporting events including the Olympics and a significant decline in advertising revenue 
during the period. Despite these challenges, we accelerated the implementation of transformation 
initiatives and executed temporary measures to partially offset the effect on our business.

Content led growth

Transformation

 > Revitalise our entertainment 

programming, creating momentum  
to engage heartland Australia

 > Sharpen our focus on being an 

audience and sales led organisation

 > Redefine our working practices,  

 > Be the most relevant and exciting  

becoming more efficient and effective

offer to advertisers

 > Explore a meaningful  
streaming partnership

 > Explore traditional adjacencies
 > Explore non-traditional adjacencies

Milestones Achieved
 > Revitalised entertainment content 

strategy premiered with Big Brother, 
delivering highest P25–54 audience 
share in a decade

 > #1 CFTA BVOD audience share 
achieved in 2H20 with audience 
growth comfortably outpacing market

 > News and Sports franchises maintain  

long-term #1 position in market

Milestones Achieved
 > Actioned $170m in gross cost out 

initiatives in FY20

 > Lowest cost base since 2003,  

down 20 per cent 

 > Transformation initiatives deliver 

lowest TV cost base since 2007 and 
lowest TV staff base since 2003

 > Revised and extended AFL contract 
with net savings of $87m over the 
existing contract period to 2022 

2

01Section 1: Our strategy Seven West Media Limited Annual Report 2020Capital Structure & 
Balance Sheet

 > Maintain focus to work  
down debt and improve 
balance sheet flexibility

 > Explore M&A opportunities

Milestones Achieved
 > Divested three non-core 

assets delivering  
$150m in proceeds

 > Bank facilities amended  

with debt extension to 2022

 > Secured 14.9 per cent  
strategic stake in  
Prime providing  
long-term optionality

3

Letter from  
the Chairman

Welcome to our 2020 annual report for shareholders.

The last 12 months have arguably been the most tumultuous 
period in history for Seven West Media, the rest of the media 
sector and global economy, the effects of which will be felt by 
all of us for many months to come.

At the start of the financial year we gave a clear mandate 
to our incoming Managing Director and Chief Executive 
Officer James Warburton to make the necessary changes 
to put the Group in a winning position with improved 
financial, operational and programming strategies.

The continuation of our success in AFL, cricket, news and 
public affairs programs, as well as a revitalised prime time 
schedule, necessary cost cutting in operations and sales 
of non-core assets, were positioning Seven West Media 
well for the year.

However, the bushfires and the onset of the ongoing 
COVID-19 crisis in early 2020 dented consumer 
confidence and business activity across Australia,  
with the media one of the economy’s leading sectors 
bearing the brunt of the pain as a result of lower 
advertising expenditure.

The crises did highlight Seven’s leadership in news and 
public affairs, with millions more viewers tuning in to 
Sunrise, our news bulletins, special programs and digital 
platforms as a trusted source where they could keep 
abreast of developments throughout the day.

The unprecedented set of difficult economic conditions 
continued to create an environment where your Board  
and executive team had to make very difficult decisions  
to shore up our business to withstand any further shocks.

This strategy has involved the further divestment of 
non-core assets and a much sharper focus on our cost 
structure, which sadly has also resulted in the departure of 
valued staff who have made significant contributions to the 
Group over many years. They have our greatest respect 
and we wish them well in the future.

Australians continue to look for a trusted source of news 
and information from their local broadcasters, which invest 
heavily in content, employ thousands of people and pay a 
fair share of tax, while also complying with local content 
quotas and Code of Practice.

Meanwhile foreign owned online platforms, which pay  
little tax in Australia, operate on an entirely different 
playing field without being constrained by these 
requirements and often the law.

We welcome the very effective work being performed by 
the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission in 
bringing these platforms to account for the damage they 
are causing to jobs, the integrity of news gathering and 
established, law abiding businesses in Australia and the 
rest of the world. 

We urge political parties from all sides to implement 
changes in legislation recommended by the Australian 
Competition and Consumer Commission, in particular 
where these platforms are no longer described as carriers 
but publishers in a first step.

The continuation of our success in AFL, cricket, news 
and public affairs programs, as well as a revitalised 
prime time schedule, necessary cost cutting in 
operations and sales of non-core assets, were 
positioning Seven West Media well for the year

4

02Section 2: Executive Letters Seven West Media Limited Annual Report 2020The COVID-19 crisis has highlighted the many challenges the 
worldwide media sector faces and your Board and management 
continue to put in place initiatives allowing us to ride through the 
current environment, but also look forward to a much brighter 
future as economic conditions recover.

We are already seeing success with a new programming 
schedule introduced by James and his team, which has seen the 
network regain our ratings leadership position in recent months.

The team has successfully re-negotiated our rights contracts 
in AFL and horse racing, with other sports and programming 
contracts identified for new deals.

On the back of the new night time programming schedule  
and the continuing strength of our sport, news and public affairs 
content, we believe Seven is now in a long-term winning position 
and is best placed to be the first and strongest to recover from 
the current difficulties.  

On behalf of the Board, I thank you, our shareholders,  
and staff for your ongoing support of Seven West Media as  
we continue to navigate our way through the very choppy  
waters in the economy. 

Kerry Stokes AC 
Chairman

5

Section 2: Executive Letters Seven West Media Limited Annual Report 2020Letter from the  
Managing Director and  
Chief Executive Officer

The past 12 months has been a period of significant change for 
Seven West Media.

Having joined as Managing Director and Chief Executive 
Officer this financial year, I’ve had the privilege of being 
able to articulate a new strategy for SWM that will drive 
the transformation of the business and position it for  
the future. 

Our strategy is multi-pronged and focuses on three  
key strategic pillars: 

 > Content Led Growth: a new tentpole strategy  

to complement the strength of Seven’s dominant  
daily spine of news, sport and entertainment, and  
The West Australian’s unparalleled presence in 
Western Australia. 

Shifting our content to a more advertising-friendly 
demographic with a refresh already underway. Digital 
assets at Seven and The West Australian play a critical 
role in this strategy to broaden distribution of this 
content and drive growth for our business. 

 > Transformation: sharpening our focus to be an 

audience and sales-led organisation, while redefining 
our operating model for the future to become a more 
streamlined business across both television and 
newspapers.

 > Capital Structure & Balance Sheet: establishing  

an optimal capital structure while continuing to work 
down debt as a priority to provide us greater flexibility. 

The extraordinary financial, operational and social impact 
of the global COVID-19 pandemic on SWM as well as the 
Australian and global economy at large has been sudden, 
severe and well-documented. 

The advertising market has been significantly impacted. 
Productions were disrupted and forced to cancel or 
be rescheduled. The Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games were 
postponed and the AFL had to radically revise its schedule 
to ensure the 2020 season could proceed. 

Notwithstanding these headwinds SWM has demonstrated 
agility in extraordinary circumstances as we have continued 
to execute this strategy, even accelerating the pace in order 
to adapt to the unprecedented conditions while delivering 
the necessary business transformation. 

Key achievements

Content led growth

We launched our new tentpole strategy in early June with 
the premiere of Big Brother. This delivered a substantial 
improvement in our ratings performance, particularly in the 
key demographics explicitly targeted. 

Our target audience growth in more advertiser-friendly 
demographics was achieved with significant year-on-
year growth in the all-important p25-54s (up 67 per 
cent) while still seeing us grow in total people. Driving our 
ratings success throughout the year was the existing daily 
programming spine that continued to perform exceptionally 
well. Our public affairs programs 7NEWS, Sunrise and 
The Morning Show each continued to dominate in their 
respective categories, as did Home and Away and  
The Chase. Seven’s coverage of sport has continued to 
underpin the AFL and Cricket as Australia’s number one 
winter and summer sports respectively.

Intense focus on our broadcast video on demand platform 
(BVOD) has seen 7plus dominate its competitors to become 
the top service in the commercial free-to-air television 
landscape in the final months of the reporting period. 

7plus claimed the leading market position in the fourth 
quarter capturing 46 per cent share of viewing. In the  
2020 financial year streaming minutes on 7plus grew  
by 53 per cent. 

The new content strategy will continue to be executed 
throughout 2020 with three more tentpoles before the  
end the year - Farmer Wants a Wife, Plate of Origin and 
SAS Australia. Each of these has been scheduled to 
continue the delivery of refreshed and exciting primetime 
content that attracts bigger audiences to the Seven network 
across all platforms. 

The execution of this strategy will continue into 2021 
with the commissioning of four new tentpoles including a 
new season of Big Brother. Reflecting our shift towards 
externally produced established formats with proven 
success, SWM will work with external partners to deliver 
these productions, which are intended to drive audiences 
in key demographic groups. 

6

02Section 2: Executive Letters Seven West Media Limited Annual Report 2020Our West Australian Newspapers business is undergoing 
a detailed review and subsequent transformation by the 
management team.

Additional initiatives are underway in the pursuit of working 
down our debt, including a number of asset sale processes 
we continue to explore: the TXA transmission facilities with 
Goldman Sachs; Seven Studios with Morgan Stanley and 
SWM Ventures with Grant Samuel.

We are focussed, we are determined, and I am confident we 
will transform this business to return to its leadership position 
and drive growth for our shareholders.

Finally, on behalf of the Board and the executive leadership 
team I would like to thank all my colleagues at Seven West 
Media for their dedication, sacrifice and continued delivery 
throughout FY20. While it has been a challenging year, I am 
confident the passion and dedication of SWM’s people will 
deliver our strategy and ambitions for the future.

James Warburton 
Managing Director and  
Chief Executive Officer

Transformation

We have actioned $170 million of gross cost out initiatives  
this year across both our television and newspaper 
businesses, which will be realised across the 2020 and 
2021 financial years. As a result of these changes SWM 
will end FY21 with the lowest television cost base since 
2007. Similarly, we will have in place the lowest headcount 
since 2003 after a 20 per cent reduction over the last 
twelve months. 

In addition, our proactive response to COVID-19 included 
implementing $50 million of temporary cost savings in the 
2020 financial year. These temporary savings included cost 
deferrals due to production disruptions and subsequent 
content delays, sports rights deferrals, a three-month 
salary reduction and the Federal Government’s JobKeeper 
contribution. Most are one-off in nature and therefore these 
expenses will return in FY21.

Capital Structure and Balance Sheet 

A key priority for SWM has been to reduce debt and  
ensure liquidity throughout the uncertain COVID-19 
economic environment while we pursue the transformation 
of the business. 

A number of asset sales executed over the financial year 
has delivered total proceeds to the business of $150 million. 
These were Redwave Radio in Western Australia yielding 
$28 million; Pacific Magazines – $40 million; the sale and 
leaseback of West Australian Newspapers Osborne Park 
facility for $75 million and the sale and leaseback of a 
property in Maroochydore for $7 million. 

In July 2020 we announced the amendment of our debt 
facilities, extending the maturity and establishing new 
debt covenants. The amended facilities provide us the 
flexibility to pursue our transformation strategy in what 
continues to be an uncertain operating environment.

Advertising market

Advertising market conditions were challenging prior to the 
impact of COVID-19. In the financial year, the metropolitan 
TV market declined 14.1 per cent, and 33.7 per cent in Q4. 

The network secured a 37.4 per cent free to air share in the 
financial year, which was impacted by limited sport and an 
underperforming entertainment line-up.

Despite this, the BVOD market continued to grow strongly up 
30.5 per cent in FY20, and 7plus delivered a 32 per cent share. 

Outlook

While we have achieved many major milestones this year, 
we continue to focus on transforming our business for the 
future. We have seven new tentpoles in the pipeline, which 
will launch in 2020 and 2021 calendar years to engage 
audiences and advertisers alike.  

Our focus on establishing a lean, efficient operating cost 
base will deliver further savings in the 2021 financial 
year. This will include the ongoing negotiation of existing 
sports rights and driving greater efficiencies across our 
operating model. 

7

Section 2: Executive Letters Seven West Media Limited Annual Report 2020Section 3: Review of Operations 
Seven West Media Limited Annual Report 2020

Group Performance  
Key Highlights

Relaunched content strategy 
delivers growth in

7plus is

25–54

audiences

AFL contract 
renegotiated 
and extended

CFTA BVOD 
service at 
year end

#1
$87m

savings

FY20 cost initiatives actioned

Net debt reduced to

$170m

Completed divestment 
of three non-core 
assets for proceeds of

<$400m
$150m

8

03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 (loss) before significant items and tax from continuing operations

Significant items excluding tax

Profit (loss) before tax from continuing operations

Tax (expense) benefit 

Profit (loss) after tax from continuing operations

EBITDA margin

EPS from continuing operations

Basic EPS

Basic EPS excluding significant items net of tax

Diluted EPS

Diluted EPS excluding significant items net of tax

FY20
$m

FY194
$m

Change
3%

-14%

-81%

5%

-14%

-7%

-49%

-23%

-54%

-16%

-65%

-42%

-34%

-20%

-39%

 1,226,371 

 1,423,388 

 676 

 1,203 

 1,228,250 

(1,098,671)

 129,579 

(30,925)

 98,654 

(40,593)

 58,061 

(351,992)

(293,931)

93,880 

(200,051)

 3,615 

 1,141 

 1,428,144 

(1,175,213)

 252,931 

(40,119)

 212,812 

(48,141)

 164,671 

(609,167)

(444,496)

116,900 

(327,596)

10.6%

17.7%

(13.1 cents)

(21.5 cents)

2.7 cents

16.5 cents

(13.1 cents)

(21.5 cents)

2.7 cents

16.5 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) Prior year figures have been restated for AASB 16, amendments to AASB 112 and discontinued operations.
(5) “nm” means “not meaningful”

Reconciliation of EBIT to statutory profit before tax 

EBIT

Net finance costs

Significant items

Profit (loss) before tax from continuing operations

FY20
$m

98,654 

(40,593)

(351,992)

(293,931)

FY194
$m

212,812 

(48,141)

(609,167)

(444,496)

Change
%

-54%

-16%

-42%

-34%

9

Section 3: Review of Operations Seven West Media Limited Annual Report 2020 
Section 3: Review of Operations 
Seven West Media Limited Annual Report 2020

Sunrise

Seven West Media Limited reported a statutory loss 
from continuing operations before tax of $293.9 million 
for the year ended 27 June 2020. This compares to the 
previous corresponding year statutory loss before tax 
from continuing operations of $444.5 million. Excluding 
significant items, the current year profit after tax of  
$40.8 million is down 66 per cent on the previous year 
equivalent profit of $120.4 million.

Seven West Media recorded significant items before tax 
of $352.0 million in the period, including the impairment of 
intangibles, other assets including fixed assets, restructuring 
costs and onerous contracts.

The Group delivered revenue including share of equity 
accounted investees profits of $1,228.2 million, down  
14 per cent versus the previous year. Profit before 
significant items, net finance costs and tax (EBIT) of 
$98.7 million was down 54 per cent on the previous year. 
The dividend remains temporarily suspended with a focus 
on prudent capital management and balance sheet 
flexibility post relaxation in media ownership legislation.

During the period, Seven West Media divested the 
Pacific Magazines assets on 1 May 2020 and Redwave 
Radio business in Western Australia on 31 December 
2019. Pacific Magazines and Redwave Radio combined 
contributed $93.5 million of revenue, $90.5 million of 
expenses including depreciation and amortisation and 
$3.0 million of EBIT before significant items to SWM’s 
FY20 results. The Pacific segment was classified as a 
discontinued operation in the FY20 Financial Report.

Advertising Market and  
Revenue Performance 

SMI data reported that the Australian advertising market 
declined by 15.2 per cent in the financial year compared 
to the previous year. This decline was due to advertisers 
materially reducing their spend in response to adverse 
economic conditions driven largely by COVID-19 induced 
lockdown measures. Advertising spend in the June 2020 
quarter decreased 40.8 per cent.

Metropolitan television advertising decreased 14.1 per 
cent to $2.3 billion in the financial year based on KPMG 
Think TV data. The fourth quarter was materially impacted 
by COVID-19, down 33.7 per cent in the period year on 
year. In the financial year Seven secured a 37.4 per cent 
share of the Metro television advertising market, down  
1.4 percentage points on the prior year.

The Broadcast Video on Demand (BVOD) category continues 
to grow rapidly, with advertising revenues from online catch-
up and live TV streaming up 30.5 per cent YoY to $162 million. 

SMI reported the digital advertising market decreased by 
9.6 per cent in the financial year compared to the previous 
year. Seven outperformed the market, growing its digital 
gross advertising revenue by 31.3 per cent YoY. Seven 
reported a 32.4 per cent BVOD share among commercial 
FTA networks for the financial year.

SMI reported that Newspaper advertising spend decreased 
by 23.4 per cent in the financial year compared to the 
previous year. The West Australian newspapers delivered 
above market revenue trends in a sector that continues to 
face strong headwinds, while operating in a challenging 
local economy. Advertising revenue at The West Australian 
decreased 9.6 per cent compared to the previous financial 
year.

10

03Home and Away

Cost Management

In the financial year, management actioned $170 million 
of gross cost out, which will be realised across the next 
two years. In addition there were one-off savings from 
COVID-19 measures in the fourth quarter of the 2020 
financial year which saved $51 million.

Divestments in the period resulted in $21.6 million reduction 
in Group cost. This was partially offset by the full year 
impact of consolidating Community Newspaper Group  
and 7Beyond expenses, which added an incremental  
$22.0 million to operating expense in the year.

Excluding significant items, total Group costs, including 
depreciation and amortisation, reduced $108 million 
representing a 8.4 per cent decrease year on year.

Balance Sheet

As at 27 June 2020, the Group’s liabilities exceeded its 
assets by $236.1 million (previously reported 29 June 2019: 
assets exceeded liabilities by $103.1 million). 

The Group is in a net liability position as at 27 June 2020  
as a result of the following:

 > $123.5 million impairment of intangible assets and 
programming rights as a result of carrying value 
assessments performed at reporting date;

 > reassessment of onerous contracts provisions required 
in respect of certain programming rights agreements 
resulting in the recognition of $136.9 million of 
additional provisions; 

 > an accounting policy change resulting in the recognition 
of a deferred tax liability of $138.5 million relating to 
the treatment of the Group’s indefinite lived intangible 
assets; and

 > the adoption of AASB 16 Leases during the current year 
which resulted in the recognition of Right of Use Assets 
of $117.1 million and Lease Liabilities of $175.2 million 
(Current Liability: $7.7 milllion, Non-Current Liability 
$167.4 million). 

AFL commentary team

The Group has positive net current assets as at  
27 June 2020 of $259.4 million.  

Net Debt

Group net debt position (cash and cash equivalents less 
drawn debt facilities) at $398.0 million.

The Group amended the debt facilities. A syndicated secured 
facility agreement has been entered into with maturities in July 
2022 ($450.0 million) and December 2022 ($300.0 million). 
Under the terms of the new agreement the existing leverage 
and interest cover ratios are replaced by a minimum liquidity 
requirement and a minimum EBITDA test (from March 21) until 
31 December 2021 at which time leverage and interest cover 
covenants are reinstated. The amended interim covenants 
provide the Group with the flexibility required to complete the 
transformation program that was commenced during FY20.

At 27 June 2020, the Group had available cash of  
$352.0 million with net debt of $398.0 million.

Cashflow

Seven West Media held $352.0 million of cash as at 27 
June 2020, an increase of $261.6 million from prior year. Net 
operating cash inflows contributed $47.5 million to the overall 
increase in cash with cash receipts related to JobKeeper of 
$13.6 million. Net cash inflows from investing activities of 
$126.4 million, includes cash proceeds from the divestment 
of three non-core assets $150.0 million. The sale of assets 
and investments included the Pacific Magazines segment 
assets, Redwave Radio operations, and properties in Western 
Australia and Queensland. The Group’s net draw down on 
debt facilities during the period was $95.0 million, and at year 
end the debt facility was fully drawn. 

11

03

12

Review of Operations
Seven

Seven’s content and transformation strategy accelerated in 
the financial year with major changes across every aspect of 
the business.

This included 1) a complete content refresh of the 
primetime entertainment schedule to complement 
the strength of Seven’s spine of news, sport and 
entertainment; 2) renegotiation and extension of the 
AFL broadcast rights and 3) a wide ranging extensive 
cost out program that reduced headcount by over 
20 per cent and costs by 8 per cent in the broadcast 
business, the lowest levels since the 2003 and 2007 
financial years respectively. The impact of COVID-19 
on advertising revenue necessitated speed in the 
execution of these moves.

Seven’s strategy is focused on acquiring, engaging 
and retaining a younger, more advertising friendly 
demographic. Our aim is to bring viewers the best 
entertainment, news and sport content to engage 
these audiences at scale. The entertainment 
schedule has been revitalised with all new 
commissions to enrich the demographic profile of 
the network and be a more attractive proposition 
for advertisers. The evolution and scaling of 7plus, 
Seven’s BVOD platform, has been a significant focus 
with a target of capturing far greater share of viewing 
and revenue. 

Seven Network

The depth of the Seven broadcast schedule remains 
unparalleled. Over the course of the day Seven has 
won 59 per cent of weekly overall hours in calendar 
year 2020. This consistency is led by our market-
leading news and public affairs programming with 
7NEWS, Sunrise and The Morning Show all leading 
their timeslots by a material margin.

During times of global uncertainty, the value 
of premium and free news services has been 
unquestionable. Australians have turned in droves to 
7NEWS as the most trusted source of broadcast news 
in the country with our audience growing 11 per cent 
to over 1 million metro viewers on average in 2020. 
7NEWS extended its dominance as the number 1 news 
service in the country, increasing audience share  
in 2020. 

The strength of Seven’s programming schedule 
begins each day with Sunrise which was Australia’s 
most-watched breakfast show for a 17th consecutive 
financial year. The Morning Show celebrated its 
14th birthday as the most-watched morning show, 
growing audience by 19 per cent. Home and Away 
continues to be the number 1 Australian drama 
on free to air. Rounding out Seven’s dominance 
throughout the day is the lead-in to Seven’s market 
leading nightly news service with The Chase which 
increased its audience by 7 per cent in 2020.

13

Section 3: Review of Operations Seven West Media Limited Annual Report 2020Front Bar

Big Brother

Seven is the home of Australia’s number one summer and 
winter sports in the cricket and AFL. While the lockdowns 
enforced as a result of COVID-19 meant audiences were 
without their favourite sports for a period, the return 
of the AFL in June was a reminder of the important role 
sport plays in the lives of Australians. Over 1 million 
metro viewers tuned in for the first game back between 
Richmond and Collingwood, the largest regular season 
match in more than a decade and the biggest Thursday 
night match ever. Since the return of the season our 
audience numbers have continued to strengthen, 
particularly in the P25–54 demo which grew 14 per cent 
year on year. As the leading sporting code in the country, 
AFL is very important to Seven, hence the extension of 
that rights contract to 2024 and renegotiating the current 
rights costs lower was a significant strategic outcome for 
the network.

Seven’s second summer of Test Cricket continued the high 
standard set up by Seven’s maiden coverage the year 
before as Test audiences increased 13 per cent compared 
to the previous summer. The Big Bash continues to be a 
spectacle for fans and Seven is in discussions with Cricket 
Australia about the series to address the season and 
format of the product moving forward. 

Entertainment is Seven’s third content pillar alongside 
News and Sport. At Seven’s Upfronts presentation in 
October 2019, Managing Director and CEO, James 
Warburton outlined plans to change the network’s content 
strategies and announced an investment in and focus on 
the 7.30pm tentpole strategy. 

As a network, this will take time as no network turns 
around overnight. However, the early signs are that 
the strategy is working with the launch of Big Brother 
delivering Seven’s largest launch audience for a regular 
series in two years. Importantly this drove significant 
audience growth in key demos of P25–54 and P16–39. 
The content also lives beyond just broadcast with 
significant engagement through curated short form 
content in 7plus and social. Audiences were maintained 
with the launch of Farmer Wants a Wife in early FY21, 
further lifting confidence around the strategy. 

A revitalised Entertainment schedule with exciting new 
formats, combined with our market-leading News and 
Sports franchises gives us the platform to return to the 
position as the number 1 broadcast network. 

The domestic advertising market saw its largest yearly 
decline on record in the 2020 financial year. The impact 
of the bushfires over the summer and enforced lockdowns 
due to COVID-19 led to a decline in the metro FTA TV 
market of 14.1 per cent during the financial year. 

This meaningful decline in advertising market revenue 
led to a decrease in Seven revenue of 15.1 per cent to 
$1,041.9 million and a decline in EBIT of 57.5 per cent to 
$89.3 million during the 2020 financial year.

Seven’s studios business produces a number of long-
running Australian programs including Home and Away and 
Better Homes and Gardens. During the period the studios 
business was repositioned to maximise profitability and 
support Seven Network to capitalise on the best external 

14

037 Cricket Glenn, Ricky, Mel and Tim

formats. During the 2020 financial year distribution and 
other third production income of $43.3 million in FY20, up 
12.8 per cent on the prior year. This increase was driven by 
the consolidation of 7Beyond in the period, contributing 
$8.3 million incremental revenue. Overall, income from the 
studios business included within Seven revenue decreased 
by 8.6 per cent to $49.8 million.

Seven continues to right size its cost base to adapt to a 
rapidly changing operating environment. During the 2020 
financial year $135.0 million of gross cost out initiatives 
were delivered across the Seven business. These savings  
included the annualised benefit of the renegotiated AFL 
agreement, as well as cost savings from a 20 per cent 
reduction in headcount within the television business. The 
Seven business delivered incremental temporary savings 
this financial year, in response to the impact of COVID-19, 
with savings from JobKeeper, a three-month salary 
reduction across staff and other initiatives. The net saving 
in the 2020 financial year as a result was $66.1 million,  
with savings of $31.0 million offsetting cost growth  
of $9.7 million.

volume minutes has been successful in delivering above 
market consumption growth. During the 2020 financial 
year BVOD market revenue grew 30.5 per cent.

Importantly our 7plus audience is complementary to 
our broadcast audience, with the launch of audience 
measurement system VOZ later in the year to highlight 
the incremental reach of BVOD. Digital revenue included 
within the Seven business increased by 44.5 per cent 
during the financial year to $55.2 million.

In March 2019, Seven launched 7NEWS.com.au. Within 
12 months of launch the site rose to be the number two 
commercial news site in the country peaking at 11.8 million 
unique audience in March, beating many other long-
established news sites. The rapid scaling of 7NEWS.com.au 
is testament to the strength and awareness of the  
7NEWS brand. 

Seven continues to improve its digital audience targeting 
capabilities, unifying insights and data analytics across 
the Group, and using third-party partnerships to further 
accelerate audience insights. 

Digital platforms

Seven’s Broadcast Video on Demand (BVOD) streaming 
platform 7plus claimed the leading market position in the 
fourth quarter capturing 46 per cent share of viewing. In 
the 2020 financial year streaming minutes on 7plus grew 
by 53 per cent, comfortably outperforming commercial 
FTA market streaming growth of 44 per cent. Seven’s 
strategy of acquiring library content, which drive high 

Seven

Revenue

Costs

EBITDA

EBIT

FY20
$m

1,041.9

(924.9)

117.0

89.3

FY19
$m

1,227.8

(989.1)

238.7

210.3

Inc/(Dec)
%

(15.1%)

(6.5%)

(51.0%)

(57.5%)

15

Section 3: Review of Operations Seven West Media Limited Annual Report 2020Section 3: Review of operations 
Seven West Media Limited Annual Report 2020

16

03Review of Operations
The West Australian

SWM’s portfolio of news brands in WA make it the preeminent media 
company in the state. All together The West Australian, The Sunday 
Times, PerthNow.com.au and Community Newspaper Group reach 
88.2 per cent of the population each month.

The West Australian is a leading publisher in WA with 
an average of 1.63 million people in WA reading  
The West, Sunday Times, thewest.com.au and 
PerthNow.com.au each month.

In print, The West Australian Monday–Friday edition  
has the highest market reach of any major metro 
weekday masthead in the nation, with 21.5 per cent 
of West Australians on average reading an issue of 
the weekday edition. Average weekday readership 
of The West Australian was stable in the 12 months 
to March 2020 (-0.7 per cent), outperforming the 
broader industry where the majority of other major 
mastheads saw declines in average readership.

The West continues to transform its business model 
to adapt to ongoing structural challenges in print 
media. Digital subscriptions were launched in June 
2019 for thewest.com.au with subscriptions in the 
first 12 months running ahead of plan. Following 
the successful launch of the paywall for the metro 
masthead, subscriptions were rolled out for regional 
masthead websites from February 2020. The West 
now has over 60 thousand digital product subscribers 
including print and digital bundled subscribers and 
this is a growth opportunity for the business.

WAN

Revenue

Costs

EBITDA

EBIT

FY20
$m

167.1

FY19
$m

185.8

(146.7)

(158.8)

20.4

17.7

27.0

15.7

Inc/(Dec)
%

(10.1%)

(7.6%)

(24.4%)

12.7%

Podcasts are another commercial initiative 
being explored by The West to diversify revenue. 
Downloads for ‘Claremont’ totalled 5.5 million across 
119 episodes and at the peak of the trial in December 
was the #1 news podcast in the country. “The West 
Live” launched in March and is growing strongly with 
thousands of live listens in addition to the nearly 100 
thousand downloads. 

Economic conditions remained challenging in Western 
Australia during the 2020 financial year, resulting in a  
very weak and short advertising market. Revenue at 
The West declined by 10.1 per cent to $167.1 million 
and EBITDA declined by 24.4 per cent to $20.4 million 
during the period. EBIT increased by 12.7 per cent to 
$17.7 million which was driven by lower depreciation 
and amortisation expense. This includes the full year 
impact of Community Newspaper Group, which was 
acquired in May 2019.

Cost reduction remains in sharp focus for The West, 
with $19 million of gross saving initiatives delivered 
in FY20. These savings exclude the inclusion of 
Community Newspaper Group in the cost base, 
which was consolidated in May 2019. The business 
will continue to reduce its cost base in the coming 
year as it drives further efficiencies, automation and 
process improvement to adapt to operating in the 
digital age. 

During the period the business completed the sale 
of its Osborne Park facility to property manager 
Primewest Management for consideration of $75 
million. The West will continue to occupy the site as 
its headquarters as the sale is subject to a lease for 
15 years.

17

Section 3: Review of Operations Seven West Media Limited Annual Report 202003 Section 3: Review of operations 

Seven West Media Limited Annual Report 2020

18

Review of Operations
Other

A key pillar of Seven West Media’s strategy is to work down debt. In 
this context, the company began an extensive review of non-core 
assets during the 2020 financial year to identify where we could 
realise value to reduce our debt.

At the end of December 2019, the company  
divested its Redwave Radio business in Western 
Australia to Southern Cross Austereo for a 
consideration of $28 million.

Following a review by the ACCC, we announced  
the sale of assets associated with Pacific Magazines 
to Bauer Media Group in May for $40 million before 
adjustments. 

Seven West Ventures holds a number of investments 
in high growth digital businesses including Airtasker, 
Healthengine and SocietyOne. A process is 
underway to monetise these investments. Similarly, a 
process commenced to early FY21 to monetise Seven 
West Media’s investment in transmission assets, TX 
Australia.

Seven West Media will continue to review its 
portfolio with the goal of ensuring the company’s 
core assets have greater flexibility as a result of 
lower debt obligations.

19

Section 3: Review of Operations Seven West Media Limited Annual Report 2020Risk, Environment, People  
and Social Responsibility

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, aligned to its strategy, 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 identify, measure, evaluate, monitor and report 
on each of them and then control or mitigate them, to the extent possible. For more information on the Company’s risk 
management framework refer to pages 51 to 53 of the Corporate Governance Statement of this Annual Report.

Risk Management Framework – Key Risks and Mitigations

Strategic 
Objective

Risk  
Category

Content Led 
Growth

Competition for key  
entertainment rights

The Company recognises the value of 
premium content to its audiences and 
advertisers and the importance of the 
Company securing rights or creating 
attractive content at a sustainable cost.

Structural change and new competitors for 
audiences 

The rapid transformation of the media 
industry due to technological change 
represents a material economic sustainability 
risk for the Company.

Transformation Technological risk

There is an ongoing risk that the Company’s 
technology may not be fit for purpose or that 
major technology projects may not be delivered 
on plan, impacting business performance or 
requiring new investment. 

There is also the risk that key technology may fail 
resulting in loss of revenue and audiences.

Regulatory change 

The media industry is subject to regulation 
such as television licence conditions and 
anti-siphoning. 

Mitigations

The Company ensures a disciplined approach 
is maintained in acquiring content rights and 
production resourcing and that revenue opportunities 
through the exploitation of its produced or acquired 
content are maximised, including by targeting key 
demographics for advertisers and demonstrating 
the return on advertising investment through reliable 
measurement systems. New approaches to the 
acquisition of premium content have been developed 
and implemented during the year with arrangements 
renegotiated where possible to reflect the changing 
operating environment.

The Company is responding to and participating in this 
change under its current strategic framework, including 
a focus on rapid digital transformation of the Company. 
The Company continues to target leadership in the 
most valuable linear broadcast demographics which, 
together with our 7plus Broadcast Video on Demand 
(“BVOD”) service, allows for growth in audiences and 
greater returns on the investments in content.

The Company has increased its technology 
capabilities through enhanced staffing expertise, 
project delivery governance and reporting processes to 
better manage this risk.

The Company continues to manage risks which could 
give rise to a failure in core operational systems and 
processes through Business Continuity Planning 
including system and site redundancy.

Management maintains a specialised expertise in 
regulatory matters and participates in regulatory 
reviews through direct engagement and via 
representation on a variety of industry bodies. The 
Company has participated in the Digital Platform and 
Australian Content Options Review as the television 
industry questions the differential cost of regulatory 
compliance for online services in comparison to much 
higher regulatory costs and required investment in 
content for commercial broadcast licence holders.

20

04Section 4: Corporate Responsibility Seven West Media Limited Annual Report 2020Risk Management Framework – Key Risks and Mitigations

Strategic 
Objective

Risk  
Category

Transformation Cyber security risk

The number of reported cyber security incidents 
is on the rise globally and the Company 
recognises that such incidents, should they 
occur, may negatively impact financial and 
operational performance.

COVID-19 Impacts on Workforce

The Company carries out core news 
gathering, publishing and broadcast 
activities which are essential services 
required to continue throughout the 
COVID-19 lockdowns. The changes to normal 
working conditions for all staff pose ongoing 
risks to their safety and wellbeing.

Capital Funding Availability

There is a risk to the availability of the  
capital funding including the short-term 
liquidity required to meet the Company’s 
operating requirements. This risk arises due 
to some or all of the following factors:

 > the structural changes in the  

media industry;

 > the success of the Company’s content 

and audience strategies; and

 > the impact of COVID-19 lockdowns  
on advertising clients and markets.

Capital 
Structure and 
Balance Sheet

Mitigations

The Company has deepened its technical and personnel 
capabilities in this area and continues to improve prevention 
measures and educate staff concerning cyber security risks 
to appropriately manage the potential adverse effects on the 
business

The Company has a robust Incident Management framework 
which has operated throughout the pandemic, seeking to 
mitigate risks to the safety and wellbeing of all staff regardless of 
where they are carrying out their duties.

Subsequent to year end the Company completed an amendment 
to debt facilities in order to allow the completion of key 
transformation initiatives whilst managing the impacts of 
COVID-19 restrictions and lockdowns on the advertising market 
and Seven’s revenue. Further details of these risk mitigations are 
included in the Directors’ Report on pages 44 and 45.

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 included the following 
during the year (and in relation to Pacific up to 1 May 2020  
when it was sold and ceased to be part of the Group):

 > 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. 

 > Pacific purchases all virgin fibre paper via an outsourced 

provider that does so in accordance with Pacific’s 
requirements that all material is PEFC C-o-C or FFC certified 
which assures that forests are managed in accordance with 
stringent environmental, social and economic requirements. 

 > In FY19 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. 

reticulation on site.

 > FY20 saw Seven West Media donate or recyle 95 per cent 

of electronic IT assets through certified eCycling companies 
which reduces landfill by encouraging reuse and recyling 
of equipment. All three suppliers are certified to AS/NZS 
5377:2013.

People

At Seven West Media, we understand that our people ensure our 
success and in return, we are committed to creating a workplace 
where employees can fulfil their individual career aspirations 
and potential and are inspired by a high-performance culture 
rewarded for achievement and results. 

