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Seven Group Holdings Limited

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FY2016 Annual Report · Seven Group Holdings Limited
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AGILITY 
MEETING 
CHANGE
ANNUAL 
REPORT 
2016

Seven Group Holdings

SEVEN GROUP HOLDINGS LIMITED 
ANNUAL REPORT 2016
ABN 46 142 003 469

This year we have benefitted from 
the ongoing demand for parts 
and services created by the high 
level of mining production. 
This demonstrates the strength 
of the CAT dealer model

ANNUAL REPORT 2016

1

The momentum of change continues across 
our businesses to ensure we remain a valued 
partner to our customers through productivity 
improvements, investment in technology and 
increased agility and responsiveness

Group structure 

Chairman’s letter 

MD & CEO’s letter 

Five-year results 

Operating and financial review 

Industrial services 

Media investments 

Energy 

Other investments 

02

04

06

08

09

16

24

28

30

Risk factors associated with SGH 

Corporate social responsibility 

Board of Directors 

Corporate governance statement 

Directors’ Report 

Remuneration Report 

Financial report 

Corporate directory 

Company information 

32

36

40

42 

52

55

74

141

141

Roy Hill trucks go pink for 
Breast Cancer Awareness

2

Seven Group Holdings

GROUP 
STRUCTURE

We continue to maintain 
an efficient capital 
structure, giving us the 
flexibility to fund our 
existing businesses and 
invest in new opportunities 
that may arise out of these 
difficult economic times.

INDUSTRIAL SERVICES
PAGE 16

Our success is built on a refined 
operating model which has seen 
an enhanced focus on remaining 
market competitive in terms of 
price whilst delivering innovative 
customer solutions.

100% (AUSTRALIA)

100% (CHINA)

46.5%

100%

ANNUAL REPORT 2016

3

MEDIA INVESTMENTS
PAGE 24

ENERGY
PAGE 28

OTHER INVESTMENTS
PAGE 30

Seven West Media continues 
its focus on content creation 
and audience delivery across 
multiple platforms. Seven is in its 
10th consecutive year of ratings 
leadership and engages with more 
Australians on a daily basis than 
any other medium. There is still 
no better place to build a brand 
than on TV.

The Group has exercised 
patience and discipline in terms 
of further energy investments, 
with the key thematic of a shortfall 
in East Coast gas expected to 
provide opportunities to extract 
value from the company’s 
petroleum reserves.

Earnings from Other investments 
grew by 9 per cent over the year 
mainly due to profit from the 
development and sale of 25 lots 
at Seven Hills, in addition to which 
the Group recorded a $37 million 
pre-tax profit from the realisation 
of other property assets.

41.0%

!

20%

AUSTRALIAN ASSETS
›  Longtom field (100% ownership),  
Gippsland Basin VIC
›  Crux field (15% ownership),  
Browse Basin WA
›  Echuca Shoals exploration permit  
(100% ownership), Browse Basin WA

OVERSEAS ASSETS
›  11.2% ownership in Bivins Ranch,  
Texas USA

BEACH ENERGY 22.9%

LISTED PORTFOLIO
Carrying value at June 2016 – $621.6m

PROPERTY PORTFOLIO
› Direct property investments 

– Carrying value at June 2016 – $29.8m
–   Kings Square development, Perth WA 
–  Seven Hills (formerly Dianella studios, 

Perth WA)

› Indirect property investments

– Carrying value at June 2016 – $29.5m 
–  Invested in unlisted property trusts  

(Revy Investments – 25%  
and Flagship – 47%)

4

CHAIRMAN’S 
LETTER 
Over the past three years Seven Group Holdings has 
operated in challenging environments, however, the leading 
market positions of its businesses coupled with the capable 
management teams supported by an engaged workforce 
have ensured that Seven Group Holdings has preserved 
its underlying profitability. 

Seven Group Holdings5

Return on  
buy-back

24 %

Refinanced

$1.2 bn

Over the past three years 
Seven Group Holdings has operated 
in challenging environments, 
however, the leading market 
positions of its businesses coupled 
with the capable management 
teams supported by an engaged 
workforce have ensured that 
Seven Group Holdings has 
preserved its underlying profitability.

Our strong balance sheet, strategic 
investments and access to capital 
markets provide us with the tools 
to overcome the new challenges 
as well as the ability to take full 
advantage of opportunities to 
further build your Company and 
create shareholder value. The 
seamless transition of CEOs has 
also demonstrated the agility of 
the business to assimilate and 
effectively manage change.

I have operated businesses through 
various economic cycles, the 
inflation-led credit squeeze of the 
1950s and 1960s, the oil crisis of 
the 1970s, the global recession 
following the stock market crash 
of 1987, the Asian financial crisis 
and the recession we had to have 
in the 1990s, the GFC in 2008. 
And yet, in my experience, the 
last 12 months reflect a relative 
low in business confidence over 
these past six decades. Despite 
this economic malaise, both 
domestically and internationally, 
Seven Group Holdings has adjusted 
its operating model to compete 
vigorously and successfully 
in the markets within which it 
participates. We have leveraged our 
talented management teams and 
passionate workforce to navigate 
these challenges. 

This success is built on a refined 
operating model which has seen 
an enhanced focus on remaining 
market competitive in terms of 
value proposition whilst delivering 
innovative customer solutions. 
Australia is producing and 
exporting record volumes of iron 
ore in Western Australia and coal 
in New South Wales. SGH is well 
positioned to service and support 
our customers in this strong 
production cycle. 

One of the great examples of this 
has been the success of the CAT 
autonomous haulage solution 
(AHS) which is allowing our 
customers to achieve world leading 
productivity performance.

It is particularly satisfying that we 
have been able to outperform 

2016 financial year earnings 
guidance and maintained a 
stable fully-franked dividend. We 
expect current competitive trading 
conditions to persist. However, 
the refined cost structure and 
recurrent revenue will support 
current profitability until the 
resource industry transitions into 
the next capital replacement 
cycle. Given the current average 
age of the installed fleet operating 
in our territories, reinvestment is 
anticipated over the next few years. 

Pleasingly, customers are now 
working collaboratively with 
WesTrac to optimise their cost 
structure, focusing on productivity 
and working capital improvements 
rather than merely looking to 
achieve cost reductions. This is an 
important and ongoing initiative 
and whilst the Board acknowledges 
the results to date, there is much 
more we plan to do in order to 
fully capitalise on the current 
production cycle. 

Seven West Media continues 
to lead and dominate through 
a challenging environment. We 
have been very pleased with the 
strong ratings performance, a 
growth in total audience through 
the year and our cost activities 
which have attempted to address 
the challenging revenue result. 
They are focused on what they 
can do to change the revenue 
dynamic and continue to advance 
their content opportunities such as 
My Kitchen Rules launching in the 
USA later this year and now aired 
in more than 20 countries. 

We continue to maintain an 
efficient capital structure, giving us 
the flexibility to fund our existing 
businesses and invest in new 
opportunities that may arise out 
of these difficult economic times. 
This capital structure has been 
further buttressed by the extension 
of the $1.2 billion of Group debt 
facilities during the year, providing 
the Group an average debt duration 
of 5.3 years.

For the benefit of all shareholders, 
the Board has aimed to maintain 
your dividend through the cycle 
whilst opportunistically making 
efficient use of available capital via 
the share buy-back to enhance 
shareholder returns. Over the year, 
the effect of the buy-back has been 
to generate a 24% post tax return 
for shareholders. To this end, the 
Board has elected to extend the 
ordinary share buy-back to the 

TELYS4 shares allowing the value to 
be captured should its price again 
fall below intrinsic value.

Equally important is our 
commitment to further improve 
safety performance across all our 
businesses. This is important for 
our people and our customers and 
will ultimately be a differentiator. 
The Board firmly believes that 
the planning and safe execution 
of all jobs is the key to efficiency. 
More importantly, this protects 
our workforce, giving them a 
confidence that enhances their 
individual skill sets. 

The Board continues to review 
its composition and we intend 
to continue the process of the 
Board renewal, recognising the 
benefits of directors with a broad 
range of skills, experience and 
perspectives. This year we 
welcome the appointment of 
Ms Annabelle Chaplain as a  
Non-Executive Director. 
Ms Chaplain brings extensive 
experience in investment banking, 
financial services, mining, 
engineering and major infrastructure 
services. We are delighted that she 
has agreed to join the Board of 
Seven Group Holdings.