Management works to promote a collaborative and innovative 
workplace that is safe, flexible, inclusive and that fosters 
creativity and excellence. This ensures that the Company 
continues to meet the highest performance standards and serves 
the evolving needs of our stakeholders, our customers and our 
audiences.

People Policies & Practices

 > The West Australian and The Sunday Times printed waste 

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

 > In our press, waste ink is collected and reprocessed, 
aluminum plates used during the printing process are 
recycled and plant wastewater is processed and used for 

We have a comprehensive set of frameworks that support our 
culture to build a high-performance workplace and drive our 
focus on results, productivity and safety. Our purpose, strategy 
and values focus our efforts and determine how we measure our 
success.

21

Section 4: Corporate Responsibility Seven West Media Limited Annual Report 2020The intent of our people policies and practices is to create a 
workplace where employees are assured that:

 > Minimum legal requirements are being met; 

 > Best practices appropriate to the Company can be 

documented and implemented; 

 > Management decisions and actions are fair, consistent and 

predictable;

 > Employees, as well as the Company are protected from the 

pressures of expediency; and

 > The Company’s values are promoted.

Fundamental to building a high-performance culture are the 
Company’s strategic People pillars:

 > Reward and performance framework and strategies to 

attract and retain talented employees by rewarding high 
performance and delivering superior long-term results, 
while adhering to sound risk management and governance 
principles.

 > Employee and industrial relations transformation initiatives 

and reforms which brought about the implementation of new 
sustainable enterprise agreements across the Company; 
the most significant workplace reform in the media industry 
in 20 years aligning workplace terms and conditions with 
community standards. 

 > Workplace health and safety agenda with an intense focus 
on safety and mental health embedding a safety mindset in 
all areas of the business.

 > Talent and development framework to create an environment 

where continuous learning is part of an employee’s 
development and progression so that they can reach their 
full potential. This drives leadership capability and is an 
important channel through which our culture is embedded 
and reinforced.

 > Employee engagement strategies to ensure we are living up 
to our commitment to employees. This includes continued 
improvements in employee engagement and refreshing our 
employee value proposition including the relaunch of our 
benefits program.

Through these policies and practices, we make it clear that 
discrimination on any basis is not acceptable. In instances 
where employees require support for disability, we work with 
them to identify suitable alternatives to meet their needs.

Employee Engagement

Seven West Media is focused on attracting, rewarding and 
retaining ‘best in class’ employees. Commencing with the 
employee onboarding and orientation process, the Company 
recognises the importance of early employee engagement. This 
is reflected in a series of activities and events from meeting the 
Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer and members of his 
leadership team to interactive online learning modules designed 
to communicate and embed the Company’s culture and reinforce 
the ongoing importance of meeting behavioural expectations and 
effective risk management across our businesses.

To help ensure we are living up to our commitment to employees, 
the Company conducts employee engagement surveys to solicit 

feedback on everything from decision-making and professional 
development to the success of flexible working throughout the 
COVID-19 pandemic. The survey also provides key insights to 
drive improvement programs in culture, leadership, teamwork, 
reward and recognition. 

Career & Professional Development 

Over the past year, we further invested in the growth, learning 
and development of our employees through the continued roll-
out of a leadership development program. The program’s focus 
areas include building high-performance teams, advanced 
coaching, managing performance, resilience, conflict resolution, 
change management and emotional intelligence. 

Further online courses have been completed by employees, 
including compliance-related training for new and existing 
employees (focusing on appropriate workplace behaviour, fraud 
awareness, anti-bribery and anti-money laundering, and other 
compliance matters).

Mentoring, both internal and external, has become a key feature 
of our culture and is playing an important role in identifying 
and supporting leadership development, while increasing 
engagement and productivity.

Regular reviews, including goal setting and ongoing career 
development, are a key part of performance measurement and 
management, and support the Company’s high-performance 
ambitions. As well as encouraging regular and ongoing 
feedback with managers, the Company requires all employees 
to have at least two formal review sessions with their manager 
each year. During these reviews, employees are encouraged to 
raise, discuss and respond to matters relating to performance, 
training, further education and development of required skills 
and capabilities.

The Company has increased its focus on increasing the pool of 
management capability where key high-potential employees 
are identified and supported through the organisation. A 
thorough talent and succession planning process has resulted 
in a deeper review of people and their potential including 
opportunities for female talent. A key objective is to further 
embed gender diversity as an active consideration in succession 
planning. Executive level succession plans were reviewed by 
the Board and provide a diverse list of candidates for whom 
development plans to ensure preparedness to take on future 
opportunities.

Corporate Social Responsibility 

The Company recognises and encourages the social and 
developmental benefits of skilled volunteering and wider 
community engagement by employees. The Company also 
continues to support and encourage employees to contribute to 
worthy causes through its Workplace Giving program. Whether 
it’s helping find a cure for disease, saving the environment 
or supporting people in crisis, the Company encourages 
employees to work together as a business to help make an 
impact. It also continues to encourage its employees to make 
a difference through providing opportunities to participate in 
community fundraisers. Examples include: 

22

04Section 4: Corporate Responsibility Seven West Media Limited Annual Report 2020Perth Telethon

During the year, the Perth Telethon raised $42.6 million, 
breaking the previous record of $38 million set during the 50th 
annual fundraiser last year. In the 51 years of the Telethon’s 
history, $349 million has been raised towards child health 
research, as well as much needed medical equipment, resources 
and critical services for the children of Western Australia.

UnLtd 

The Company has partnered with UnLtd, a social purpose 
organisation which supports charities working with young 
people. Seven staff took part in UnLtd’s fundraising events 
including cricket competitions in Sydney and Melbourne, and 
through UnLtd’s partner Whitelion, the AdLand Bailout which 
gives executives the chance to experience what it is like to be 
incarcerated in a youth detention centre for 24 hours.

Safety and Wellness

Seven West Media recognises the value of effective workplace 
safety and wellness as an integral part of how we successfully 
manage our business. We are committed to building a positive 
health and safety culture, with a focus on personal wellness, 
injury prevention and the mitigation of risk through maintaining 
high workplace safety and wellness standards and performance. 
With a comprehensive mental health framework, strong risk 
management processes and engaging wellness initiatives, the 
business continues to strive to improve in its safety outcomes, 
including the Lost Time Injury Frequency Rate (LTIFR) which 
continues to remain significantly below the industry benchmark 
of 4.5. The Company is also committed to supporting employees 
during overseas deployments, wherever they might be.

The Company has implemented specific psychological support 
and 10 days’ paid leave per annum for employees who are 
victims of domestic violence. The Company is involved in the 
NSW government’s Corporate Leadership Group advising the 
government on further initiatives to eradicate sexual assault and 
domestic violence in Australia.

With an increasing focus on mental health, the Company has 
taken an active focus in building awareness and support for 
managing mental health in our workplace. We have developed 
and implemented a comprehensive framework, which includes 
training, initiatives and events tailored for managers and 
employees to support positive mental health.

The Company’s wellness program provides a range of benefits 
and initiatives to optimise the physical and mental health and 
wellness of employees, including:

 > Confidential counselling services through our Employee 

Assistance Program;

 > Educational seminars on a variety of health topics;

 > Fitness classes and flu vaccinations; and

 > Psychological wellbeing training and events.

As part of the Company’s ongoing focus to improving mental 
health in the workplace, it hosted various events and fundraising 
efforts throughout the year for foundations including Beyond 
Blue and R U OK. The events included guest speakers, morning 
teas and fitness events to support positive mental health in the 
workplace. We also promoted wellbeing initiatives such as Mental 
Health Week, Men’s Health Week and Women’s Health Week.

Our annual wellness program calendar includes monthly events 
delivered to employees across the various locations in which we 
operate. The calendar is reviewed regularly to ensure it continues 
to promote health as well as meeting the needs of our employees.

Diversity and Inclusion

Seven West Media recognises the benefits of an inclusive and 
respectful workplace culture that draws on the experiences, 
diversity and perspectives of our people to ensure that our 
business remains innovative and sustainable and continues to 
meet the needs of our stakeholders and audiences.

We view diversity through a broad lens of difference in 
people across gender, nationality, ethnicity, disability, 
sexual orientation, gender identity, generation/age, socio-
economic status, religious belief, professional and educational 
background as well as global and cultural experiences.

Gender Balance

We have achieved an overall gender balance across the 
Company as well as achieving female representation in 
management positions of 52 per cent.

The Board comprises seven male and two female directors,  
with female directors therefore representing 22.2 per cent  
of the Board.

The Board recognises the importance of diversity at Board 
level and aims to achieve a minimum of 30 per cent female 
representation in the coming years.

Overall  
Balance

53%

Women

47%

Men

Proportion of Women in 
Management Positions1

52%

Women

48%

Men

1. 

“Management positions” refer to positions that are responsible for managing teams and/or function as defined by the Workplace Gender Equality Act.

23

Section 4: Corporate Responsibility Seven West Media Limited Annual Report 2020We will continue to focus our strategy to achieve a more diverse 
and inclusive workplace in other areas of the business by:

 > Embedding flexibility in the way we work;

 > Supporting our commitment to inclusion and diversity;

 > Uncovering and taking steps to mitigate potential bias in our 

behaviours, systems, policies and processes; and

 > Ensuring our brand is attractive to a diverse range of people.

Diversity Commitments and Initiatives

During FY20, the Board reviewed the Company’s Diversity Policy 
which is a key part in its overall talent and culture strategy and 
guides investment in the areas of recruiting, staffing, account 
planning, succession planning, promotions and development. 
The Company supports an inclusive work environment 
where people have genuine and equitable access to career 
opportunities, training and benefits.

Our diversity and inclusiveness commitments and initiatives are 
also focused around having a workforce that represents the 
broader community in which we operate, leveraging differences 
to achieve better business results and deliver a better 
experience for our employees and our audiences.

Some of the Company’s achievements towards its diversity 
commitments and initiatives include:

 > Policies to support strategies across recruitment and 
attraction, retention, working flexibly, performance 
management, remuneration and learning and development;

 > Processes for onboarding and orientation, performance and 
development, competitive remuneration and recognition; 

 > An external mentoring program, ‘Rare Birds’ for 30 senior 

leaders, and an internal skills-sharing program and platform.

In addition, the Company has been at the forefront of supporting 
diversity to increase the visibility and contribution of women 
leaders within the media industry as well as across the broader 
community. Some highlights include:

 > International Women’s Day – The Company was involved in 
several IWD initiatives around the country to help accelerate 
gender parity.

 > Footy Means Business Program – The program is designed 
for participants to learn about career options available, 
especially linked to football. Now in its 12th year, the program 
invited a group of 50 young indigenous men from all over the 
country to learn about working in media. Representatives from 
the AFL attend along with the teams and their coaches.

24

LGBTQI+

The Company seeks to provide a safe, inclusive and supportive 
workplace for all employees, to bring their whole self to work. 
‘United’ is Seven West Media’s LGBTQI+ employee inclusion 
and diversity group that is dedicated to building a framework, 
strategy and initiatives to expand awareness and celebrate the 
importance of diversity and inclusiveness across the business. It 
also provides employees with opportunities to exchange ideas, 
build relationships and support the Company’s diversity and 
inclusion strategy.

The purpose of United is to showcase that the Company is 
representing a diverse culture in the workplace and in everything 
we do. United uses the Company’s social network platform to 
engage the entire Seven Community as well as holding events 
that bring together everyone as “One Connected Team.”

Measurable Objectives

In 2020 and 2021, the Company proposes to build on the 
diversity initiatives from the previous year that enable us 
to facilitate diversity, inclusion and promote growth for the 
Company and for our employees.

Our focus will continue in the four key areas:

 > Flexible work practices (FWP);

 > Gender diversity and inclusion (GD); 

 > Career development and performance (CDP); and

 > Talent and succession planning (TSP).

Link to Diversity Policy

CDP FWP GD
•
•
•

TSP

•

•

•

•

Monitor initiatives that facilitate 
diversity and inclusion and promote 
growth for the Company and for all 
employees.

Annual succession planning to 
consider diversity initiatives.

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

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

The Company has posted its Workplace Gender Equality Act 
Public Report for 2019–2020 on its website, which contains the 
Company’s Gender Equality Indicators.

The Company’s progress against diversity objectives were 
established in 2018, and our commitments set for the 2020/21 
financial year, can be found in our Corporate Governance 
Statement at www.sevenwestmedia.com.au/about-us/
corporate-governance.

 > ‘Mentor Spark’, an all-employee mentoring program; and

Measurable Objective

04Section 4: Corporate Responsibility Seven West Media Limited Annual Report 2020Seven in the  
Community

Seven West Media’s important role in Australian society as a trusted source 
of news, information and entertainment for millions of people saw a new 
level of prominence in FY20, due to the summer bushfire crisis and the 
unfolding COVID-19 pandemic.

Throughout the year we engaged in extensive activities to 
positively contribute to the communities we are a part of as well 
as the nation more broadly. Across the year, Seven provided 
airtime support with a market rate value of over $38 million 
to more than 170 organisations across Australia by way of 
Community Service Announcements and airtime donations.

Over summer Seven played a leading role in supporting bushfire 
recovery efforts through numerous, high profile endeavours. 
Seven partnered with TEG and Foxtel to produce and broadcast 
the Fire Fight Australia relief concert on 16 February, at ANZ 
Stadium in Sydney. The broadcast of the concert, hosted by 
Sunrise’s Samantha Armytage and David Koch with Sonia 
Kruger, Kylie Gillies, Larry Emdur and Sam Mac, reached  
4.7 million Australians. During the concert, almost $10 million 
was raised for bushfire recovery.

Seven partnered with Cricket Australia to broadcast the Bushfire 
Cricket Bash on 9 February. Over 1.6 million viewers were 
reached across Australia during the match. $7.7 million was 
raised to support bushfire recovery efforts. We also partnered 
with the AFL to broadcast the return of AFL State of Origin to 
support bushfire recovery on 18 February, from Marvel Stadium 
in Melbourne. Over 1.7 million Australians tuned in to watch the 
match across the broadcast, with all proceeds from ticket sales 
going to assist bushfire recovery.

SWM continued its successful partnership with the National 
Gallery of Australia (NGA) in FY20, providing considerable 
support for their exhibitions, Monet’s ‘Impression, Sunrise’ in 
the first half, and their landmark ‘Matisse & Picasso’ exhibition 
later in the year. SWM provided over $2.4 million in advertising 
support between the two exhibitions as well as extensive 
editorial support across our platforms.

Fire Fight Australia relief concert

Section 4: Corporate Responsibility Seven West Media Limited Annual Report 2020New South Wales

Queensland

Seven Queensland has a long-held tradition of supporting 
our cities and regional communities. We have been doing 
this for decades and are proud to play a role in enhancing 
the welfare and development of our local business, 
sporting, cultural and tourism industries. 

In the last 12 months alone, our support has reached the 
depth and breadth of the Sunshine State. Events include 
the Royal Queensland Show and several regional show 
associations; 7NEWS Young Achiever awards, Queensland 
Community Achiever awards, RSPCA adoption events; 
several Business Awards; and Ronald McDonald House 
Charities events. 

A key strategy has been to secure naming rights of several 
running events including the 7NEWS Gold Coast Running 
Festival, 7Sunshine Coast Marathon, 7Rocky River Run 
and the newly launched 7Cairns Marathon. Our support 
also extends to other sporting entities including the 
Brisbane Heat, Brisbane Lions, USC Thunder, Channel 7 
Brisbane Racing Carnival; the Cairns Amateurs and the 
Channel 7 Ipswich Cup to name just a few. 

The intent of our partnerships is to work collaboratively 
with local community groups and sporting organisations 
to grow awareness, attendance, fundraising efforts and 
the overall fan experience. Our contributions across 
Queensland ensure we are playing an active part in 
building sustainable communities for the future.

Toby Greene, Big Freeze Six

This year 7NEWS Sydney became a major partner of 
Sydney Zoo. Sydney Zoo was founded in 2015 with an 
aim to create amazing experiences for the local and 
international community by introducing them to a range 
of animal species from all over the world, while also 
educating on animal welfare and conservation.

Seven continues to be a long-term supporter of the 
Children’s Hospital at Westmead, Ronald McDonald 
House at Westmead, the NSW Schools Spectacular, the 
Sydney Swans Football Club, Greater Western Sydney 
Football Club, Cancer Council NSW, Surf Life Saving in 
Cronulla, Manly and Narrabeen, the City of Sydney and 
the Royal Agricultural Society. 

We also supported many major and community events, 
including Australia Day council events and citizenship 
ceremonies at Blacktown and Parramatta, the Seven 
Bridges Walk, runwest, Fairfield Council’s Cabramatta 
Moon Festival, and Liverpool and Penrith Council’s 
Australia Day and New Year’s Eve celebrations. 

2019 was be the 37th year of Carols in the Domain with 
the iconic star-studded Christmas celebration held in the 
Domain adjacent to the Royal Botanic Gardens. Carols in 
the Domain sees Australia’s biggest stars come together to 
celebrate the spirit of Christmas supporting The Salvation 
Army and raising money for the Salvo’s Oasis youth support 
project. 50,000 people attend the event, while millions 
across Australia watch the show from the comfort of their 

home on Seven.

Victoria

For 63 years, Seven Melbourne has been taking the  
Good Friday Appeal into the homes of Victorians with 
one purpose – to raise funds for children and families 
who most need our help. In a partnership with the Royal 
Children’s Hospital and the Herald Sun that has spanned 
88 years, in 2020 the Appeal raised $18,200,000 to 
support the hospital. 

Seven Melbourne has supported Neale Daniher as he has 
led the fight against Motor Neurone Disease (MND). This 
year was the 6th Big Freeze, which saw champions from all 
18 AFL clubs take on their own unique ice challenges. 

Our 17-year partnership with the City of Melbourne is 
a success story that keeps evolving and growing as our 
city embraces the future. Under that partnership, Seven 
Melbourne has delivered 10 broadcasts of the Moomba 
Festival. Moomba is held annually in Melbourne, Australia. 
Run by the City of Melbourne, it is Australia’s largest free 
community festival.

In total, Seven Melbourne has more than 40 partnerships 
including EJ Whitten Legends match, Cadel Evans Great 
Ocean Road Race, Herald Sun’s Run For The Kids, Very 
Special Kids, Pako Festa and the Victorian State School 
Spectacular.

26

04Section 4: Corporate Responsibility Seven West Media Limited Annual Report 2020Channel Seven Telethon

South Australia

Western Australia

7NEWS nationally has partnered with Awards Australia for 
7NEWS Young Achiever Awards. The purpose of the 7NEWS 
Young Achiever Awards is to acknowledge, encourage and  
most importantly promote the positive achievements of all  
young people throughout South Australia.

For the second year of the Cricket Australia broadcast deal, 
Seven Adelaide partnered with the Adelaide Strikers to engage 
with the South Australian cricket community.

Seven Adelaide partners with major sporting and community 
organisations including the South Australian Football League 
(SANFL), Thoroughbred Racing SA (TRSA), Adelaide Strikers, 
Adelaide Crows Football Club and Port Adelaide Football 
Club. We also support local arts performances at the Adelaide 
Festival Centre, Adelaide Cabaret Festival, the Art Gallery of 
South Australia and the largest Fringe Festival venue,  
The Garden of Unearthly Delights. 

We proudly support the Royal Flying Doctor Service,  
The Flinders Foundation, Breakthrough Mental Health  
Research Foundation, The Advertiser Foundation, Little  
Heroes Foundation, and Carols by Candlelight which  
benefits Novita Children’s Services. Many of our Presenters  
are Patrons of these charities.

In addition, the Channel 7 Children’s Research Foundation of 
South Australia was established in 1976 by Seven Adelaide. It 
now distributes approximately $1.5 million in research grants 
each year. The robust and respected grant assessment program 
has delivered nearly $40 million* to over 900 children’s research 
projects in South Australia to date. *(today’s measured worth).

Telethon once again broke records in October 2019, raising 
$42,596,034 to make a total of $349 million since 1968 thanks 
to the generosity of Western Australia. Telethon is transforming 
the lives of children in Western Australia funding over 50 
children’s health charitable organisations providing world class 
medical research, cutting-edge equipment and vital services 
and therapies.

The Channel 7 Telethon Trust, Curtin University and the Telethon 
Kids Institute announced the appointment of Professor Peter 
Gething to the prestigious Kerry M Stokes Chair of Child Health. 
Professor Gething is driving new approaches to improving the 
health of WA children by building upon the significant child 
health expertise that already exists in the state.

The Chair will create and drive an ambitious health and medical 
research program in child health and development, expected 
to deliver paradigm shifting research in broad areas including 
chronic and severe disease, infectious diseases, mental health, 
neurodevelopmental health, rare diseases, disabilities and 
preventative healthcare. This highly respected epidemiologist 
is an international leader in the use of spatial intelligence, 
in collecting, mapping and analysing big data sets to better 
understand the occurrence, causes and trajectory of disease. 
His work in this area has played a major role in fighting the 
global burden of tropical diseases such as Malaria – one of the 
major killers of young children in developing countries. 

In his new role, Professor Gething will drive new efforts to better 
understand where, why and to what extent health conditions 
are impacting on young children in WA so that resources and 
interventions can be more effectively targeted. This spatial 
expertise offers new tools and insights for the WA health sector in 
improving the life outcomes of children across the state. Professor 
Gething was most recently Professor of Epidemiology at The Big 
Data Institute at the University of Oxford, where he was an advisor 
to the World Health Organisation and national governments. 

27

Board of  
Directors

Kerry Stokes AC
Chairman – Non-Executive Director

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.

James Warburton
Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer

Mr Warburton is Managing Director and Chief Executive 
Officer of Seven West Media Limited.

Prior to his appointment as MD and CEO of Seven West 
Media, Mr Warburton was Managing Director and Chief 
Executive Officer of APN Outdoor where he led a significant 
transformation and turnaround at the company before 
departing in late 2018 when APN Outdoor was acquired by 
JCDecaux for a record valuation. Before his appointment 
to APN Outdoor, Mr Warburton was the Chief Executive 
Officer of Supercars for five years.

In this position, Mr Warburton drove significant growth 
in the sport and delivered unprecedented broadcast, 
sponsorship and funding deals. Mr Warburton has also held 
senior leadership roles at media buying company Universal 
McCann, he was Chief Digital and Sales Officer of the 
Seven Media Group, and he was the Managing Director and 
Chief Executive Officer of Network 10.

Mr Warburton was appointed to the Board on 16 August 2019.

John Alexander
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 is currently a director of listed company 
Crown Resorts Limited. Mr Alexander has previously acted 
as a director of a number of companies including Foxtel 
Management Pty Limited, Fox Sports Australia Pty Limited, 
SEEK Limited, Carsales.com Limited, Ninemsn Pty Limited 
& CrownBet.

Mr Alexander is Chairman of the Remuneration &  
Nomination Committee.

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

28

05Section 5: Governance Seven West Media Limited Annual Report 2020Teresa Dyson
Non-Executive Director

Colette Garnsey OAM 
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, Shine Justice Limited, Genex Power 
Limited, Gold Coast Hospital and Health Board, Energy Super, 
Fare Limited, and is a member of the Foreign Investment Review 
Board and the Takeovers Panel. She is a former director of UN 
Women National Committee Australia Ltd, Consolidated Tin 
Mines and Opera Queensland.

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

Ms Dyson is Chairman of the Audit and Risk Committee.

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

David Evans
Non-Executive Director

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 (GSJBW). 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 
former Chairman of Cricket Australia’s Investment Committee.

Ms Garnsey is currently a non-executive Director of Flight 
Centre Travel Group, and non-executive Director and Chair of 
Australian Wool Innovation Limited.

She has over 30 years’ executive experience, having held 
senior management positions at David Jones, Pacific Brands, 
and Premier Investments, encompassing strategy, operations, 
marketing, business planning and business transformation. She 
spent over 20 years with David Jones Limited rising to become 
Group General Manager.

Ms Garnsey has served on the board of the Melbourne  
Fashion Festival. She has also advised the CSIRO, The Federal 
Innovation Council, and the business advisory boards of various 
Federal Trade and Investment Ministers and Australian Fashion 
Week.

Ms Garnsey is a member of the Remuneration & Nomination 
Committee.

Ms Garnsey was appointed to the Board on 12 December 2018.

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.

Mr Malone is a non-executive Director of NBN Co, ASX-Listed 
SpeedCast Limited, DUG Technology Limited and of Axicom Pty 
Limited and a former Director of Superloop Limited. He is also a 
member of the Advisory Committee of the Regional and Small 
Publishers Innovation Fund.

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

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

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

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

29

Section 5: Governance Seven West Media Limited Annual Report 2020Ryan Stokes AO
Non-Executive Director

Michael Ziegelaar
Non-Executive Director

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 is a member of the Audit & Risk Committee

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

Mr Stokes is Managing Director and Chief Executive 
Officer of Seven Group Holdings Limited (SGH). SGH owns 
approximately 41 per cent 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. He is also a member of the IOC Education 
Commission.

Mr Stokes is the former Chairman of the National Library of 
Australia. He was also a member of the Prime Ministerial 
Advisory Council on Veterans Mental Health established in 
2014 and retiring in 2019.

Mr Stokes holds a BComm from Curtin University and is a 
Fellow of the Australian Institute of Management (FAIM). 
Mr Stokes was appointed an Officer in the General Division 
of the Order of Australia in the Queen’s Birthday honours 
announced on 8 June 2020.

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

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

30

05Section 5: Governance Seven West Media Limited Annual Report 2020Corporate Governance Statement

For the year ended 27 June 2020

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 4th edition of the ASX Corporate Governance Council 
Corporate Governance Principles and Recommendations (“ASX 
Recommendations”). 

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. 

Principle 1 – Lay Solid Foundations for 
Management and Oversight

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

 > 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 responsibly;

 > monitoring that management has formal and rigorous 

processes in place to validate the quality and integrity of the 
Company’s corporate reporting; 

 > satisfying itself that the Company’s remuneration framework 

is aligned with the Company’s purpose, its strategic 
objectives, values and risk appetite; and 

Role and responsibilities of the Board

 > in accordance with the Company’s Diversity Policy, 

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.

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 the Board’s role includes:

 > 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; 

 > demonstrating leadership by approving the Company’s 

purpose, statement of values, strategic objectives and code 
of conduct for directors, senior executives and employees 
and monitoring corporate culture;

 > contributing to and approving management’s development 

of corporate strategy including approving strategic 
objectives; 

 > monitoring corporate performance and management’s 

performance and implementation of Company strategy and 
promotion of the Company’s values; 

 > reviewing and monitoring systems of risk management and 

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

 > monitoring and reviewing management processes aimed at 

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

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

 > appointment and removal of the Group Chief Executive 

Officer;

 > approval of dividends; 

 > approval of annual budget;

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

 > the establishment of Board Committees, their membership 

and delegated authorities; and 

 > calling of meetings of shareholders.

Board Committees 

The Board is assisted in carrying out its responsibilities by the 
Audit & Risk Committee and the Remuneration & Nomination 
Committee. 

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 the Integrity of Corporate Reports” 
and “Principle 2 – Structure the Board to be Effective and Add 
Value”, respectively, in this Corporate Governance Statement. 

31

Section 5: Governance Seven West Media Limited Annual Report 2020The Directors’ Report at page 46 sets out the number of Board 
and Committee meetings held during the 2020 financial year 
under the heading “Meetings of Directors”, 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 law, 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 charged with promulgating the Company’s 
values across the organisation and 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, 
including concerning the Company’s compliance with material 
legal and regulatory requirements and any conduct that is 
materially inconsistent with the values or code of conduct of the 
Company. 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. 

The functions exercised by the Board and those delegated to 
management are subject to ongoing review to ensure that the 
division of functions remains appropriate. 

Employment of Executives 

Company executives are each employed under written 
employment agreements, which set out the terms of their 
employment.

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 be Effective and 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 be Effective and 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: 

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

 > 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; 

 > 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 

 > 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.

As part of the selection and appointment process: 

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

 > background information in relation to each potential 

candidate is provided to all Directors; 

 > appropriate background checks are undertaken before 

appointing a Director, or putting forward to shareholders a 
Director candidate for election; and 

 > 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 the Company’s 
Corporate Governance Policies. The date at which each 
Director was appointed to the Board is announced to ASX and is 
provided in this Annual Report on pages 28 to 30.

32

05Section 5: Governance Seven West Media Limited Annual Report 2020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.

Company Secretary

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

 > helping to organise and facilitate the induction and 

professional development of directors;

 > ensuring that the business at Board and Committee meetings 

is accurately captured in the minutes; 

 > advising the Board and Committees on governance matters; 

and 

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

Following this year’s Charter reviews, the Board determined 
not to amend the Company’s Board and Committee Charters, 
given the substantive changes made to the Charters in 2018 
and 2019 having regard to the draft and final 4th Edition ASX 
Corporate Governance Principles to early adopt certain of the 
recommendations thereunder.

Assessment of management performance

The performance of the Managing Director and 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 and 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 in respect of the financial year 
ended 27 June 2020 is assessed on pages 48 to 70.

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 
and 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 and 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”.

33

Section 5: Governance Seven West Media Limited Annual Report 2020 > 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; 

 > 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; 

 > 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 

 > has a material contractual relationship with the Company or 

another group member other than as a Director.

 > has been a Director of the entity for such a period that their 
independence from management and substantial holders 
may have been compromised.

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 per cent, 
then a relationship will be considered material. 

In the Board’s view, the Independent Directors referred to above 
are free from any interest, position or other relationship that 
might, or reasonably be perceived to, influence, in material 
respect the capability to bring an independent judgement to 
bear on issues before the Board and to act in the best interests 
of the Company as a whole rather than in the interests of an 
individual security holder or other party. 

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 and Mr Ryan Stokes AO are not regarded 
as independent within the framework of the independence 
guidelines set out above because of their positions within Seven 
Group Holdings Limited, which is a major shareholder of Seven 
West Media Limited. 

Mr James Warburton was appointed Managing Director and 
Chief Executive Officer of the Company on 16 August 2019, 
following Mr Tim Worner’s resignation from that role and the 
Board as of the same date. Due to his position as Managing 
Director and Chief Executive Officer, Mr James Warburton is not 
considered to be independent.

Diversity policy

The Board recognises the benefits of a workplace culture that is 
inclusive and respectful of diversity. The Board values diversity, 
including 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 23 
to 24 of this Annual Report for reporting on the Diversity Policy 
and the measurable objectives and initiatives relating thereto.

Principle 2 – Structure the Board to be 
Effective and 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 nine Directors, 
including eight Non-Executive Directors and the Managing 
Director and Chief Executive Officer.

The Non-Independent Directors in office are:

 > Mr Kerry Stokes AC, Chairman

 > Mr James Warburton, Managing Director &  

Chief Executive Officer 

 > Mr Ryan Stokes AO, Director

The Independent Directors in office are:

 > Mr John Alexander, Director

 > Ms Colette Garnsey OAM, Director

 > Ms Teresa Dyson, Director

 > Mr David Evans, Director 

 > Mr Michael Malone, Director

 > Mr Michael Ziegelaar, Director

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 28 to 30. 

Board independence

The Board comprises a majority of Independent Directors, with 
three Non-Independent Directors and six Non-Independent 
Directors. During the period of the financial year prior to 
the retirement of The Hon. Jeffrey Kennett AC and Mr Peter 
Gammell on 13 November 2019, the Board comprised four Non-
Independent Directors and seven 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:

 > is a substantial shareholder of the Company or an officer of, 
or otherwise associated directly with, or represents or has 
been within the last three years an officer or employee of a 
substantial shareholder of the Company;

 > receives performance-based remuneration (including 

options or performance rights) from, or participates in an 
employee incentive scheme of, the entity;

34

05Section 5: Governance Seven West Media Limited Annual Report 2020Chairman 

“Move us”:

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 Directors and 
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 conflict of interest protocol 
to manage the relationships between the Company and Seven 
Group Holdings Limited.

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

During the year, the Company undertook strategic review 
process which led to the definition of the Company’s revised 
purpose. Following this process, the Board approved the 
Company’s purpose as “We’re here to bring all Australians 
closer to the moments that move us”. The Company’s purpose is 
an aspirational reason for being that inspires a call to action for 
our people and stakeholders. The language of the Company’s 
purpose encompasses the following key concepts:

“Closer”: 

First on the scene, and with our finger on the pulse, home, or 
away, we’re right there beside you.

On our wavelength. On demand. On the moment. We unite 
communities, create shared understanding, and help form a 
common bond that goes the distance.

“Moments”:

In a world of immediacy, right now is everything. From the 
whimsical, to the seismic, breaking news, or smashing records, 
you’ll find us at the heart of it.

Our experiences make us who we are, they shape us, define us, 
we’re here to make sure you don’t miss a thing.

Life never stands still. Wherever it takes us, embrace it with 
feeling. Familiar faces. Chance encounters. Shared experiences. 
They bring us together, and spur us on to be more, creating a 
feeling of shared identity and belonging, even when we’re far 
from home.

Moving forward as a nation, starts with empathy. It’s how we 
stand apart, build volume, and move ahead of our competitors.

The Board also approved the following areas as strategic 
objectives for the Company to achieve this purpose and 
underpin the Company’s economic sustainability:

1. Content Led Growth

 > Revitalise our entertainment programming, creating 

momentum to engage heartland Australia.

 > Be the most relevant and exciting offer to advertisers.

 > Explore a meaningful streaming partnership play.

 2. Transformation

 > Sharpen our focus on being an audience and  

sales led organisation.

 > Redefine our working practices, becoming more efficient  

and effective.

 > Explore traditional adjacencies.

 > Explore non-traditional adjacencies.

3. Capital Structure & Balance Sheet

 > Maintain focus to work down debt and improve  

balance sheet flexibility.

 > Explore M&A opportunities.

Board Skills Matrix

The Board has developed a Board Skills Matrix, which is 
reviewed each year, 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, 
which continues to evolve given the rapid changes in the 
media industry, 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.

35

Section 5: Governance Seven West Media Limited Annual Report 2020Skills and Experience

Media industry leadership 

Percentage

Skills and Experience

66%

CEO and Board level experience

Percentage

100%

Significant business experience and success 
at a senior executive level.

Accounting and treasury

89%

78%

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.

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

78%

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

89% 

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. 

Technology, digital media and 
transformation

66%

Senior executive or Board level experience in 
relation to digital media and transformation, 
information management, information 
technology, digital and streaming 
product technology, and the oversight of 
implementation of major technology projects.

36

Corporate governance and organisation 
management

100%

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

100%

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

Risk management and audit

100%

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

100%

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

Remuneration & Nomination Committee 

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

 > Mr John Alexander (Chairman) 

 > Mr David Evans 

 > Ms Colette Garnsey OAM

 > Mr Ryan Stokes AO

The Hon. Jeffrey Kennett AC was a member of the Remuneration 
& Nomination Committee throughout the financial year until his 
retirement on 13 November 2019. 

During the year the Board undertook a review of the 
Committee’s composition, and on 3 October 2019 appointed Ms 
Colette Garnsey OAM to the Committee, thereby adding further 
depth and experience to the Committee. 

05Section 5: Governance Seven West Media Limited Annual Report 2020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 also attend any meeting of the Committee by 
invitation 

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.

Director induction and ongoing training 

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 framework, 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. During the year Directors were briefed on 
regulatory and reporting developments, including changes 
to the ASX Corporate Governance Principles and accounting 
standards as well as regulatory responses to the COVID-19 
pandemic.

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 – Instil a Culture of Acting 
Lawfully, Ethically and Responsibly

Core Values 

In accordance with its Charter, the Board has reviewed 
and 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 objective 
set out under Principle 2. 

 > Be Brave

 > Better Together

 > Make it Happen

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 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. 

Material breaches of the Codes of Conduct for Directors and 
Employees are reported to the Board.

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:

 > Continuous Disclosure policy* 

 > Share Trading policy* 

 > Group Editorial policy* 

 > Diversity policy* 

 > Whistleblower policy* 

 > Fraud, Anti-Bribery and Corruption Policy*

37

Section 5: Governance Seven West Media Limited Annual Report 2020The Company’s Share Trading policy establishes the governing 
principles for trading in Company shares by Directors, 
Executives and staff. The Company’s Whistleblower policy, 
which includes an external reporting ‘hotline’, encourages the 
reporting and investigation of unethical and unlawful practices 
and matters of concern. The Company’s Fraud, Anti-Bribery and 
Corruption policy prohibits all Company Directors, employees, 
contractors and business partners giving bribes or other 
improper payments or benefits to public officials and material 
breaches of the policy must be reported to the Board and the 
Audit & Risk Committee.

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.

Bushfire Relief Assistance and COVID-19 Response

For information on the company’s support of bushfire recovery 
efforts and maintaining its essential services throughout 
the COVID-19 pandemic in the provision of its news and 
entertainment services to the Australian public, see pages 25 to 
27 of this Annual Report.

The Audit & Risk Committee is also responsible for:

 > making recommendations to the Board on the appointment 
(including procedures for selection), and where necessary, 
the replacement of the External Auditor; 

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

 > 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

 > reviewing the External Auditor’s fees for non-audit work 

and 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 also attend any meeting of the Committee by 
invitation. The Chairman of the Committee reports to the Board 
on the Committee’s considerations and recommendations. 

Principle 4 – Safeguard the Integrity of 
Corporate Reports

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

Audit & Risk Committee

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

 > Ms Teresa Dyson (Chairman of the Committee)

 > Mr David Evans 

 > Mr Michael Malone

 > Mr Michael Ziegelaar

Mr Peter Gammell was a member of the Audit & Risk Committee 
throughout the financial year until his retirement on 13 November 
2019. The Audit & Risk Committee has adopted a formal 
Charter* which is available on the Company’s website.

The relevant qualifications and experience of the members of 
the Committee are set out on pages 28 to 30 under the heading 
Board of Directors.

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

 > the accounting and financial reporting practices of the 

Company and its subsidiaries; 

 > the consideration of matters relating to the internal controls 

and systems of the Company and its subsidiaries; 

 > reviewing the process to verify the integrity of any periodic 

corporate report the Company releases to the market that is 
not audited or reviewed by the External Auditor;

 > the identification and management of financial and  

non-financial risk; and 

 > the examination of any other matters referred to it by the Board.

External Audit function

It is the policy of The Audit & Risk Committee meets 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 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 and 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 and 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. 

38

05Section 5: Governance Seven West Media Limited Annual Report 2020To assist the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer 
and the Chief Financial Officer in making their declarations to 
the Board in relation to the for each of the half-year and full 
year, and to ensure integrity in corporate reporting and good 
governance, a detailed questionnaire is distributed to senior 
management across the Group, including business unit Chief 
Executives and business unit Chief Financial Officers as well as 
other selected key senior managers, requiring confirmation from 
each of them that financial and accounting controls have been 
in place and adhered to, Company codes or policies have not 
been breached, risks have been appropriately managed, and 
that any matters requiring further consideration by senior group 
management are disclosed. 

The required declarations from the Managing Director and Chief 
Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer have been given 
for the half year ended 28 December 2019 and the financial year 
ended 27 June 2020.

Verification of Integrity of Periodic Corporate Reports

Corporate reports which are not audited or reviewed by the 
external auditor are prepared by Senior Executive Management 
by reference to company records and systems, with external 
professional assistance where appropriate. Such reports, as 
are included in the non-audited sections of this Annual Report, 
are submitted to a Committee or the Board for consideration. 
The detailed questionnaire distributed to senior management 
across the Group as part of the Company’s periodic reporting 
procedures, referred to above, is a feature of the verification 
process in relation to corporate reporting on the Company’s 
policies and compliance.

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 has adopted a Continuous Disclosure Policy*. 

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. 

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 Security 
Holders

Communications with security holders

As disclosed in the Shareholder Communication Policy*, the 
Board aims to ensure that security holders are informed of all 
major developments affecting the Company’s state of affairs 
and that there is an effective two-way communication with 
its security holders facilitated via the Company’s Investor 
Relations function. The Company adopted a communications 
strategy that promotes effective communication with security 
holders 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. Shareholders are encouraged to participate 
in general meetings and are invited to put questions to the 
Chairman of the Board in that forum.

Security holders 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 security holders for 
cost effectiveness and efficiencies, including using electronic 
delivery systems for security holder communications where 
appropriate. The Company continues to implement campaigns 
to encourage security holders to elect to receive all security 
holder 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 policy that all substantive 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:

 > Overviews of the Company’s operating businesses, divisions 

and structure; 

 > Biographical information for each Director;

 > 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.

39

Section 5: Governance Seven West Media Limited Annual Report 2020Principle 7 – Recognise and Manage Risk

Risk oversight and management

The Board recognises that the management of financial and 
non-financial 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 the 
Integrity of Corporate Reports”. 

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:

 > 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;

 > Review and approve management’s annual report on the 

effectiveness of the risk management systems and internal 
control framework;

 > 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;

 > Review, at least annually, 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;

 > 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;

 > 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;

 > 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

 > 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 2020 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.

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. The Audit & Risk Committee reviews and approves 
Risk Assurance & Internal Audit plans and resourcing as well 
as monitors its independence, performance and management’s 
responsiveness to its findings and recommendations.

The Internal Audit function has traditionally required a 
combination of internal and external resourcing, with external 
resourcing being engaged to conduct highly specialised reviews 
or to access particular professional or technical expertise. 
During the year, as part of a Request for Proposal process, 
external accounting and consulting firms with suitable capability 
were invited to make submissions to provide services to enhance 
the Company’s Internal Audit function. Following evaluation 
by the Audit & Risk Committee of a shortlist of providers and 
submissions, Protiviti were appointed to conduct the Company’s 
Internal Audit reviews, under in-house oversight, for the financial 
year commencing from December 2019. The Board considers 
that this appointment provides an enhanced level of capability, 
providing technical depth from a leading internal audit firm. This 
will embed a stronger risk and compliance culture across the 
organisation, whilst drawing on best practice and knowledge 
across operational and emerging issues. Additionally, 
efficiencies will also be gained by the externally resourced 
Internal Audit function working closely with the Group’s external 
auditor, KPMG, to ensure audit efforts are not duplicated and 
Internal Audit work can be relied upon.

During the year, detailed Internal Audits and Risk Reviews 
were presented 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 2020 Risk Assurance & Internal 
Audit plan included the review of the Group’s tax corporate 
governance framework, review of content production processes, 
and the effectiveness of the Group’s sales incentive schemes. 

40

05Section 5: Governance Seven West Media Limited Annual Report 2020Risk Management Policy 

Material risks

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 Risk Assurance & Internal Audit function 
in consultation with key executives across the business. 
Throughout the year, the Audit & Risk Committee reviews with 
management 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. The key risks 
identified by Management and mitigation actions in place are 
regularly updated and reported to the Audit & Risk Committee 
and periodically to the Board.

Workplace Safety

The Company is committed to providing a safe workplace for 
all and maintains comprehensive workplace safety policies and 
systems which are overseen by the Group Safety & Wellness 
Manager. These polices are promulgated to staff through 
induction, training, the Company’s intranet as well as through 
Workplace Health & Safety Committees 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. 

Management provide leadership by promoting a culture of 
safety and wellness, risk awareness, mitigation and injury 
prevention. Regular workplace safety and wellness updates are 
provided to department executives and the Board. Additionally, 
to support health and well-being, the Company provides a 
calendar of free wellness activities including yoga, pilates, 
meditation, exercise classes, flu vaccinations, health checks, 
‘lunch and learns’ and confidential external counselling service 
for employees and their immediate families. 

Environment

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 page 21 of this Annual Report.

Under the risk framework described above the Company has 
identified revenue, content, and product/technology 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, the Company’s economic sustainability 
risks and how it manages those risks is set out under the headings 
“Risk Management” and “Risk Management Framework” on 
page 20 of this Annual Report. The Company does not believe it 
has any material exposure to environmental risks. The Company 
considers it has material exposure to social risks associated with 
a pandemic, such as COVID-19. The Company has assessed this 
exposure and sets out how it manages these risks on pages 21, 
44 and 45 of the Annual Report. Commentary on the Company’s 
environmental and human capital related initiatives as well as 
its community engagement is provided on pages 20 to 27 of this 
Annual Report.

Strategy 

The Company has continued its strategic focus on responding 
rapidly to the challenges and opportunities in its marketplace. 
For more information on the Company’s strategic framework 
which underpins the Company’s economic sustainability please 
refer to pages 2 to 3 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 be Effective and Add Value”.

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

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

 > 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, purpose and risk appetite; 

41

Section 5: Governance Seven West Media Limited Annual Report 2020During the year, the Board resolved that Directors’ base, 
Committee and Chair fees would each be reduced by 20 per 
cent for the period from 1 April to 30 June 2020 to support the 
Company’s cost reduction initiatives, particularly during the 
period impacted by restrictions associated with the COVID-19 
pandemic.

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 (“KMP”). This process is summarised in the 
Remuneration Report on pages 48 to 70. The Remuneration 
Report also sets out details of Directors’ and executives’ 
remuneration, as well as the Board’s policy for Non-Executive 
Directors and senior executives’ remuneration throughout 
sections 6 to 7.

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 KMP are prohibited from 
entering into arrangements which operate to limit the executives’ 
economic risk in connection with Seven West Media securities 
which are unvested or remain subject to a holding lock. 

This statement has been approved by the Board and is current 
as at 25 August 2020.

 > 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; 

 > To advise on succession planning and employee 

development policies; and

 > To review and monitor the implementation of, the  
Company’s remuneration framework to confirm it: 

 – encourages and sustains a culture aligned with  

the Company’s values;

 – supports the Company’s strategic objectives  
and long-term financial soundness; and 

 – is aligned with the Company risk management  

framework and risk appetite. 

It is the practice for the Managing Director and 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 aggregate remuneration for Non-Executive Directors is 
approved by shareholders. Fees for Directors are set out in the 
Remuneration Report on pages 48 to 70. 

The Committee reviews remuneration packages and policies 
applicable to the Managing Director and 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.

42

05Section 5: Governance Seven West Media Limited Annual Report 2020Directors’ Report

For the year ended 27 June 2020

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 27 June 2020 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:

Kerry Stokes AC – Chairman

James Warburton – Managing Director and Chief Executive 
Officer (appointed 16 August 2019)

John Alexander 

Teresa Dyson 

David Evans 

Colette Garnsey OAM

Michael Malone 

Ryan Stokes AO 

Michael Ziegelaar 

Timothy Worner – Managing Director and Chief Executive 
Officer (resigned 16 August 2019)

Peter Gammell (retired 13 November 2019)

The Hon. Jeffrey Kennett AC (retired 13 November 2019)

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 28 and 31 and form part of 
this report.

Warren Coatsworth is the Company Secretary. He was 
appointed to the role on 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. Included on Doyles Guide’s list of Leading  

In-House Technology, Media & Telecommunications Lawyers in 
Australia for 2016 and 2017.

Principal activities

The principal activities of the Group during the financial 
year were free to air television broadcasting and newspaper 
publishing. 

During the financial year the Group made the following changes 
to the prinicipal activities. On 31 December 2019 the Company 
had finalised the sale of Redwave Radio assets in Western 
Australia to Southern Cross Austereo. On 1 May 2020 the 
Company announced that it had finalised the sale of its Pacific 
Magazines assets to Bauer. From the date of each of these 
sales the Group’s principal activities no longer include radio 
broadcasting and magazine publishing respectively.

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 on page 2. 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:

 > On 16 August 2019, Mr Timothy Worner resigned as 
Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer and  
Mr James Warburton was appointed Managing Director  
& Chief Executive Officer.

 > On 31 December 2019, the Company finalised the sale of 

Redwave Radio assets in Western Australia to Southern 
Cross Austereo for a price of $28 million.

 > On 1 May 2020, the Company announced that it had 

finalised the sale Pacific Magazines to Bauer. The Company 
received $40 million in cash consideration, pre-adjustments 
and leave provisions, as well as $6.6 million in advertising 
over three years in Bauer publications.

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.

43

Section 6: Director’s report Seven West Media Limited Annual Report 2020Net liability position and basis of preparation

Net liability position

Current year performance

For the year ended 27 June 2020 the Group recorded Earnings 
Before Interest and Tax (EBIT) (and before significant items) of 
$101.7 million ($98.7 million from continuing operations). The 
statutory loss after tax was $200.1 million (including significant 
items but excluding discontinued operations). The FY20 net 
operating cash inflows were $47.5 million. At year end the Group 
was in a net liability postion of $236.1 million, including available 
cash of $352.0 million and net debt of $398.0 million.

The COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on the 
Australian advertising market in the second half of the financial 
year as advertising clients managed the impacts of the Australian 
and foreign government restrictions on their operations. 

SMI data reported the Australian advertising market down 20.6 
per cent in the 6 months to 27 June 2020 compared to the previous 
period. ThinkTV reported the metropolitan FTA market decreased 
by 21.9 per cent for this period, with the final quarter of the 
financial year showing a decline of 33.7 per cent. Seven’s revenue 
was down $182.7 million or -14.9 per cent. 

COVID-19 restrictions also had significant impacts on content 
production activities. While news gathering and broadcasting 
continued throughout the shutdown as essential public services, 
all other content production was required to cease. Major sporting 
codes were also impacted by restrictions, resulting in the loss of 
key programming.

The Group’s revised content strategy, outlined in the August 2019 
results and 2019 AGM, was impacted by COVID-19 shutdowns. 
Many of the scheduled 1HFY21 programs will now form part of 
the content line up for calendar year 2021. The Group expects it 
will take some time for the impact of the new strategy to positively 
impact earnings and cash flow and the Group incurred additional 
costs in respect of the interruptions and delays to the production of 
key content.

Debt facilities

As a result of the financial impacts of these operating conditions 
in the second half of the year, a waiver of compliance with the 
covenants under the Group’s $750 million of debt facilities was 
obtained in respect of the June 2020 testing date.

Subsequent to year end, the Group amended the debt facilities. 
A syndicated secured facility agreement has been entered into 
with maturities in July 2022 ($450 million) and December 2022 
($300 million). Under the terms of the new agreement the existing 
leverage and interest cover ratios are replaced by a minimum 
liquidity requirement and a minimum EBITDA test (from March 
21) until 31 December 2021 at which time leverage and interest 
cover covenants are reinstated. The amended interim covenants 
provide the Group with the flexibility required to complete the 
transformation program that was commenced during FY20.

At 27 June 2020, the Group had available cash of $352.0 million 
with net debt of $398.0 million.

As at 27 June 2020, the Group’s liabilities exceeded its  
assets by $236.1 million (previously reported 26 June 2019:  
assets exceeded liabilities by $103.1 million). 

The Group is in a net liability position as at 27 June 2020 as a 
result of the following:

 > $123.5 million impairment of intangible assets and 

programming rights as a result of carrying value assessments 
performed at reporting date;

 > reassessment of onerous contracts provisions required in 

respect of certain programming rights agreements resulting in 
the recognition of $136.9 million of additional provisions; 

 > an accounting policy change resulting in the recognition of a 
DTL of $138.5 million relating to the treatment of the Group’s 
indefinite lived intangible assets. This accounting policy 
change was as a result of an IFRIC Tentative Agenda Decision 
issued in April 2020; and

 > the adoption of AASB 16 Leases during the current year which 
resulted in the recognition of Right of Use Assets of $117.1 
million and Lease Liabilities of $175.2 million (Current Liability: 
$7.7 million, Non-Current Liability $167.4 million). The Right 
of Use asset recognised during the year in respect of the 
leaseback of the WA headquarters was required to be fully 
impaired as a result of the assessment of the recoverable value 
of the Newspapers CGU at reporting date.

The adoption of AASB 16 on a fully retrospective basis and the 
accounting policy change relating to the recognition of deferred 
tax on the Group’s television licences resulted in a restatement 
of the prior year balance sheet. As a result, liabilities exceeded 
assets by $87.1 million at 29 June 2019 on a restated basis. 

The Group has positive net current assets as at 27 June 2020 
of $270.3 million with Group net debt position (cash and cash 
equivalents less drawn debt facilities) at $398.0 million. 

Cashflow forecasts

In the ordinary course of business the Group prepares longer 
term and detailed projections for the next 12 months. These risk 
adjusted forecast future cashflows have been used by the Board 
to assess the Group’s ability to meet its obligations as and when 
they fall due including compliance with the requirements of the 
new debt facilities over the forthcoming 12 months.

While market conditions in the final quarter were significantly 
down on the prior year, the market conditions have been less 
severe than forecast. This is also evident into the first months 
of FY21, supported by the resumption of major sports and the 
lifting of COVID-19 trading restrictions in many States earlier 
than originally anticipated. 

In response to the very subdued COVID-19 impacted market 
projections and to fund the new content strategy, the Group 
implemented the first phase of a cost out programme which was 
substantially completed by the end of FY20. Transformation 
remains a core pillar of the Group’s strategy.

44

06Section 6: Director’s report Seven West Media Limited Annual Report 2020The Group uses best estimate assumptions in the development 
of projections which include benchmarking against 
independently sourced information for key assumptions such 
as the metropolitan free-to-air advertising market. The key 
assumption, which remains uncertain and which may be 
material, is the timing and extent of the advertising market 
recovery from COVID-19. The risk adjusted cash flow projections 
included in the analysis support that the Group will continue 
as a going concern and be able to meet its obligations as and 
when they fall due.

Due to the uncertainty of these key assumptions, which are 
not within the control of the Group, the Directors recognise 
that action is required to advance the Group’s content, 
transformation and balance sheet strategy. The Directors 
therefore approved several actions to accelerate the Group’s 
transformation and debt reduction agenda to ensure adequate 
liquidity is in place. This year the Group: 

 > sold the Redwave regional radio business completed on  

31 December 2019 ($28.5 million net proceeds); 

 > sold the Pacific Magazines operating segment to Bauer for 
$40 million (pre working capital adjustments) completed on 
1 May 2020; 

 > sold the Maroochydore property for $6.7 million in June 2020;

 > sold the WA headquarters located in Osborne Park for  

$75 million completed on 9 June 2020; and

 > implemented operational cost and cash savings which will 

deliver an additional net $110.0 million cash benefit in FY21;

 > commenced search for futher incremental savings targetting 

$30.0–$50.0 million of initiatives in FY21.

Market impacts may be more prolonged or more significant than 
anticipated in current projections, management has therefore 
identified further operational responses and additional funding 
initiatives which are being implemented to provide additional 
earnings liquidity to manage the Group’s financial performance 
and cashflows. These initiatives include:

 > the sale of the Group’s portfolio of early stage  
digital businesses, Seven West Media Ventures;

 > the sale of the Group’s 50 per cent investment in the  

TX Australia transmission services business; 

 > the sale of the Seven Studios business including  

the historical content catalogue; and

 > further operational cost and cash saving initiatives.

Matters subsequent to the end of the financial year

On 30 July 2020 the Group announced it had amended its $750 
million banking facilities with the Company’s existing lender group. 

A syndicated secured facility agreement has been entered 
into with maturities in July 2022 ($450 million) and December 
2022 ($300 million). Under the terms of the new agreement the 
existing leverage and interest cover ratios are replaced by a 
minimum liquidity requirement and a minimum EBITDA test (from 
March 2021) until 31 December 2021 at which time leverage 
and interest cover covenants are reinstated. The amended 
interim covenants provide the Group with the flexibility required 
to complete the transformation program that was commenced 
during FY20.

The amended facilities are secured via a General Security Deed 
and come at an increased cost (margin of 4.5 per cent), plus up 
front fees.

Subsequent to year end the Group reclassified their equity 
accounted investment in TX Australia Pty Limited to assets 
held for sale. The Group holds 50 per cent of the shares in TX 
Australia Pty Limited.

Further government actions in response to  
COVID-19 pandemic

Subsequent to year end, the impact of COVID-19 pandemic 
continues to evolve. The Victorian government implemented a 
Stage 4 lockdown across parts of Victoria, including Melbourne. 
The Queensland government also announced temporary reclosing 
of the Queensland border to NSW and ACT residents. 

The Group continues to monitor market conditions in light of 
government decisions, and is focused on continuing to deliver on 
their cost out strategy into FY21. Transformation remains a core 
pillar of the Group’s strategy.

The Group uses best estimate assumptions in the development 
of projections which include benchmarking against 
independently sourced information for key assumptions such 
as the metropolitan free-to-air advertising market. The key 
assumption, which remains uncertain and which may be 
material, is the timing and extent of the advertising market 
recovery from COVID-19. 

In the opinion of the Directors there are no other 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.

These financial statements have been prepared on a going 
concern basis.

45

Section 6: Director’s report Seven West Media Limited Annual Report 2020Meetings of directors 

The number of meetings of the Company’s Board of Directors and of each Board Committee held during the year ended 27 June 
2020, and the numbers of meetings attended by each Director were:

Directors

Kerry Stokes AC

Timothy Worner (resigned 16 August 2019)

James Warburton (appointed 16 August 2019)

John Alexander 

Teresa Dyson 

David Evans 

Peter Gammell (retired 13 November 2019)

Colette Garnsey OAM 

Jeffrey Kennett AC (retired 13 November 2019)

Michael Malone 

Ryan Stokes AO 

Michael Ziegelaar 

Meetings  
of Directors

Audit  
and Risk

Remuneration  
and Nomination

(a)

12

1

11

12

12

12

3

12

3

12

12

12

(b)

12

1

11

12

11

12

3

12

2

12

12

12

(a)

(b)

(a)

(b)

-

1

6

-

7

7

2

-

2

7

7

7

-

1

6

-

6

7

2

-

2

7

7

7

1

1

3

7

1

7

-

5

4

-

7

1

1

1

3

7

1

7

-

5

4

-

7

1

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.

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)    

Rights on Issue         

Expiry Date

   3,473,305          

1 September 2018

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 2,334,152 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.

Dividends – Seven West Media Limited

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

Final ordinary dividend for the year ended 29 June 2019 nil cents (2018 - nil cents)

Interim ordinary dividend for the year ended 27 June 2020 was nil cents (2019 - nil cents) 

2020
$

–

–

2019
$

–

–

In addition to the above dividends, since the end of the 2020 financial year the Directors have declared the payment of a final 
ordinary dividend of nil cents per share.

46

06Section 6: Director’s report Seven West Media Limited Annual Report 2020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.

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.

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:

Directors

Kerry Stokes AC

James Warburton

John Alexander

Teresa Dyson

David Evans

Colette Garnsey OAM

Michael Malone

Ryan Stokes AO

Michael Ziegelaar

Performance
Rights 

Number of
ordinary shares

–

619,753,734

10,945,945

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

55,768

38,218

927,803

250,000

233,000

240,466

10,000

Remuneration report

A remuneration report is set out on the pages that follow  
(pages 48 to 70) 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.

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.

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 
$442,742. 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:

 > 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;

 > 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 71 and forms part of the Directors’ Report for the financial 
year ended 27 June 2020.

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.

Kerry Stokes AC

Chairman
Sydney

25 August 2020

47

Section 6: Director’s report Seven West Media Limited Annual Report 2020Remuneration Report

Message from the Remuneration & Nomination Committee

Dear Shareholder

On behalf of the Seven West Media Board, we present the 
Remuneration Report for the 2020 financial year (FY20) 
which sets out remuneration information for Key Management 
Personnel (KMP) and Non-Executive Directors. 

In August 2019, we announced the appointment of the new 
Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer (MD and CEO) 
for the Group, Mr James Warburton. With a background in 
media, advertising, sports administration, sales and marketing, 
Mr Warburton’s experience makes him ideally suited to address 
the disruption in the sector and to lead the Company’s strategic 
priorities. Specifically, these priorities focus on three key 
pillars to drive our long-term strategy: Content Led Growth, 
Transformation, and Improvement of Capital Structure and 
Balance Sheet.

The impact to the economy, operating environment and our 
communities from the COVID-19 pandemic has led to a higher 
level of uncertainty across the media sector. It has seen 
productions delayed, sporting events cancelled or delayed, 
including the 32nd Olympic Games, and a material adverse 
impact on advertising revenue. Despite these challenges, we 
accelerated the implementation of transformation initiatives and 
executed temporary measures to partially offset the effect on 
our business. Key milestones include:

 > Content Led Growth – Leading the CFTA BVOD platform 

to number 1 in 2H20; revitalising our entertainment content 
strategy premiered with Big Brother, delivering the highest 
P25-54 audience share in a decade; News and Sports 
franchises maintaining our long-term leading position in 
market; and extension of the AFL rights contract to 2024.

 > Transformation – Actioned $170 million in cost savings 

initiatives, the lowest cost base since 2007, including and 
revising the AFL contract with net savings of $87 million over 
the existing contract period to 2022.

 > Improvement of Capital Structure and Balance Sheet – 

Divestment of three non-core assets delivering $150 million 
in proceeds; amendment of debt facilities and acquiring 
a 14.9 per cent strategic stake in Prime Media Group, 
providing long-term optionality.

Overview of FY20 Executive Remuneration and 
Performance Outcomes

 > Fixed Remuneration – There have been two Executive KMP 
appointments during FY20, namely the MD and CEO and 
the Chief Financial Officer (CFO), who were appointed at 
remuneration levels set below former incumbents. We have 
not increased fixed remuneration for KMP since 2015, except 
for one Executive KMP which took effect on 1 July 2019 
and made after considering relevant benchmarks, internal 
relativities, role scope and complexity.

 > Temporary Remuneration Reductions – During the final 

quarter in FY20, fixed remuneration for all KMP and Non-
Executive Directors was reduced by 20 per cent and 50 per 
cent respectively. Fixed remuneration was reinstated to 
contracted levels effective 1 July 2020.

 > Termination Arrangements for the former MD and CEO –  
Mr Timothy Worner’s employment formally ended after a 
period of gardening leave (from 16 August to 15 December 
2019). Termination benefits include payment in lieu of the 
balance of notice and provision of other benefits by law 
upon termination. Mr Worner did not receive a FY20 STI and 
all of his restricted vested and unvested ‘at risk’ equity was 
forfeited. Further details are tabled at Sections 5 and 7 of 
the Report.

 > Short-Term Incentive (STI) Plan – The Company’s underlying 
Earnings Before Interest and Tax (EBIT) result fell below the 
90 per cent range of budget, and the STI gateway did not 
open. Therefore, and despite the significant transformation 
progress achived to date, no STI awards were made for the 
FY20 performance year.

 > Long-Term Incentive (LTI) Plan – The 2018 LTI Award 

reached the end of its three-year performance period on 30 
June 2020. 100 per cent of the Award was tested against 
relative TSR which did not meet the performance hurdle and 
therefore, will not vest. All Performance Rights lapsed. 

Other Changes to Key Management Personnel  
and Non-Executive Directors

 > Mr Jeff Howard joined the Company as CFO on 20 January 
2020, replacing Mr Warwick Lynch following his separation 
effective 15 January 2020;

 > Mr Peter Gammell, Non-Executive Director retired from the 

Company on 13 November 2019; and 

 > The Hon. Jeffrey Kennett AC, Non-Executive Director retired 

from the Company on 13 November 2019.

48

Section 7: Remuneration Report Seven West Media Limited Annual Report 202007Outlook and Proposed Changes for 2021

In order to ensure that Seven’s remuneration practices align 
with the Company’s new strategy and continue to incentivise 
and motivate KMP and our staff, the Remuneration and 
Nomination Committee (Committee) has undertaken a review 
of its remuneration structure. Given the dynamic environment 
in which we operate, each year, the Committee and Board 
reviews the measures that we use to reward short and long-
term performance so that they reflect the most relevant drivers 
of value in our business. While we are generally satisfied 
that the current remuneration framework is still aligned to our 
business strategy and is delivering the desired result in terms 
of remuneration levels, we are making a few changes to our 
incentive programs for implementation in FY21. These changes 
are briefly outlined below.

 > Key Performance Indicator (KPI) Measures – The number of 

KPIs for the FY21 Company scorecard will be reduced to four 
critical measures: Strategic, Financial, Audience & Content 
and People, Operations & Compliance.

 > STI Plan – Participants will receive 50 per cent of any 
their award granted as Performance Rights made on a 
prospective basis at the beginning of the performance year. 
Following assessment at the end of the performance year, 
any vested award will be subject to a 12-month deferral, as 
in previous years.

 > LTI Plan – The Board commenced its review of the LTI 

arrangements for the MD and CEO and a final determination 
including any changes will be presented to shareholders for 
adoption at the 2020 Annual General Meeting.

The changes to our revised incentive programs will take full 
effect during FY21 to drive performance and support retention of 
our talented team, while providing alignment and transparency 
for shareholders. 

We have again this year simplified and focused the Report with 
the aim of helping our shareholders navigate important, yet 
complex information. The Company will continue to voluntarily 
disclose the actual cash remuneration received by Executive 
KMP in addition to the statutory reporting obligations.

Thank you for your ongoing support of Seven West Media. I look 
forward to receiving your views and support at the 2020 Annual 
General Meeting. 

Yours faithfully

John Alexander

Remuneration & Nomination Committee Chairman 

Table of Contents

Remuneration Report 2020 – Audited

1 

Introduction 

2   FY20 Key Management Personnel  

Covered by this Report 

3  Executive Remuneration at a Glance 

4  Remuneration Governance 

50

50

51

53

4.1  Role of the Remuneration and Nomination Committee

6  Executive Remuneration Details: Composition 
of Executive Remuneration and Application of 
Remuneration Principles 

57

6.1  Executive Remuneration Framework

6.2  Link Between Remuneration Policy and Company 

Performance

6.3  Executive Service Agreements

6.4  Non-Executive Director Remuneration 

4.2  Members of the Remuneration and Nomination 

Framework 

Committee During FY20

4.3  Services from External Remuneration Consultants

4.4  Security Trading Policy

5  Executive Remuneration Outcomes  

During the FY20 Performance Year 

7  Statutory Remuneration Disclosures for  

Key Management Personnel 

65

7.1  Executive Remuneration in detail (Statutory Disclosures)

7.2  Non-Executive Remuneration in Detail

54

7.3  Key Management Personnel Equity Transactions  

5.1  Executive Remuneration Earned and Vested

and Holdings 

5.2  Summary of STI Outcomes

5.3  Equity Granted to the MD and CEO and Executive KMP

5.4  Summary of LTI Outcomes

8  Loans and Other Transactions with  

Key Management Personnel 

70

49

Section 7: Remuneration Report Seven West Media Limited Annual Report 2020 
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 and 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 
(Cth). It forms part of the Directors’ Report.

2. FY20 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

C Garnsey OAM

M Malone

RK Stokes AO

M Ziegelaar

Former Non-Executive Directors

PJT Gammell

JG Kennett AC

Position

Chairman

Director

Director

Director

Director

Director

Director

Director

Director

Director

Term as KMP

Full Year

Full Year

Full Year 

Full Year

Full Year

Full Year

Full Year

Full Year

Part Year – Retired 13 November 2019

Part Year – Retired 13 November 2019 

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

J Warburton

KJ Burnette

J Howard

KA McGrath

BI McWilliam

Former Executive KMP

TG Worner

WO Lynch

MD and CEO

Part Year – Appointed 16 August 2019

Chief Revenue Officer

Full Year

Chief Financial Officer

Part Year – Appointed 20 January 2020

Chief People and Culture Officer

Full Year

Commercial Director

Full Year

MD and CEO

Part Year – Ceased as KMP on 15 August 2019 

Chief Financial Officer

Part Year – Ceased as KMP on 15 January 2020

50

Section 7: Remuneration Report Seven West Media Limited Annual Report 2020073. Executive Remuneration at a Glance

Key Features

Details of Seven West Media’s Approach

Executive Remuneration in FY20

1.  What impact has the COVID-19 pandemic 

had on Executive remuneration levels?

Due to the significant market volatility, and the ongoing financial 
uncertainty, Executive KMP and Non-Executive Director remuneration 
levels were temporarily reduced by 20 per cent and 50 per cent 
respectively during the final quarter of the financial year and reinstated 
from 1 July 2020.

2.  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. 
 > Short-Term Incentive (STI): The Company’s underlying Earnings 

Before Interest and Tax (EBIT) result fell below the 90 per cent range 
of budget, and the STI gateway did not open despite significant 
progress in the transformation strategy.

 > Long-Term Incentive (LTI): The 2018 LTI Award reached the end of its 
three-year performance period on 30 June 2020. 100 per cent of the 
Award was tested against relative TSR performance which fell below 
the median of the comparator group. All Performance Rights lapsed. 

With respect to the partial vesting of the 2016 LTI Award which was 
tested in September 2018, the Board reassessed the vesting outcome and 
exercised discretion to lapse the vested Performance Rights. Therefore, 
no awards under the 2016 LTI Plan were made to the MD and CEO and 
Executive KMP.

Further 
Information

Section 5 
Pages 54–57

Section 6
Pages 57–64

Section 7
Pages 64–70

Section 5 
Pages 54–57

Section 6
Page 57–64

3.  What changes have been made to the 

remuneration framework in FY20?

There were no changes made to the Company’s remuneration framework 
in FY20.

Section 6 
Pages 57–59

4. Are any changes planned for FY21?

Executive Remuneration Framework

5.  What is Seven West Media’s remuneration 

strategy relative to the market?

6.  What proportion of remuneration is  

“at risk”?

Fixed remuneration levels for Executive KMP remain unchanged, except 
for one Executive KMP whose fixed remuneration was increased at the 
beginning of the performance year as a result of internal relativities and 
market adjustments

We are making minor changes our Remuneration Framework to ensure we 
reward short- and long-term performance that reflect the most relevant 
drivers of value in our business.
 > STI: The deferred component of the STI award (i.e., 50 per cent) will 
be granted at the commencement of the performance year in the 
form of Performance Rights, and subject to the assessment to FY21 
performance.

 > LTI: The Board commenced its review of the LTI arrangements for the 

MD and CEO and a final determination including any changes will be 
presented to shareholders for adoption at the 2020 Annual General 
Meeting. 

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

Executive KMP remuneration is broadly evenly distributed between fixed 
remuneration and on performance which is therefore ‘at risk’. 
 > MD and CEO: 66.7 to 71.4 per cent at risk. 
 > Executive KMP: Remuneration package range between  

43 to 50 per cent at risk.

7.  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.

Short-Term Incentives (STI)

8. Are any STI payments deferred?

Yes. Typically, 50 per cent of the STI award for Executive KMP is 
deferred in Restricted Shares which vest after 12 months. As noted 
above, for FY21, the deferred component of the award will be delivered 
in Performance Rights. If an Executive resigns or their employment is 
terminated for cause before the vesting period ends, the shares do not 
vest and are forfeited.

Section 6 
Page 57

Section 6 
Page 58

Section 6 
Page 58

Section 6 
Page 59

Section 6 
Page 59

51

Section 7: Remuneration Report Seven West Media Limited Annual Report 2020Key Features

Details of Seven West Media’s Approach

9. Are STI payments capped?

Yes. STI opportunity is capped as follows:

Long-Term Incentives (LTI)

10.  What are the performance measures  

for the LTI?

 > MD and CEO: STI is capped at 150 per cent of fixed remuneration 

(maximum opportunity).

 > Executive KMP: STI is capped at the STI target (at 100%), achievable 
only in circumstances of both exceptional individual and Company 
performance.

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.

11.  Are there any restrictions imposed on 

disposal of LTI awards?

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

 > The date the holder ceases employment with Seven West Media  

(subject to approval by the Board);

 > The one-year anniversary of the vesting date (or subsequent 

anniversaries if elected by the award holder); or

 > The Board determines that the holding lock should be released.
 > The Board has ultimate discretion to determine otherwise.

12. Does the LTI have re-testing?

No. There is no re-testing.

13.  Are dividends paid on unvested  

LTI awards?

14.  Is the size of LTI grants increased  
in light of performance conditions?

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.

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.

Section 6 
Pages 61–62

Section 7 
Page 67–69

15.  Can LTI participants hedge  

their unvested LTI?

No. Consistent with the Corporations Act 2001 (Cth), participants are 
prohibited from hedging their unvested Performance Rights.

Further 
Information

Section 6 
Page 59

Section 6 
Page 61–62

Section 6 
Page 62

Section 6 
Page 62

Section 6 
Page 62

Section 4 
Page 54

Section 6 
Page 62

Section 6 
Page 61–62

Section 6 
Page 61–62

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.

No. Seven typically uses Restricted Shares for the deferred STI awards 
and Performance Rights for LTI awards. However, for FY21 Performance 
Rights will be issued for both STI and LTI awards

The Executive KMP termination entitlements are limited to six (6) months’ 
fixed remuneration.