Finally, I would like to thank our 
management teams across our 
operating businesses and the 
SGH team. Together with the 
approximately 4,300 employees, 
they continue to adapt to the 
ever changing environment 
and ensure our businesses 
remain strong and competitive. 
Without their tireless effort and 
commitment this financial result 
could not be achieved.

The Board and I appreciate 
their efforts, commitment and 
contribution to deliver such a 
strong FY16 Group result whilst 
repositioning the Group for the next 
phase of growth.

Your Board is focused on driving 
greater returns for all shareholders, 
and, on behalf of the Board, 
I thank you, our shareholders, 
for your continuing support and 
commitment to your Company.

KERRY STOKES AC 
EXECUTIVE CHAIRMAN 

ANNUAL REPORT 20166

for Roy Hill to support their 
ramp up in production. The 
Roy Hill Project was the only 
major greenfield mining expansion 
project to commission new fleet. 
The record iron ore and coal 
production presents opportunities 
for our business but it requires 
our business to evolve and 
transform constantly to meet the 
current conditions. 

Our customers are leading the 
way with technology enabled 
solutions and we are helping drive 
this with the CAT Autonomous 
Haulage Solution (AHS), where fully 
autonomous trucks are working 
in sites in the Pilbara region with 
the target to operate more than 
7,200 hours per annum. This 
technology coupled with the 
committed partnerships between 
CAT, the customer and WesTrac 
Australia is delivering world leading 
performance and aiding the 
achievement of the lowest cash 
cost per tonne for iron ore globally.

This technology success is built 
on enhanced value propositions 
underpinned by the development 
and delivery of innovative customer 
solutions such as component life 
guarantees and contracted cost 
downs. Using the GPS-tracking 
capabilities within the CAT MineStar 
mine planning system, allowed 
our engineers to reroute a fleet 
of 793F trucks which facilitated a 
major miner to reduce their overall 
fuel consumption by approximately 
five per cent.

Working closely with CAT 
and leveraging the Parts 
Distribution Centre investment 
in South Guildford, we are also 
finding ways to improve the costs 
of delivering parts. WesTrac has 
reduced the turnaround window 
from Perth to the Pilbara to less 
than 6 hours. The combined 
effect of which is to allow our 
major customers to reduce their 
inventory of critical spares and 
place greater reliance upon 
WesTrac’s ability to have the 
required parts Delivered In-Full, 
On-Time (DIFOT). Investments in 
SAP HANA have also allowed us 
to hold a broader range of parts 
utilising predictive algorithms to 
aid optimised inventory holdings 
without increasing the dollar value 
of our overall inventory. 

Our service capabilities are 
also enabling our customers to 
achieve world class performance 
in coal mining. The longwall at 
Narrabri North Mine, Whitehaven’s 
underground mine in NSW, is 
regarded by CAT as the most 
productive of its type in the 

MANAGING DIRECTOR 
& CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER’S LETTER 
Building on the strong foundations laid by all the 
businesses over the last three years, I am pleased 
to deliver a full year result ahead of financial year 
2016 market guidance. 

The momentum of change 
continues across our businesses 
to meet the challenges of varied 
market conditions and ensure we 
remain a valued partner to our 
customers through productivity 
improvements, investment in 
technology and increased agility 
and responsiveness.

This year we have benefited from 
the ongoing demand for parts 
and services created by the high 
level of mining production. This 
demonstrates the strength of the 
CAT dealer model working through 
the cycle to be able to deliver value 
to our customers.

This year WesTrac WA had its 
best market share result since 
2012 in the mining sector. 

Building construction and overall 
construction market shares were 
also significantly higher and close 
to our highest ever levels. The sales 
team in NSW also regained market 
leadership with a 20 per cent 
market share. Both dealerships also 
benefited from strong improvement 
in used equipment sales with higher 
levels of interest and a few overseas 
sales during the year, challenging 
the soft market of the preceding 
year. This is central to the execution 
of WesTrac Australia’s strategic 
intent of being the customer’s 
first choice for the provision of 
equipment solutions.

The team ensured the seamless 
delivery of the 793F truck fleet 
and 994H large wheel loaders 

Seven Group Holdings7

AHS delivery 
productivity  
improvement

20 %

EBITDA cash 
conversion

112%

world, and consistently produces 
above nameplate capacity. 
Similarly, Glencore’s 797 fleet 
at Ravensworth North, which 
is maintained by us under a 
maintenance and repair contract, 
consistently exceeds availability 
guarantees and is viewed as best 
in class performance globally 
and a reference site for CAT’s 
“Winning Together” 797 Total 
Cost of Ownership product 
improvement program.

Complementing our focus 
on innovation has been our 
commitment to safety. The launch 
of Our Values and Behaviours 
has had a profound effect on our 
safety performance and employee 
engagement. Our first value of 
“Keep each other safe” and our 
supporting behaviours has seen 
Total Recordable Injury Frequency 
Rate (TRIFR) reduced by 55 per 
cent over 12 months; and NSW 
achieving two years Lost Time 
Injury Free for the first time in its 
history. Safety is important for our 
people and our customers. It is 
at the heart of everything we do 
across the Group.

For WesTrac China, the economic 
transition from infrastructure to 
consumption-led growth required a 
continued commitment during the 
year to reshaping the organisation, 
branches and workforce. This year 
we have achieved record market 
share performance in the hydraulic 
excavator segment, however the 
industry itself has continued to 
contract by 32 per cent year-on-
year. We are pursuing opportunities 
with Chinese State Owned 
Enterprises investing in major 
projects overseas and looking to 
use China-sourced solutions such 
as our machines. We continue to 
build our relationships to capture 
these opportunities.

These market contractions 
necessitated the identification 
of new sector opportunities for 
the CAT family of product, such 
as standby power generation. 
In diversifying its business, 
WesTrac China successfully 
engineered and installed standby 
power for the China Construction 
Bank Corporation (CCB) Beijing 
data centre. This is the global data 
processing and storage base for 
CCB and the largest bank-owned 
data centre in the world. The project 
required 48 CAT C175 generator 
sets as standby power representing 
an installed base of almost 100MW, 
with CAT quality and reliability being 
critical differentiators. 

The strength of SGH is also 
our exposure to sectors 
outside industrial services. We 
retain a material investment in 
Seven West Media and believe 
that the underlying strengths of 
Seven West Media’s market-leading 
presence in broadcast television, 
newspaper and magazine 
publishing and online will yield value 
to the Group. The Seven West 
Media team continues its focus 
on content creation and audience 
delivery across multiple platforms. 
Seven is in its 10th consecutive 
year of ratings leadership and 
engages with more Australians on 
a daily basis than nearly any other 
medium. There is still no better 
place to build a brand than on TV.

They have taken the lead in the 
delivery of their television content 
beyond the television screen, 
making momentous moves into 
new forms of content delivery and 
engagement with audiences across 
any device. Seven West Media 
has also made significant inroads 
in monetising their content 
and production capabilities 
internationally with the formation 
of 7Wonder and 7Beyond. The 
success of the two businesses will 
facilitate the further expansion of 
their production of new television 
content in international markets 
over the coming 12 months.

From an energy perspective, the 
Group has exercised patience and 
discipline in terms of further energy 
investments. We have recently 
secured a seat on the board of 
Beach Energy and expect the 
company’s announced synergy 
benefits to be realised. The 
shortfall in East Coast gas is still 
expected to provide opportunities 
to extract value from the company’s 
petroleum reserves. SGH Energy, 
the third operating pillar for the 
Group, with its current and longer 
term gas interests is a platform to 
increase future shareholder returns 
over the longer term.

Coates Hire continues to streamline 
its fleet according to customers’ 
demand while remaining focused 
on safety and operational 
performance improvements. The 
company is the clear market leader 
in the rental services sector and has 
invested over the last 12 months 
to recover its leading market 
share, by increasing the ‘share 
of wallet’. We are seeing positive 
results with infrastructure projects 
in NSW, while not completely 
offsetting the slowdown in resource 
projects in the West. Consequently, 
Coates Hire is leveraging its 
national footprint and strong cash 

flows, relocating its fleet West to 
East. Coates Hire will continue to 
refine its cost base and optimise 
its branch network to ensure its 
competitiveness across its markets.