Section 6 
Page 63

16.  Does Seven West Media  

buy shares or issue new shares  
for share-based awards?

17.  Does Seven West Media issue  

share options?

Executive Service Agreements

18.  What is the maximum an Executive  

can receive on termination?

52

Section 7: Remuneration Report Seven West Media Limited Annual Report 202007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 to ensure that remuneration policies and structures are fair, competitive and are 
aligned with the long-term interests of the Company. These include our people strategy, remuneration components, performance 
measurements and accountability frameworks, recruitment, engagement, retention, talent management and succession planning. 

The table below outlines the roles and responsibilities of the Board, the Committee and management in relation to Board and 
Executive KMP remuneration.

Board

Remuneration and Nomination Committee

Management

 > Approves remuneration arrangements 

 > Recommends remuneration and incentive 

 > Prepares recommendations and 

and conditions of service for the MD and 
CEO, Executive KMP and Non-Executive 
Directors.

policies, structures and practices.

 > Recommends remuneration arrangements 

for the MD and CEO and Executive KMP. 

 > Monitors the performance of Executive 

management. 

 > Retains discretion in determining the 

overall outcome of the incentive awards 
or adjust remuneration to ensure it is 
consistent with, and appropriately 
reflects the Group performance and of the 
individual Executive experience over the 
relevant performance period.

 > Undertakes an annual review of the 

Company’s remuneration strategy and 
Remuneration Policy.

 > Reviews executive remuneration 

arrangements or Executive KMP and Non-
Executive Directors on an annual basis 
against the Remuneration Policy, obtaining 
independent external remuneration advice 
where appropriate.

 > Review and recommend the Remuneration 
Report and any other report required to 
be produced for shareholders to meet 
statutory requirements.

provides supporting information for the 
Committee’s consideration.

 > Implements approved remuneration-
related policies and practices.
 > The MD and 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 and CEO makes a 
recommendation to the Committee for 
approval.

The Committee has a strong focus on the relationship between business performance, risk management and remuneration. During 
the year, the Committee met on four occasions and reviewed and approved or made recommendations to the Board on matters 
including: 

 > Remuneration review for the MD and CEO and other senior Executives (broader than those disclosed in the Remuneration Report) 

covered by the Company’s Remuneration Policy; 

 > The review of the Seven West Media STI Plan and Employee Share Plan; 

 > The Company’s performance framework (objectives setting and assessment) and annual variable remuneration spend; 

 > Performance and remuneration outcomes for senior Executives; 

 > Approval of Executive KMP and other senior Executive appointments and terminations; 

 > The effectiveness of the Company’s Remuneration Policy; 

 > Succession plans for senior Executives; and 

 > Diversity, employee engagement, and health, safety and wellbeing. 

The Committee reviews its Charter every financial year. The Corporate Governance Statement on pages 31 to 42 provides further 
information on the role of the Committee.

53

Section 7: Remuneration Report Seven West Media Limited Annual Report 20204.2 Members of the Remuneration and  
Nomination Committee During FY20

During FY20, the members of the Remuneration and  
Nomination Committee were:

 > Mr JH Alexander, Chairman

 > Mr D Evans

 > Ms C Garnsey OAM (effective 3 October 2019) 

 > Mr JG Kennett AC (until 13 November 2019)

 > Mr RK Stokes AO

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.

During FY20, the Committee retained Ernst & Young (“EY”) to 
provide an independent valuation for the 2020 LTI Award, and to 
assess TSR performance for the Company’s FY18 LTI 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 employs in-house remuneration professionals 
who provide recommendations to the Committee and the 
Board. The Board made its decisions independently, using the 
information provided and with careful regard to the Company’s 
strategic objectives, risk appetite and the Seven West Media 
Remuneration Policy and principles.

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. These restrictions satisfy the requirements of the 
Corporations Act which prohibits hedging of unvested awards.

5.  Executive Remuneration Outcomes  
During the FY20 Performance Year

5.1 Executive Remuneration Earned and Vested 
(Voluntary Disclosure)

The purpose of this table is to provide shareholders with a 
summary of the actual remuneration which has been received by 
Executive KMP during 2020, and to show remuneration received 
during 2019 for comparative purposes. The table below has 
been prepared to supplement the statutory requirements in 
Section 7 of the Report and shows:

 > Fixed remuneration and the value of cash incentives earned 

in respect of 2020 and 2019; and

 > ‘At risk’ equity-based remuneration granted to Executive 
KMP in prior years that vested during 2020 and 2019. The 
final column shows the value of prior equity awards which 
lapsed in 2020 (these awards reflect the FY18 LTI grant of 
Performance Rights which did not meet the performance 
hurdles when tested in July 2020). 

Unlike the Statutory Disclosure table in Section 7 which has 
been prepared in accordance with Australian Accounting 
Standards and discloses the value of LTI grants which may or 
may not vest in future years (i.e., reported on an accounting 
basis), this table discloses the value of LTI grants from previous 
years which vested in FY20.

54

Section 7: Remuneration Report Seven West Media Limited Annual Report 202007Financial  
Year

Fixed 
Remuneration1
$

Other 
Remuneration2
$ 

Termination 
Benefits
$

2020 
Total Cash 
Payments3
$

Prior Year 
Equity Awards 
Vested during 
20204
$

Prior Year 
Equity Awards 
Lapsed/ 
Forfeited 
during 20204
$

Name

MD and CEO

J Warburton5

Executive KMP 

KJ Burnette

J Howard5

KA McGrath6

BI McWilliam7

Former Executive KMP 

TG Worner8

WO Lynch9

Total

2020

2019

2020

2019

2020

2019

2020

2019

2020

2019

2020

2019

2020

2019

2020

2019

1,134,875

43,899

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

1,178,774

– 

1,231,629

1,218,951 

290,593

–

521,782

457,070

1,026,871

–

–

–

72,632

–

–

–

–

–

783,508 

63,916

2,573,920

3,022,373

–

–

2,561,444

302,148

352,005

–

737,781

701,591

–

14,042

–

–

(25,388)

(217,896)

–

–

(9,140)

–

(22,341)

(191,748)

(105,613)

(906,446)

(14,725)

(42,127)

42,534

42,906

15,193

–

29,442

27,682

38,092

29,961

35,018

64,396

22,562

35,050

226,740

2,925,925

8,009,803

–

(177,207)

199,995

–

5,722,564

452,738

(1,358,217)

1,189,095

1,176,045

275,400

–

492,340

429,388

988,779

753,547

413,435

2,497,048

363,214

666,541

4,857,138

5,522,569

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. Fixed remuneration was temporarily reduced by 20 per cent for the final quarter of FY20. 

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 7 of the Report.

3.  Refers to the total value of remuneration earned during FY20, 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.  The information relates to the period J Warburton and J Howard held office during the year. Refer Section 2 of the Report for details of appointment dates.
6.  KA McGrath’s fixed remuneration was increased by 17 per cent at the commencement of the financial year due to internal relativities and market 

adjustments.

7.  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 which ceased on 20 November 2019.

8.  TG Worner’s employment formally ended after a period of gardening leave (from 16 August to 15 December 2019). Termination benefits include payment 
in lieu of notice, provision of other benefits by law upon termination. Termination benefits provisions did not exceed the limits in accordance with the 
Corporations Act (s200AA), TG Worner did not receive a FY19 or FY20 STI and all of his restricted vested and unvested equity were forfeited. 
9.  WO Lynch’s employment ended on 15 January 2020. Termination benefits include payment in lieu of notice, provision of other benefits by law upon 

termination. WO Lynch did not receive a FY19 or FY20 STI and all of his restricted vested and unvested LTI awards were forfeited. 

55

Section 7: Remuneration Report Seven West Media Limited Annual Report 2020 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
5.2 Summary of STI Outcomes

How the Group’s Performance was Assessed for the 2020 Financial Year 

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 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 FY20 STI financial gateway reflects the overall 
assessment of Group performance. For FY20, the Company’s underlying EBIT result of $100.9 million did not open the financial 
gateway.

The individual KPIs and FY20 achievements as determined by the Remuneration and Nomination Committee for the MD and CEO are 
provided in the following table.

Strategic  
Pillar & Measure

Financial
 > Group Revenue Target
 > Underlying EBIT Target
 > Target Net Debt
 > Debt Reduction 

Strategy
 > Acquisition & 

Divestments Program

Audience & Customer
 > Revenue Share Growth 
Targets in FTA and 
BVOD

 > Growth in BVOD (VOD 
+ Live) Audience Share

 > Growth in Audience 
and Profitability of 
Digital Products

Operational  
Risk & Compliance
 > Target Cost Reduction
 > Regulatory 

Environment Initiatives
 > Improvement in Risk & 
Compliance Reporting

Content & Product
 > Target Growth in 

Audience Strength
 > Development of New 
Acquisition Models
 > Accelerate Growth of 

Seven Studios 

People & Leadership
 > Improvement in 
Engagement, 
Development and 
Performance

 > Improvement in Key 
Safety Metrics

Weight

Performance Against Scorecard Targets

40%

The key financial outcomes for the 2020 performance year were all below target:
 > Group Revenue was $1,321.7 million.
 > Underlying EBIT was $100.9 million.
 > June 2020 net debt was $398 million resulting in a leverage ratio  

of 3.45 times EBITDA. 

Outcome

Partial 
Achievement

Although these were below target, management exceeded target in other measures:
 > Actioned $170 million in gross cost savings.
 > Divested three non-core assets delivering $150 million in proceeds. Acquired  
14.9 per cent strategic stake in Prime Media Group providing long-term 
optionality.

20%

 > FTA and BVOD FYTD share were 37.5 per cent and 36.6 per cent respectively.
 > No. 1 in CFTA BVOD audience share achieved in 2H20, with 7plus leading in 

Partial 
Achievement

both live and VOD minutes.

20%

 > Significant cost initiatives of $170 million implemented, targeted restructures 

Full Achievement

and corresponding changes across the Company met.

 > Significant industry collaboration achieved to support regulatory reforms.
 > Reduced number of ACMA breaches for the year by 50 per cent.

10%

 > Seven’s primetime audiences decreased by 13.3 per cent  

(compared to market of -4.9 per cent).

Partial 
Achievement

 > Negotiated an extension of the AFL rights by two years to 2024,  

resulting in savings of $87 million.

 > Revitalised the entertainment content strategy premiered with  

Big Brother, delivering highest P25-54 audience share in a decade.
 > News and Sports franchises maintained the long-term number 1 position  

in the market.

10%

 > Focus has been on supporting our people and building resilience through the 
significant change in the current year. Training initiatives have been on-going 
throughout the year.

Partial 
Achievement

 > Rate of injuries has decreased over the period.

Total

100%

Partial 
Achievement

56

Section 7: Remuneration Report Seven West Media Limited Annual Report 2020075.3 Equity Granted to the MD and CEO and Executive KMP

No STI awards were granted to Executives under the FY20 STI Plan. The table below presents the equity granted under the LTI Plan 
to the Executive KMP during FY20.

Name

J Warburton

KJ Burnette

J Howard

KA McGrath

BI McWilliam

FY20 Deferred 
STI1
$

–

–

–

–

–

FY20 LTI2
$

Total
$

Financial Year 
in which Grant Vests

4,050,000

4,050,000

2022 & 2023

312,500

144,740

131,250

206,250

312,500

144,740

131,250

206,250

2022

2022

2022

2022

1  

Typically, this column shows the number of Restricted Shares granted with respect to the current performance year as deferred STI in August next year. 50 
per cent of the deferred award is recognised in the current performance year, and 50 per cent recognised next year. Deferred equity under the STI Plan is 
not subject to any further performance conditions except continued employment. For FY20 no STI awards were made. 

2   Subject to performance conditions and due to vest 1 July 2022. For the MD and CEO, Tranche 1 is due to the vest on 1 July 2022 and Tranch 2 is due to vest 

on 1 July 2023.

5.4 Summary of LTI Outcomes

The table below shows the vesting outcomes for the FY18 LTI grant to Executive KMP that reached the completion of the performance 
period during FY20. 

Performance Range

Performance  
Measure

Performance 
Start Date

Test Date

Threshold

Maximum

Outcome

% Vested

% Lapsed

TSR 
(100% of Award)

1 July 2017

30 June 2020

51st 
Percentile

75th 
Percentile

TSR of -86.2% (ranked 
at 108.5% below the 
Comparator Index)

0%

100%

6. Executive Remuneration Details 

Composition of Executive Remuneration and Application of Remuneration Principles

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

6.1 Executive Remuneration Framework

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.

57

Section 7: Remuneration Report Seven West Media Limited Annual Report 2020The Remuneration Framework is outlined in the table below and explained in detail in Section 6 of the Report.

Content Led Growth

Transformation

Capital Structure and Balance Sheet

Strategic Priorities

Attract and retain high-preforming employees with market competitive and flexible reward.

Align reward to our business strategy, helping to create sustainable shareholder value, while adhering to good governance principles. 

Remuneration Strategy

Seven West Media’s remuneration framework is reinforced by the following principles:

Remuneration Principles

Align remuneration 
with shareholder 
interests

Provide market 
competitive 
and responsible 
remuneration

Enable attraction and 
retention of high-
performing employees

Support an 
appropriate culture 
and employee 
conduct

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

Be simple, flexible and 
transparent

Fixed

At Risk

Executive Remuneration Structure

Component

Total Employment  
Remuneration (TER)

Short-Term  
Incentive (STI)

Long-Term  
Incentive (LTI)

Determination Fixed remuneration is set with  
reference to the median of our  
peer groups, reflecting: 
 > Size and complexity of the role;
 > Individual responsibilities and 

performance; and
 > Skills and experience.

Delivery

Fixed remuneration comprises: 
 > Cash salary;
 > Superannuation; and any
 > Prescribed non-financial benefits at 
the Executives’ discretion on a salary 
sacrifice basis.

Strategic 
Intent & 
Market 
Positioning

Our peer groups are the Australian  
media and entertainment industry.

STI rewards financial and non-financial 
performance consistent with the 
Company’s strategy over the short  
to medium term with reference to:
 > Group EBIT and revenue;
 > Strategic programs, content and 

product;

 > Audience and customers;
 > Transformation, operational risk and 

compliance; 

 > People and leadership; and
 > Individual performance targets 
relevant to the specific position.

STI is delivered as:
 > 50 per cent cash; and 
 > 50 per cent in Restricted Shares, 
subject to service conditions.

For FY21, the deferred component of STI 
awards will be granted in Performance 
Rights.

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

LTI targets are linked to 
 > Relative Total Shareholder Return 
(TSR) performance measure; and 
 > An individual performance condition 
over a three-year vesting period.

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

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

Target 
Remuneration 
Mix

MD and CEO:    33.3%
Executive KMP: 50 – 57%

33.3%
25 – 29%

33.3%
14 – 25%

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.

Total Target Remuneration (TTR)

58

Section 7: Remuneration Report Seven West Media Limited Annual Report 2020076.1.1 Fixed Remuneration

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 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. For 
the FY21 performance year, the deferred component of the STI will be delivered as Performance Rights early in or at the beginning of 
the performance period.

Short-Term Incentive 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. 

Further details on the key design features of the 2020 STI Plan and changes to the 2021 STI Plan, are set out below.

Seven West Media STI Plan

STI Opportunity

Eligibility

Delivery of Awards

Target Opportunity

Determination  
of the STI Gateway

For the MD and CEO, the ‘at target’ STI opportunity is 100 per cent of fixed remuneration up to a maximum of 
150 per cent. 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.

The STI Plan covers employees in executive and senior management positions, subject to having more than 
three months’ active service during the financial year and remaining employed on, or not having provided notice 
of termination before the award date.

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 participant 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 August or September following the end of the relevant financial 
year and are held on trust on behalf of each participant. Participants 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 are set by the 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.

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 as shown in the table below:

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 participants where such payment is 
regarded to be inconsistent with shareholders’ interests over the financial year, even if the gateway requirement 
is achieved.

59

Section 7: Remuneration Report Seven West Media Limited Annual Report 2020Seven West Media STI Plan

Performance  
Conditions

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 and CEO’s balanced scorecard.

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.

STI Treatment on Cessation  
of Employment

Changes for 2021

Participants must be employed on the award payment date and not be in a period of termination notice. The 
deferred component of an STI award will be forfeited if the participant resigns or the employment is terminated 
for cause, prior to the vesting date. The Board has discretion to determine whether the participant retains any 
unvested deferred awards relating to prior years’ STI performance outcomes if the participant leaves due to any 
other circumstances, having regard to prior years’ STI performance and time elapsed to the date of cessation.

For the FY21 performance year, the deferred component (i.e., 50 per cent) of the STI will be granted 
prospectively in the form of Performance Rights early in or at the beginning of the performance period. All other 
features of the STI Plan remain the same. Following assessment at the end of the performance year, the vested 
award will be subject to a 12-month deferral, as in previous years.

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  

 > Individual objectives are agreed for Executive KMP, using a balanced scorecard approach under the five 
categories of (i) Financial, (ii) Audience & Customer, (iii) Content & Product; (iv) Operational Risk and 
Compliance; and (v) People and Leadership. 

 > The weighting of measures varies to reflect the responsibilities of an individual’s role. 
 > Many of these measures relate to the contribution towards short to medium term performance outcomes 

aligned to the Company’s strategic objectives. 

 > This methodology is replicated across the Company for all employees reflecting the individual’s 

responsibilities.

Performance Assessed Against Objectives 

 > The performance of each Executive KMP is assessed against their objectives and compliance standards. 
 > The Remuneration & Nomination Committee seeks input from the MD and CEO and CFO (on financial 

performance, internal audit and compliance matters).

 > The Committee reviews (and the Board reviews and approves) the performance outcomes for the CEO and 

each Executive KMP.

Determination of Remuneration Outcomes 

 > The Committee considers the performance of the Group, division and individual to determine remuneration 

recommendations for Executive KMP respectively. 

 > Where Executive KMP deliver on-target performance at a Group, divisional 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. 

 > The Committee’s recommendations are then reviewed and ultimately approved by the Board.

Beginning of  
Performance  
Period

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End of  
Performance  
Period

60

Section 7: Remuneration Report Seven West Media Limited Annual Report 202007 
 
 
 
 
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. 

Key Terms of FY20 LTI Awards 

The key features of the FY20 LTI Plan are provided in the following table.

Seven West Media Long-Term Incentive Plan

LTI Plan Vehicle 

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.

Number of Performance Rights 
Granted

MD and CEO: Typically, the value of LTI granted is allocated annually at 100 per cent of the MD and CEO’s 
fixed remuneration. However, the 2020 LTI Grant represents an upfront long-term incentive award for combining 
the 2020, 2021 and 2022 performance years. 

Performance Rights were granted in two (2) tranches and vest subject to continued employment with the 
Company and satisfaction of the performance conditions in accordance with the following schedule:
 > Tranche 1: 50 per cent of Rights vest subject to meeting the performance conditions over a three-year 
period (1 July 2019 to 30 June 2022) following the announcement of the 2022 financial year results. 
Following vesting, the Shares allocated will be subject to a one-year holding lock; and

 > Tranche 2: 50 per cent vest subject to meeting the Performance Conditions over a four-year period (1 July 
2019 to 30 June 2023) following the announcement of the 2023 financial year results. Following vesting, 
Shares allocated will be subject to a one-year holding lock.

For the CFO, allocation is based on 50 per cent of fixed remuneration, and for other Executive KMP, allocation 
is based on 25 per cent of 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.

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. The FY20 TSR hurdle will be measured 
from 1 July 2019 to 30 June 2022 for Executives and 1 July 2019 to 30 June 2023 for the MD and CEO. 

TSR and Vesting Schedule

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 Communication 
Services 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

Nil

61

Section 7: Remuneration Report Seven West Media Limited Annual Report 2020Seven West Media Long-Term Incentive Plan

Individual Performance 
Condition 

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 per cent.

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 financial years of the  
performance period

Testing of  
Performance Hurdle

Disposal Restrictions  
on Vested Shares

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.

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:
 > The date the Executive ceases employment with Seven West Media (subject to approval by the Board);
 > The one-year anniversary of the vesting date (or subsequent anniversaries (if elected by the Executive); or
 > The Board determines that the restriction should be released. 

Dividends and Voting Rights

Performance Rights do not carry any dividend or voting rights prior to vesting.

Change of Control

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.

Cessation of Employment

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.

Hedging 

Under the Seven West Media Equity Incentive 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.

62

Section 7: Remuneration Report Seven West Media Limited Annual Report 2020076.2 Link Between Remuneration Policy and Company Performance

MD and CEO Performance Objectives and Key Highlights

The Committee reviews and makes recommendations to the Board on performance objectives for the MD and 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 and CEO scorecard to the relevant Executive KMP scorecard. The key financial and non-financial objectives 
for the MD and CEO in the 2020 financial year, with commentary on key highlights, are provided in Section 5 of the Report.

Group Financial Performance – Five Year Perspective

In FY20, the Remuneration Policy was linked to profit before significant items, net finance costs and tax (EBIT), and TSR performance 
of the Group. 

The following table sets out the Group’s performance over the last five financial years: 

Profit before significant items1, net finance costs 

and tax (EBIT) ($’000’s)

Statutory NPAT ($’000’s)

2020

98,654

20195

212,812

(293,931)

(444,496)

NPAT (excluding significant items) 1,2 ($’000’s)

58,061

164,671

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 (%)

(10.6)

5.2

–

0.09

9.63

(21.5)

16.5

–

0.47

20.21

20184

235,636 

132,788 

140,358 

8.8

9.3

 –

0.84 

15.91 

20174

261,385

(738,135)

166,809

(49.0)

11.1

6

0.70

18.58

2016

318,126

184,289

207,343

12.2

13.7

8

1.08

14.44

1  Significant Items is a non-IRFS measure. For details of significant items, refer to 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.
The opening share price on the first day of trading in FY16 was $1.05.
2018 figures have been restated for AASB 9 Financial Instruments standard.

3 
4 

5 

Prior year figures have been restated for AASB 16, amendments to AASB 112 and for discontinued operations.

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 Executive Service Agreements

The terms of employment for Executive KMP of the Seven West Media Group, are formalised in their employment agreements, the 
major provisions of which are set out below.

Name

J Warburton

KJ Burnette

J Howard

KA McGrath

BI McWilliam

Duration of Contract

Period of Notice Required to 
Terminate the Contract

Contractual  
Termination Benefits

Open-ended

Open-ended

Open-ended

Open-ended

Open-ended

Six months’ notice

Six months’ notice

Six months’ notice

Three months’ notice

Three months’ notice

Nil

Nil

Nil

Nil

Nil

63

Section 7: Remuneration Report Seven West Media Limited Annual Report 20206.4 Non-Executive Director Remuneration Framework

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.

The table below sets out the components of Non-Executive Director remuneration:

 > 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.

 > Committee Fees – These additional fees are also paid as cash to other Non-Executive Directors for chairing or participating in 

Board Committees.

 > 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.

6.4.1 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 $1.9 million 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 
FY20 did not exceed the approved amount. For the year ended 30 June 2020, $1.34 million (71 per cent) of this fee pool was used. 

6.4.2 Non-Executive Director Remuneration in FY20

The fees for the year to 30 June 2020 are provided in the table below:

Annual Remuneration

Chairman

Member

Board

$335,000

$135,000

Audit and Risk Committee

Remuneration and  
Nomination Committee

$40,000

$20,000

$20,000

$10,000

During the final quarter of FY20, Non-Executive Director fees were voluntarily reduced by 50 per cent. Fees were reinstated to 
contracted levels effective 1 July 2020.

6.4.3 Changes to Board and Committee Composition

The following changes were made to Board and Committee composition:

 > C Garnsey OAM was appointed to the Remuneration and Nomination Committee effective 3 October 2019; and

 > PJT Gammell and JG Kennett AC retired as Non-Executive Directors of the Seven West Media Board effective 13 November 2019. 

64

Section 7: Remuneration Report Seven West Media Limited Annual Report 202007h
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7

Section 7: Remuneration Report Seven West Media Limited Annual Report 2020 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
7.2. Non-Executive Remuneration in Detail

Details of the remuneration of the Company’s Non-Executive Directors for the year ended 30 June 2020 are set out the following 
table.

Name

Non–Executive Directors

KM Stokes AC, Chairman

JH Alexander

T Dyson

D Evans

C Garnsey OAM

M Malone

RK Stokes AO

M Ziegelaar

Former Non–Executive Directors

PJT Gammell2

JG Kennett AC2

Total Non–Executive Director Fees3

Short–Term  
Benefits

Post–Employment 
Benefits

Seven West 
Media Board 
Fees1 
$

Non–Monetary 
Benefits
$

Financial  
Year

Superannuation
$

Total
$

2020

2019

2020

2019

2020

2019

2020

2019

2020

2019

2020

2019

2020

2020

2019

2019

2020

2019

2020

2019

2020

2019

274,750

314,468

123,860

141,553

139,841

159,817

127,056

145,205

113,519

68,493

119,065

136,073

120,586

132,420

119,065

130,391

50,217

136,073

48,869

132,420

1,236,828

1,496,913

970

5,808

–

–

–

472

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

361

–

–

825

–

1,795

6,641

19,481

20,531

11,767

13,447

13,285

15,183

12,070

13,795

10,784

6,507

11,311

12,927

6,290

12,580

11,311

12,387

4,771

12,927

4,643

12,580

295,201

340,807

135,627

155,000

153,126

175,472

139,126

159,000

124,303

75,000

130,376

149,000

126,876

145,000

130,376

143,139

54,988

149,000

54,337

145,000

105,713

1,344,336

132,864

1,636,418

1. 
Includes fees paid to the Chairman and members of Board Committees. Fees were temporarily reduced by 50 per cent for the final quarter of FY20.
2.  The information relates to the period Non-Executive Directors held office during the year. Refer Section 2 of the Report for details of retirement dates.
3.  The total fees for 2019 reflect the current year’s remuneration for the 2020 reported Non-Executive Directors.

66

Section 7: Remuneration Report Seven West Media Limited Annual Report 202007 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
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. 

FY20 LTI Grant and Prior Years’ LTI Grants

Details of vesting profiles of the Performance Rights granted as remuneration in FY20 to each Executive KMP of the Company under 
its LTI Plan, including prior years’ Performance Rights that remain unvested and on-foot, are provided below. 

Name

J Warburton

J Warburton

KJ Burnette

J Howard

K McGrath

BI McWilliam

TG Worner

KJ Burnette

WO Lynch

K McGrath

BI McWilliam

TG Worner

KJ Burnette

WO Lynch

K McGrath

BI McWilliam

Number of 
Performance 
Rights

Grant  
Date1

Fair Value 
Per Right at 
Grant Date

Number of 
Rights Vested 
During FY20 

Percentage 
of Rights 
Forfeited or 
Lapsed in 
FY20

Financial 
Year in which 
Grant may 
Vest

5,472,972

31–Jan–20

5,472,973

31–Jan–20

844,594

31–Jan–20

391,190

31–Jan–20

354,729

31–Jan–20

557,432

31–Jan–20

1,214,953

01–Feb–19

292,056

01–Feb–19

169,392

01–Feb–19

105,140

01–Feb–19

192,757

01–Feb–19

2,037,617

01–Feb–18

489,811

01–Feb–18

284,090

01–Feb–18

176,332

01–Feb–18

431,034

01–Feb–18

$0.045

$0.065

$0.045

$0.045

$0.045

$0.045

$0.24

$0.24

$0.24

$0.24

$0.24

$0.16

$0.16

$0.16

$0.16

$0.16

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

100%

–

100%

–

–

100%

100%

100%

100%

100%

2023

2024

2023

2023

2023

2023

NA

2022

NA

 2022

2022

NA

NA

NA

NA

NA

1 

LTI awards granted prior to FY18 were subject to a performance condition based on 100 per cent TSR measured against S&P/ASX 200 Consumer 
Discretionary Index. These awards are subject to a three-year performance period.

With respect to the FY20 LTI grant, the maximum possible total value of each grant assuming all vesting conditions are met is with 
respect to the FY20 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 2020, 2021 and 2022. 
For the MD and CEO, tranche two of the FY20 LTI grant will be recognised as statutory remuneration on a straight-line basis over the 
four financial years 2020, 2021, 2022 and 2023. 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.

67

Section 7: Remuneration Report Seven West Media Limited Annual Report 2020Prior Year’s Short–Term Incentive Award

The following table shows the number of Restricted Shares that were allocated during FY20 to one Executive KMP under the STI Plan 
as their total FY19 STI award.

Number 
of Shares 
Granted

–

Fair Value 
Per Share at 
Grant Date

Number 
of Shares 
Vested 
During FY19

Grant Date

Percentage 
Vested in 
FY19

Percentage 
Forfeited  
in FY19

Financial 
Year in which 
Grant Vests

–

–

197,530

16 September 2019

$0.405

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

N/A

2021

N/A

N/A

N/A

Name

KJ Burnette

KA McGrath

BI McWilliam

Former KMP

TG Worner1

WO Lynch1

1 

The information relates to the period TG Worner and WO Lynch held office during the year. Refer Section 2 of the Report for details on relevant dates.

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 16 September 2019. If all vesting conditions are met, this will be received by the 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 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

Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer

Value 
Granted1
$

Number 
Vested2

Value  
Vested2
$

Number of 
Performance 
Rights 
Lapsed3

Closing 
Balance

J Warburton

Executive KMP

KJ Burnette

J Howard

KA McGrath

BI McWilliam

2020

2019

2020

2019

2020

2019

2020

2019

2020

2019

–

–

10,945,945

602,027

–

–

781,867

978,092

–

–

844,594

292,056

391,190

–

281,472 

354,729

176,332 

105,140

623,791

557,432

860,721

192,757

38,007

70,093

17,604

–

15,963

25,234

25,084

46,262

Former Executive KMP 

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

10,945,945

–

(489,811)

1,136,650

(122,070)

72,632

(366,211)

–

–

– 

– 

–

–

–

 –

 –

–

–

–

– 

(431,034)

(107,422)

63,916

(322,265)

781,867

391,190

–

281,472

750,189

623,791

(176,332) 

459,869

TG Worner3

2020

3,252,570

–

–

–

–

(3,252,570)

–

WO Lynch3

Total

2019

2020

2019

2020

2019

4,068,867

1,214,953

291,589

(507,813)

302,148

(1,523,437)

3,252,570

453,482

378,491

–

–

–

–

(453,482) 

–

169,392

40,654

(23,600)

14,042

(70,801) 

453,482

5,393,182

13,093,890

698,685

–

–

(4,803,229)

13,683,843

6,462,503

1,974,298

473,832

(760,905)

452,738

(2,282,714)

5,393,182

1  Based on fair value at grant date of $0.045 for Tranche 1 and $0.065 for Tranche 2.
2.  Based on the 5-day VWAP at vesting of $0.595.
3.  The information relates to the period TG Worner and WO Lynch held office during the year. Refer Section 2 of the Report for details  

on relevant dates.

68

Section 7: Remuneration Report Seven West Media Limited Annual Report 202007 
 
 
 
 
 
 
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 Executive KMP of the Company held directly, indirectly, beneficially and including their personally-related 
entities.

Executive KMP Equity Granted, Vested, Exercised and Lapsed

Number 
Held at 
Start of 
the Year

Number 
Granted 
During the 
Year as 
Remuneration1

Number 
Received 
on Exercise 
and/or 
Exercised 
During the 
Year2

Number 
Lapsed 
During the 
Year

Changes 
During the 
Year

Number 
Held at 
End of the 
Year

Number 
Vested and 
Exercisable 
at End of 
the Year2

Name

Type of Equity-
Based Instrument

Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer

J Warburton

Deferred Shares

Ordinary Shares

Performance Rights

Executive KMP 

KJ Burnette

Deferred Shares

Ordinary Shares

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

10,945,945 

108,294 

122,070

– 

– 

Performance Rights

781,867 

844,594 

J Howard

Deferred Shares

Ordinary Shares

Performance Rights

– 

– 

– 

KA McGrath

Deferred Shares

44,940

– 

– 

391,190 

197,530 

– 

–

– 

– 

108,294

– 

– 

–

– 

– 

Ordinary Shares

– 

– 

44,940 

– 

– 

–

– 

– 

(489,811)

– 

– 

–

– 

– 

Performance Rights

281,472 

354,729 

BI McWilliam 

Deferred Shares

Ordinary Shares

102,704 

288,683 

– 

– 

– 

– 

102,704

(176,332) 

– 

– 

Performance Rights

623,791 

557,432 

– 

(431,034)

– 

– 

– 

–

– 

10,945,945 

(108,294) 

–

–

– 

– 

230,364 

1,136,650 

–

195,630 

195,630 

– 

391,190 

(44,940)

197,530

– 

– 

44,940

459,869 

(102,704)

–

– 

– 

391,387

750,189 

Former Executive KMP 

TG Worner3

Deferred Shares

Ordinary Shares

179,615 

801,623 

Performance Rights

3,252,570 

WO Lynch3

Deferred Shares

Ordinary Shares

71,680 

82,763 

Performance Rights

453,482 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

–

– 

–

– 

–

–

– 

–

–

(179,615)

–

(507,813)

293,810 

(3,252,570)

– 

– 

–

(71,680) 

(23,600) 

59,163 

– 

– 

(453,482) 

– 

–

1 
FY19 deferred STI Restricted Shares were allocated in September 2019. The balance of Performance Rights at the end of the year are unvested rights.
2.  The information relates to the period TG Worner and WO Lynch held office during the year. Refer Section 2 of the Report for details on relevant dates.

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

69

Section 7: Remuneration Report Seven West Media Limited Annual Report 2020 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
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

Chairman of the Seven West Media Board 

KM Stokes AC

Non-Executive Directors 

JH Alexander

T Dyson

D Evans

C Garnsey OAM

M Malone

RK Stokes AO

M Ziegelaar

Former Non- Executive Directors

PJT Gammell1

JG Kennett AC1

Type of 
Equity-Based 
Instrument

Number Held 
at Start of the 
Year

Changes 
During the 
Year

Value  
Vested2

Ordinary Shares

619,753,734 

– 

619,753,734 

Ordinary Shares

Ordinary Shares

Ordinary Shares

Ordinary Shares

Ordinary Shares

Ordinary Shares

Ordinary Shares

Ordinary Shares

Ordinary Shares

55,768 

38,218 

927,803 

250,000 

133,000 

240,466 

10,000 

329,216 

75,000 

– 

–

– 

–

100,000 

– 

– 

– 

– 

55,768 

38,218

927,803 

250,000

233,000 

240,466 

10,000 

329,216 

75,000 

1.  The information relates to the period Non-Executive Directors held office during the year. The balance for PJT Gammell and JG Kennett are as at  

13 November 2019, the date of their resignations. 

8.  Loans and Other Transactions with Key Management Personnel

During FY20, a company associated with a Director, Mr Jeffrey Kennett AC, was party to a consulting agreement with the Group 
which ended in April 2020. The consulting agreement provided for the services of Mr 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 $165,000 (2019: $220,000). There were no other transactions 
with KMP during FY20.

All other transactions involving the Non-Executive Directors 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 FY20. 

70

Section 7: Remuneration Report Seven West Media Limited Annual Report 202007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 27 June 2020 there have been:

i. 

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

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

KPMG 

Sydney

25 August 2020

Duncan McLennan

Partner

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.