Deleveraging will remain a priority 
with disciplined fleet investment 
and divestment and working 
capital management. At the 
same time, Coates Hire has 
been opportunistically acquiring 
distressed complementary assets 
to efficiently increase revenue 
prospects and cash flow.

Common to all our operating 
businesses has been the focus 
to drive strong operating cash 
flow through the disciplined 
management of working capital. 
This is best evidenced by our 
underlying EBITDA cash conversion 
of 112 per cent, which represents 
an improvement on the 99 per 
cent achieved in the last two 
years. We will continue to focus on 
debtor collection, parts turn and 
realising slow moving inventory. 
Collectively these measures have 
reinforced what is already a strong 
balance sheet.

The strength of the operating 
performance has allowed the Group 
to successfully refinance $1.2 billion 
of its core debt facilities, with the 
Group now enjoying a weighted 
average debt duration of 5.3 years. 
This demonstrates the strong 
capital market’s support for the 
Group which will effectively reduce 
our funding costs on core facilities 
and deliver in excess of $10 million 
of savings during FY17.

It has been a challenging 12 months 
for the Group, but all our leading 
businesses have met these 
challenges directly and succeeded 
in finding innovative solutions while 
preserving underlying profitability. 
Our businesses have operated 
successfully through cycles in 
the past and we are confident 
of our position through the 
current economic environment. 
We are looking forward to 
continuing to drive our underlying 
performance and taking advantage 
of new opportunities for our 
businesses as we seek to enhance 
shareholder value. 

We thank you, our shareholders, 
for your continuing commitment.

RYAN STOKES 
MD & CEO

ANNUAL REPORT 20168

FIVE YEAR 
RESULTS

Trading revenue

 2,837.7 

 2,779.6 

 3,088.2 

 4,751.6 

 4,467.4 

2016 
$m

2015 
$m

2014 
$m

2013 
$m

2012 
$m

Underlying results (a)

EBITDA

EBIT

Profit before tax

Profit after tax

Underlying EPS

Statutory results

Profit before tax

Profit after tax

Reported EPS ($)

 340.8 

 376.6 

 422.5 

 686.0 

 629.8 

 302.8 

 314.5 

 374.4 

 622.8 

 553.1 

 213.6 

 230.9 

 302.2 

 514.0 

 440.0 

 184.2 

 204.3 

 253.2 

 398.9 

 343.2 

 0.56 

 0.59 

 0.74 

 1.20 

 0.98 

 217.0 

(650.1)

 310.7 

 622.9 

 132.8 

 197.8 

(359.1)

 262.5 

 488.6 

 176.7 

 0.60 

(1.29)

 0.77 

 1.49 

 0.43 

Operating cash flow per share ($) (b)

 1.10 

 0.96 

 0.80 

 2.73 

(0.38)

Free cash flow per share ($) (c)

 0.93 

 0.60 

0.52 

 2.69 

(0.62)

Full year fully franked dividend per share ($)

 0.40 

 0.40 

 0.40 

 0.40 

 0.38 

(a)  Underlying results comprise Statutory results adjusted for significant items and are separately disclosed and reconciled to Statutory performance in Note 3 of the Annual Report to assist users 

in understanding the financial performance of the Group. Accordingly they are a non-IFRS measure. Non-IFRS measures have not been audited or reviewed.
(b)  Cash flow per share is calculated by dividing the operating cash flow of the Group by the weighted average number of ordinary shares outstanding during the year.
(c)  Free cash flow is operating cash flow less investing cash flow of the Group divided by the weighted average number of ordinary shares outstanding during the year.

Seven Group HoldingsOPERATING 
AND FINANCIAL 
REVIEW

ANNUAL REPORT 2016

9

GROUP BUSINESS MODEL

Industrial Services

WESTRAC AUSTRALIA 
CONTROLLED BUSINESS 
SGH OWNERSHIP: 100% 

WESTRAC CHINA 
CONTROLLED BUSINESS 
SGH OWNERSHIP: 100% 

COATES HIRE 
JOINT VENTURE 
SGH OWNERSHIP: 46.5% 

ALLIGHTSYKES
CONTROLLED BUSINESS 
SGH OWNERSHIP: 100% 

INDUSTRY: 
mining and construction 
equipment

INDUSTRY: 
mining and construction 
equipment

INDUSTRY: 
industrial and general 
equipment hire

INDUSTRY: 
industrial lighting, pumps, 
generators and engines

STRATEGIC POSITION: 
#1 equipment solution 
company in WA and NSW/ACT

STRATEGIC POSITION: 
one of the leading equipment  
solutions companies in China

STRATEGIC POSITION: 
#1 Australian equipment 
hire company

STRATEGIC POSITION: 
supplies one of the world’s 
broadest ranges of lighting towers, 
pumps, generators, engines 
and compressors

TRADING REVENUE FY16: 
$2,150.0M

TRADING REVENUE FY16: 
$600.5M

TRADING REVENUE FY16: 
$873.0M

TRADING REVENUE FY16: 
$69.7M

SEGMENT ASSETS:
$1,531.5M

SEGMENT ASSETS:
$653.1M

SEGMENT ASSETS:
$283.0M

SEGMENT ASSETS:
$48.1M

Media Investments

Energy

SEVEN WEST MEDIA
ASSOCIATE 
SGH OWNERSHIP: 41% 

INDUSTRY: 
diversified media

STRATEGIC POSITION: 
Australia’s largest diversified media company

TRADING REVENUE FY16: 
$1,709.9M

CARRYING VALUE:
$655.8M

INVESTMENTS

ENERGY
CONTROLLED BUSINESS (SGH ENERGY) AND INVESTMENT 
IN BEACH ENERGY LIMITED
SGH OWNERSHIP: 100% (SGH ENERGY) 
AND 22.9% (BEACH ENERGY)
NON-OPERATED 11.2% INTEREST IN A TEXAS OIL FIELD 

STRATEGIC POSITION: 
uniquely positioned to take advantage of the Australian East Coast 
gas shortage

TRADING REVENUE FY16: 
$5.7M

SEGMENT ASSETS:
$690.7M

Other Investments

PROPERTY

The listed investment portfolio is a store of value and source of liquidity

UNREALISED GAINS RECOGNISED  
IN RESERVES AT JUNE 2016
$173.1M

 Direct investments include Kings Square and Seven Hills developments 
in Perth, WA
 Indirect investments include holdings in unlisted property trusts 
Flagship and Revy

REALISED GAINS DURING THE YEAR
$37.2M

10

FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE

Revenue
Total other income
Share of results from equity 
accounted investees
Impairment of equity accounted investees
Fair value movement of derivatives
Total expenses excluding depreciation  
and amortisation

Profit/(loss) before depreciation, 
amortisation, net finance expense and tax

Depreciation and amortisation

Profit/(loss) before net finance  
expense and income tax

Net finance expense

Profit/(loss) before tax

Income tax (expense)/benefit

Profit/(loss) for the year

Earnings per share (EPS)

Ordinary shares

Basic earnings per share ($)

Diluted earnings per share ($)

Underlying trading 
performance (a)

Less: significant 
items (b)

Statutory results 
(as reported)

2016 
$m

 2,837.7 
76.2
90.0

 – 
 – 
 (2,663.1)

2015 
$m

 2,779.6 
 126.6 
 80.1 

 – 
 – 
 (2,609.7)

2016 
$m

 – 
 (17.2)
 (1.0)

 0.4 
 (5.2)
 19.6 

2015 
$m

 – 
 (59.0)
 457.5 

 99.3 
 – 
 399.5 

2016 
$m

 2,837.7 
93.4
 91.0 

2015 
$m

 2,779.6 
 185.6 
 (377.4)

 (0.4)
 5.2 
 (2,682.7)

 (99.3)
 – 
 (3,009.2)

 340.8 

 376.6 

 (3.4)

 897.3 

 344.2 

 (520.7)

 (38.0)

 302.8 

 (89.2)

 213.6 

(29.4)

 184.2 

 (62.1)

 314.5 

 (83.6)

 230.9 

 (26.6)

 204.3 

 – 

 (3.4)

 – 

 (3.4)

 (10.2)

 (13.6)

 – 

 897.3 

(16.3)

 881.0 

 (317.6)

 563.4 

 (38.0)

 306.2 

 (89.2)

 217.0 

 (19.2)

 197.8

 (62.1)

 (582.8)

 (67.3)

 (650.1)

 291.0 

 (359.1)

 0.56 

 0.56 

 0.59 

 0.59 

 0.60 

 0.60 

 (1.29)

 (1.29)

(a)   further detail regarding the nature of significant items is contained in Note 3 of the Financial Report.
(b)  underlying trading performance is comprised of reported results less significant items and is separately disclosed and reconciled to statutory 

performance to assist users in understanding the financial performance of the Group. 

The Group achieved a statutory 
net profit after tax for the year of 
$197.8 million, a $556.9 million 
turnaround on the $359.1 million 
net loss after tax incurred in 
FY15. The result reflects the 
consolidation of benefits from 
restructuring programs undertaken 
by the Group’s industrial services 
businesses to drive profitability 
and operating productivity. These 
initiatives, when coupled with the 
reduced volatility in commodity 
prices have enabled both WesTrac 
Australia and WesTrac China to 
maintain market share.

Group underlying earnings before 
interest and taxation (EBIT) for the 
year was $302.8 million, down 4 per 
cent on FY15 and ahead of the 
Group’s earnings guidance for FY16 
underlying EBIT to be down 10 per 
cent on FY15. Furthermore, gains 
totalling $37.2 million were realised 
during the year on the Group’s 

property assets, ahead of guidance 
and demonstrating the Group’s 
ability to create value from its 
property portfolio.

REVENUE AND OTHER INCOME
Group revenue of $2,837.7 million 
was up 2 per cent on the prior 
year, with a 9 per cent increase in 
product sales partially offset by 
a 1 per cent reduction in product 
support revenue. The increase 
in product sales was driven by 
WesTrac Australia which benefited 
from the delivery of trucks to the 
Roy Hill project in Western Australia 
as well as practical completion on a 
standby power generator contract 
to China Construction Bank (CCB) 
by WesTrac China. Whilst product 
support revenue decreased 
$18.7 million on the prior year, the 
result is indicative of the bifurcation 
of WesTrac Australia’s territories. 
NSW experienced a 6 per cent 

increase in product support revenue 
on the back of the strong activity 
in infrastructure and construction 
sectors. In WA, product support 
revenue fell 11 per cent as 
customers have looked to insource 
service work and reduce holdings 
of critical spare parts to improve 
their working capital, placing greater 
reliance on WesTrac Australia. 

Revenue from sale of oil, gas 
and condensate decreased 
73 per cent on the prior year, 
negatively impacted by a decline 
in global oil prices resulting in only 
minimum drilling activity performed 
at Bivins Ranch and the Group’s 
Longtom well in the Gippsland 
Basin remaining shut-in. Despite 
this, the Group continues to explore 
commercialisation options for 
Longtom and remains positive 
on the long term oil and gas 
pricing outlook.

Seven Group Holdings11

Increase in 
Group revenue

2%

Increase in 
product sales 
revenue

9 %

The Group’s other income of 
$93.4 million was down 50 per cent 
on FY15. This is predominantly due 
to the income from the Groups 
convertible preference share in 
Seven West Media no longer 
being recognised following their 
early conversion in June 2015. 
Compensating this reduction in 
other income was an increase 
(35.3 per cent to 41.0 per cent) in 
the equity accounted ownership of 
Seven West Media reflected in the 
Group’s share of results of equity 
accounted investees. Also impacting 
the reduction in other income for 
the year was the early adoption 
of AASB 9: Financial Instruments 
which resulted in realised gains 
on the Group’s listed investment 
portfolio no longer being recorded 
in the income statement on 
disposal. Whilst total dividend 
income decreased 17 per cent 
to $36.8 million, the reduction 
reflects the rebalancing of the 
Group’s listed investment portfolio 
rather than quality of earnings. 
The listed investment portfolio 
provided a cash yield of 6.6 per cent 
(2015: 5.2 per cent) or 9.4 per cent 
(2015: 8.3 per cent) on a post-tax 
basis inclusive of franking credits.

The Group’s share of results of 
equity accounted investees of 
$91.0 million represented an 
increase of $468.4 million on 
the prior year. The improvement 
is predominantly due to the 
Group’s share of goodwill, 
fleet asset impairment and 
restructuring and redundancy 
costs totalling $408.6 million 
and $352.6 million respectively 
recognised by Seven West Media 
and Coates Hire in the prior 
year. Although restructuring and 
redundancy costs of $32.9 million 
for Seven West Media and 
$29.7 million for Coates Hire 
were incurred during the year, no 
material impairment provisions were 
recognised by Seven West Media 
or Coates Hire in the current year, 
reflecting the stabilising impact of 
the restructuring programs actioned 
by management of both businesses 
in prior periods. 

EXPENSES 
The Group’s expenses excluding 
depreciation and amortisation fell 
11 per cent or $326.5 million to 
$2,682.7 million predominantly 
due to the $327.0 million non-cash 
impairment provisions recognised 
in the prior year relating to 
intangible assets in WesTrac China 
and AllightSykes and the 
listed portfolio. 

Excluding the non-cash impairment 
provisions recognised in the prior 
year (which the Group classified 
as significant items), total expenses 
excluding depreciation and 
amortisation were consistent with 
the two per cent increase in the 
Group’s revenue.

Materials cost of inventory sold and 
used in product sales and product 
support increased 3 per cent to 
$1,840.4 million, ahead of the 
Group’s improvement in revenue 
during the year reflecting margin 
compression as the businesses 
competed aggressively to maintain 
market share.

Group employee benefits expense 
increased 3 per cent, predominantly 
due to further redundancy 
programs undertaken during the 
year at WesTrac Australia, WesTrac 
China and AllightSykes totalling 
$8.3 million offsetting the benefit of 
headcount reductions in the Group’s 
industrial services businesses from 
prior periods. At 30 June 2016, the 
number of employees in WesTrac 
Australia and WesTrac China totalled 
3,685, a 10 per cent decrease 
on 30 June 2015. Also impacting 
the increase in employee benefits 
expense for year was the movement 
in the average AUD–USD exchange 
rate from 0.8382 for FY15 to 
0.7283 which resulted in employee 
benefits expense for WesTrac China 
increasing in Australian Dollar terms 
despite the reduction in US Dollar 
terms. Employee benefits expense 
was also negatively impacted by 
$1.3 million in short-term incentives 
(STIs) to key management 
personnel due to the achievement of 
the Group’s net profit after tax target 
(NPAT) in the current year (2015: 
no STI due to NPAT target not met). 

Depreciation and amortisation 
expense decreased 39 per cent, 
or $24.1 million predominantly 
referrable to WesTrac China 
amortisation of limited life 
intangibles of $9.9 million in the prior 
year and the Group’s energy assets. 
No depreciation was recognised 
in the current year for the Group’s 
Longtom well with production 
suspended due to the well 
remaining shut-in, while the lower 
depreciation on Bivins Ranch was 
consistent with softer revenue and 
the reduced drilling program.

NET FINANCE COSTS
The Group’s finance income 
decreased by $30.5 million, or 
87 per cent compared to FY15 
predominantly due to $27.2 million 
in finance fee and interest income 
recognised in the prior year for 
the provision of debt facilities to 
Nexus Energy prior to its acquisition 
by the Group. Excluding the 
Nexus Energy finance fees and 
interest income, finance income 
was consistent with the prior 
year despite reduced deposit 
rates earned on the Group’s 
cash balances.

The Group’s finance costs 
decreased by $8.6 million or 
8 per cent as the Group was 
successful in renegotiating more 
favourable margins on a key facility. 
The interest reduction was partially 
offset by an increase in interest 
expense for the year as a result of 
total debt increasing $99.0 million 
to close at $1,734.3 million at 
30 June 2016.

INCOME TAX
Income tax expense for the year 
of $19.2 million was $310.2 million 
higher than the $291.0 million 
income tax benefit in FY15. The 
prior year’s income tax position 
benefited from $142.3 million 
attributable to the Group’s 
successful settlement of an 
outstanding income tax objection 
with the Australian Taxation Office 
(ATO) relating to the tax cost base 
of assets on formation of the 
Seven Group Holdings Limited 
in May 2010. 