71

Section 8: Financial Statements Seven West Media Limited Annual Report 2020 
 
Financial Statements

For the year ended 27 June 2020

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

Investor Information  

Shareholder Information  

Company Information  

 74

 75

 76

 77

 78

 133

 134

 140

 141

 143

72

08Section 8: Financial Statements Seven West Media Limited Annual Report 2020Financial Statements

For the year ended 27 June 2020

Note Index

1.  Introduction and  

Basis of Preperation 

1.1  Basis of Preperation 

1.2 Current Year Performance 

1.3 Debt Facilities

1.4 Net Libability Postion

1.5 Cash Flow Forecasts  

2.  Group Performance

2.1 Segment Information

2.2 Revenue and Other Income

2.3 Expenses

2.4 Significant Items

2.5 Earnings Per Share 

3.  Working Capital 

3.1 Cash and Cash Equivalents

4.    Other Key Balance Sheet Items

7.   Group Structure 

4.1 Intangible Assets

7.1  Equity Accounted Investees

4.2 Property, Plant and Equipment

7.2 Investments in Controlled Entities

4.3 Leases

4.4 Provisions

7.3 Parent Entity Financial Information

7.4 Business Combinations

4.5 Other Financial Assets 

7.5 Related Party Transactions

5.   Taxation

5.1 Taxes 

5.2 Deferred Tax Assets  

and Liabilities 

6.   Capital Management 

6.1 Borrowings

6.2 Share Capital

6.3 Reserves

6.4 Dividends 

8.   Other 

8.1 Remuneration of Auditor

8.2 Contingent Liabilities

8.3 Events Occurring After  
The Reporting Date

8.4 Discontinued Operations

8.5 Summary of Other Significant 

Accounting Policies

8.6 Changes in Accounting  
Policies and Disclosures

3.2 Trade and Other Receivables

6.5 Share-Based Payments

3.3 Program Rights and Inventories

3.4 Trade and Other Payables

6.6 Capital and Financial  
Risk Management

3.5 Commitments

3.6 Contract Assets  
and Liabilities 

73

Section 8: Financial Statements Seven West Media Limited Annual Report 2020 
 
Consolidated Statement of Profit or  
Loss and Other Comprehensive Income

For the year ended 27 June 2020

Continuing Operations 

Revenue

Other income

Revenue and other income

Expenses

Impairment of intangible assets

Impairment of investments and other assets

Onerous contracts

Redundancy and restructure costs 

Costs related to investments 

Other

Net loss on sale of asset held for sale

Net gain on disposal of investments 

Net gain(loss) on assets disposed 

Share of net profit of equity accounted investees

Profit (loss) before net finance costs and tax from continuing operations 

Finance costs

Write off of unamortised refinancing cost

Finance income

Profit (loss) before tax from continuing operations 

Tax benefit

Profit (loss) for the year from continuing operations 

Discontinued operations 

Profit after tax for the year from discontinued operations 

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

Items that will not be reclassified to profit or loss:

Net change in fair value of financial assets at fair value through other comprehensive income

Tax relating to items that will not be reclassified subsequently to profit or loss

Other comprehensive income (expense) 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

Earnings per share for profit (loss) attributable to the ordinary equity holders of the Company

Basic earnings per share

Diluted earnings per share

Notes

2020
$’000

Restated1 2 3 
2019
$’000

 2.2 

 2.2 

 2.3 

 2.4 

 2.4 

 2.4 

 2.4 

 2.4 

 2.4 

 2.4 

 2.4 

 2.4 

 7.1

 2.4 

 5.1 

 8.4 

 1,226,371 

 1,423,388 

 676 

 1,227,047 

 (1,129,596)

 (67,558)

 (137,332)

 (136,864)

 (12,000)

 (9,242)

(9,447)

 – 

 11,012 

 9,439 

 1,203 

 (253,338)

 (42,106)

 – 

 1,513 

 (293,931)

 93,880 

 (200,051)

 37,907 

 (162,144)

 659 

 132 

 (198)

 (4,537)

 1,278 

 (2,666)

 (164,810)

 3,615 

 1,427,003 

 (1,215,332)

 (477,972)

 (64,507)

 (20,963)

 (20,388)

 – 

–

 (16,750)

 – 

 – 

 1,141 

 (387,768)

 (49,560)

 (8,587)

 1,419 

 (444,496)

 116,900 

 (327,596)

 3,302 

 (324,294)

 (3,536)

 158 

 1,061 

 – 

 – 

 (2,317)

 (326,611)

 (164,239)

 (326,644)

(571)

 33 

 (164,810)

 (326,611)

 2.5 

 2.5 

 (10.6 cents) 

 (10.6 cents) 

 (21.5 cents) 

 (21.5 cents) 

Comparative financial information has been restated for the following: 

1 
2 
3 

The Group has adopted AASB 16. Refer to Note 8.6 for more detail.
The Group has adopted amendments to AASB 112. Refer to Note 8.6 for more detail.
Information has been restated and presented on a continuing operations basis. For details on the Group’s discontinued operations refer to Note 8.4

The above consolidated statement of profit or loss and other comprehensive income should be read in conjunction with the accompanying notes.

74

08Section 8: Financial Statements Seven West Media Limited Annual Report 2020Consolidated Statement of  
Financial Position

As at 27 June 2020

ASSETS

Current assets

Cash and cash equivalents

Trade and other receivables

Current tax receivable

Program rights and inventories

Contract assets

Asset held for sale

Other assets

Total current assets

Non–current assets

Program rights

Equity accounted investees

Other financial assets

Property, plant and equipment

Intangible assets

Right of use assets

Other assets

Total non–current assets

Total assets

LIABILITIES

Current liabilities

Trade and other payables

Lease liabilities

Provisions

Deferred income

Contract liabilities

Current tax liabilities

Total current liabilities

Non–current liabilities

Trade and other payables

Lease liabilities

Provisions

Deferred income

Contract liabilities

Deferred tax liabilities

Borrowings

Total non–current liabilities

Total liabilities

Net assets

EQUITY

Share capital

Reserves

Non–controlling interests

Accumulated deficit

Total equity

Notes

2020
$’000

Restated1 2  
2019
$’000

Restated1 
 2018
$’000

 3.1 

 3.2 

 3.3 

 3.6 

 3.3 

 7.1 

 4.5 

 4.2 

 4.1 

 4.3 

 3.4 

 4.3 

 4.4 

 3.6 

 3.4 

 4.3 

 4.4 

 3.6 

 5.2 

 6.1

 6.2 

6.3

 352,021 

 156,456 

 – 

 137,436 

 2,425 

 – 

 13,295 

 661,633 

 41,042 

 9,513 

 79,135 

 51,456 

 483,501 

 87,527 

 12,223 

 764,397 

 90,455 

 262,798 

 – 

 193,269 

 3,566 

 – 

 12,454 

 562,542 

 15,857 

 12,850 

 60,552 

 126,554 

 565,478 

 117,051 

 7,178 

 905,520 

 1,426,030 

 1,468,062 

 221,014 

 9,350 

 128,526 

 11,931 

 31,031 

 346 

 402,198 

 5,188 

 214,262 

 229,427 

 2,650 

 9,542 

 49,583 

 749,268 

 271,579 

 7,744 

 105,425 

 7,192 

 21,368 

 1,575 

 414,883 

 10,011 

 167,414 

 147,681 

 – 

 12,792 

 148,531 

 653,839 

 1,259,920 

 1,662,118 

 (236,088)

 1,140,268 

 1,555,151 

 (87,089)

 142,163 

 276,986 

 9,119 

 205,068 

 – 

 35,500 

 7,070 

 675,906 

 2,169 

 3,445 

 28,384 

 141,572 

 1,033,962 

 124,187 

 6,968 

 1,340,687 

 2,016,593 

 261,924 

 6,635 

 104,477 

 5,395 

 21,463 

 – 

 399,894 

 29,785 

 169,593 

 137,186 

 – 

 – 

 287,622 

 769,851 

 1,394,037 

 1,793,931 

 222,662 

 3,405,666 

 3,393,546 

 3,393,546 

 11,970 

 3,522 

 14,640 

 398 

 545 

 (1,071)

 (3,657,246)

 (3,495,673)

 (3,170,358)

 (236,088)

 (87,089)

 222,662 

Comparative financial information has been restated for the following: 

1 
2 

The Group has adopted AASB 16. Refer to Note 8.6 for more detail.
The Group has adopted amendments to AASB 112. Refer to Note 8.6 for more detail.

The above consolidated statement of financial position should be read in conjunction with the accompanying notes.

75

Section 8: Financial Statements Seven West Media Limited Annual Report 2020Consolidated Statement of  
Changes in Equity

For the year ended 27 June 2020

Balance at 30 June 2018

Effect of adoption of new AASB 16  

accounting standard1

Effect of adoption of amendments AASB 1122

Share 
capital
$’000

Reserves 
$’000

Accumulated 
deficit
$’000

Non–
controlling 
Interests
$’000

Total
$’000

Total Equity
$’000

 3,393,546 

 545 

 (2,859,977)

 534,114 

 (1,071)

 533,043 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 (23,683)

 (23,683)

 (286,698)

 (286,698)

 – 

 – 

 (23,683)

 (286,698)

Balance at 30 June 2018 (restated) 1 2

 3,393,546 

 545 

 (3,170,358)

 223,733 

 (1,071)

 222,662 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 16,079 

 (988)

 – 

 (988)

 16,079 

 – 

 – 

 (988)

 16,079 

 3,393,546 

 16,624 

 (3,171,346)

 238,824 

 (1,071)

 237,753 

Effect of adoption of new AASB 15  

accounting standard

Effect of adoption of new AASB 9 accounting standard

Balance at 1 July 2018 (restated) 1 2

Profit (loss) for the year (restated) 1 2

Cash flow hedge gains (losses) taken to equity

Foreign currency translation differences

Tax on other comprehensive income

Other comprehensive income (expense)  
for the year, net of tax (restated) 1 2

Total comprehensive income (expense)  

for the year (restated) 1 2

Transactions with owners in their capacity as owners

Share based payment expense 

Acquisition of NCI

Total transactions with owners

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

Profit (loss) for the year

Cash flow hedge (losses) gains taken to equity

Foreign currency translation differences

Tax on other comprehensive income

Net change in fair value of financial assets at  

fair value through other comprehensive income

Tax relating to items that will not be reclassified to P&L

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

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 (324,327)

 (324,327)

 33 

 (324,294)

 (3,536)

 158 

 1,061 

 (2,317)

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 (3,536)

 158 

 1,061 

(2,317)

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 (3,536)

 158 

 1,061 

 (2,317)

 (2,317)

 (324,327)

 (326,644)

 33 

 (326,611)

 333 

 – 

 333 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 333 

 – 

 333 

 – 

 659 

 132 

 (198)

 (4,537)

 1,278 

 (2,666)

 (161,573)

 (161,573)

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 659 

 132 

 (198)

 (4,537)

 1,278 

 (2,666)

 – 

 1,436 

 1,436 

 398 

 (571)

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 333 

 1,436 

 1,769 

 (87,089)

 (162,144)

 659 

 132 

 (198)

 (4,537)

 1,278 

 (2,666)

 (2,666)

 (161,573)

 (164,239)

 (571)

 (164,810)

Balance at 29 June 2019 (restated) 1 2

 3,393,546 

 14,640 

 (3,495,673)

 (87,487)

Issue of ordinary shares

Share based payment expense 

Acquisition and disposal of NCI

Total transactions with owners

Balance at 27 June 2020

 12,120 

 – 

 – 

 12,120 

 – 

 (4)

 – 

 (4)

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 12,120 

 (4)

 – 

 12,116 

3,405,666 

11,970 

(3,657,246)

(239,610)

 – 

 – 

 3,695 

 3,695 

3,522 

 12,120 

 (4)

 3,695 

 15,811 

(236,088)

Comparative financial information has been restated for the following: 

1 
2 

The Group has adopted AASB 16. Refer to Note 8.6 for more detail.
The Group has adopted amendments to AASB 112. Refer to Note 8.6 for more detail.

The above consolidated statement of financial position should be read in conjunction with the accompanying notes.

76

08Section 8: Financial Statements Seven West Media Limited Annual Report 2020Notes

 7.1 

 3.1 

Consolidated Statement  
of Cash Flows

For the year ended 27 June 2020

Cash flows related to operating activities

Receipts from customers

Payments to suppliers and employees

Dividends received from equity accounted investees

Interest and other items of similar nature received

Interest and other costs of finance paid

Interest paid on lease liability

Receipt of Government Grants 

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

Proceeds from sale of other assets

Payments for investments

Payments for equity accounted investees

Proceeds from sale of equity accounted investees

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 borrowings

Repayment of borrowings

Payment of lease liabilities 

Net financing cash flows

Net increase (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

 3.1 

Comparative financial information has been restated for the following: 
The Group has adopted AASB 16. Refer to Note 8.6 for more detail.
1 

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

2020
$’000

Restated1 
2019
$’000

 1,458,125 

 1,738,354 

 (1,389,509)

 (1,564,910)

 5,100 

 1,513 

 (26,424)

 (14,731)

 13,643 

 (199)

 47,518 

 (7,357)

 86,787 

 (14,124)

 38,379 

 (2,000)

 (558)

 – 

 28,619 

 – 

 (3,362)

 126,384 

 157,000 

 (62,000)

 (7,336)

 87,664 

 261,566 

 90,455 

 352,021 

 880 

 1,367 

 (30,082)

 (14,496)

 – 

 (15,207)

 115,906 

 (26,158)

 255 

 (14,689)

 – 

 (1,068)

 (11,564)

 20,750 

 – 

 1,446 

 (4,359)

 (35,387)

 100,000 

 (226,427)

 (5,800)

 (132,227)

 (51,708)

 142,163 

 90,455 

77

Section 8: Financial Statements Seven West Media Limited Annual Report 2020Notes to the Financial Statements for the year ended 27 June 2020

Section 1: 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. 

1.1 Basis of preparation 

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).

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 8.6  
for further details.

The consolidated financial statements were authorised for issue by 
the Board of Directors on 25 August 2020. The financial statements 
have been prepared using the historical cost basis except for assets 
described in Note 6.6B.

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.

1.2 Current Year Performance

For the year ended 27 June 2020 the Group recorded Earnings  
Before Interest and Tax (EBIT) (and before significant items) of  
$101.7 million ($98.7 million from continuing operations). The statutory 
loss after tax was $200.1 million (including significant items). The FY20 
net operating cash inflows were $47.5 million. At year end the Group 
was in a net liability position of $236.1 million, including available cash 
of $352.0 million and net debt of $398.0 million.

The COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on the Australian 
advertising market in the second half of the financial year as advertising 
clients managed the impacts of the Australian and foreign government 
restrictions on their operations. 

SMI data reported the Australian advertising market down 20.6 per 
cent in the 6 months to 27 June 2020 compared to the previous period. 
ThinkTV reported the metropolitan FTA market decreased by 21.9 per 
cent for this period, with the final quarter of the financial year showing 
a decline of 33.7 per cent. Seven’s revenue was down $182.7 million or 
-14.9 per cent. 

COVID-19 restrictions also had significant impacts on content 
production activities. While news gathering and broadcasting continued 
throughout the shutdown as essential public services, all other content 
production was required to cease. Major sporting codes were also 
impacted by restrictions, resulting in the loss of key programming.

The Group’s revised content strategy, outlined in the August 2019 results 
and 2019 AGM, was impacted by COVID-19 shutdowns. Many of the 
scheduled 1HFY21 programs will now form part of the content line up 
for calendar year 2021. The Group expects it will take some time for the 
impact of the new strategy to positively impact earnings and cash flow 
and the Group incurred additional costs in respect of the interruptions 
and delays to the production of key content.

To partially mitigate the unprecedented market conditions, further cost 
transformation initiatives were implemented in the final quarter of the 
year. These annualised, recurring cost reductions were in addition to the 
changes made in the first half resulting in full year costs that were down 
$110.0 million on the prior year. 

78

08Section 8: Financial Statements Seven West Media Limited Annual Report 20201.3 Debt Facilities

1.5 Cashflow Forecasts

As a result of the financial impacts of these operating conditions in the 
second half of the year, a waiver of compliance with the covenants under 
the Group’s $750 million of debt facilities was obtained in respect of the 
June 2020 testing date.

Subsequent to year end, the Group amended the debt facilities. A 
syndicated secured facility agreement has been entered into with 
maturities in July 2022 ($450 million) and December 2022 ($300 
million). Under the terms of the new agreement the existing leverage and 
interest cover ratios are replaced by a minimum liquidity requirement 
and a minimum EBITDA test (from March 2021) until 31 December 2021 
at which time leverage and interest cover covenants are reinstated. 
The amended interim covenants provide the Group with the flexibility 
required to complete the transformation program that was commenced 
during FY20.

At 27 June 2020, the Group had available cash of $352.0 million with net 
debt of $398.0 million.

1.4 Net Liability Position

As at 27 June 2020, the Group’s liabilities exceeded its assets by  
$236.1 million (previously reported 29 June 2019: assets exceeded 
liabilities by $103.1 million). 

The Group is in a net liability position as at 27 June 2020 as a result  
of the following:
 > $123.5 million impairment of intangible assets and programming 
rights as a result of carrying value assessments performed at 
reporting date;

 > reassessment of onerous contracts provisions required in respect of 
certain programming rights agreements resulting in the recognition 
of $136.9 million of additional provisions; 

 > an accounting policy change resulting in the recognition of a DTL 

of $138.5 million relating to the treatment of the Group’s indefinite 
lived intangible assets. This accounting policy change was as a 
result of an IFRIC Agenda Decision issued in April 2020; and
 > the adoption of AASB 16 Leases during the current year which 

resulted in the recognition of Right of Use Assets of $117.1 million 
and Lease Liabilities of $175.2 million (Current Liability: $7.7 
million, Non-Current Liability $167.4 million). The Right of Use asset 
recognised during the year in respect of the leaseback of the WA 
headquarters was required to be fully impaired as a result of the 
assessment of the recoverable value of the Newspapers CGU at 
reporting date.

The adoption of AASB 16 on a fully retrospective basis and the 
accounting policy change relating to the recognition of deferred  
tax on the Group’s television licences resulted in a restatement of the 
prior year balance sheet. As a result, liabilities exceeded assets by 
$87.1 million at 26 June 2019 on a restated basis. 

The Group has positive net current assets as at 27 June 2020 of  
$259.4 million with Group net debt position (cash and cash equivalents  
less drawn debt facilities) at $398.0 million. 

In the ordinary course of business the Group prepares longer term and 
detailed projections for the next 12 months. These risk adjusted forecast 
future cashflows have been used by the Board to assess the Group’s 
ability to meet its obligations as and when they fall due including 
compliance with the requirements of the new debt facilities over the 
forthcoming 12 months.

While market conditions in the final quarter were significantly down 
on the prior year, the market conditions have been less severe than 
forecast. This is also evident into the first months of FY21, supported 
by the resumption of major sports and the lifting of COVID-19 trading 
restrictions in many States earlier than originally anticipated. 

In response to the very subdued COVID-19 impacted market projections 
and to fund the new content strategy, the Group implemented the first 
phase of a cost out programme which was substantially completed by the 
end of FY20. Transformation remains a core pillar of the Group’s strategy.

The Group uses best estimate assumptions in the development of 
projections which include benchmarking against independently sourced 
information for key assumptions such as the metropolitan free-to-air 
advertising market. The key assumption, which remains uncertain and 
which may be material, is the timing and extent of the advertising 
market recovery from COVID-19. The risk adjusted cashflow projections 
included in the analysis support that the Group will continue as a going 
concern and be able to meet its obligations as and when they fall due.

Due to the uncertainty of these key assumptions, which are not within 
the control of the Group, the Directors recognise that action is required 
to advance the Group’s content, transformation and balance sheet 
strategy. The Directors therefore approved several actions to accelerate 
the Group’s transformation and debt reduction agenda to ensure 
adequate liquidity is in place. This year the Group: 
 > sold the Redwave regional radio business completed on  

31 December 2019 ($28.5 million net proceeds); 

 > sold the Pacific operating segment to Bauer for $40 million  

(pre working capital adjustments) completed on 1 May 2020; 
 > sold the WA headquarters located in Osborne Park for $75 million 

completed on 9 June 2020; and

 > sold the Maroochydore property for $6.7 million in June 2020;
 > implemented operational cost and cash savings which will  
deliver an additional net $109.5 million cash benefit in FY21.
 > commenced search for further incremental savings targeting 

$30–50 million of initiatives in FY21.

Market impacts may be more prolonged or more significant than 
anticipated in current projections, management has therefore identified 
further operational responses and additional funding initiatives which 
are being implemented to provide additional earnings and liquidity 
to manage the Group’s financial performance and cashflows. These 
initiatives include:
 > the sale of the Group’s portfolio of early stage digital businesses, 

Seven West Media Ventures;

 > the sale of the Group’s 50 per cent investment in the TX Australia 

transmission services business; 

 > the sale of the Seven Studios business including the historical 

content catalogue; and

 > further operational cost and cash saving initiatives.

These financial statements have been prepared on a going concern basis.

79

Section 8: Financial Statements Seven West Media Limited Annual Report 2020Notes to the Financial Statements for the year ended 27 June 2020

Section 2:  
Group Performance 

2.1. Segment Information

2.1A. Description of Segments

Accounting Policy

For management purposes, the Group is organised into business segments based on its products and services and has four reportable 
segments, as follows:

Reportable segment

Description of Activities

Television

The West

Other Business  
and New Ventures

Production and operation of commercial television programming and stations as well as distribution of programming 
content across platforms in Australia and around the world.

Publishers of newspapers and insert magazines in Western Australia; Colourpress; Digital publishing, West 
Australian Publishers and Community Newspaper Group.

Made up of equity accounted investees including TX Australia, Oztam and Starts at 60.

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.

2.1B. Segment information

Year ended 27 June 2020

REF

Advertising revenue

Circulation revenue

Program production and distribution

Affiliate fees

Rendering of services

Other revenue

Television
$’000

 849,181 

 –  

 93,001 

 91,322 

 –  

 7,766 

The West
$’000

 93,057 

 52,950 

 –  

 –  

 14,734 

 6,327 

Revenue from continuing operations

 1,041,270 

 167,068 

 621 

 – 

 25 

 – 

 1,041,891 

 167,093 

 (924,936)

 (146,705)

Other income

Share of net profit of equity 
accounted investees

Revenue, other income and share of net 
profit of equity accounted investees

Expenses

Profit (loss) before significant items,  

net finance costs, tax, depreciation 
and amortisation

Depreciation and amortisation 

 [A]

Profit (loss) before significant items,  

net finance costs and tax

80

Other Business and 
New Ventures
$’000

Corporate [B]
$’000

Total
$’000

 947,434 

 52,950 

 93,001 

 91,322 

 14,792 

 26,872 

 1,226,371 

 676 

 1,203 

 1,228,250 

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 (15,756)

 (1,098,671)

 5,196 

 –  

 –  

 –  

 58 

 12,779 

 18,033 

 30 

 1,203 

 19,266 

 (11,274)

 116,955 

 (27,677)

 20,388 

 (2,716)

 7,992 

 (480)

 (15,756)

 (52)

 129,579 

 (30,925)

 89,278 

 17,672 

 7,512 

 (15,808)

 98,654 

08Section 8: Financial Statements Seven West Media Limited Annual Report 2020Year ended 29 June 2019 
(restated)1 2

REF

Advertising revenue

Circulation revenue

Program production and distribution

Affiliate fees

Rendering of services

Other revenue

Television
$’000

 1,006,248 

 –  

 92,219 

 107,091 

 –  

 18,459 

The West
$’000

 103,195 

 57,040 

 –  

 –  

 20,971 

 4,395 

Revenue from continuing operations

 1,224,017 

 185,601 

 3,146 

 667 

 211 

 –  

 1,227,830 

 (989,130)

 185,812 

 (158,799)

Other income

Share of net profit of equity 
accounted investees

Revenue, other income and share of net 
profit of equity accounted investees

Expenses

Profit (loss) before significant items, net 
finance costs, tax, depreciation and 
amortisation 

Depreciation and amortisation 

 [A]

Profit (loss) before significant items,  

net finance costs and tax

Other Business and 
New Ventures
$’000

Corporate [B]
$’000

Total
$’000

 1,121,454 

 57,040 

 92,219 

 107,091 

 21,073 

 24,511 

 1,423,388 

 3,615 

 1,141 

 1,428,144 

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

 – 

 –  

 –  

 – 

 (14,400)

 (1,175,213)

 12,011 

 –  

 –  

 –  

 102 

 1,657 

 13,770 

 258 

 474 

 14,502 

 (12,884)

 238,700 

 (28,398)

 27,013 

 (11,278)

 1,618 

 (392)

 (14,400)

 (51)

 252,931 

 (40,119)

 210,302 

 15,735 

 1,226 

 (14,451)

 212,812 

[A]  Excludes program rights amortisation which is included in media content expenses (refer note 2.3).
[B]  Corporate is not an operating segment. The amounts presented are unallocated costs.

Comparative financial information has been restated for the following: 

1 
2 

The Group has adopted AASB 16. Refer to Note 8.6 for more detail.
Information has been restated and presented on a continuing operations basis resulting in the removal of the Pacific segment.

2.1C. 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 (loss) before significant items, net finance costs and tax

Profit (loss) before significant items, net finance costs and tax

Finance costs 

Finance income

Profit (loss) before tax excluding significant items

Significant items before tax (refer note 2.4)

Profit (loss) before tax from continuing operations

2020
$’000

Restated1 2 
2019
$’000

 98,654 

 (42,106)

 1,513 

 58,061 

 (351,992)

 212,812 

 (49,560)

 1,419 

 164,671 

 (609,167)

 (293,931)

 (444,496)

Comparative financial information has been restated for the following:  

1 
2 

The Group has adopted AASB 16. Refer to Note 8.6 for more detail. 
Information has been restated and presented on a continuing operations basis. For details on the Group’s discontinued operations refer to Note 8.4 

81

Notes to the Financial Statements for the year ended 27 June 2020Section 8: Financial Statements Seven West Media Limited Annual Report 2020 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
2.2. Revenue And Other Income

Accounting Policy

Revenue recognition and measurement
The Group derives revenue from the transfer of goods and services. Revenue recognition is based on the delivery of performance obligations and an 
assessment of when control is transferred to the customer. Revenue is recognised either when the performance obligation in the contract has been 
performed (‘point in time’ recognition) or ‘over time’ as control of the performance obligation is transferred to the customer.

Customer contracts can have a wide variety of performance obligations, from production contracts to format licences and distribution activities. For 
these contracts, each performance obligation is identified and evaluated. Under AASB 15 the Group needs to evaluate if a distribution rights is a 
right to access the content (revenue recognised over time) or represents a right to use the content (revenue recognised at a point in time). The Group 
has determined that most distribution revenues are satisfied at a point in time due to their being limited ongoing involvement in the use of the rights 
following its transfer to the customer.

The transaction price, being the amount to which the Group expects to be entitled and has rights to under the contract is allocated to the identified 
performance obligations. The transaction price will also include an estimate of any variable consideration where the Group’s performance may 
result in additional revenues based on the achievement of agreed targets such as audience targets. Variable consideration is not recognised until the 
performance obligations are met.

Revenue is stated exclusive of GST and equivalent sales taxes.

Revenue recognition criteria for the Group’s key classes of revenue are as follows:

Class of revenue

Recognition criteria

[A]  Advertising

 > Television Advertising is generated from selling spot airtime and is 

recognised at the point of transmission.

 > Newspapers and Pacific Advertising is generated from selling space 
in the newspaper or magazine and is recognised at the point of 
publication.

Timing of recognition

At the point in time when the 
advertisement is broadcast 
or published.

[B]  Circulation

 > Circulation revenue is generated through the distribution and sale of 
newspapers and magazines to third party consumers. Recognised on 
delivery of the newspaper or magazine to the customer and the right to 
be compensated has been obtained.

At the time the newspapers 
and magazines are 
distributed.

[C]  Program production and distribution includes: 

(i)  Programme 
production

 > Revenue generated from the programmes produced for broadcasters in 

Australia and internationally and is recognised at the point of delivery of 
an episode and acceptance by the customer.  

(ii) distribution rights

 > A licence is granted for the transmission of a programme in a stated 

territory, media and period and revenue is recognised at the point when 
the contract is signed, the content is available for download and the 
licence period has started.   

At the point in time when 
obligations have been 
accepted by the customers

Recognised on delivery of 
rights to the customer

[D]  Affiliate fees

 > Affiliate fees earned through the transmission of network channels in a 
stated territory. Recognised in the period of the broadcast feed to the 
affiliates in line with the contract terms and conditions.

Recognised over time as 
conditions are met over the 
contract life.

[E] 

 Rendering of services

 > The revenue is recognised when the service has been performed. These 
services mainly relate to printing and are generally delivered over a 
period of time.

At the point in time the 
services are delivered

[F] 

 Other revenue includes:

Rental income

 > Rental income is derived through the leasing of assets and the benefits 

are to be transferred over time. 

Dividends

 > Dividend revenue is recognised when the right to receive payment is 

established.

Revenue is recognised over 
the life of the lease.

At the point in time the 
dividend is declared

82

Notes to the Financial Statements for the year ended 27 June 202008Section 8: Financial Statements Seven West Media Limited Annual Report 2020 
 
 
 
 
 
 
2.2. Revenue and Other Income (continued)

Sales revenue

Advertising revenue

Circulation revenue

Programme production and distribution

Affiliate fees

Rendering of services

Other revenue

Total sales revenue

Other income

Sundry income

Net gain on fair value of investments

Net gain on disposal of property, plant and equipment and investments

Total other income

Timing of Revenue Recognition

REF

[A]

[B]

[C]

[D]

[E]

[F]

2020
$’000

Restated1 
2019
$’000

 947,434 

 1,121,454 

 52,950 

 93,001 

 91,322 

 14,792 

 26,872 

 57,040 

 92,219 

 107,091 

 21,073 

 24,511 

 1,226,371 

 1,423,388 

 724 

–

 (48)

 676 

 1,492 

 1,905 

 218 

 3,615 

The following table includes revenue from contracts per above that have been disaggregated by the timing of recognition:

Products or services transferred at a point in time

Products or services transferred over time 

Total External Revenue

Comparative financial information has been restated for the following: 

2020
$’000

Restated 
2019
$’000

 1,135,049 

1,316,297

 91,322 

107,091

 1,226,371 

1,423,388

1 

Information has been restated and presented on a continuing operations basis. For details on the Group’s discontinued operations refer to Note 8.4

83

Notes to the Financial Statements for the year ended 27 June 2020Section 8: Financial Statements Seven West Media Limited Annual Report 20202.3. 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 recoveries (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

Depreciation of right of use asset

Amortisation of intangible assets

Total depreciation and amortisation

Television program rights amortisation

Total depreciation and amortisation (including program rights and amortisation)

[B]  Employee benefits expense3

Defined contribution superannuation expense

Total employee benefits expense

Comparative financial information has been restated for the following: 

REF

 [A] 

 [A] 

 [B] 

2020
$’000

 (30,925)

 (24,295)

 (31,503)

Restated1 2 
2019
$’000

 (40,119)

 (25,605)

 (37,574)

 (590,951)

 (626,971)

 (287,142)

 (336,836)

 (6,938)

 (18,963)

 (21,045)

 634 

 (6,462)

 (17,775)

 (24,793)

634

 (118,468)

 (99,831)

 (1,129,596)

 (1,215,332)

 (13,207)

 (10,527)

 (7,191)

(30,925)

 (108,317)

 (139,242)

 (20,557)

 (9,671)

 (9,891)

(40,119)

 (111,623)

 (151,742)

 (258,120)

 (29,022)

 (301,128)

 (35,708)

 (287,142)

 (336,836)

1 
2 

The Group has adopted AASB 16. Refer to Note 8.6 for more detail.
Information has been restated and presented on a continuing operations basis. For details on the Group’s discontinued operations refer to Note 8.4.

Other:

3 

Includes $21.3 million of government JobKeeper subsidies received over the period April – June 20.

84

Notes to the Financial Statements for the year ended 27 June 202008Section 8: Financial Statements Seven West Media Limited Annual Report 20202.4. Significant Items

Profit (loss) before tax expense includes the following specific expenses (benefits) for which disclosure is relevant in explaining the financial 
performance of the Group:

Impairment of Television goodwill

Impairment of Television licences

Impairment of The West goodwill

Impairment of The West mastheads

Impairment of other intangible assets

Total impairment of intangible assets

Impairment of equity accounted investees

Impairment of fixed assets

Impairment of right of use assets 

Impairment of other assets

Total impairment of investments and other assets

Net loss on assets held for sale 

Costs related to investments 

Net gain on disposal of investments 

Net gain/(loss) on assets disposed 

Write off of unamortised refinancing cost

Redundancy and restructure costs 

Other

Onerous contracts

Total significant items before tax

Tax benefit

Net significant items after tax

REF

[A]

[A]

[A]

[A]

[A]

[C]

[A]

[B]

[D]

[H]

[E]

[F]

[I]

[J]

2020
$’000

 – 

Restated1 
2019
$’000

 (9,749)

 (61,565)

 (415,000)

 – 

– 

 (5,993)

 (67,558)

 – 

 (9,783)

 (55,982)

 (71,567)

 (137,332)

 – 

 (9,242)

 11,012 

 9,439 

 – 

 (12,000)

(9,447)

 (2,513)

 (37,913)

 (12,797)

 (477,972)

 (2,252)

 (24,367)

 – 

 (37,888)

 (64,507)

 (16,750)

 – 

 – 

 – 

 (8,587)

 (20,388)

–

[G],[K]

 (136,864)

 (20,963)

 (351,992)

 (609,167)

 111,244 

 36,591 

 (240,748)

 (572,576)

[A]  The impairments were recognised as a result of changes to key 
assumptions in the Group’s cash flow forecasts, these include: 
Television
 –

Short-term market conditions for the traditional Free to Air television 
metro advertising market.

The West
 –

Further declines in circulation and advertising revenue in print 
publishing businesses.

Refer note 3.1 for details.

[B]  An impairment review of the Group’s right of use assets was performed, 

resulting in an impairment of $56.0 million (2019: nil).

[C]  An impairment review of the Group’s equity accounted investees was 

performed, resulting in no impairment (2019: $2.3 million).

[D]  The recoverable amount of program rights, inventories and other  

assets were lower than the carrying value, resulting in an impairment  
of $71.5 million (2019: $37.9 million) 

[E]  The Group disposed of its investments in Redwave Radio and Slim Film 

TV during the period. 

[G]  The Group has recognised an increase in onerous contract provision in 

relation to its television legacy output deals, US content, sporting events 
and other service contracts of $136.9 million (2019:$20.9 million). Refer 
to Note 4.4 for disclosure of the assumptions included in the calculation 
of the provision.

[H]  The sales process for the disposal of the Group’s shareholding of Yahoo7! 
Pty Ltd was completed on 10 April 2019. The final consideration received 
from Verizon Inc was $20.7 million cash resulting in a net loss on disposal 
of $16.8 million.

[I]  The amount relates to capitalised refinancing costs written off following 
the November 2018 debt refinance. This includes previously unamortised 
refinancing costs of $2.8 million and benefit capitalised as a result of 
transition to AASB 9 of $5.8 million.

[J]  The redundancy and restructure costs relate to transformation programs 

across the Group. 

[K]  Includes $7.9 million of onerous contract costs that directly relate to 

COVID-19 contract costs due to changed production schedules, delays 
and cancellations of events. 

[F]  The Group disposed of two properties during the period, the carrying 

value on disposal was $53.2 million, the disposal was accounted for as 
a sale and leaseback transaction under AASB16 Leases, the net gain on 
disposal was $9.7 million. 

Comparative financial information has been restated for the following: 
Information has been restated and presented on a continuing  
1 
operations basis. For details on the Group’s discontinued  
operations refer to Note 8.4 

85

Notes to the Financial Statements for the year ended 27 June 2020Section 8: Financial Statements Seven West Media Limited Annual Report 2020 
 
 
 
 
 
2.5. 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

(10.6 cents)

(21.5 cents)

Diluted earnings per share

Profit (loss) attributable to the ordinary equity holders of the Company

 (10.6 cents) 

(21.5 cents)

2020

Restated1 2 3 
2019

2020
$’000

Restated1 2 3 
2019
$’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.

 (161,573)

 (324,327)

Comparative financial information has been restated for the following: 

1 
2 
3 

The Group has adopted AASB 16. Refer to Note 8.6 for more detail.
The Group has adopted amendments to AASB 112. Refer to Note 8.6 for more detail 
Information has been restated and presented on a continuing operations basis. For details on the Group’s discontinued operations refer to Note 8.4

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 and diluted earnings per share

2020
Number

2019
Number

 1,523,708,431 

 1,508,034,368 

86

Notes to the Financial Statements for the year ended 27 June 202008Section 8: Financial Statements Seven West Media Limited Annual Report 2020Section 3:  
Working Capital 

3.1. 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 bank earns interest at floating rates based on daily bank deposit rates.