ANNUAL REPORT 201612

Also impacting the current year’s 
income tax expense was a 
$10.0 million tax benefit referrable 
to the remeasurement of historical 
tax exposures.

Excluding this $10.0 million tax 
benefit as well as the income tax 
impact associated with current 

year significant items of $0.2 million 
detailed below, the Group’s 
effective tax rate of 13.8 per cent is 
broadly consistent with the 11.5 per 
cent for FY15, reflecting the positive 
contribution of franked dividends 
representing a higher proportion of 
the Group’s taxable income.

SIGNIFICANT ITEMS
Significant items contributed a net 
profit after tax of $13.6 million to 
the Group’s statutory result for 
the year and are largely non-cash 
in nature. The significant items 
are excluded from the Group’s 
underlying result for the year and 
are summarised below:

Significant items ($m)

Gain/(loss) on sale of other investments and mark-to-market of derivatives
Impairment – Seven West Media

Impairment – Coates Hire

Impairment – other

Restructuring, redundancy and other costs

Share of equity accounted investees’ significant items

Other items

Significant items – EBIT

Net finance income

Tax benefit relating to ATO formation valuation settlement 

Tax benefit relating to resolution of historical tax matters

Tax benefit relating to significant items

Significant items – NPAT

Statutory NPAT

NPAT excluding significant items

2016

 4.0 
(0.4)

 – 

 – 

(10.5)

 1.0 

 9.3 

 3.4 

 – 

 – 

10.0

 0.2 

 13.6 

 197.8 

 184.2 

2015

(5.5)
 14.7 

(114.0)

(337.4)

(20.1)

(457.5)

 22.5 

(897.3)

 16.3 

 142.3 

–

 175.3 

(563.4)

(359.1)

 204.3

Following is a reconciliation of the Group’s statutory to underlying result by segment: 

2016 Earnings summary 
($m)

Total 
Group

WesTrac  
Australia

WesTrac  
China

Statutory EBIT

 306.2 

 159.9 

 29.8 

Allight 
Sykes

(3.8)

Coates 
Hire

Media 
Investments

Energy

Other 
Investments

Other

(4.5)

 78.4 

(6.6)

 75.7 

(22.7)

 10.5 

 5.4 

 2.5 

 0.4 

Add: unfavourable significant items

Restructuring, redundancy and 
other costs

Loss on sale of investments

Impairment – Seven West Media

Share of equity accounted 
investees’ significant items

 9.1 

 0.4 

 19.2 

Mark-to-market on derivatives

 0.7 

Less: favourable significant items

Gain on sale of assets

Gain on sale of investments

Share of equity accounted 
investees’ significant items

Mark-to-market on derivatives

Other items

Total significant items – EBIT

(7.7)

(0.2)

(20.2)

(5.9)

(9.3)

(3.4)

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 5.4 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

(1.0)

 – 

 1.5 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 9.7 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 0.4 

 9.5 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 1.5 

 – 

0.7

 4.5 

 4.6 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

(1.7)

 – 

 4.3 

(2.3)

 – 

 – 

 0.7 

(7.7)

(0.2)

(20.2)

(3.2)

(9.3)

(35.3)

 40.4 

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

0.7

(22.0)

Segment EBIT

 302.8 

 165.3 

 31.3 

 0.4 

(3.4)

 9.7 

 5.2 

 9.9 

 88.3 

Seven Group Holdings13

CASH FLOW
A focus on working capital, 
particularly management of 
inventory levels at WesTrac Australia 
as well as improved contract 
management at WesTrac China, 
saw the Group continue to 
generate positive operating cash. 
Net operating cash flows were up 
10 per cent or $27.3 million despite 
the $35.8 million or 10 per cent 
reduction in underlying earnings 
before interest, taxes, depreciation 
and amortisation (EBITDA). The 
ability of the Group to convert 
earnings into cash remains a 
strength, as the operating cash flow 
to underlying EBITDA conversion 
rate of 112 per cent for the current 
year represents a 13 per cent 
increase on the 99 per cent of FY15. 
Operating cash flow per share of 
$1.10 is a 14 per cent increase on 
the $0.96 generated in FY15 and 
marked the third consecutive year 
of operating cash flow growth as 
shown in the graph below:

1.10

0.96

0.80

0.00

2014

2015

2016

OPERATING CASH FLOW PER SHARE ($)

Net investing cash outflows 
of $98.9 million represented 
a $162.2 million reduction 
on the $261.1 million outflow 
for FY15. The improvement 
predominantly reflects no significant 
acquisitions or investment activity 
compared to the prior year, during 
which the Group completed 
its acquisition of Nexus Energy 
(now SGH Energy) and built 
19.9 per cent stakes in Beach 
Energy Limited (Beach Energy) 
and Drillsearch Energy Limited 
(Drillsearch). The current year’s 
investing cash flows included the 
acquisition of a further 2.9 per cent 
interest in Beach Energy, 
taking the Group’s interest to 

22.9 per cent at 30 June 2016. The 
merger between Beach Energy and 
Drillsearch was completed in 
March 2016, creating Australia’s 
leading mid-cap oil and 
gas company. 

Free cash flow, being net operating 
cash flow less net capital 
expenditure continues to improve, 
up $88.0 million or 49 per cent on 
FY15. Current year free cash flow 
per share of $0.93 represents a 
dividend coverage ratio of 2.3 times, 
demonstrating the Group’s robust 
cash flows despite the reduction 
in earnings.

During the year, the Company 
acquired and subsequently 
cancelled 14.9 million shares at 
a cost of $72.1 million. A total of 
32.4 million shares at a cost of 
$201.3 million or average cost of 
$6.22 per share have been acquired 
by the Company since the inception 
of the program in March 2014.

The current ordinary share buy-back 
program is due to conclude 
in March 2017, with remaining 
capacity of 16.3 million shares at 
30 June 2016. The Company’s 
capital management program 
has been broadened to include a 
buy-back of up to 10 per cent of 
the TELYS4 shares on issue subject 
to market conditions.

FINANCIAL POSITION
The Group’s net assets decreased 
$142.2 million to $2,667.2 million 
with the reduction predominantly 
due to unfavourable fair value 
movements on the Group’s 
listed investment portfolio 
recognised through other 
comprehensive income.

Trade and other receivables 
increased $53.5 million, with the 
movement predominantly timing 
driven by the practical completion 
of the previously mentioned CCB 
contract by WesTrac China at the 
end of the year. Also impacting 
the increase of receivables were 
amounts receivable from Caterpillar 
resulting from the return of inventory 
by WesTrac Australia. 

The Group’s early adoption of 
AASB 9: Financial Instruments 
resulted in the recognition of 
$6.2 million in provision for 
impairment losses on its trade 
debtors in line with revised doubtful 
debt provisioning methodologies to 
take into account expected credit 
losses on total trade debtors, not 
just those identified as past due.

Inventories decreased $104.4 million 
as WesTrac China achieved practical 
completion on the CCB contract 
during the year. Also contributing to 
the improvement was an inventory 
management program at WesTrac 
Australia which saw inventory 
turn increase to 3.3 times (2015: 
2.5 times) in Western Australia 
and 3.7 times (2015: 2.3 times) in 
New South Wales.

Investments accounted for using 
the equity method increased 
$14.1 million to $998.0 million 
at 30 June 2016. The reduction 
was predominantly attributable 
to the positive movement in the 
closing share price of Seven West 
Media which increased to $1.06 at 
30 June 2016 (30 June 2015: $1.02) 
offset by the Group’s 46.5 per cent 
equity accounted share of Coates 
Hire’s $17.8 million net loss after tax 
for the year. 

Whilst holding a 22.9 per cent 
interest in Beach Energy, 
at 30 June 2016 the Group 
recognised Beach Energy as a 
financial asset fair valued through 
other comprehensive income 
rather than an equity accounted 
associate as it had no ability 
to exert significant influence 
during the year. On 20 July 2016, 
Mr Ryan Stokes joined the board 
of Beach Energy. When combined 
with the Group’s 22.9 per cent 
interest, the board representation 
demonstrates an ability of the Group 
to exert significant influence over 
Beach Energy and accordingly, the 
Group will recognise its investment 
in Beach Energy as an equity 
accounted investee in the coming 
financial year.

ANNUAL REPORT 201614

Residential 
lots sold in 
Seven Hills

25

Successful 
resolution of 
tax audits

It has been a challenging 12 months for 
the Group, but all our leading businesses 
have met these challenges directly and 
succeeded in finding innovative solutions, 
preserving underlying profitability and 
repositioning the Group for the next 
phase of growth

Other financial assets decreased 
$166.3 million to $974.6 million, 
predominantly due to a 
$250.7 million unfavourable fair value 
movement on the Group’s listed 
investment portfolio for the year. 
This unrealised loss on the listed 
investment portfolio continues to 
be recognised in equity, consistent 
with the requirements of AASB 9: 
Financial Instruments. The main 
accounting treatment difference to 
the previous AASB 139: Financial 
Instruments for the Group’s 
listed investment portfolio is the 
prohibition of recycling gains 
through to the income statement 
once realised. Partially offsetting the 
unfavourable fair value movements 
were net additions to the listed 
investment portfolio of $45.5 million 
resulting from an additional 2.9 per 
cent interest in Beach Energy as 
well as additional investment and 
favourable fair value movements 
in an unlisted private equity media 
investment fund. 

Property, plant and equipment 
decreased $44.3 million to 
$172.0 million. The reduction 
reflects the depreciation expense 
for the year of $31.2 million as 
well as the reclassification of the 
Group’s land at Dianella, WA 
to inventory. This follows the 
successful redevelopment of the 
area from commercial to residential 
property, creating Seven Hills. 
At 30 June 2016, the Group was 
successful in selling 25 lots in the 
Seven Hills development, realising 
a profit of $4.7 million.

Producing and development assets 
increased $6.0 million, due to well 
drilling expenditure contributions for 
the Group’s Bivins Ranch oil and 
gas asset in Texas, USA operated 
by Apache Corporation. Despite the 

weakness in global oil prices, the 
Group limited its contributions to 
the minimum drilling requirements 
to ensure its interest was not 
diluted by other joint venture 
operators particularly given the 
positive long-term oil price outlook.

Exploration and evaluation assets 
decreased $20.5 million, principally 
due to a $27.1 million net write-back 
of restoration provisions relating to 
the Crux asset, with the plug and 
abandonment work during the year 
delivered under budget. The Group 
continues to work constructively 
with joint venture operator Shell to 
explore options to best realise the 
area’s value.

Intangible assets increased 
$29.4 million to $694.9 million, 
mainly due to favourable foreign 
exchange movements on the 
WesTrac China Caterpillar 
distribution network which is 
US Dollar denominated. Also 
impacting the increase in intangible 
assets for the year was the Group’s 
continued investment in SAP HANA 
via the business transformative 
S3 Program. 

Trade and other payables 
decreased $7.8 million to 
$373.0 million as WesTrac Australia 
and WesTrac China continue to 
optimise working capital.

Deferred income increased 
$18.9 million to $241.4 million 
predominantly due to machine 
advance payments received for 
Roy Hill and BHP.

Net deferred tax liabilities 
decreased $65.4 million due to the 
tax impact of the $225.5 million 
reduction in the market value 
of the Group’s listed and 
unlisted investments (excluding 

Seven West Media). Also impacting 
the decrease in deferred tax 
liabilities was the release of a $10.0 
million provision for tax exposures 
due to the resolution of audits 
and reviews by internal revenue 
authorities during the year.

Total current and non-current 
provisions decreased $31.9 million 
predominantly due to the 
$27.1 million net write-back of 
restoration provisions relating to the 
Crux exploration asset following 
the completion of plug and 
abandonment work during the year.

Total current and non-current 
interest bearing loans and 
borrowings increased by 
$99.0 million to $1,734.3 million 
as the Australian dollar 
value of WesTrac Australia’s 
US$520.0 million US Private 
Placement (USPP) notes increased 
due to a reduction in the AUD–USD 
exchange rate from 0.7680 at 
30 June 2015 to 0.7426 at 
30 June 2016. As the USPP notes 
are fully hedged, the increase in 
carrying value was offset by an 
increase in the carrying value of 
the Group’s cross currency swaps 
and foreign forward exchange 
contracts. Also contributing to the 
Group’s increase in interest bearing 
loans and borrowings for the year 
was the drawdown of $68.0 million 
on the corporate syndicated facility 
to fund an additional 2.9 per cent 
interest in Beach Energy and a 
new $40.0 million short term facility 
from Caterpillar.

Shareholder equity fell 
$141.2 million to $2,655.4 million 
largely due to the unfavourable fair 
value movements on the Group’s 
listed investments partially offset by 
a $14.4 million positive movement 
in the Group’s foreign currency 
translation reserve. Also impacting 
the decrease in shareholder equity 
for the year was a $72.1 million 
reduction in contributed equity 
as a result of the Company’s 
share buy-back reduced by a 
$52.5 million net increase in 
retained earnings attributable to 
the Group’s current year statutory 
net profit after tax and ordinary and 
TELYS4 dividends paid. 

Seven Group Holdings15

NET DEBT AND 
CAPITAL MANAGEMENT
Net debt increased by $22.9 million 
to $1,367.5 million at 30 June 2016 
as the Group utilised free cash 
flow and undrawn corporate debt 
facilities to add to its strategic 
position in Beach Energy, buy-back 
14.9 million ordinary shares and fund 
capex relating to the S3 systems 
implementation of $31.2 million. The 
Group’s gearing ratio increased to 
34.0 per cent at 30 June 2016 
(2015: 32.4 per cent), however this 
is largely mitigated by the Group’s 
$621.6 million listed investment 
portfolio which contains substantially 
liquid listed equity positions.

At 30 June 2016, the Group had 
cash and available undrawn debt 
facilities totalling $1,321.8 million, 
consistent with the prior year. 
Furthermore, approximately 
59 per cent (2015: 70 per cent) of 
the Group’s drawn debt facilities is 
fixed with average remaining tenor 
of 5.3 years, slightly extended from 
the 5.1 years of FY15.

During the year, the Group 
was successful in negotiating 
an extension to the SGH 
corporate syndicated facility with 
$850.0 million of the original 
$900.0 million facility Company 
now maturing in February 2020. 

In addition, the Company was 
also successful in refinancing its 
$431.0 million EMP debt facility with 
Caterpillar Financial Australia which 
will now mature on 15 July 2021. 
These transactions demonstrate 
the strength of the Group’s 
relationship with its financiers and 
have provided increased funding 
tenor to the Group.

The Company acquired and 
subsequently cancelled 14.9 million 
ordinary shares at a total cost of 
$72.1 million or average cost of 
$4.83 per share during the year. 
Based on the Company’s closing 
30 June 2016 share price of $6.01, 
the buy-back represents a return 
of 24 per cent, demonstrating 
the Group’s ability to deploy 
capital in a value accretive manner. 
At 30 June 2016, the Company 
had capacity to acquire a further 
16.3 million ordinary shares, 

The share buy-back generated a 24 per 
cent return for shareholders, demonstrating 
the Group’s ability to deploy capital in a 
value accretive manner

representing 5.8 per cent of its total 
shares on issue under its current 
share buy-back program. 

The Company has also extended 
the capital management 
program to include the buy-back 
of up to 10 per cent of the TELYS4 
shares on issue.

SGH continues to pay fully-franked 
dividends on both its ordinary 
and TELYS4 shares, with the final 
ordinary dividend of $0.20 per share 
payable in October 2016, taking the 
Company’s full year dividend payout 
ratio to 71 per cent of underlying 
EPS (2015: 68 per cent) 

Whilst SGH does not disclose a 
formal dividend policy, decisions 
regarding future dividend payout 
ratios and franking levels will be 
made with regards to the Group’s 
medium term underlying profitability, 
Australian tax payable position, 
total number of ordinary shares on 
issue and alternative investment 
opportunities available. Within 
these constraints, SGH aims to 
maintain dividends per share 
through the cycle.

OUTLOOK AND 
FUTURE PROSPECTS
Trading conditions in the mining 
and industrial services sector 
remain challenging with ongoing 
cost reduction initiatives including 
insourcing of maintenance work 
being undertaken by some 
customers. There has been a partial 
recovery in commodity prices 
since January which is positive for 
the industry.