2020
$’000

 Restated1 2
2019
$’000

 352,021 

 90,455 

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 from continuing operations:

Profit (loss) for the year from discontinued operations: 

Non-cash items:

Depreciation and amortisation of property, plant and equipment and intangible assets

Amortisation of right of use assets

Amortisation of television program rights

Impairment of intangible assets and equity accounted investees

Impairment of right of use assets

Impairment of tangible assets

Impairment of other assets

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

Net (gain) loss on disposal of investments and equity accounted investees

Net gain on sale of discontinued operations

Share based payment expense

Dividend received from equity accounted investees less share of profit of equity accounted investees

Movement in unamortised finance costs

Restucturing & redundancy costs 

Onerous contract 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

Comparative financial information has been restated for the following: 

 (200,051)

 37,907 

 (327,596)

 3,302 

 21,558 

 11,408 

 108,317 

 68,110 

 55,982 

 9,783 

71,567

 (9,439)

 (11,012)

 (38,596)

 (4)

3,897

 429 

 12,000 

 136,864 

 40,800 

 99,333 

 1,141 

 (153,361)

 (3,421)

 (27,698)

 (27,343)

 (84,010)

 (1,275)

 (75,368)

 47,518 

 31,518 

 10,552 

 111,623 

 480,224 

 – 

 24,367 

–

 – 

 16,531 

 – 

 333 

 (261)

 8,987 

 – 

 – 

 (28,884)

 21,204 

 7,176 

 (123,425)

 (3,475)

 5,804 

 (1,184)

 6,613 

 4,709 

 (132,212)

 115,906 

1 
2 

The Group has adopted AASB 16. Refer to Note 8.6 for more detail.
Information has been restated and presented on a continuing operations basis. For details on the Group’s discontinued operations refer to Note 8.4

87

Notes to the Financial Statements for the year ended 27 June 2020Section 8: Financial Statements Seven West Media Limited Annual Report 20203.1. Cash and Cash Equivalents (continued)

Significant non-cash transactions

The Group engaged in the following significant non-cash investing and financing activities during the year:

Non-cash investing (outflow) inflow

Acquisition of other financial assets

Total non cash investing (outflow) inflow

Non-cash financing (outflow) inflow

Issue of ordinary shares as consideration for acquisition of other financial assets

[A]

Total non cash investing (outflow) inflow

2020
$’000

 (21,120)

 (21,120)

 12,120 

 12,120 

2019
$’000

 (8,175)

 (8,175)

 – 

 – 

[A]  The Group issued $12.1 million of shares in exchange for the acquisition of $12.1 million shares of in Prime Media Group Limited on 19 December 2019.

3.2. Trade and Other Receivables 

Accounting Policy

Trade receivables
Trade receivables are recognised initially at the value of the invoice 
sent to the customer and subsequently at the amounts considered 
recoverable (amortised costs), less provision for impairment and 
provision for sales credits and returns. Trade receivables are generally 
settled within 30-90 days and are non-interest bearing. The Group 
provides goods and services to substantially all of its customers on 
credit terms.

The collectability of trade receivables is reviewed on an ongoing basis. 
The Group has applied the expected credit loss model to determine 
the provision for doubtful debts. A provision for impairment of trade 
receivables 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 and are reviewed for impairment 
on an annual basis.

Current

Trade receivables

Provision for doubtful debts

Provision for sales credits and returns

Loans and other receivables

Total trade and other receivables

Movements in the provision for doubtful debts are as follows:

Balance at the beginning of the financial year

Net movement in provision recognised during the year

Amount utilised

Balance at the end of the financial year

2020
$’000

2019
$’000

 159,829 

 (6,212)

 (28,210)

 125,407 

 31,049 

 156,456 

 3,442 

 3,080 

 (310)

 6,212 

 276,380 

 (3,442)

 (43,823)

 229,115 

 33,683 

 262,798 

 4,133 

 (437)

 (254)

 3,442 

Refer to Note 6.6 regarding information on the Group’s exposure to credit and market risks, and impairment losses for trade and other receivables.
Refer to Note 7.5 regarding receivables from related parties.

88

Notes to the Financial Statements for the year ended 27 June 202008Section 8: Financial Statements Seven West Media Limited Annual Report 20203.2. Trade and Other Receivables (continued)

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.

Estimates are used in determining the level of receivables that will not be collected. These estimates include factors such as historical 
experience, the current state of the Australian economy and industry factors.

Refer to Note 6.6C for assessment of impact of COVID-19 on credit risk.

3.3. Program Rights and Inventories

Accounting Policy

Program rights 
Program rights includes both purchased rights and produced programs

The Group’s amortisation policy requires the amortisation of purchased 
programs on a straight line basis over the expected useful life.

Program rights are recognised at the earlier of when cash payments are 
made or from the commencement of the rights period of the contract.

The useful life of purchased programs is assessed at least annually. 
Produced programs are expensed when broadcast.

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 advertisements 
on Seven’s channels and digital assets, net of agency commissions, 
discounts and rebates.

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

 128,934 

 182,020 

2020
$’000

2019
$’000

Newsprint and paper – at cost

Work in progress – at cost

Finished goods – at cost

Non-current

Prepaid television program rights

 7,916 

 586 

 – 

 9,021 

 2,197 

 31 

 137,436 

 193,269 

 41,042 

 41,042 

 15,857 

 15,857 

Program rights and inventory expense
Program rights and inventories recognised as an expense during the year ended 27 June 2020 amounted to $108,316,652 (2019: $111,623,000) and 
$27,467,703 (2019: $34,847,000) 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.

89

Notes to the Financial Statements for the year ended 27 June 2020Section 8: Financial Statements Seven West Media Limited Annual Report 2020 
 
 
 
 
 
3.4. 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 may be 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 included in television program 
rights and inventories as prepaid program rights.

2020
$’000

 Restated1
2019
$’000

 102,457 

 129,192 

 4,604 

 475 

 112,979 

 140,867 

 974 

 1,045 

 221,014 

 271,579 

 2,239 

 2,949 

 5,188 

 7,607 

 2,404 

 10,011 

Current

Trade payables and accruals

Derivative financial liabilities

Television program liabilities

Loans due from related parties 

Non-current

Derivative financial liabilities

Television program liabilities

Comparative financial information has been restated for the following:  

1 

The Group has adopted AASB 16. Refer to Note 8.6 for more detail.

90

Notes to the Financial Statements for the year ended 27 June 202008Section 8: Financial Statements Seven West Media Limited Annual Report 2020 
3.5. Commitments 

Year ended 27 June 2020

Capital expenditure commitments

Operating lease commitments

Contracts for purchase of television programs  

and sporting broadcast rights

Contracts for employee services

Contracts for other services

Year ended 29 June 20191

Capital expenditure commitments

Operating lease commitments

Contracts for purchase of television programs  

and sporting broadcast rights

Contracts for employee services

Contracts for other services

< 1 year
$’000

1-5 years
$’000

> 5 Years
$’000

1,092

900

375,366

47,341

22,335

447,034

–

1,022

883,875

13,094

5,501

903,492

 1,813 

 1,863 

 – 

 125 

 391,664 

 859,230 

 62,720 

 26,857 

 29,785 

 15,036 

 484,917 

 904,176 

Total
$’000

1,092

2,103

1,259,241

60,435

27,836

–

181

–

–

–

181

1,305,707

 – 

 65 

 – 

 – 

 21,559 

 21,624 

 1,813 

 2,053 

 1,250,894 

 92,505 

 63,452 

 1,410,717 

Comparative financial information has been restated for the following: 

1 

The Group has adopted AASB 16. Refer to Note 8.6 for more detail.

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, these leases are low value and are not required 
to be accounted for under AASB16 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.

These leases relate to short-term low value equipment under non-
cancellable terms and conditions.

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, with the exception 
of contracts deemed onerous. Refer to Note 2.4.

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.

91

Notes to the Financial Statements for the year ended 27 June 2020Section 8: Financial Statements Seven West Media Limited Annual Report 20203.6. Contract Assets and Liabilities 

Accounting Policy

Contract assets and liabilities
Contract assets primarily relate to the Group’s rights to consideration for work completed but not billed on programs commissioned for third party 
customers. The contract assets are transferred to receivables at the point of delivery of an episode and acceptance by the customer. This usually 
occurs when the Group issues an invoice to the customer. The contract liabilities primarily relate to the advance consideration received from customers 
for sponsorships, for which revenue is recognised over time.

The following table provides information about the contract assets and contract liabilities from contracts with customers.

Current

Television program sales

Contract assets

Television program sales

Pacific subscription

Other

Contract liabilities

Non-current

Revenue received in advance - affiliation fees

Contract liabilities

2020
$’000

2,425

 2,425  

 30,460 

 571 

 – 

2019
$’000

 3,566 

 3,566 

 13,838 

 7,114 

 416 

 31,031 

 21,368 

9,542

9,542

 12,792 

 12,792 

Forward Bookings 
The following table includes revenue from contracts signed before the reporting date that is to be recognised post the reporting period  
(i.e. the performance obligations remain unsatisfied at the reporting date):

Television program sales

Total

2021 
 $’000 

31,031

31,031

2022 
 $’000 

3,000

3,000

Beyond 2022
 $’000

6,542

6,542

92

Notes to the Financial Statements for the year ended 27 June 202008Section 8: Financial Statements Seven West Media Limited Annual Report 2020 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Section 4:  
Other Key Balance Sheet Items 

4.1. 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 4.1.1 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 at least 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

Internally generated or acquired

No amortisation

No amortisation

No amortisation

No amortisation

No amortisation

Acquired

Acquired

Acquired

Acquired

Acquired

Trademark

Finite (10–15 years)

Amortised on a straight line basis over its useful life

Acquired

Pacific licences

Finite (8 – 25 years)

Amortised on a straight line basis over the period of 
the licence

Acquired

Computer software

Finite (3 – 15 years)

Amortised on a straight line basis over its useful life

Internally developed and acquired

REF

 Licences 
 $’000 

 Mastheads 
 $’000 

 540,660 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 (17,316)

 (61,565)

 – 

 461,779 

 [A] 

 [B] 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 –  

 Computer 
 software 
 $’000 

 23,810 

 14,124 

 (1,426)

 (8,241)

 Goodwill 
 $’000

 Trademark 
 $’000

 Total 
 $’000

 926 

 82 

 565,478 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 –  

 –  

 – 

 14,124 

 (1,426)

 (8,241)

 – 

 (926)

 (82)

 (18,324)

 (6,545)

 – 

 21,722 

–

 – 

–

Year ended 27 June 2020

Opening net book amount

Additions

Disposals

Amortisation charge 

Acquisition (disposal) of controlled entity

Impairment

Transferred in disposal 

Closing net book amount

Comprised of:

Cost

Accumulated amortisation and impairment

 (61,565)

 (119,555)

 (74,805)

 (1,236,083)

 523,344 

 119,555 

 96,527 

 1,236,083 

 – 

–

 –  

 – 

 – 

 (68,110)

–

 483,501 

 1,975,509 

 (1,492,008)

93

Notes to the Financial Statements for the year ended 27 June 2020Section 8: Financial Statements Seven West Media Limited Annual Report 20204.1. Intangible Assets (continued)

REF

 Licences 
 $’000 

 Mastheads 
 $’000 

Year ended 29 June 2019

Opening net book amount

Additions

Disposals

Amortisation charge 

Acquisition (disposal) of controlled entity

Impairment

 [C] 

 [B] 

 955,660 

 37,913 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 Computer 
 software 
 $’000 

 34,317 

 13,593 

 (93)

 (10,891)

 Goodwill 
 $’000

 Trademark 
 $’000

 Total 
 $’000

 4,494 

 1,578 

 1,033,962 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 13 

 – 

 (9)

 13,606 

 (93)

 (10,900)

 (319)

 8,694 

 (1,500)

 6,875 

Closing net book amount

 540,660 

 –  

 23,810 

 926 

 (415,000)

 (37,913)

 (12,797)

 (12,262)

 – 

 82 

 (477,972)

 565,478 

Comprised of:

Cost

 1,508,008 

 264,887 

 55,735 

 1,237,009 

 122 

 3,065,761 

Accumulated amortisation and impairment

 (967,348)

 (264,887)

 (31,925)

 (1,236,083)

 (40)

 (2,500,283)

[A]  Licences disposed as part of Redwave Media sale on 31 December 2019; 

trademark disposal relates to sale of Media Beach Pte. Limited on  
13 November 2019. 

[B]  The Group assessed the recoverable amount for each of the Cash 

Generating Units (‘CGUs’) and groups of CGUs being television and 
The West (Metro and Regional). The Pacific business assets were sold 
on 1 May 2020 aand are removed from the current year impairment 
assessment. Refer to 4.1.1A for further details.

The impairments were recognised as a result of the following changes to key 
assumptions in the Group’s cash flow forecasts: 

Television 
 –

Short-term market conditions for the traditional free to air television 
metro advertising market.

The West 
 –

Further declines in circulation and advertising revenue in print 
publishing businesses. 

[C]  In the prior period the Group acquired goodwill relating to 7Beyond 

Media Limited and Community Newspaper Group Limited; trademark 
movement relates to the disposal of The Mentor Platform Pty Limited on 
31 July 2018.

4.1.1 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 cost to sell and its value in use.

In calculating the recoverable value, the cash flows include 
projections of cash inflows and outflows from continuing use of the 

CGU’s assets. For value-in-use model, 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. For fair 
value less cost to sell model, the recoverable amount is calculated by 
using discounted cash flow projections based on financial budgets 
and forecasts covering a five-year period with a terminal growth rate 
applied thereafter.

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 intangible assets 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 approach. These 
calculations require the use of estimates and assumptions. Refer to 4.1.1B for details on assumptions used.

94

Notes to the Financial Statements for the year ended 27 June 202008Section 8: Financial Statements Seven West Media Limited Annual Report 2020 
 
 
 
4.1. Intangible Assets (continued)

4.1.1A 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:

Allocation of CGU Groups

Year ended 27 June 2020

Television

The West (Metro and Regional)

Pacific

Other Business and New Ventures

Total goodwill and indefinite life assets

Year ended 29 June 2019

Television

The West (Metro and Regional)

Pacific

Other Business and New Ventures

Total goodwill and indefinite life assets

4.1.1B 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 27 June 2020. The Group has 
determined the CGUs to be Television, The West (Metro and Regional) 
and Pacific businesses.

Valuation Methods

Television
The recoverable amount was determined using a value-in-use model 
by discounting the future cash flows expected to be generated from the 
continuing use of these CGUs.

The West
In prior periods, The West mastheads, licences and goodwill have been 
fully written down. In allocating the impairment to individual noncurrent 
assets within the CGUs, their recoverable amount was not reduced 
below their fair value less cost of disposal; notably for property related 
assets.

Management’s assessment has shown no indicators of impairment 
reversal in the current period.

Key components of the recoverable value calculations 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. Future 
cash flows are based on the following assumptions:

 Goodwill 
 $’000 

 Licences, 
mastheads 
$’000 

 Total 
 $’000 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 –  

 – 

 – 

 – 

 461,779 

 461,779 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 461,779 

 461,779 

 523,344 

 523,344 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 926 

 926 

 17,316 

 18,242 

 540,660 

 541,586 

Television 
 > The advertising market growth rates are assumed to be consistent 
with industry market participant expectations and long-term 
industry growth rates, following an assumed market recovery from 
COVID-19 in FY21 and FY22.

 > The Group’s share of the metropolitan free to air advertising takes 
into account historical share performance and management’s 
expectation of share in forward periods, taking into consideration 
the impact of programming across the schedule.

 > Expenses are assumed to increase by CPI and known fixed 

increases for specific program rights.

The West 
 > Publishing revenue forecasts are management’s best estimates 

using: current market data, industry forecasts and historical actual 
rates.

 > Digital revenue assumptions are in line with industry forecasts and 

managements expectations of market development.

 > 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 flow 
projections are detailed below.  

95

Notes to the Financial Statements for the year ended 27 June 2020Section 8: Financial Statements Seven West Media Limited Annual Report 2020 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
4.1. Intangible Assets (continued)

Television

The West – Metro

The West – Regional

Terminal growth factor

Discount rate (pre-tax)

Discount rate (post-tax)

Jun-20

Jun-19

Jun-20

Jun-19

Jun-20

Jun-19

0.0%

-0.5%

-0.5%

0.5%

-0.5%

-0.5%

17.9%

14.0%

14.6%

15.9%

12.2%

14.1%

10.4%

10.5%

10.5%

9.5%

10.5%

10.5%

(iv) Allocation of impairment for The West 
In allocating the impairment to individual non-current assets within the CGUs, their recoverable amount was not reduced below their fair value less 
cost of disposal. No sensitivity is presented for The West as all intangible and tangible assets have been fully written down, with the exception of 
property related assets.

4.1.1C Impact of possible changes in key assumptions

4.1.1D Impact of COVID-19 on 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.

Following the impairment analysis performed on the Television CGU, the 
recoverable amounts are equal to the carrying amounts. Therefore, any 
adverse movements in key assumptions would lead to changes in the 
carrying amount.

The key assumptions in the value in use calculations (disclosed in Note 
4.1.1B) include metropolitan free to air (Metro FTA) market growth 
rates, Metro FTA market share, discount rate and terminal growth rate.  
These assumptions are based on past experience and the Group’s 
forecast operating and financial performance for the Television CGU 
taking into account current market and economic conditions, risks and 
uncertainties.

The Group has assessed impact on recoverable value of the CGU of the 
following changes in key assumptions as part of their sensitivity analysis 
(all other assumptions) held constant:

As the global outbreak of COVID-19 continues to progress and evolve, 
it is extremely challenging to predict the full extent and duration of its 
impact on the Group’s activities and operating performance. 

The Group believes that the assumptions adopted in the value in use 
calculations reflect an appropriate balance between the Group’s 
experience to date and the uncertainty associated with the COVID-19 
pandemic. Management have considered and applied judgement on key 
assumptions to reflect the appropriate risk and uncertainty in its cash 
flow to determine the CGU recoverable value. As a result, future forecast 
cash flows have taken into account the following factors:

 > The Group’s best estimate of the expected duration of COVID-19 

impact, timing of recovery and rate of market recovery;

 > Advertising market growth rates in the medium term for are assumed 
to be consistent with long-term historical industry growth rates;
 > The Company’s share of Metro FTA advertising takes into account 
historical share performance and management’s expectation of 
share in forward years, taking into consideration, the impact of 
programming across the schedule. 

Key cashflow assumption

Change 

Metro FTA market growth rate 

Metro FTA market share

Discount rate

Terminal growth rate

+/- 1%

+/- 1%

+/- 1%

+/- 1%

Impact on 
recoverable 
value

+/- $210.0m

+/- $130.0m

+/- $37.0m

+/- $28.0m

96

Notes to the Financial Statements for the year ended 27 June 202008Section 8: Financial Statements Seven West Media Limited Annual Report 20204.2. Property, Plant and Equipment 

Accounting Policy

Measurement of cost
All property, plant and equipment is stated at historical cost less 
accumulated depreciation and provision of impairment. 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

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

Impairment of assets
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.

97

Notes to the Financial Statements for the year ended 27 June 2020Section 8: Financial Statements Seven West Media Limited Annual Report 20204.2. Property, Plant and Equipment (continued)

Year ended 27 June 2020

Opening net book value

Additions

Disposals

Depreciation charge1

Impairment

Change due to movement in FX rates

Transferred in business disposal 

Closing net book amount

Comprised of:

Cost

Freehold land 
and buildings
$’000

Leasehold 
improvements
$’000

Plant and 
equipment
$’000

Total
$’000

 81,760 

 11,900 

 32,894 

 126,554 

 – 

 (58,273)

 (2,381)

(3,000)

 – 

 – 

129

 (198)

 (529)

(2,095)

 – 

 – 

 7,228 

 (182)

 (10,407)

(4,688)

 47 

 (749)

7,357

 (58,653)

 (13,317)

(9,783)

 47 

 (749)

 18,106 

9,207

24,143

51,456

 31,427 

 46,290 

 563,994 

 641,711 

Accumulated depreciation and impairment

 (13,321)

 (37,083)

 (539,851)

 (590,255)

Year ended 29 June 2019

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 and impairment

 79,237 

 5,172 

 – 

 (2,649)

 – 

 – 

 2,489 

 9,972 

 – 

 (561)

 – 

 – 

 59,846 

 14,945 

 (83)

 (17,408)

 (24,367)

 (39)

 141,572 

 30,089 

 (83)

 (20,618)

 (24,367)

 (39)

 81,760 

 11,900 

 32,894 

 126,554 

 129,960 

 (48,200)

 46,026 

 378,840 

 554,826 

 (34,126)

 (345,946)

 (428,272)

1 

Information has been presented on a continuing operations basis. For details on the Group’s discontinued operations refer to Note 8.4

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.

4.3. Leases

4.3A Right of use assets
The Group leases many assets including offices, equipment, transmission towers and satellites. 

The associated right of use assets for these leases were measured on a retrospective basis as if AASB 16 had always been applied.

The recognised right of use assets relate to the following types of assets:

98

Notes to the Financial Statements for the year ended 27 June 202008Section 8: Financial Statements Seven West Media Limited Annual Report 20204.3. Leases (continued)

Year ended 27 June 2020

Opening net book amount

Additions

Depreciation charge1

Impairment

Effects of movement in exchange rates

Transferred in business disposal 

Closing net book amount

Year ended 29 June 2019

Opening net book amount

Additions

Depreciation charge1

Effects of movement in exchange rates

Closing net book amount

Year ended 30 June 2018

Opening net book amount

Additions

Depreciation charge1

Effects of movement in exchange rates

Closing net book amount

 Plant & 
Equipment 
 $’000 

 Comm– 
unications 
$’000 

 Building 
 $’000 

 107,590 

 38,215 

 (8,870)

 (55,982)

 (13)

 – 

 658 

 306 

 (261)

 – 

 – 

 – 

 80,940 

 703 

 113,079 

 2,701 

 (8,190)

 – 

 107,590 

 116,024 

 4,738 

 (7,705)

 22 

 113,079 

 229 

 580 

 (151)

 – 

 658 

 – 

 249 

 (20)

 – 

 229 

Total
$’000

 117,051 

 39,029 

 (11,408)

 (55,982)

 (13)

 (1,150)

 87,527 

 124,187 

 3,416 

 (10,552)

 – 

 8,803 

 508 

 (2,277)

 – 

 – 

 (1,150)

 5,884 

 10,879 

 135 

 (2,211)

 – 

 8,803 

 117,051 

 3,933 

 8,372 

 (1,426)

 – 

 119,957 

 13,359 

 (9,151)

 22 

 10,879 

 124,187 

1 

Information has been presented on a continuing operations basis. For details on the Group’s discontinued operations refer to Note 8.4

4.3B Lease liabilities 
The following tables show the discounted lease liabilities included in the Group statement of financial position and a maturity analysis of the 
contractual undiscounted lease payments:

Lease liabilities

Current

Non-current

Total lease liabilities

Maturity analysis – contractual undiscounted lease payments

Less than one year

One to five years

More than five years

Total undiscounted lease payments

2020
 $’000 

2019
$’000

2018
 $’000

 9,350 

 214,262 

 223,612 

 26,791 

 104,486 

 292,123 

 423,400 

 7,744 

 167,414 

 175,158 

 21,355 

 86,347 

 253,336 

361,038

 6,635 

 169,593 

 176,228 

 20,297 

 86,566 

 274,273 

 381,136 

4.3C Lease liabilities – Rent Concessions 
In May 2020 the International Accounting Standards Board issued amendments to IFRS16 for COVID-19 -Related Rent Concessions  
permitting lessees, as a practical expedient, not to assesses whether a particular rent concession occurring as a direct consequence  
of the COVID-19 pandemic are lease modifications and instead to account for the rent concessions as if they are not lease modifications.  
The Group was provided with $2,858,000 of rent concessions in FY20 that have been recorded in the P&L.

99

Notes to the Financial Statements for the year ended 27 June 2020Section 8: Financial Statements Seven West Media Limited Annual Report 2020 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
4.4. Provisions

Accounting Policy

Provisions are:
 > 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. 

 > 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.

Short-term incentives 
and bonus plans

A liability is recognised when there is an obligation to settle the liability and at least one of the following 
conditions is met:
 > there are formal terms in the plan for determining the amount of the benefit; or
 > past practice gives clear evidence of the amount of the obligation.

[B]  Redundancy and 
restructuring

[C]  Onerous Contracts

[D]  Other

  Make Good Provision

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.

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.

Employee
Benefits
[A]
 $’000 

Redundancy &
Restructuring
[B]
 $’000 

Onerous 
Contracts  
[C]
 $’000 

 153,611 

136,864

 (16,476)

(4,030)

 – 

 2,182 

 – 

 Other 
 [D] 
 $’000 

 9,662 

 11 

 (400)

–

 96 

 – 

 Total 
 $’000

 253,106 

186,828

 (79,980)

(4,030)

 (61)

 2,278 

 (188)

 28,469 

12,000

 (23,342)

–

 – 

 – 

 – 

17,127

272,151

 9,369 

357,953

17,127

 – 

17,127

57,753

 214,398 

272,151

 12 

 9,357 

 9,369 

128,526

229,427

357,953

Carrying amount at 29 June 2019

Amounts provided

Amounts utilised

Amounts released

Transferred 

Unwind of discount

Acquisition/(disposal) of controlled entity

Balance as at 27 June 2020

Represented by:

Current

Non-current

100

 61,364 

 37,953 

 (39,762)

–

 (61)

 – 

 (188)

 59,306 

 53,634 

 5,672 

 59,306 

Notes to the Financial Statements for the year ended 27 June 202008Section 8: Financial Statements Seven West Media Limited Annual Report 2020 
 
 
4.4. Provisions (continued)

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.

For onerous contracts provision, key assumptions made concerning 
future events are:
 > 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/ decline rates for the 
advertising market; 

 > 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 

 > The expected term of the legacy output deals is estimated based 
on current US market ratings performance and historical series 
life of similar programming.

4.5. Other Financial Assets

Accounting Policy

The Group classifies its investments in the following categories: 
financial assets at fair value through profit or loss (FVTPL), financial 
assets at fair value through other comprehensive income (FVTOCI) 
and amortised cost financial assets. The classification depends on 
the Group’s business model formanaging the financial asset as well as 
its contractual cash flow characteristics.

Impact of COVID-19 on key judgements, estimates and assumptions
The advertising market declined 15.2 per cent in the financial year 
compared to the previous year, driving further reductions in the 
economic benefits expected to be received under current contracts. 
Given the significant uncertainty on the impacts of the ongoing 
COVID-19 restrictions and the shortness of the market, the market 
growth assumptions have been revised in light of the current year 
conditions and expectations on the timing and scale of the recovery 
from COVID-19. The short-term market outlook into FY21 has 
impacted the recoverability of these contracts. 

Management has determined the financial assets relating to other 
investments to be classified at FVTOCI. Gains or losses arising from 
changes in the value of the financial asset are taken to the fair value 
reserve. Accordingly, any gains or losses realised on the sale of these 
assets remain in the fair value reserve rather than being transferred to 
the profit or loss. Dividends are recognised as income in profit or loss 
unless the dividend clearly represents a recovery of part of the cost of 
the investment.

Movements in carrying amounts of other financial assets

Carrying amount at the beginning of the year

Effect of adoption of new AASB 9 accounting standard (1 July 2018)

Net change in fair value of financial assets at fair value through other comprehensive income 

Acquisitions

Carrying amount at the end of the year

2020
$’000

 60,552 

 – 

 (4,537)

 23,120 

 79,135 

2019
$’000

 28,384 

 22,971 

 – 

 9,197 

 60,552 

Other financial assets represent equity investments in listed and unlisted entities comprising of Prime Media Group Limited, Airtasker Pty Limited, 
SocietyOne Australia Pty Limited and Open Money Group Pty Ltd. The Group has initially applied AASB 9 at 1 July 2018 for other financial assets. 
Under the transition methods chosen, comparative information is not restated.

Key judgements, estimates and assumptions

The fair value of other financial assets is measured through a Level 3 (significant unobservable inputs) approach under the accounting standard AASB 
13 Fair Value Measurement. The valuation technique used was based on the equity price established in the most recent round of equity financing and 
consideration of any other key changes in the investment which requires a level of judgement.

101

Notes to the Financial Statements for the year ended 27 June 2020Section 8: Financial Statements Seven West Media Limited Annual Report 2020Section 5:  
Taxation 

5.1. 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. 

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.

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: 

 > 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.

 > 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.

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.

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.

Receivables and payables are stated inclusive of the amount of GST 
receivable or payable. The net amount of GST recoverable from, or 
payable to, the taxation authority is included within other receivables 
or payables in the balance sheet.

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.

102

Notes to the Financial Statements for the year ended 27 June 202008Section 8: Financial Statements Seven West Media Limited Annual Report 20205.1 Taxes (continued)

Tax expense recognised in profit or loss

Current year tax expense

Adjustments for current tax of prior periods

Current tax expense

Deferred tax benefit (expense)

Adjustment for deferred tax of prior periods

Total tax benefit

Reconciliation of tax expense to prima facie tax payable

Profit (loss) before tax from continuing operations 

Profit (loss) before tax from discontinued operations 

Tax at the Australian tax rate of 30% (2019: 30%)

Tax effect of amounts which are not (deductible)/taxable in calculating taxable income:

Share of net profit of equity accounted investees, net of dividends received

Deferred tax assets not recognised in relation to impairment of equity accounted investees

Deferred tax assets not recognised in relation to impairment of intangible assets

Deferred tax assets not recognised in relation to impairment of assets

Deferred tax assets not recognised in relation to sale of asset held for sale

Accounting gain on sale of investments

Accounting gain on sale of assets

Non-assessable income

Other non-assessable items

Adjustments for tax of prior periods

Tax benefit

Tax expense (benefit) recognised in continuing operations

Tax expense (benefit)recognised in discontinued operations

Tax benefit

Tax recognised in other comprehensive income

Cash flow hedges

Financial assets at fair value 

Deferred tax asset not recognised

Deductible temporary differences

2020
$’000

 (6,724)

 (120)

 (6,844)

 101,471 

 (987) 

 93,640 

Restated1 2 3
2019
$’000

 (25,680)

 2,989 

 (22,691)

 143,565 

 (2,651)

 118,223 

 (293,931)

 (444,496)

 38,147 

 76,735 

 4,625 

 131,961 

 180 

 – 

 – 

 (418)

 – 

 4,058 

 12,735 

 3,850 

 (2,363)

 (1,137)

 93,640 

 93,880 

 (240)

 93,640 

 (198)

 1,278 

 275 

 (676)

 (15,053)

 (905)

 (5,025)

 – 

 – 

 4,897 

 2,284 

 465 

 118,223 

 116,900 

 1,323 

 118,223 

 1,061 

 – 

 1,179,744 

1,179,724

Comparative financial information has been restated for the following: 

1 
2 
3 

The Group has adopted AASB 16. Refer to Note 8.6 for more detail.
The Group has adopted amendments to AASB 112. Refer to Note 8.6 for more detail.
Information has been restated and presented on a continuing operations basis. For details on the Group’s discontinued operations refer to Note 8.4.

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. 

103

Notes to the Financial Statements for the year ended 27 June 2020Section 8: Financial Statements Seven West Media Limited Annual Report 20205.2. Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities

Deferred tax assets (liabilities)

Year ended 27 June 2020

The balance comprises temporary differences attributable to:

Trade and other receivables

Program rights and inventories

Investments

Intangible assets

Property, plant and equipment

Right of use assets 

Deferred expenditure and prepayments

Trade and other payables

Provisions

Deferred income 

Borrowings

Cash flow hedges

Transaction costs

Other

Restated  
29 June 
2019
$’000

Recognised 
in profit or 
loss
$’000

Recognised 
in other 
comprehensive 
income
$’000

27 June 2020
$’000

 7,176 

 (117,721)

 (7,231)

 (161,538)

 23,381 

 11,908 

 (251)

 16,769 

 75,597 

 2,352 

 (2,847)

 2,390 

 197 

 1,287 

 (2,694)

 21,651 

–

 22,646 

 3,504 

 29,238 

 (1)

 (8,485)

 28,227 

 3,336 

 2,847 

–

 (52)

 (114)

–

–

 (762)

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

 (393)

–

–

 4,482 

 (96,070)

 (7,993)

 (138,892)

 26,885 

 41,146 

 (252)

 8,284 

 103,824 

 5,688 

 – 

 1,997 

 145 

 1,173 

Net deferred tax (liabilities) assets

 (148,531)

 100,103 

 (1,155)

 (49,583)

Restated 
Year ended 29 June 2019

Effect of 
adoption of 
new AASB 9 
accounting 
standard

$’000

Restated

30 June

20181 2

$’000

Recognised in

Recognised

 other compre-

Increase 

due to 
acquisition 

in profit or

loss

$’000

hensive 
income

of controlled 
entity

$’000

$’000

Restated

29 June

2019

$’000

The balance comprises temporary differences attributable to:

Trade and other receivables

Program rights and inventories

Investments

Intangible assets

Property, plant and equipment

Right of use assets 

Deferred expenditure and prepayments

Trade and other payables

Provisions

Deferred income 

Borrowings

Cash flow hedges

Transaction costs

Other

 7,278 

 (127,761)

 – 

 – 

 (541)

 (6,891)

 (283,488)

 17,747 

 10,035 

 (234)

 15,839 

 70,757 

 1,880 

 (325)

 462 

 566 

 163 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 (165)

 10,040 

 201 

 121,950 

 5,634 

 1,873 

 (17)

 839 

 3,373 

 472 

 (2,522)

 867 

 (369)

 611 

 – 

 – 

 – 

– 

 – 

 – 

 – 

– 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 1,061 

 – 

 – 

 63 

 7,176 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 91 

 1,467 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 513 

 (117,721)

 (7,231)

 (161,538)

 23,381 

 11,908 

 (251)

 16,769 

 75,597 

 2,352 

 (2,847)

 2,390 

 197 

 1,287 

Net deferred tax (liabilities) assets

 (287,622)

 (6,891)

 142,787 

 1,061 

 2,134 

 (148,531)

Comparative financial information has been restated for the following: 

1 
2 

The Group has adopted AASB 16. Refer to Note 8.6 for more detail.
The Group has adopted amendments AASB 112. Refer to Note 8.6 for more detail.

104

Notes to the Financial Statements for the year ended 27 June 202008Section 8: Financial Statements Seven West Media Limited Annual Report 2020Section 6:  
Capital Management 

6.1. Borrowings

Non-current

2020
$’000

2019
$’000

Bank loans – unsecured, net of unamortised refinancing costs

 749,268 

 653,839 

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.

6.1A Financial arrangements 
As at 27 June 2020, the Group had access to unsecured bilateral 
revolving credit facilities to a maximum of $750,000,000 (2019: 
$750,000,000). The amount of these facilities undrawn at reporting date 
was $nil (2019: $95,000,000).

In addition, the Group continues to have access to a $20,000,000  
(2019: $20,000,000) multi-option facility with Australia and New 
Zealand Banking Group Limited. As at reporting date, $11,000,000  
of this facility (2019: $10,500,000) was utilised for the provision of  
bank guarantees. 

Subsequent to year end the Group amended these debt facilities.  
Refer to note 8.3 for more detail.

The unsecured bank loans are net of $733,000 refinancing costs  
(2019: $1,160,000).

The facilities are subject to a weighted average interest rate of  
2.01 per cent at 27 June 2020 (2019: 3.32 per cent).

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 27 June 2020.

Fair value
The carrying amount and fair value of Group borrowings at the end of the 
financial year was $750,000,000 (2019: $654,884,000).

Risk exposures
Information about the Group’s exposure to interest rate changes is 
provided in note 6.6. 

6.2. Share Capital

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.

1,538,034,368 (2019: 1,508,034,368) Ordinary shares fully paid

[A]  The Group issued 30 million ordinary shares at an issue price of $0.404 per share on 19 December 2019.

REF

 [A] 

2020
$’000

2019
$’000

 3,405,666 

 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.

105

Notes to the Financial Statements for the year ended 27 June 2020Section 8: Financial Statements Seven West Media Limited Annual Report 20206.3. Reserves 

Accounting Policy

(i) Cash flow hedge reserve
The cash flow hedge reserve is used to recognise the effective portion 
of gains or losses on derivatives that are designated and qualify as 
cash flow hedges

(iv) Foreign currency translation reserve
Exchange differences arising on translation of the foreign controlled 
entity are recognised in other comprehensive income in a separate 
reserve within equity.

(ii) Reserve for own shares 
Treasury shares are shares in Seven West Media Limited that are held 
by the SWM Equity Incentive Plan Trust for the purpose of issuing 
shares under the group employee share scheme. 

(iii) Equity compensation reserve
The share based payments reserve is used to recognise the grant 
date fair value of incentive shares issued to eligible employees with 
performance related conditions. Once the vesting conditions of the 
respective share schemes are met and the shares are exercised, the 
accumulated amount of the share based payment reserve relating to 
the vested shares is transferred to share capital.

The cumulative amount is reclassified to profit or loss when the net 
investment is disposed of. 

(v) Fair value reserve  

Fair value reserve is used to recognise the valuation of the Group’s 
accounting for other investments as fair value through other 
comprehensive income. 

2020
$’000

 (3,094)

 2,873 

 (597)

 (32)

 12,820 

 11,970 

2019
$’000

 (3,555)

 2,877 

 (597)

 (164)

 16,079 

 14,640 

 Cash flow 
hedge 
reserve 
 $’000 

 Equity 
compensation 
reserve 
 $’000 

 Reserve 
for own 
shares 
 $’000

 Foreign 
currency 
translation 
reserve 
 $’000

 Fair value 
reserve 
 $’000

 Total 
 $’000

 (1,080)

 (3,536)

 – 

 1,061 

 – 

 (3,555)

 (3,555)

 659 

 – 

 (198)

 – 

–

 – 

 2,544 

 (597)

 (322)

 16,079 

 16,624 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 333 

 2,877 

 2,877 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 (4)

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 (597)

 (597)

 – 

 – 

–

–

 – 

 – 

 - 

 158 

 – 

 – 

 (164)

 (164)

 – 

 132 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 - 

 - 

 - 

 - 

 (3,536)

 158 

 1,061 

 333 

 16,079 

 14,640 

 16,079 

 14,640 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 659 

 132 

 (198)

 (4,537)

 (4,537)

 1,278 

 1,278 

 – 

 (4)

 (3,094)

 2,873 

 (597)

 (32)

 12,820 

 11,970 

Cash flow hedge reserve

Equity compensation reserve

Reserve for own shares 

Foreign currency translation reserve 

Fair value reserve 

Total Reserves 

Balance at 1 July 2018

Cash flow hedge gain(losses) taken to equity

Foreign currency translation differences 

Tax on other comprehensive income 

Share based payment expense 

Balance at 29 June 2019

Balance at 30 June 2019

Cash flow hedge (losses) gains taken to equity

Foreign currency translation differences

Tax on other comprehensive income

Net change in fair value of financial assets at fair 
value through other comprehensive income

Tax relating to items that will not be reclassified to P&L

Share based payment expense 

Balance at 27 June 2020

106

Notes to the Financial Statements for the year ended 27 June 202008Section 8: Financial Statements Seven West Media Limited Annual Report 2020 
6.4. 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.

6.3A Dividends
There were no dividends paid during the financial year (2019:nil) or subsequent to year end (2019:nil).

6.3B Dividends not recognised at year end

No final dividend has been declared in the current or prior year

 –  

–

6.3C 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 27 June 2020.

Franking credits available for subsequent financial years based on a tax rate of 30% (2019: 30%)

 21,630

 38,725 

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

(a)  franking credits that will arise from the payment of the current tax liability or receivable;
(b)  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.
(c) 

6.5. 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.

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.

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 

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.

6.5A 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 $337,163 which was offset by 
reversals in relation to forfeitures of $341,425 (2019: $332,652).

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 27 June 2020, performance rights that remain outstanding are from 2018, 2019 and 2020 Long-Term Incentive Plans.

The Group issued two tranches in 2020 for the long-term incentive plan that entitles key management personnel to performance rights. Holders of vested 
rights are entitled to fully paid ordinary shares in the Company.

A total of 14,363,918 (2019: 2,114,484) performance rights were granted on 31 January 2020 (2019: 1 February 2019) and will be awarded when the 
performance conditions are met. The performance period commenced on 1 July 2019 and ends on 30 June 2022 and 30 June 2023 (2018: 1 July 2018 to 30 
June 2021). 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. In 2020 no performance rights vested (2019: 814,615) and 
391,705 (2019: 2,443,846) were forfeited during the year.

107

Notes to the Financial Statements for the year ended 27 June 2020Section 8: Financial Statements Seven West Media Limited Annual Report 20206.5. Share-Based Payments (continued)

6.5B Valuation models and key assumptions used

Grant date

Award type

Vesting Conditions

Performance period

Vesting Date

Share price at grant date

Number of rights granted

Fair value at grant date

Volatility – Seven West Media

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

Valuation methodology

2020 Long  
Term Incentive Plan 
Tranche 1 

2020 Long  
Term Incentive Plan 
Tranche 2 

31 January 2020

31 January 2020

Performance Rights

Performance Rights

Relative TSR and KPI outcomes

Relative TSR and KPI outcomes

1 July 2019 to 30 June 2022

1 July 2019 to 30 June 2023

20 August 2022

20 August 2023

 $0.250 

 5,472,973 

 $0.045 

42%

19%

26%

0.63%

0.0%

 $0.250 

 8,890,945 

 $0.065 

42%

19%

26%

0.64%

0.0%

Monte-Carlo simulation

Monte-Carlo simulation

Short-Term Incentive Plans
In FY20, the Company’s underlying EBIT result of $100.9 million did not open the financial gateway. For futher details relating to STIs refer to the 
Remuneration Report on pages 48 to 70.

The Group granted a 2019 short-term incentive plan that entitles key management personnel to shares based on 100 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).

On 1 September 2019, 170,212 restricted shares were granted that related to the 2019 STI. The number and fair value of the restricted shares was 
based on 100 per cent of the STI pool awarded. 

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.

6.6. Capital and Financial Risk Management

6.6A Accounting classifications and fair values
The following table shows the carrying amounts and fair values of financial assets and financial liabilities. It does not include fair value information 
for financial assets and financial liabilites not measured at fair value if the carrying amount is a reasonable approximation of fair value.

Financial assets (liabilities) measured at fair value

Other financial assets

Interest rate swaps

Interest rate collars

Forward exchange contracts

108

Note

4.5

2020
$’000

 79,135 

 (3,595)

 (825)  

 –  

 Restated1 
2019 
 $’000 

 60,552 

 (5,455)

 818 

 (78)

74,715

 55,837 

Notes to the Financial Statements for the year ended 27 June 202008Section 8: Financial Statements Seven West Media Limited Annual Report 20206.6. Capital and Financial Risk Management (continued)

Financial assets (liabilities) measured at amortised cost

Trade and other receivables

Cash and cash equivalents

Borrowings

Trade payables and accruals

Comparative financial information has been restated for the following: 

1 

The Group has adopted AASB 16. Refer to Note 8.6 for more detail.

6.6B Measurement of fair values

Valuation techniques and significant unobservable inputs
The fair value of financial assets and liabilities must be estimated for 
recognition and measurement or for disclosure purposes.

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:

Note

3.2

3.1

6.1

3.4

2020
$’000

 Restated1 
2019 
 $’000 

 156,456 

 352,021 

 262,798 

 90,455 

 (749,268)  

 (653,839) 

 (102,457) 

 (129,192) 

(343,248)

(429,778)

(a)  quoted prices (unadjusted) in active markets for identical assets or 

(b) 

(c) 

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).

The following table shows the valuation techniques and measurement level inputs used to assess the fair value of financial assets and financial 
liabilities at 27 June 2020.

Type

Valuation Technique

Other Financial Assets 
– Listed Entities

The fair value is based on quoted prices (unadjusted) in active markets for 
identical assets or liabilities that can be accessed at the measurement date.

Interest Rate Swaps 
and Collars

The fair value is calculated as the present value of the estimated future cash 
flows. Estimates of future floating-rate cash flows are based on quoted swap 
rates, future prices and interbank borrowing rates. Estimated cash flows are 
discounted using a yield curve constructed from similar sources and which 
reflects the relevant benchmark interbank rate used by market participants for 
this purpose when pricing interest rate swaps. The fair value estimate is subject 
to a credit risk adjustment that reflects the credit risk of the Group and of the 
counterparty; this is calculated based on credit spreads derived from current 
credit default swap or bonds prices.

Measurement 
Level

Amount

Level 1

$5,022,681

Level 2

At June 2020 the 
interest rate cash  
flow hedges amount  
to $4,420,000  
(2019: $4,637,000)

Forward Exchange 
Contracts 

The fair value is determined using quoted forward exchange rates at the 
reporting date and present value calculations based on high credit quality 
yield curves in the respective currencies

Level 2

At June 2020 there are 
nil foreign exchange 
cash flow hedges 
(2019: $78,000)

Other Financial Assets

The fair value is based on the equity price established in the most recent 
round of equity financing and consideration of any other key changes in the 
investment which requires a level of judgement.

Level 3

$79,135,000

Impact of COVID-19 on assessment of fair value of Other (unlisted) investments 
The fair value of other financial assets is measured through a Level 
3 (significant unobservable inputs) approach under AASB 9. This 
methodology included using:
 > The issue prices in the most recent round of equity raising conducted 
by each company assuming this was within the last 12 months; and

 > review of performance of investments against budgets in the 

period before COVID-19 and following onset of COVID-19 related 
lockdowns and restrictions; 

 > cost reduction and cash flow measures put in place by management 

to limit COVID-19 impact; and

 > Comparison of issue price movements to listed peers over the  

same period.

In the second half, the COVID-19 related market conditions, government 
imposed lockdowns and uncertainty on the impact to company earnings 
lead management to expand the inputs and analysis to support the 
current fair value methodology. In the absence of recent pricing activity 
additional criteria included:

 > trajectory of the businesses through the recovery period following 
COVID-19 lockdown period and impact on long-term revenue 
generating potential.

The revised procedures and ongoing COVID-19 impact has not led to a 
change in the fair value of other (unlisted) financial assets in the second 
half of FY20. 

109

Notes to the Financial Statements for the year ended 27 June 2020Section 8: Financial Statements Seven West Media Limited Annual Report 20206.6. Capital and Financial Risk Management (continued)

6.6C Risk management framework
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.

6.6C(i) 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. 

The carrying amounts of financial assets and contract assets  
represent the maximum credit exposure. 

Trade receivables and contract assets
The Group’s exposure to credit risk is influenced mainly by the individual 
characteristics of each customer. However, management also considers the 
factors that may influence the credit risk of its customer base, including the 
default risk associated with the industry in which customers operate.

Each new customer is analysed individually for creditworthiness before 
the Group’s standard payment and delivery terms and conditions 
are offered. The Group’s review includes external ratings, if they are 
available, financial statements, credit agency information and industry 
information. Sale limits are established for each customer and reviewed 
on a regular basis.

In monitoring customer credit risk, customers are grouped according to 
their credit characteristics, including whether they are an individual or a 
legal entity, their industry, trading history with the Group and existence 
of previous financial difficulties.

An impairment analysis is performed at each reporting date using 
a provision range matrix to measure expected credit losses. The 
percentage used will depend on the risk profile of the debtors at the time 
and may vary year on year. The provision rates are based on days past 
due for groupings of various customer segments. The calculation reflects 
the probability-weighted outcome and reasonable and supportable 
information that is available at the reporting date about past events, 
current conditions and forecasts of future economic conditions. 

Impact of COVID-19 on assessment of Credit Risk
The Group’s exposure to credit risk is influenced by the individual 
characteristics of each customer. COVID-19 related business closures 
and restrictions to trade, combined with material decreases in 
advertising revenues and a reduction in forward bookings of advertising 
during the last quarter of FY20 prompted the business to review the key 
factors impacting the credit risk of its customer base throughout the later 
half of the year and at balance date. The Group also was impacted by 
the Trade Credit Insurance industry restricting the level of cover provided 
in high risk categories. 

The Group’s reassessment of credit risk for existing and new customers 
included the following procedures in addition to those already described 
in Note 6.6C(i) of this financial report
 > re-assessment of approved trade credit terms of customers trading 
in perceived high risk and high COVID-19 impacted industries, 
specifically those characterised by high consumer discretionary 
spend patters such as travel & tourism, automotive, property, 
construction and retail and consumer goods businesses;

 > review of standard payment terms for all customers;
 > negotiation of payment terms for aged amounts and a stop on 

overdue accounts; and 

 > where increased risk was identified the Group moved to tighten 

credit policy, ensure payments were received per current trading 
terms, seek additional director guarantees in some circumstances, 
and moved some debtors to full or partial prepayment terms or 
reduced credit limits

The revised procedures and ongoing COVID-19 impact has resulted 
in recognition of additional credit loss provision of $3.2 million in the 
second half of FY20. 

Set out below is the information about the credit risk exposure on the Group’s trade receivables and contracts assets using a provision range matrix. 

Past due but not impaired

Not past due

< 30 days

31-90 days

> 90 days

1.7%

 138,477 

(2,322) 

0.1%

 249,192 

(271) 

7.5%

15,515

(1,165) 

6.1%

 22,641 

(1,373) 

38.9%

4,109

(1,599) 

26.5%

 3,655 

(970) 

65.2%

1,728

(1,126) 

92.8%

 892 

(828) 

Total 
$'000

159,829

(6,212) 

 276,380 

(3,442) 

Year ended 27 June 2020

Expected credit loss rate

Estimated total gross carrying amount

Expected credit loss

Year ended 29 June 2019

Expected credit loss rate

Estimated total gross carrying amount

Expected credit loss

110

Notes to the Financial Statements for the year ended 27 June 202008Section 8: Financial Statements Seven West Media Limited Annual Report 20206.6. Capital and Financial Risk Management (continued)

6.6C(ii) 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 $750,000,000, the 
facility was fully drawn at reporting date. 

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.

Impact of COVID-19 on assessment of Liquidity Risk
The Group was in a balance sheet net liability position of $236.1 million as at 27 June 2020 (refer to Note 1.3). Prior to the COVID-19 related impacts 
on the business, the Group has implemented a strategy to reduce its net debt and monetise the value of non-core assets during FY20. This included 
amending the key terms of the existing debt facilities, and implementation of a cost out program to deliver $60 million in cost savings in FY20. The 
impact of softening advertising market in the first half of FY20, combined with COVID-19 material impacts to advertising revenue in the second half of 
FY20 accelerated the cost out program and lead to a revised cost out target of $170 million over 2 years. Disclosures relating to the Group’s cash flow 
projections for the next 12 months are included in Note 1.5 of these financial statements and details of the amendment of the Group’s debt facilities is 
disclosed in Note 1.3. 

At 27 June 2020

Non-derivative financial liabilities

Trade and other payables

Unsecured loans

Total non-derivatives

Derivative financial liabilities

Net settled interest rate swaps and collars

Gross settled forward foreign exchange contracts - cash flow hedges:

- (inflow)

- outflow

Total derivatives

Total financial liabilities

Less than  
one year
$’000

Between 
1 and 5 years
$’000

Total 
contractual 
cash flows
$’000

Carrying 
amount - 
liabilities
$’000

215,775

 15,107 

 230,882 

 2,949 

218,724

 763,347 

 766,296 

 778,454 

997,178

219,359

 749,268 

968,627

 829 

 – 

 – 

 829 

 – 

–

–

 – 

 829 

 6,843 

 – 

 – 

 829 

 – 

 – 

 6,843 

231,711

 766,296 

 998,007 

 975,470 

111

Notes to the Financial Statements for the year ended 27 June 2020Section 8: Financial Statements Seven West Media Limited Annual Report 20206.6. Capital and Financial Risk Management (continued)

At 29 June 2019

Non-derivative financial liabilities

Trade and other payables

Unsecured loans

Total non-derivatives

Derivative financial liabilities

Net settled interest rate swaps and collars

Gross settled forward foreign exchange contracts - cash flow hedges:

- (inflow)

- outflow

Total derivatives

Total financial liabilities

Less than  
one year
$’000

Between 
1 and 5 years
$’000

Total 
contractual 
cash flows
$’000

Restated 
Carrying 
amount - 
liabilities
$’000

 283,935 

 21,753 

 305,688 

 643 

 (3,422)

 3,477 

 698 

 4,279 

 717,298 

 288,214 

 739,051 

 721,577 

 1,027,265 

 273,508 

 653,839 

 927,347 

 318 

–

 – 

 318 

 961 

 8,082 

 (3,422)

 3,477 

 1,016 

 –  

 78 

 8,160 

 306,386 

 721,895 

 1,028,281 

 935,507 

6.6C(iii) 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:

(a) 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.

(b) 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

Total percentage of net debt hedged

Net exposure to cash flow interest rate risk

112

2020
$’000

 352,021 

1.50%

 750,000 

2.01%

 397,979 

2019 
 $’000 

 90,455 

1.50%

 655,000 

3.32%

 564,545 

 200,000 

 200,000 

50%

2.78%

35%

2.78%

June 2021

June 2021

 50,000 

 100,000 

13%

2.64%

1.85%

18%

2.54%

1.85%

 June 20 

 June 20 – June 21 

63%

147,979

53%

 264,545 

Notes to the Financial Statements for the year ended 27 June 202008Section 8: Financial Statements Seven West Media Limited Annual Report 20206.6. Capital and Financial Risk Management (continued)

The changes in fair value of cash flow hedges during the year amounts to a pre-tax decrease in equity of $659,000 (2019: increase of $3,536,000).

There are no receivables on derivatives at balance date and the Group’s current receivables generally do not bear interest.

Group sensitivity
Based on the Group’s outstanding floating rate borrowings and interest rate swaps at 27 June 2020, 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

2020
$’000

2019
$’000

2020
$’000

2019
$’000

2020
$’000

2019
$’000

If interest rates were 1% higher with all other variables held constant:

(Decrease)/increase

(3,500)

 (2,485)

1,307

 3,106 

(2,193)

 621 

If interest rates were 1% lower with all other variables held constant:

Increase/(decrease)

3,500

 2,485 

(1,336)

 (3,344)

2,164

 (859)

The Group amended its $750 million debt facility subsequent to year end. The details of this are included in Note 8.3. The floating rate under the 
amended facilities is a BBSY plus margin of 4.5 per cent. The outstanding debt balance of $750 million is unchanged. Under the amended facility the 
interest rate sensitivity analysis remains unchanged.

(c) 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

Payables:

Foreign exchange payables and forward contracts

Net exposure

2020
$’000

–

–

 – 

2019 
 $’000 

 3,422 

 (3,477)

 (55)

Based on the Group’s financial instruments held at 27 June 2020, had the Australian dollar weakened/strengthened by 10 per cent 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. The analysis was performed on the same basis as 2019 and ignores any impact of forecasted sales and purchases.

113

Notes to the Financial Statements for the year ended 27 June 2020Section 8: Financial Statements Seven West Media Limited Annual Report 2020 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Section 7:  
Group Structure 

7.1. Equity Accounted Investees

Non-current

Investments in associates and jointly controlled entities

 9,513 

 12,850 

2020
$’000

2019 
 $’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 up to 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.

Information relating to associates and jointly controlled entities is set out in the tables below:

Name of entity

Crowdspark Limited  
(formerly Newzulu Limited)

Health Engine Pty Limited

New You Group Pty Limited  
(trading as Kochie’s Money Makeover)

NPC Media Pty Limited

Oscar Winter Pty Limited

Oztam Pty Limited

Starts at 60 Pty Limited

TX Australia Pty Limited

REF

Principal activities 

[B]

 Citizen journalism 

 Online health directory 

[C]

 Provider of general financial advice 

Reporting date

30 June

30 June

30 June

 Playout and content managements services 

30 June

[A]

 Online retail jewellery business 

30 June

 Ratings service provider 

31 December

 Online social network for seniors 

 Transmitter facilities provider 

30 June

30 June

Ownership interest

2020
%

2019
%

–

 21.9 

 16.3 

 0.2 

 50.0 

 – 

 33.3 

 35.3 

 50.0 

 16.3 

 50.0 

 50.0 

 33.3 

 33.3 

 35.3 

 50.0 

[A]  Oscar Winter Pty Limited was derigstered on 18 December 2019. 

[B]  Crowdspark Limited was placed into voluntary administration on 17 July 2018.

[C]  Following share issue by New You Group Pty Limited, the shareholding in the investment was diluted from 50.0 per cent to 0.2 per cent.

114

Notes to the Financial Statements for the year ended 27 June 202008Section 8: Financial Statements Seven West Media Limited Annual Report 20207.1. Equity Accounted Investees (continued)

Below is the summarised financial information for the Group’s remaining associates and jointly controlled investments.

Net profit (loss) for the year (continuing operations)

Group's share of profit for the year

REF

[A]

[A]  Share of profit (loss) is based on ownership percentage up to 50 per cent for each equity accounted investee.

REF

Movements in carrying amount of equity accounted investees

Carrying amount at the beginning of the financial year

Impairment of equity accounted investees (refer note 2.4)

Share of profit of investees after tax

Dividends received

Acquisitions and other movements

Carrying amount at the end of the financial year

2020
$’000

 (7,279)

 1,203 

2020
$’000

 12,850 

–

 1,203 

 (5,100)

 560 

 9,513 

2019 
 $’000 

 (16,453)

 1,141 

2019 
 $’000 

 3,445 

 (2,252)

 1,141 

 (880)

 11,396 

 12,850 

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.

7.2. 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 27 June 2020 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.

115

Notes to the Financial Statements for the year ended 27 June 2020Section 8: Financial Statements Seven West Media Limited Annual Report 20207.2. 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.

Notes

Country of  
incorporation

Ownership interest

2020
%

2019
%

7Beyond Media Rights Limited

Albany Advertiser Pty Ltd

Australian National Television Pty Limited

Australian Regional Broadcasters Pty Ltd

Australian Television International Pty Limited

Australian Television Network Limited

BTTR Production Pty Limited 

BTW Productions Pty Limited

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

Community Newspaper Group Limited

ComsNet Pty Ltd

Dansted and McCabe Holdings Pty Ltd

Dodds Street Properties Pty Limited

Edinburgh Military Tattoo Sydney Production Pty Ltd

Endurance Media Limited

Fam Time Productions Pty 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

116

Ireland

Australia

Australia

Australia

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

Australia

New Zealand

Australia

Australia

Australia

Australia

Australia

Australia

Australia

Australia

[A]

[C]

[A]

[C]

[C]

[N]

[K]

[C]

[C]

[C]

[C]

[C]

[C]

[C]

[A]

[A]

[L]

[A]

[A]

[C]

[M]

[C]

[A]

[A]

[A]

[A]

[A]

[A]

[A]

[I]

[E]

[C]

[C]

 51 

 100 

 100 

 – 

 100 

 100 

 100 

 100 

 100 

 100 

 100 

 100 

 100 

 100 

 70 

 100 

 100 

 100 

 100 

 100 

 100 

 100 

 100 

 70 

 100 

 100 

 – 

 100 

 – 

 70 

 70 

 100 

 100 

 100 

 100 

 100 

 100 

 100 

 100 

 51 

 – 

 100 

 100 

 100 

 100 

 – 

 100 

 100 

 100 

 100 

 100 

 100 

 100 

 70 

 100 

 100 

 100 

 100 

 100 

 100 

 100 

 100 

 70 

 100 

 100 

 100 

 100 

 100 

 70 

 70 

 100 

 100 

 100 

 100 

 100 

 100 

 100 

 100 

Notes to the Financial Statements for the year ended 27 June 202008Section 8: Financial Statements Seven West Media Limited Annual Report 20207.2. Investments in Controlled Entities (continued)

Media Beach Pte. Limited

North West Radio Pty Ltd

Seven Publishing MM Pty Limited (Formerly Pacific MM Pty Limited) 

Seven Publishing Pty Limited (Formerly Pacific Magazines Pty Limited) 

Pacific Magazines Trust

Seven Publishing (No 2) Pty Limited  
(Formerly Pacific Magazines (No. 2) Pty Limited) 

Seven Publishing NZ Limited (Formerly Pacific Magazines NZ Limited) 

Seven Publishing NZ Merchant Company Limited  
(Formerly Pacific Magazines NZ Merchant Company Limited) 

Seven Publishing (PP) Pty Limited (Formerly Pacific Magazines (PP) Pty Ltd) 

Seven Publishing (PP) Holdings Pty Limited  
(Formerly Pacific Magazines (PP) Holdings Pty Ltd) 

Seven Publishing (No 1) Pty Limited (Formerly 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

SBB Productions Pty Limited

Seven DS Holdings Pty Ltd

Seven Facilities Pty Ltd

Seven Investment Holding Pty Limited

Seven Investment Holding USA LLC 

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 Ventures Pty Limited 

Seven West Studios Limited

Notes

Country of  
incorporation

[A]

[C]

[C]

Singapore

Australia

Australia

Australia

Australia

[C]

Australia

New Zealand

New Zealand

[C]

[C]

[A]

[A]

[D]

[C]

[A]

[A]

[K]

[I]

[H]

[C]

[C]

[C]

[C]

[J]

[G]

[C]

[J]

[I]

[F]

Australia

Australia

Australia

Australia

Australia

Australia

Australia

Australia

Australia

Australia

Australia

Australia

Australia

United States of 
America

Australia

Australia

Australia

New Zealand

Australia

Australia

Australia

Australia

Australia

Australia

Australia

[C]

Australia

Australia

United Kingdom

Seven West Media Investments Pty Limited

[C]

Australia

Slim Film & TV Limited

Slim 80 Days Limited 

United Kingdom

United Kingdom

Ownership interest

2020
%

2019
%

 – 

 – 

 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 

 – 

 – 

 50 

 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 

 25 

117

Notes to the Financial Statements for the year ended 27 June 2020Section 8: Financial Statements Seven West Media Limited Annual Report 2020Notes

Country of  
incorporation

United Kingdom

[B]

[B]

[B]

[I]

[C]

[C]

[A]

[C]

[A]

[C]

[C]

[A]

[A]

[A]

[A]

[C]

[A]

[A]

[A]

[C]

[C]

[C]

Australia

Australia

Australia

Australia

Australia

Australia

Australia

Australia

Australia

Australia

Australia

Australia

Australia

Australia

Australia

Australia

Australia

Australia

Australia

Australia

Australia

Australia

Ownership interest

2020
%

2019
%

 – 

 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 

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.’

7.2. Investments in Controlled Entities (continued)

Slim Mystic 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

Sunshine Broadcasting Network Limited

The Seven Publishing Plus Company Pty Limited (Formerly 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

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.

[K]  5 February 2019.

[L]  24 June 2019.

[M]  24 April 2019.

[N]  25 November 2019. 

118

Notes to the Financial Statements for the year ended 27 June 202008Section 8: Financial Statements Seven West Media Limited Annual Report 2020 
 
 
 
7.2. Investments in Controlled Entities (continued)

The consolidated statement of profit or loss and other comprehensive income for the year ended 27 June 2020 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

Continuing operations 

Revenue

Other income

Revenue and other income

Expenses

Impairment of intangible assets

Impairment of investments and other assets

Costs related to investments 

Net gain on disposal of investments 

Net gain (loss) on assets disposed 

Net loss on sale of asset held for sale

Redundancy and restructure costs

Other

Onerous contracts

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

Write off of unamortised refinancing cost

Finance income

Profit (loss) before tax from continuing operations 

Tax benefit

Profit (loss) for the year from continuing operations 

Discontinued operations 

Profit (loss) after tax for the year from discontinued operations 

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

Items that will not be reclassified to profit or loss:

Net change in fair value of financial assets at fair value through other comprehensive income

Tax relating to items that will not be reclassified subsequently to profit or loss

Other comprehensive income for the year, net of tax

Total comprehensive income (expense) for the year

Comparative financial information has been restated for the following: 

2020
$’000

Restated1 2 3
2019 
 $’000 

 1,196,747 

 1,403,370 

 676 

 3,615 

 1,197,423 

 1,406,985 

 (1,101,270)

 (1,194,993)

 (67,558)

 (137,332)

 (9,242)

 11,012 

 9,439 

 – 

 (12,000) 

(9,447)

 (477,972)

 (64,507)

 – 

 – 

 – 

 (16,750)

 (20,388)

–

 (136,864)

 (20,963)

 – 

 1,203 

 (1,000)

 1,141 

 (254,636)

 (388,447)

 (42,106)

 (49,545)

 – 

 1,513 

 (8,587)

 1,419 

 (295,229)

 (445,160)

 91,284 

 116,935 

 (203,945)

 (328,225)

 38,914 

 4,380 

 (165,031)

 (323,845)

 659 

 132 

 (198)

 (4,537)

 1,278 

 (2,666)

 (3,536)

 158 

 1,061 

 – 

 – 

 (2,317)

 (167,697)

 (326,162)

1 
2 
3 

The Group has adopted AASB 16. Refer to Note 8.6 for more detail.
The Group has adopted amendments to AASB 112. Refer to Note 8.6 for more detail 
Information has been restated and presented on a continuing operations basis. For details on the Group’s discontinued operations refer to Note 8.4

119

Notes to the Financial Statements for the year ended 27 June 2020Section 8: Financial Statements Seven West Media Limited Annual Report 20207.2. Investments in Controlled Entities (continued)

The consolidated statement of financial position for the year ended 27 June 2020 of the Seven West Media Limited Closed Group is presented below 
according to the Seven West Media Limited Class Order:

2020
$’000

Restated1 2
2019 
 $’000 

 347,282 

 154,411 

 135,560 

 13,295 

 650,548 

 41,042 

 9,513 

 78,188 

 51,345 

 483,501 

 87,413 

 13,197 

 764,199 

 88,446 

 260,988 

 193,238 

 12,316 

 554,988 

 15,858 

 12,850 

 59,604 

 126,487 

 565,395 

 116,880 

 8,047 

 905,121 

 1,414,747 

 1,460,109 

 223,753 

 275,083 

 9,283 

 7,679 

 128,526 

 105,425 

 36,662 

 1,006 

 399,230 

 5,188 

 214,198 

 229,427 

 12,192 

 49,565 

 749,268 

 23,340 

 2,160 

 413,687 

 10,011 

 167,285 

 147,681 

 12,792 

 143,774 

 653,839 

 1,259,838 

 1,135,382 

 1,659,068 

 1,549,069 

 (244,321)

 (88,960)

ASSETS

Current assets

Cash and cash equivalents

Trade and other receivables

Program rights and inventories

Other assets

Total current assets

Non-current assets

Program rights

Equity accounted investees

Other financial assets

Property, plant and equipment

Intangible assets

Right of use assets 

Other assets

Total non-current assets

Total assets

LIABILITIES

Current liabilities

Trade and other payables

Lease liabilities 

Provisions

Deferred Income

Current tax liabilities

Total current liabilities

Non-current liabilities

Trade and other payables

Lease liabilities 

Provisions

Contract liabilities

Deferred tax liabilities

Borrowings

Total non-current liabilities

Total liabilities

Net assets

120

Notes to the Financial Statements for the year ended 27 June 202008Section 8: Financial Statements Seven West Media Limited Annual Report 20207.2. Investments in Controlled Entities (continued)

EQUITY

Share capital

Reserves

Non-controlling interest

Accumulated deficit

Total equity

2020
$’000

Restated1 2
2019 
 $’000 

 3,350,419 

 3,337,069 

 (36,948)

 3,522 

 (35,108)

 365 

 (3,561,314)

 (3,391,286)

 (244,321)

 (88,960)

Comparative financial information has been restated for the following: 

1 
2 

The Group has adopted AASB 16. Refer to Note 8.6 for more detail.
The Group has adopted amendments to AASB 112. Refer to Note 8.6 for more detail.

7.3. 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.

7.3A. 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

Parent entity

2020
$’000

 523 

1,695

346

346

2019 
 $’000 

–

 105,840 

 2,702 

 2,702 

 3,405,666 

 3,393,546 

 8,352 

 3,795 

 8,352 

 3,797 

 (3,954,775)

 (3,840,868)

538,311

 1,349 

 538,311 

 103,138 

 (113,907)

 (113,907)

 (386,441)

 (386,441)

121

Notes to the Financial Statements for the year ended 27 June 2020Section 8: Financial Statements Seven West Media Limited Annual Report 20207.3B. Guarantees entered into by the parent entity
The Parent Entity has provided financial guarantees in respect of 
borrowings of a subsidiary amounting to $nil (2019: $nil).

There are cross guarantees given by Seven West Media Limited  
and its subsidiaries described in note 7.2.

7.3C. Contingent liabilities of the parent entity
The Parent Entity did not have any contingent liabilities as at  
27 June 2020 or 29 June 2019.

7.3D. 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 27 June 2020 or 29 June 2019.

7.4. 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.

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.

No business acquisitions were made during the year ended  
27 June 2020.

Acquisitions in 2019
7Beyond Media Rights Limited and Community Newspaper Group Limited.

The Group acquired an additional 1 per cent of the voting shares in 
7Beyond Media Rights Limited (7Beyond) on 26 March 2019. The 
company is non-listed company domiciled in Ireland. In addition the 
Group acquired the remaining 50.1 per cent of the voting shares in 
Community Newspaper Group Ltd (CNG) on 24 May 2019, a non-listed 
company in Australia. This resulted in control of these investments and 
have been consolidated since those dates. 

The Group has elected to measure non-controlling interest 7Beyond 
at the non-controlling interest’s proportionate share of the acquiree’s 
identified assets.

The Group has elected to measure non-controlling interest in 7Beyond  
at the proportionate share of the acquiree’s fair value. 

The goodwill of $8,694,000 comprises the value of expected synergies 
arising from the acquisitions and intellectual property, which is not 
separately recognised in 7Beyond. The goodwill was fully impaired 
in the year ended 29 June 2019. None of the goodwill recognised is 
expected to be deductible for income tax purposes.

Assets acquired and liabilities assumed
The fair value of the identifiable assets and liabilities as at the date of 
acquisition were:

Assets

Cash and cash equivalents

Trade and other receivables

Program rights and inventories

Other assets

Property, plant and equipment

Deferred tax assets

Total assets

Liabilities

Trade and other payables

Provisions

Deferred Income

Borrowings

Total liabilities

Total identifiable net liabilities at fair value

Non-controlling interest 

Fair value of previously held interest

Goodwill arising on acquisition

Fair value of consideration transferred

Fair value 
recognised on 
acquisition
$’000

 1,446 

 6,529 

 828 

 228 

 9 

 2,133 

 11,173 

 (3,254)

 (4,891)

 (3,258)

 (1,785)

 (13,188)

 (2,015)

 (2,521)

 (2,572)

 8,694 

 1,586 

There have been no changes in 2020 to the preliminary calculations.

122

Notes to the Financial Statements for the year ended 27 June 202008Section 8: Financial Statements Seven West Media Limited Annual Report 2020 
 
2020
$’000

 516 

 7,121 

2019 
 $’000 

 4,349 

 7,998 

 5,100 

 880 

 22,920 

 25,110 

 2,393 

 – 

 7,333 

 2,274 

 2,000 

 – 

2019 
 $’000 

 33 

 460 

 – 

 – 

7.5. Related Party Transactions

7.5A 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

Dividend revenue 

Equity accounted investees

Purchase of goods, advertising and other services

Equity accounted investees

Other related entities

Shareholder contribution

Equity accounted investees

Other related entities

7.5B 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

2020
$’000

 – 

 44 

 1,502 

 84 

(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.

7.5C Parent entity
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.

7.5D Subsidiaries 
Interests in subsidiaries are set out in note 7.2.

7.5E Key management personnel
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. 

The following transactions occurred with Key Management Personnel (KMP) related parties:

123

Notes to the Financial Statements for the year ended 27 June 2020Section 8: Financial Statements Seven West Media Limited Annual Report 2020 
 
 
7.5. Related Party Transactions (continued)

Revenues

Expenses

2020
$’000

 – 

 657 

2019 
 $’000 

 – 

394

There were no receivable or payable balances at 27 June 2020 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 48 to 70). 

Executive officers also participate in the Group’s Equity Incentive Plan for 2018, 2019 and 2020 (refer Note 6.5).

Key management personnel compensation

Short-term employee benefits

Post-employment benefits

Superannuation

Termination benefits

Share-based payments

Other long-term benefits

2020
$’000

2019 
 $’000 

6,103

 7,462 

230

2,926

(6)

96

9,349

 250 

 – 

 1,052 

 105 

 8,869 

Detailed remuneration disclosures in respect of Directors and each member of key management personnel are provided in the Remuneration Report 
on pages 48 to 70.

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.