Seven West Media should benefit 
from the broadcast of the Olympic 
Games to underpin its robust 
television market share growth 
in a flat to declining advertising 
market. The publishing advertising 
market is set to continue its 
current downward trend, however 
this will be partially offset by 
group operating costs growth 

including AFL (but excluding 
Olympics and third party 
commissions) at CPI. Assuming 
a similar television market 
outcome, Seven West Media FY17 
EBIT is estimated to be down 
15–20 per cent on FY16.

The Group has exercised patience 
and discipline in terms of its 
energy investments. It has recently 
secured a place on the board of 
Beach Energy and expects the 
Company’s announced synergy 
benefits to be realised. The shortfall 
in East Coast gas is still expected 
to provide opportunities to extract 
value from the Group’s petroleum 
reserves. SGH Energy, the third 
operating pillar for the Group, with 
its current and longer term gas 
interests is a platform to increase 
future shareholder returns over the 
longer term.

WesTrac Australia will be exposed 
to increased maintenance 
opportunities as a result of 
equipment sold in FY12 and 
FY13 coming due for overhaul. 
However, this will be tempered 
by some customer’s willingness 
to insource or defer maintenance 
work and we will continue to work 
hard to boost the value proposition 
to customers to capture these 
opportunities. Overall product sales 
are anticipated to be slightly down 
over the next twelve months with a 
shift in demand to used equipment. 
WesTrac China is anticipated to 
benefit from further cost base 
refinements against a flat revenue 
outlook. Coates Hire will continue 
to be impacted by sustained 
weakness in mining infrastructure 
markets, particularly WA, which will 
be offset by strong infrastructure 
demand in NSW and appropriate 
target cost out programs.

Taking into account the above 
factors, the Group anticipates FY17 
underlying EBIT to be consistent 
with the current year.

ANNUAL REPORT 20161616

Seven Group Holdings

INDUSTRIAL 
SERVICES

Seven Group HoldingsANNUAL REPORT 2016

1717

WESTRAC HAS DELIVERED 47 AUTONOMOUS 
240-TONNE 793F MINING TRUCKS TO FMG 

“ We are very pleased with the 
productivity improvements we 
are getting. We are getting around 
20 per cent over and above what 
we would get from a regular fleet 
of trucks
 A key part of this has been 
developing that relationship with 
Caterpillar and WesTrac because 
it does take a lot of work from the 
vendor and the dealer to do this”

Nev Power, CEO FMG The West Australian, 27 July 2016

ANNUAL REPORT 201618

INDUSTRIAL 
SERVICES

WESTRAC GROUP
The strength of our business 
has enabled us to continue to 
transform and adjust to the 
market conditions ensuring 
we continue to support 
our customers across the 
mining and construction 
sectors. WesTrac Group is 
leveraging its investment in 
capability and technology to 
transform its service offering 
and deliver industry leading 
equipment solutions that help 
our customers achieve more 
productive results. 

WesTrac Group is one of the 
world’s leading Caterpillar 
dealers specialising in the supply 
and maintenance of Caterpillar 
industrial equipment to the mining, 
construction, and transport 
industries of Western Australia 
(WA), New South Wales (NSW), 
the Australian Capital Territory 
(ACT) and the provinces of Hebei, 
Liaoning, Heilongjiang, Jilin, 
Shanxi, Inner Mongolia and the 
municipalities of Beijing and Tianjin 
in north eastern China. 

In partnership with Caterpillar, 
the world’s leading equipment 
manufacturing company, WesTrac 
Group’s purpose is to provide 

market leading equipment 
solutions  and support their 
productive operation that help 
build the infrastructure and provide 
the raw materials that power 
the world’s economy. 

The Group’s strategy is to be 
“the customers’ first choice in 
equipment solutions”. Over the past 
12 months WesTrac Group has 
embarked on an enterprise-wide 
transformation program to ensure its 
operating model, people, processes 
and systems are all geared to deliver 
on this commitment.

As conditions in the current 
economic cycle have challenged 
WesTrac Group’s customer base, 
the Group has moved aggressively 
to focus on cost management, 
operational efficiency and improved 
customer service levels enabling 
more productive outcomes for our 
customers. The business has also 
committed investments in innovation 
and technology that will deliver 
value-added solutions beyond its 
traditional service offerings, further 
strengthening its long-term outlook 
and financial performance.

As a result of these efforts and an 
ongoing commitment to remain 
agile in order to meet the changing 
demands of its customers and the 

market, WesTrac Group’s balance 
sheet is strong. The Group has 
two main sources of revenue: 
equipment sales (product sales), 
which accounted for approximately 
42 per cent (2015: 37 per cent) of 
WesTrac Group’s total sales for the 
FY16; and parts and service sales 
(product support), which accounted 
for 58 per cent (2015: 61 per cent) 
of WesTrac Group’s total sales.

WesTrac Group’s other revenue 
sources include the sale of used 
equipment and components, 
equipment rental, and equipment 
management services such as 
conditioning monitoring and training. 

While capital expenditure on new 
equipment is down across the 
Group’s markets and competition 
in the after-sales service sector is 
growing steadily, the Group is in a 
good position to leverage its robust 
financial position and large installed 
equipment base to maximise parts, 
service and solutions sales in the 
coming financial year. Furthermore, 
in NSW the construction sector has 
seen a strong uplift as the influence 
of record levels of road and 
infrastructure investment combined 
with high levels of residential 
building activity, which provides this 
market with renewed confidence in 
the outlook. 

Seven Group Holdings19

WESTRAC AUSTRALIA 
WesTrac Australia delivered 
underlying segment EBIT of 
$165.3 million, down 2 per cent on 
$168.3 million underlying segment 
EBIT for FY15. This result was 
primarily driven by a change in 
product mix which has seen an 
increase in non-mining equipment 
sales, a continued decline in mining 
equipment sales and a reduction 
in total product support sales 
year-on-year (total equipment 
sales increased to $691.7 million 
compared to $566.4 million for 
FY15 while product support sales 
fell 5 per cent from $1,536.5 million 
for FY15 to $1,452.0 million  
for FY16).

While a number of factors 
contributed to the fall in revenue, 
primary amongst them is the 
ongoing focus on mine site 
efficiency and productivity which 
has compelled miners to optimise 
their fleet profile and provided 
short term opportunities to idle 
some production capacity. Whilst 
new mine expansions are likely 
to be limited in the near term, 
current production levels still 
represent significant increases 
when compared to output just 
five years ago, and sustaining 
these production rates will require 
significant fleets and supply 
chain optimisation in order to 
achieve projected demand for 
most commodities. 

While WesTrac Australia remains 
well-positioned to capitalise on this 
opportunity through its parts and 
service business, the competition 
in the Product Support market 
has been strong and there is a 
continuing trend towards insourcing 
of some maintenance activities. 
In addition, the ongoing focus on 
supply chain costs is compelling 
customers to de-bundle the 
traditional WesTrac/Caterpillar 
value proposition, compressing 
margins and increasing demand 
for risk sharing arrangements (such 
as component life guarantees) 
previously unseen in the industry. 

In response to these challenges, 
WesTrac Australia has embarked on 
an ambitious transformation project 
which is delivering simplified, 
standardised and scalable business 
solutions (the S3 Program) that will 
enable the business to continue 
meeting new market demands well 
into the future. The focus is clear: 
continue to manage costs and 
adjust the businesses operating 
model to maximise efficiency; 

cost structures and maintain an 
appropriate operational footprint. 
The decision was also made to 
invest in strategic growth corridors 
such as south-western Sydney  
and metropolitan Perth to meet 
growing demand and ensure the 
business has adequate capacity 
where required.

These changes combined with 
an ongoing focus on improving 
working capital management, 
minimising overheads and 
controlling costs have helped to 
strengthen WesTrac Australia’s 
financial position and ensure the 
business is in a robust position 
to manage through this extended 
economic cycle. 

WesTrac Australia  
($m)

Product sales

2016

691.7

2015

566.4

Product support

1,452.0

1,536.5

Other revenue and 
other income

Total revenue and 
other income

Segment EBIT

Segment EBIT 
margin

26.2

48.0

2,169.9

2,150.9

165.3

7.6%

168.3

7.8%

% 
Change

22

(5)

(45)

1

(2)

(3)

prioritise investments in technology 
and innovation which can deliver 
a competitive advantage; and 
utilise data and analytics to provide 
value-added solutions that will 
redefine the value WesTrac Australia 
provides its customers beyond 
the iron.