124

Notes to the Financial Statements for the year ended 27 June 202008Section 8: Financial Statements Seven West Media Limited Annual Report 2020Section 8:  
Other 

8.1. Remuneration of Auditor

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

Audit or review of the financial statements

(i)  Assurance services

Regulatory assurance services 

Other assurance services 

Total remuneration for audit and other assurance services

(i)  Other services

Taxation advice and compliance services 

Transaction services

Total other services

Total remuneration of KPMG Australia

8.2. Contingent Liabilities 

2020
$

2019 
 $ 

 555,666 

 510,035 

 15,948 

 8,396 

 15,531 

 46,079 

 580,010 

 571,645 

 217,287 

 225,455 

 442,742 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 1,022,752 

 571,645 

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. 

8.3. Events Occurring After The Reporting Date  

On 30 July 2020 the Group announced it had amended its $750 million banking facilities with the existing lender group. 

A syndicated secured facility agreement has been entered into with maturities in July 2022 ($450 million) and December 2022 ($300 million). Under 
the terms of the new agreement the existing leverage and interest cover ratios are replaced by a minimum liquidity requirement and a minimum 
EBITDA test (from March 2021) until 31 December 2021 at which time leverage and interest cover covenants are reinstated. The amended interim 
covenants provide the Group with the flexibility required to complete the transformation program that was commenced during FY20.

The amended facilities are secured via a General Security Deed and come at an increased cost (margin of 4.5 per cent), plus up front fees.

Subsequent to year end the Group reclassified their equity accounted investment in TX Australia Pty Limited to assets held for sale. The Group holds 
50 per cent of the shares in TX Australia Pty Limited.

Further government actions in response to COVID-19 pandemic
Subsequent to year end, the impact of COVID-19 pandemic continues to evolve. The Victorian government implemented a Stage 4 lockdown across 
parts of Victoria, including Melbourne. The Queensland government also announced temporary reclosing of the Queensland border to NSW and ACT 
residents. 

The Group continues to monitor market conditions in light of government decisions, and is focused on continuing to deliver on their cost out strategy 
into FY21. Transformation remains a core pillar of the Group’s strategy.

The Group uses best estimate assumptions in the development of projections which include benchmarking against independently sourced 
information for key assumptions such as the metropolitan free-to-air advertising market. The key assumption, which remains uncertain and which 
may be material, is the timing and extent of the advertising market recovery from COVID-19. 

125

Notes to the Financial Statements for the year ended 27 June 2020Section 8: Financial Statements Seven West Media Limited Annual Report 20208.4. Discontinued Operations 

8.4.1 Discontinued Operations – Pacific Segment
On the 1 May 2020, the Group announced the completion of the sale of the Pacific Magazines assets to Bauer for a sale price of $40 million adjusted 
for working capital, leave provisions as well as $6.6 million in advertising in Bauer publications. Total cash proceeds received after adjustments to 
the sale price was $35.9 million. 

With Pacific Magazines being classified as a discontinued operation, the Pacific segment is no longer presented in the segment note.

The results of Pacific segment for the year are presented below: 

8.4.1A Results of the discontinued operation:

Revenue from contracts with customers 

Expenses 

Gain on sale of discontinued operation 

Operating income 

Finance Costs

Profit (loss) before tax 

Tax Expense

Profit (loss) for the year from discontinued operations 

2020
$’000

 93,462 

 (91,771)

 38,596 

 40,287 

 (2,140)

 38,147 

 (240)

 37,907 

2019
$’000

 129,432 

 (122,696)

 – 

 6,736 

 (2,111)

 4,625 

 (1,323)

 3,302 

8.4.1B Net gain on sale of discontinued operation: 
The Group recognised a gain on sale of $38.6 million, being proceeds from sale of $40 million adjusted for transaction costs associated with the  
sale of $2.5 million, net assets disposed $1.0 million offset by net advertising gain of $3 million and post completion working capital adjustments  
of $0.9 million.

8.4.1C Cash flows of the discontinued operation: 
The net cash flows incurred by Pacific Magazines are, as follows:

Operating cash flows 

Investing cash flows 

Financing cash flows 

Net cash (outflow) inflow

Net cash inflow on disposal 

Cash consideration (net of associated costs)

Net cash inflow associated with the discontinued operation 

2020
$’000

 51 

 160 

 (82)

 129 

 35,865 

 35,994 

2019
$’000

 2,640 

 (2,194)

 (66)

 380 

–

 380 

126

Notes to the Financial Statements for the year ended 27 June 202008Section 8: Financial Statements Seven West Media Limited Annual Report 20208.5. Summary of Other Significant Accounting Policies

Accounting Policy

Foreign currency translation

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.

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.

The Group has considered the impact of the accounting policy change 
on the results reported in the current and comparative reporting periods 
and applied to the Group. The Group has retrospectively adjusted the 
deferred tax accounting for acquired indefinite life assets, specifically 
Television and Radio Licences. As at 27 June 2020, the impact of this 
change in accounting policy was an increase deferred tax liabilities by 
$138.5 million (29 June 2019: $162.2 million). 

Several other amendments and interpretations apply for the Group for 
the first time for the period beginning 30 June 2019, but do not have an 
impact on the consolidated financial statements of the Group.

8.6.4 Accounting policies adopted during the period

AASB 16 Leases
On adoption of AASB 16, the Group recognised right of use assets 
and lease liabilities on the statement of financial position in relation to 
leases which had previously been classified as ‘operating leases’ under 
the principles of AASB 117 Leases. In the statement of profit or loss 
and other comprehensive income, the rental charge is now replaced by 
depreciation of the right of use asset and interest on the lease liability

The impact of the adoption of AASB 16 is disclosed in Note 8.6.4A to 
8.6.4F, and Note 8.6.5. Specifically, the tables in Note 8.6.4A and 
8.6.4F set out the line-by-line impact of AASB 16 on the comparative 
period statement of profit or loss and other comprehensive income for 
the year ended 27 June 2020, and the comparative period statement of 
financial position as at 29 June 2019 and 30 June 2018.

(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.

8.6. Changes in Accounting Policies  
and Disclosures

8.6.1 New and amended standards and interpretations 
issued but not yet effective
The Group has not early adopted any standards, interpretations or 
amendments that have been issued but are not yet effective.

8.6.2 Tentative agenda decisions that if issued will 
impact the Group in the current and prior period
There are no tentative agenda decisions issued at year end that  
are expected to have a material impact on the Group in the current  
and prior period.

8.6.3 New and amended standards and interpretations
The following accounting standards and interpretations have been issued 
and are effective for the Group for the period beginning 30 June 2019.

AASB 16 Leases
The impact of the adoption of AASB 16 on the Group’s consolidated 
financial statements are detailed in Note 8.6.4.

AASB 112 Income Taxes 
In April 2020, the IFRS interpretation committee published agenda decision 
Multiple Tax Consequences of Recovering an Asset (AASB 112 Income 
Taxes) which considers how an entity determines the tax base of an asset 
with two distinct tax consequences over its life (taxable economic benefits 
from use and capital gains on disposal or expiry). The Group identified 
that assets which would fall into the category above include Television 
Licences which at 27 June 2020 had a carrying value after impairment of 
$461.8 million (29 June 2019: $540.7 million). 

The decision proposes that in these circumstances an entity identifies 
independent temporary differences (and deferred taxes) that reflect 
these distinct tax consequences. 

127

Notes to the Financial Statements for the year ended 27 June 2020Section 8: Financial Statements Seven West Media Limited Annual Report 20208.6. Changes in Accounting Policies and Disclosures (continued)

8.6.4.A Impact on Consolidated Statement of Profit of Loss and Other Comprehensive Income

For the year ended 29 June 2019

Amend-
ments to 
AASB 112
Impact
$’000

Discontinued 
Operations 
Impact 
$’000

AASB 16
Impact
$’000

Restated
$’000

REF

Reported
$’000

Continuing Operations 

Revenue

Other income

Revenue and other income from continuing operations 

 1,552,810 

 3,624 

 1,556,434 

–

–

 – 

Expenses

[A]

 (1,345,496)

 9,318 

Impairment of intangible assets

Impairment of investments and other assets

Net loss on sale of asset held for sale

Redundancy and restructure costs 

Onerous contracts

Share of net profit of equity accounted investees

Profit (loss) before net finance costs and tax  

from continuing operations 

Finance costs

Write off of unamortised refinancing cost

Finance income

 (477,972)

 (64,507)

 (16,750)

 (22,237)

 (20,963)

 1,141 

–

–

–

–

–

–

 (390,350)

 9,318 

 (36,111)

 (15,560)

 (8,587)

 1,419 

–

–

Profit (loss) before tax from continuing operations 

 (433,629)

 (6,242)

–

–

 – 

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

 – 

–

–

–

 – 

 (129,422)

 1,423,388 

 (9)

 3,615 

 (129,431)

 1,427,003 

 120,846 

 (1,215,332)

–

–

–

 (477,972)

 (64,507)

 (16,750)

 1,849 

 (20,388)

–

–

 (20,963)

 1,141 

 (6,736)

 (387,768)

 2,111 

 (49,560)

–

–

 (8,587)

 1,419 

 (4,625)

 (444,496)

Tax benefit (expense)

 (10,819)

 1,896 

 124,500 

 1,323 

 116,900 

Profit (loss) for the year from continuing operations 

 (444,448)

 (4,346)

 124,500 

 (3,302)

 (327,596)

Discontinued operations 

Profit (loss) after tax for the year from discontinued operations 

–

–

–

 3,302 

 3,302 

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 (expense) for the year, net of tax

 (444,448)

 (4,346)

 124,500 

 – 

 (324,294)

 (3,536)

 158 

 1,061 

 (2,317)

–

–

–

 – 

–

–

–

 – 

–

–

–

–

 (3,536)

 158 

 1,061 

 (2,317)

Total comprehensive income (expense) for the year

 (446,765)

 (4,346)

 124,500 

 – 

 (326,611)

Total comprehensive income (expense) attributable to:

Owners of the Company

Non-controlling interests

 (446,798)

 (4,346)

 124,500 

 33 

–

–

Total comprehensive income (expense) for the year

 (446,765)

 (4,346)

 124,500 

Earnings per share for profit (loss) attributable to the ordinary equity holders of the Company

Basic earnings per share

Diluted earnings per share

 (29.5 cents) 

 (29.5 cents) 

–

–

–

 (326,644)

 33 

 (326,611)

 (21.5 cents) 

 (21.5 cents) 

[A]  AASB 16 impact on expenses includes decrease in rental expense relating to operating leases of $19,878,000 and increase in depreciation and 

amortisation of $10,560,000. 

128

Notes to the Financial Statements for the year ended 27 June 202008Section 8: Financial Statements Seven West Media Limited Annual Report 20208.6. Changes in Accounting Policies and Disclosures (continued)

8.6.4B Impact on Consolidated Statement of Financial Position

As at 29 June 2019

As at 30 June 2018

Reported
$’000

AASB 16
Impact
$’000

Amend–
ments to 
AASB 112
Impact
$’000

ASSETS

Current assets

Cash and cash equivalents

Trade and other receivables

Current tax receivable

 90,455 

 262,798 

 – 

Program rights and inventories

 196,835 

Asset held for sale

Other assets

Total current assets

Non–current assets

Program rights

Equity accounted investees

Other financial assets

 – 

 12,454 

 562,542 

 15,857 

 12,850 

 60,552 

Property, plant and equipment

 126,554 

 565,478 

Intangible assets

Right of use assets

Deferred tax assets

Other assets

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

Restated
$’000

Reported
$’000

 90,455 

 142,163 

 262,798 

 276,986 

 – 

 9,119 

 196,835 

 205,068 

 – 

 35,500 

 12,454 

 7,070 

 562,542 

 675,906 

 15,857 

 12,850 

 60,552 

 2,169 

 3,445 

 28,384 

 126,554 

 141,572 

 565,478 

 1,033,962 

Amend–
ments to 
AASB 112
Impact
$’000

AASB 16
Impact
$’000

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 124,187 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

Restated
$’000

 142,163 

 276,986 

 9,119 

 205,068 

 35,500 

 7,070 

 675,906 

 2,169 

 3,445 

 28,384 

 141,572 

 1,033,962 

 124,187 

 10,035 

 (10,035)

–

 – 

 117,051 

 117,051 

 1,759 

 11,908 

 (13,667)

 – 

 – 

 – 

 7,178 

 – 

 – 

 7,178 

 6,968 

 – 

 – 

 6,968 

Total non–current assets

 790,228 

 128,959 

 (13,667)

 905,520 

 1,216,500 

 134,222 

 (10,035)

 1,340,687 

Total assets

LIABILITIES

Current liabilities

 1,352,770 

 128,959 

 (13,667)

 1,468,062 

 1,892,406 

 134,222 

 (10,035)

 2,016,593 

Trade and other payables

 289,749 

 (18,170)

Lease liabilities

Provisions

Deferred income

Current tax liabilities

 – 

 7,744 

 105,425 

 28,560 

 1,575 

 – 

 – 

 – 

Total current liabilities

 425,309 

 (10,426)

Non–current liabilities

Trade and other payables

 10,011 

 – 

Lease liabilities

Provisions

Contract liabilities

Deferred tax liabilities

Borrowings

 – 

 167,414 

 147,681 

 12,792 

 – 

 653,839 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 271,579 

 280,247 

 (18,323)

 7,744 

 – 

 6,635 

 105,425 

 104,477 

 28,560 

 26,858 

 1,575 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 414,883 

 411,582 

 (11,688)

 10,011 

 29,785 

 – 

 167,414 

 – 

 169,593 

 147,681 

 137,186 

 12,792 

 – 

148,531

148,531

10,959

 – 

 653,839 

 769,851 

 – 

 – 

– 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 261,924 

 6,635 

 104,477 

 26,858 

 – 

 399,894 

 29,785 

 169,593 

 137,186 

 – 

276,663 

287,622

 – 

 769,851 

Total non–current liabilities

824,323 

 167,414 

148,531

1,140,268

 947,781 

 169,593 

276,663 

 1,394,037 

Total liabilities

Net assets

 1,249,632 

 156,988 

148,531

 1,555,151 

 1,359,363 

 157,905 

276,663 

 1,793,931 

 103,138 

 (28,029)

(162,198)

(87,089)

 533,043 

 (23,683)

 (286,698)

 222,662 

129

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

Notes to the Financial Statements for the year ended 27 June 2020Section 8: Financial Statements Seven West Media Limited Annual Report 20208.6. Changes in Accounting Policies and Disclosures (continued)

As at 29 June 2019

As at 30 June 2018

Reported
$’000

AASB 16
Impact
$’000

Amend–
ments to 
AASB 112
Impact
$’000

Restated
$’000

Reported
$’000

Amend–
ments to 
AASB 112
Impact
$’000

AASB 16
Impact
$’000

Restated
$’000

EQUITY

Share capital

Reserves

Non–controlling interests

 3,393,546 

 14,640 

 398 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 3,393,546 

 3,393,546 

 14,640 

 545 

 398 

 (1,071)

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 3,393,546 

 545 

 (1,071)

Accumulated deficit

(3,305,446)

 (28,029)

(162,198)

 (3,495,673)

(2,859,977)

(23,683)

 (286,698)

(3,170,358)

Total equity

 103,138 

 (28,029)

(162,198)

 (87,089) 

 533,043 

 (23,683)

 (286,698)

 222,662 

8.6.4C Impact on Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows

AASB 16 has no impact on the total cash flow for the period ended 29 June 2019 or cash and cash equivalents at the end of the same period. Cash 
flows related to operating activities increased as operating lease rental expenses are no longer recognised as operating cash outflows. Cash 
outflows are instead split between interest paid on lease liabilities in operating cash flows and principal repayments on lease liabilities in financing 
cash flows as shown in the below extract. Line items that were not affected by the change in accounting policy have not been included below.

Cash flows related to operating activities

Payments to suppliers and employees

Interest paid on lease liability

Net operating cash flows

Cash flows related to financing activities

Payment of lease liabilities

Net financing cash flows

Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents

8.6.4D Impact on segment disclosures

The following operating segments were affected by the change in accounting policy: 

For the year ended 29 June 2019

 Reported 
 $’000 

 AASB 16 
 Impact 
 $’000 

 Restated 
 $’000

 (1,585,206)

20,296

(1,564,910)

 – 

 110,106 

(14,496)

5,800

(14,496)

115,906

 – 

 (126,427)

 (51,708) 

 (5,800) 

 (5,800)

 (5,800) 

(132,227)

 – 

 (51,708) 

For the year ended 29 June 2019 
AASB 16 Impact*

Reported 
Total
 $’000 

 Television 
 $’000 

 The West 
 $’000 

Expenses

 (1,299,578) 

17,372

Profit (loss) before significant items, net finance 
costs, tax, depreciation and amortisation

Depreciation and amortisation

Profit (loss) before significant items,  

net finance costs and tax

257,997

(31,467)

17,372

(9,514)

226,530

7,858

88

88

(80)

8

 Other 
Business 
and New 
Ventures 
 $’000

Pacific 
Discontinued 
Operation1
 $’000

Restated 
Total1
 $’000

120

120

(77)

43

2,290

(1,279,708)

2,290

277,867

(882)

(42,020)

1,408

235,847

*  Corporate is not an operating segment and was not affected by the change in accounting policy.
1 

The above table has not been restated for Discontinued Operations relating the the Pacific Segment. Refer to Note 8.4.

130

Notes to the Financial Statements for the year ended 27 June 202008Section 8: Financial Statements Seven West Media Limited Annual Report 20208.6. Changes in Accounting Policies and Disclosures (continued)
8.6.4E Reconciliation of operating lease commitments to lease liabilities on 29 June 2019

Operating lease commitments disclosed as at 29 June 2019

Discounted using the lessee's incremental borrowing rate at the date of initial application

(Less): short-term and low value leases recognised on a straight line basis as expense

Add/(less): adjustments as a result of a different treatment of extension options

Lease liability recognised as at 29 June 2019

Of which are:

Current lease liabilities

Non-current lease liabilities

8.6.4F Amounts recognised in profit or loss

Included in continuing operations:

Interest on lease liabilities

Expenses relating to short-term leases

Expenses relating to leases of low-value assets, excluding short-term leases of low-value assets

Included in discontinued operations:

Interest on lease liabilities

Expenses relating to short-term leases

Expenses relating to leases of low-value assets, excluding short-term leases of low-value assets

8.6.5 The Group’s leasing activities and how these are accounted for

 $’000

 155,912 

 93,139 

 (2,053)

 84,072 

 175,158 

 7,744 

 167,414 

 175,158 

2020
 $’000 

2019
 $’000 

9,521

134

272

5,210

181

364

9,338

538

1,086

5,158

222

447

As a lessee 
The Group leases various offices, equipment, transmission towers and satellites. Rental contracts are typically made for fixed periods of 1 to 10 years, 
but may have extension options as described in (iii) below. Lease terms are negotiated on an individual basis and contain a wide range of different terms 
and conditions. The lease agreements do not impose any covenants, but leased assets may not be used as security for borrowing purposes. 

At inception of a contract, the Group assesses whether a contract is, or contains, a lease. A contract is, or contains, a lease if the contract conveys 
the right to control the use of identified asset for a period of time in exchange for consideration. 

The Group recognises a right of use asset and a lease liability at the lease commencement date.

(i) Right of use asset   
The right of use asset is initially measured at cost, which comprises the initial amount of the lease liability adjusted for any lease payments made at 
or before the commencement date, plus any initial direct costs incurred and an estimate of costs to dismantle and remove the underlying asset or to 
restore the underlying asset or the site on which it is located, less any lease incentives received. 

The right of use asset is subsequently depreciated using a straight-line method from the commencement date to the earlier of the end of the useful 
life of the right of use asset or the end of the lease term. The right of use asset is tested for impairment if there are any indicators of impairment. 

(ii) Lease liability 
The lease liability is measured at the present value of the lease payments, discounted using the interest rate implicit in the lease, or if that rate 
cannot be readily determined, the Group’s incremental borrowing rate. 

131

Notes to the Financial Statements for the year ended 27 June 2020Section 8: Financial Statements Seven West Media Limited Annual Report 2020 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
8.6. Changes in Accounting Policies and Disclosures (continued)
Lease payments included in the measurement of the lease liability comprise: 
 > fixed payments, including in-substance fixed payments; 
 > variable lease payments dependent on an index or rate, initially 

(v) Practical expedients applied
In applying AASB 16 for the first time, the Group has used the following 
expedients permitted by the standard:

 > reliance on previous assessments on whether leases are onerous
 > the accounting for operating leases with a remaining lease term of 

less than 12 months as at 30 June 2019 as short-term leases

 > the exclusion of initial direct costs for the measurement of the right of 

use asset at the date of initial application, and

 > the use of hindsight in determining the lease term where the contract 

contains options to extend or terminate the lease.

The Group has also elected not to reassess whether a contract is, or 
contains a lease at the date of initial application. Instead, for contracts 
entered into before the transition date the Group relied on its assessment 
made applying AASB 117 and Interpretation 4 Determining whether an 
Arrangement contains a Lease. 

measured using the index or rate at commencement;  

 > amounts expected to be payable under a residual value guarantee;
 > the exercise price under a purchase option if the Group is 

reasonably certain to exercise;

 > penalties for early termination if the lease term reflects the Group 

exercising a break option; and  

 > lease payments in an optional renewal period if the Group is 

reasonably certain to exercise an extension option or not exercise a 
break option. 

The lease liability is subsequently measured at amortised cost using the 
effective interest rate method. It is remeasured, with a corresponding 
adjustment to the right of use asset, when there is a change in future 
lease payments resulting from a rent review, change in an index or rate 
such as inflation, or change in the Group’s assessment of whether it is 
reasonably certain to exercise a purchase or extension option or not 
exercise a break option. 

(iii) Extension options
Extension options are included in a number of office and equipment 
leases across the Group. These terms are used to maximise operational 
flexibility in terms of managing contracts. The majority of extension 
options held are exercisable only by the Group and not by the respective 
lessor. In determining the lease term, management considers all facts 
and circumstances that create an economic incentive to exercise an 
extension option. Extension options are only included in the lease term 
if the lease is reasonably certain to be extended. The Group reassesses 
whether it is reasonably certain to exercise the options if there is a 
significant event or significant changes in circumstances within its 
control.

(iv) Short-term leases and leases of low-value assets 
The Group has elected not to recognise right of use assets and lease 
liabilities for leases where the total lease term is less than or equal to 12 
months, or for leases considered to be low value. The payments for these 
leases are recognised in the statement of profit or loss on a straight-line 
basis over the lease term.

132

Notes to the Financial Statements for the year ended 27 June 202008Section 8: Financial Statements Seven West Media Limited Annual Report 2020Directors’ Declaration

For the year ended 27 June 2020

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 72 to 132 and the Remuneration Report on pages 

48 to 70 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 27 June 2020 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.

3.  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 7.2 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 7.2, between the Company and those group entities pursuant to the 
ASIC Corporations (Wholly-owned Companies) Instrument 2016/785. 

4.  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 27 June 2020.

5.  The Directors draw attention to page 78 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

25 August 2020

133

Section 8: Financial Statements Seven West Media Limited Annual Report 2020Independent Auditor’s Report

To the shareholders of Seven West Media Limited

Report on the audit of the Financial Report

Basis for opinion

Opinion

We have audited the Financial Report of Seven West Media 
Limited (the Company).

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.

In our opinion, the accompanying Financial Report of the 
Company is in accordance with the Corporations Act 2001, 
including:

Our responsibilities under those standards are further described 
in the Auditor’s responsibilities for the audit of the Financial 
Report section of our report.

 > giving a true and fair view of the Group’s financial position 
as at 27 June 2020 and of its financial performance for the 
year ended on that date; and

 > complying with Australian Accounting Standards and the 

Corporations Regulations 2001.

The Financial Report comprises: 

 > Consolidated statement of financial position as at  

27 June 2020

We are independent of the Group in accordance with the 
Corporations Act 2001 and the ethical requirements of the 
Accounting Professional and Ethical Standards Board’s APES 
110 Code of Ethics for Professional Accountants (including 
Independence Standards) (the Code) that are relevant to our 
audit of the Financial Report in Australia. We have fulfilled our 
other ethical responsibilities in accordance with the Code.

Key Audit Matters

 > 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

The Key Audit Matters we identified are:

 > Valuation of Television Licences

 > Provision for onerous contracts

 > Notes including a summary of significant accounting policies 

 > Net liability position and basis of preparation

 > Directors’ Declaration.

The Group consists of Seven West Media Limited (the Company) 
and the entities it controlled at the year end or from time to time 
during the financial year.

Key Audit Matters are those matters that, in our professional 
judgement, were of most significance in our audit of the 
Financial Report of the current period.

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

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.

134

08Section 8: Financial Statements Seven West Media Limited Annual Report 2020Independent Auditor’s Report

Valuation of Television Licences

Refer to Note 4.1 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:

 > The size of the asset, being the largest asset of the Group; 

 > The level of judgement required by us in evaluating the 

estimates determined by the Group for forecast television 
advertising revenues and associated costs; and

 > The $61.6m current year period impairment charge.

During the financial year the COVID-19 pandemic has had a 
significant impact on the Australian advertising market resulting 
in significant declines in Free To Air (FTA) television advertising 
revenue. Furthermore, the longer term level of growth in 
advertising revenue for commercial television networks 
continues to be challenged by changes in consumer viewing 
habits and use of alternative viewing platforms. 

The above factors create uncertainty in the key estimates used 
in the Television Licence value in use model, specifically:

 > FTA television advertising market growth rates – short, 

medium and long-term (terminal growth factor);

 > The Group’s share of the Metro FTA advertising market; and

 > The discount rate.

Our procedures included:

 > Evaluating the short-, medium- and long-term forecasts 
for FTA television advertising market growth rates and 
the Group’s share of the metro FTA advertising market, 
particularly considering the expected market conditions and 
factors present due to COVID-19. We assessed forecast 
FTA COVID-19 recovery assumptions, including the timing 
and extent of expected recovery, against actual results in 
recent months and subsequent to year end and broader 
views on expected Australian GDP recovery. We compared 
the longer term assumptions against historical actuals 
and industry reports. This procedure was performed with 
assistance from our valuation specialist.

 > 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. 

 > Recalculating the impairment charge and comparing it 

against the recorded amount disclosed. 

 > 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.

135

Section 8: Financial Statements Seven West Media Limited Annual Report 2020Independent Auditor’s Report

Provision for Onerous Contracts

Refer to Note 4.4 Provisions to the Financial Report

The key audit matter

How the matter was addressed in our audit

Our procedures included the following for significant purchase 
contracts for television programs and sporting broadcast rights:

 > Assessing the Group’s determination of economic benefits 
expected to be received under each contract, particularly 
considering the expected market conditions and factors 
present due to COVID-19. We compared the forecast 
benefits to the historical results on similar television 
programs and ensured the impact of COVID-19 on the FTA 
advertising revenue outlook were consistent with the factors 
set out in the Valuation of Television Licences key audit 
matter.

 > Comparing the costs of fulfilling the contract against the 

contract, historical costs on similar television programs and 
sporting broadcast rights and published expectations for 
cost growth.

 > Challenging the estimated term and timing of the obligation 
based on the current and expected performance of the 
metrics that influence contractual tenure.

The Group routinely enters non-cancellable purchase contracts 
for television programs and sporting broadcast rights. Where 
there are changes in market conditions, the accounting 
standards require the Group to estimate the unavoidable 
minimum net obligation under these contracts to determine 
those contracts (if any) that are onerous and recognise an 
associated provision. 

Provision for onerous contracts is a Key Audit Matter due to:

 > The level of judgement required by us in evaluating the 

estimates determined by the Group for forecast economic 
benefits from each contract including future television 
advertising revenues; and

 > The $136.9m increase in the provision in the current year. 

The judgements required by us in evaluating the Group’s 
estimation of the unavoidable minimum net obligations for 
onerous contracts include assessing:

 > The economic benefits expected to be received under the 

contract including future FTA revenues (impacted by the 
factors set out in the Valuation of Television Licences key 
audit matter); 

 > The incremental costs of fulfilling the contract; and

 > The term and timing of the obligation where the contract 
period is contingent on factors outside of the Group’s 
control.

These estimation uncertainties increase the risk of inaccurate 
forecasting which gives rise to greater audit complexity.

136

08Section 8: Financial Statements Seven West Media Limited Annual Report 2020Independent Auditor’s Report

Net liability position and basis of preparation

Refer to Note 1 to the Financial Report

The key audit matter

How the matter was addressed in our audit

The Group’s use of the going concern basis of accounting is a 
key audit matter due to the high level of judgement required 
by us in evaluating the Group’s assessment of going concern 
and the events or conditions that may cast significant doubt on 
their ability to continue as a going concern. These events and 
conditions are outlined in Note 1.

The Directors have determined that the use of the going 
concern basis of accounting is appropriate in preparing 
the financial report. Their assessment of going concern 
was focused on projected compliance with the terms of the 
debt facility agreement amended subsequent to year end. 
Specifically, compliance with the minimum liquidity requirement 
and minimum EBTIDA tests (the ‘covenants’). 

The preparation of covenant projections incorporated a 
number of assumptions and significant judgements, and the 
Directors have concluded that the range of possible outcomes 
considered in arriving at this judgement does not give rise to a 
material uncertainty casting significant doubt on the Group’s 
ability to continue as a going concern. The assessment focuses 
on the following judgements:

 > The Group’s ability to meet the covenants for at least the 

period until August 2021, being 12 months from the approval 
of the 2020 financial statements. This includes the nature of 
planned method to meets these covenants, particularly in 
light of uncertain market conditions due to COVID-19 and 
progress of those plans;

 > The Group’s assumptions around the forecast recovery of 
the FTA market and the Group’s transformation plans; and

 > The Group’s plans to divest its 50 per cent investment 
in the TX Australia transmission services business and 
other assets to provide additional liquidity. This included 
the feasibility, projected timing, quantum of potential 
proceeds, and progress of the proposed sales, particularly 
in considering the current expected market conditions due 
to COVID-19.

In assessing this key audit matter, we involved our senior audit 
team members who understand the Group’s business, industry 
and the economic environment it operates in.

Our procedures included:

 > Reading the amended debt agreement to understand the 

principal, maturity, interest rate and covenant compliance 
terms. 

 > Assessing the Group’s covenant projections until August 

2021 compared to the covenant requirements, particularly 
considering the expected market conditions and factors 
present due to COVID-19, by:

 > Evaluating the underlying data used to generate the 

projections. We looked for their consistency with those as 
set out in the Valuation of Television Licences key audit 
matter, their consistency with the Group’s intentions, 
and their comparability to past practices. This included 
an assessment of actual results in recent months and 
subsequent to year end;

 > Assessing the forecast changes to operational expenditure 

in light of forecast trading conditions, transformation 
initiatives and the historical transformation projects 
completed by the Group; and

 > Assessing the impact of reasonably possible changes in 
assumptions underpinning the projections. The specific 
areas we focused on were the sensitivity of the projections 
to changes in the FTA market growth and recovery period 
and the timing and amount of proceeds from the sale of TX 
Australia.

 > We assessed the Group’s plan to divest TX Australia and 
other assets and the associated impact on covenant 
compliance.  We used our knowledge of the client, its 
industry, the current status of the transactions, and the 
Group’s track record of non-core asset sales to assess the 
level of associated uncertainty.

 > We evaluated the Group’s disclosures in Note 1 in the 

financial report by comparing them to our understanding 
of the COVID-19 implications for the Group, the events or 
conditions incorporated into the covenant  projections, the 
Group’s plans to address those events or conditions, and 
accounting standard requirements.

137

Section 8: Financial Statements Seven West Media Limited Annual Report 2020Independent Auditor’s Report

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.

Our opinion on the Financial Report does not cover the  
Other Information and, accordingly, we do not express an  
audit opinion or any form of assurance conclusion thereon,  
with the exception of the Remuneration Report and our  
related assurance opinion.

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.

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.

Responsibilities of the Directors  
for the Financial Report

The Directors are responsible for:

 > preparing the Financial Report that gives a true and fair view 
in accordance with Australian Accounting Standards and 
the Corporations Act 2001

 > 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

 > assessing the Group and Company’s ability to continue as 
a going concern and whether the use of the going concern 
basis of accounting is appropriate. 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 and Company or to cease 
operations, or have no realistic alternative but to do so.

138

08Section 8: Financial Statements Seven West Media Limited Annual Report 2020Auditor’s responsibilities for the audit  
of the Financial Report

Our objective is: 

 > to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the Financial 

Report as a whole is free from material misstatement, 
whether due to fraud or error; and 

Report on the Remuneration Report

Opinion

In our opinion, the Remuneration Report of Seven West Media 
Limited for the year ended 27 June 2020, complies with Section 
300A of the Corporations Act 2001.

 > to issue an Auditor’s Report that includes our opinion. 

Directors’ responsibilities

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 the Financial Report.

A further description of our responsibilities for the audit of the 
Financial Report is located at the Auditing and Assurance 
Standards Board website at: http://www.auasb.gov.au/admin/
file/content102/c3/ar1_2020.pdf. This description forms part of 
our Auditor’s Report.

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 50 
to 70 of the Directors’ report for the year ended 27 June 2020. 

Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Remuneration 
Report, based on our audit conducted in accordance with 
Australian Auditing Standards.

KPMG 

Sydney
25 August 2020

Duncan McLennan
Partner

139

Section 8: Financial Statements Seven West Media Limited Annual Report 2020 
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 7446 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.

140

08Section 8: Financial Statements Seven West Media Limited Annual Report 2020Shareholder  
Information

The shareholder information set out below was applicable at 9 August 2020.

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 10,191 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

3RD Wave Investors Pty Limited 

CS Third Nominees Pty Limited

Hishenk Pty Limited

BNP Paribas Noms Pty Limited

National Nominees Limited 

FCCF Holdings Pty Limited

Network Investment Holdings Pty Limited

Mr Leslie Walter Ramsay & Mrs Maureen Elizabeth Ramsay

BNP Paribas Nominees Pty Limited

Sojourn Services Pty Limited 

Ruz Pty Limited 

Mr Hassib Younan

Jamplat Pty Limited

Netyard Pty Limited

Mr John Rumble & Mrs Sonja Rumble

Mr Gavin Martin Hancock & Mrs Judith Ann Hancock

Number of 
Shareholders

3,972

6,595

2,778

4,744

1,032

19,121

Percentage  
of Issued  
Shares

39.76

8.09

3.06

2.91

2.08

0.82

0.71

0.56

0.54

0.52

0.46

0.41

0.34

0.32

0.32

0.31

0.30

0.29

0.28

0.27

Number of 
Ordinary  
Shares Held

611,600,387

124,566,549

47,098,707

44,812,992

32,000,000

12,721,564

11,000,000

8,680,254

8,312,693

8,042,498

7,111,267

6,340,000

5,368,671

5,002,079

5,000,000

4,800,000

4,700,000

4,500,000

4,393,000

4,275,000

960,325,661

62.43

141

Section 8: Financial Statements Seven West Media Limited Annual Report 2020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

Spheria Asset Management Pty Limited

* Based on issued capital at date of notification.

Number of 
Ordinary Shares 
in Substantial 
Holding

Substantial 
Holding *

40.94%

40.88%

40.88%

7.62%

619,753,734

618,711,654

618,711,654

117,166,970

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.

142

08Section 8: Financial Statements Seven West Media Limited Annual Report 2020Registered Office 

Stock Exchange Listing

Company  
Information

Directors

K Stokes AC – Chairman

J Warburton – Managing Director and  
Chief Executive Officer

J Alexander

T Dyson

D Evans

C Garnsey OAM

M Malone

R Stokes AO

M Ziegelaar

Newspaper House  

50 Hasler Road

Osborne Park WA 6017 

Share Registry 

Boardroom Pty Limited 

Level 12
Grosvenor Place
225 George Street
Sydney NSW 2000 

Company Secretary 

W Coatsworth

Auditor

KPMG

Tower Three
International Towers Sydney
300 Barangaroo Avenue
Sydney NSW 2000

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

Ashurst Australia

5 Martin Place
Sydney NSW 2000

Seven West Media cares about the environment.  
This Annual Report is printed on environmentally responsible paper.

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Seven West Media 
ABN: 91 053 480 845

Newspaper House
50 Hasler Road
Osborne Park 
Perth WA 6017

T +61 8 9482 3111
F +61 8 9482 9080

sevenwestmedia.com.au