Manage Costs and Optimise 
the Operating Model
Changes to the Executive 
Leadership team announced in 
2014 have now been embedded 
and the business continues to 
adapt the structure and skills 
of its workforce to better reflect 
market demand. Restructuring and 
redundancy costs were $5.4 million 
in FY16 with a total headcount 
reduction of 34 per cent, or 1,424 
full time employees, in the past 
three years. Recent changes in 
operating models have also seen 
the amalgamation of the NSW 
Underground and Surface Mining 
sales teams and the consolidation of 
Product Support operations under 
separate state based structures. 

As customers demand changes 
in response to the shifting 
economic landscape in Australia, 
WesTrac Australia continues to 
review its operations to ensure it 
is best placed to respond to their 
requirements. To this end, the 
business consolidated some of its 
regional branches over the course 
of FY15 in order to optimise its 

ANNUAL REPORT 201620

INDUSTRIAL 
SERVICES

Prioritising Investments in 
Technology and Innovation
Central to WesTrac Australia’s 
future strategy is an ongoing 
focus on the customer and how 
WesTrac Australia can support 
improvements in their productivity 
and efficiency. 

Primary amongst the business 
investments in technology is the 
$42.5 million spent to date on 
implementing the S3 Program. 
S3 stands for simplification, 
standardisation and scalability 
and has provided WesTrac 
Australia with the opportunity 
to redesign its business model 
and support structures to deliver 
a more consistent, quality and 
cost-focussed experience for its 
customers. The Program is split 
into two major stages with Phase 1 
implemented over the course 
of FY16. SAP HANA has now 
been deployed across WesTrac 
Australia’s core finance, HR and 
strategic sourcing teams and to 
date has delivered the business 
$5.0 million in realised benefits. 

4,815

5,145

4,720

4,663

3,894

1,956

1,828

1,629

1,614

1,579

2012

2013

2014

2015

2016

EQUIPMENT POPULATION MINING

NSW Mining

WA Mining

14,851

11,293

14,207

13,227

13,675

14,023

14,178

14,718

12,748

16,791

2012

2013

2014

2015

2016

EQUIPMENT POPULATION CONSTRUCTION
WA Mining

NSW Mining

Value of parts 
inventory 
($m)

61.8

39.0

# of lines per 
day packed 
and shipped 
(average)

7,801

3,867

Delivered  
on-time 
 (%)

96

89

2016

2011

Planning for Phase 2 of the Program 
is under way and will drive process 
and system change into WesTrac 
Australia’s service, parts and sales 
functions, including centralising 
dispatch for customers, providing 
mobile field applications to improve 
technician and network efficiency as 
well as other applications designed 
to increase automation and enhance 
the use of data and analytics to 
improve customer outcomes. 

WesTrac Australia continues to focus 
on optimising its parts business. 
With the successful implementation 
of the state-of-the-art Goods-to-
Person warehouse system in Perth 
in 2014 and ongoing improvements 
in supply chain management, the 
business has managed to increase 
its parts throughput by two per cent, 
moving over five million lines of stock 
in FY16. WesTrac Australia was 
also able to partner with Caterpillar 
in FY16 on a Parts Inventory 
Collaboration project, which has 
reduced on-site inventory levels, 
whilst simultaneously improving 
WesTrac Australia’s breadth of 
inventory holdings, enabling the 
business to fill a larger proportion 
of customer orders from in store 
without increasing working capital. 

These improvement projects 
will continue to ensure 
WesTrac Australia can provide 
real value-added solutions to its 
customers through their parts and 
logistics operations, allowing them 
to reduce their on-site inventory 
levels, better plan and execute 
their maintenance programs and 
access just in time parts deliveries 
via WesTrac Australia’s world class 
parts and logistics services. 

As the business transforms 
the processes and systems it 
uses to deliver products and 
services to customers, WesTrac 
Australia is also embarking on 
a digital customer experience 
transformation designed to 
improve the channels and means 
by which customers can interact 
and transact with the dealership. 
While traditional bricks and mortar 
branches will remain as key points 
of sale, WesTrac Australia together 
with Caterpillar is recognising 
the need to provide customers 
with self-service capabilities and 
access to digital channels through 
which they can research products 
and services, seek advice and 
support and purchase equipment, 
parts and service as and when 
they require. This project will 
launch early in the new financial 
year and will not only place 
WesTrac Australia amongst the 
leading Caterpillar dealers globally 
from an eBusiness perspective, 

but will also play a key role in 
the evolution of the business 
into the First Choice in 
Equipment Solutions.

Utilise Data and Analytics to Provide 
Value-Added Solutions
One of WesTrac Australia’s leading 
strategies for improving customer 
loyalty and growing profit is the 
utilisation of data and analytics 
to deliver insights that will help 
customers optimise their fleet 
performance, maximise productivity 
and minimise their costs. In this 
way, data-enabled solutions will not 
only allow WesTrac Australia to be 
more effective and efficient, they will 
also lead the way in redefining the 
value WesTrac Australia can provide 
equipment owners and ensure that 
the Caterpillar/Dealer business model 
remains relevant in the long term. 

Thanks to WesTrac Australia’s 
investment in the SAP HANA 
platform as part of the S3 Program, 
the business is building a 
360-degree view of its customers, 
giving WesTrac Australia the ability 
to deploy tailored solutions at an 
individual customer level based 
on real-time analytics. With this 
new found ability to harness 
Enterprise Data, WesTrac Australia 
will build on its already strong 
reputation for providing industry 
leading technology solutions 
that help customers manage 
and prolong the life of their 
equipment. Furthermore, the 
transition to SAP HANA will also 
drive an improvement in technical 
productivity and allow better 
integration with WesTrac Australia’s 
key mining customers, the majority 
of which are already on the 
SAP HANA platform. 

As well as taking the global 
lead on the implementation of 
autonomous haulage solutions 
(AHS) in partnership with 
Caterpillar, WesTrac Australia is 
also working to deploy advanced 
condition and remote equipment 
monitoring across its equipment 
range by fitting all new construction 
machines with a VisionLink black 
box to ensure it can monitor 
equipment and provide real time 
support and advice to maximise 
customer loyalty and grow 
revenue. This strategy of building 
customer connectivity in order to 
identify and secure future revenue 
streams will not only improve the 
levels of service and customer 
experience WesTrac Australia 
delivers to the market, it will also 
ensure the businesses long term 
success and defend its position 
as one of Caterpillar’s leading 
global dealerships. 

Seven Group Holdings21

WESTRAC CHINA 
WesTrac China delivered segment 
EBIT of $31.3 million, an increase of 
33 per cent on the segment EBIT 
of $23.5 million in the prior year as 
the company focused on driving 
cost efficiencies and converting new 
revenue opportunities in the current 
market. Despite the reduction in 
revenue WesTrac China has been 
able to drive efficiencies that deliver 
the profit result. While the Chinese 
economy is facing continued 
challenges in its mining, oil and 
gas sectors and the demand for 
construction equipment remains low 
with the hydraulic excavator (HEX) 
market down 32 per cent year-on-
year, WesTrac China has managed to 
maintain profitable market leadership 
and achieve a strong operating cash 
flow for the FY16 period.

Over the course of the year, cost 
reduction programs such as a 
workforce resizing of approximately 
24 per cent and the relocation and 
rationalisation of some regional 
branches were undertaken to 
deliver continued savings and 
ensure the business was structured 
appropriately to suit the market. 
Despite these challenges, the 
business managed to improve 
market share by two per cent in the 
all-important EXD class of HEX to 
and grew product support sales 
by 29 per cent to $177.5 million.

In the State Owned Enterprises 
(SOE) sector, a more cautious 
approach to capital expenditure is 
the new normal, especially in the 
state’s mining sector which is further 
compounding WesTrac China’s 
performance. Notwithstanding 
this, China’s 13th Five Year Plan, 
launched at the recent People’s 
Congress in March, further 
demonstrated the country’s 
commitment to transform its 
economy and provided for another 
round of significant infrastructure 
and urbanisation programs. Together 
with strategic initiatives such as the 
“One Belt One Road” program and 
key regional economic projects such 
as the new Beijing Airport and the 
Beijing, Tianjin, Hebei integration, 
these infrastructure commitments 
have contributed to the market 
showing early signs of stabilisation 
in the first half of 2016. Furthermore, 
these developments will benefit 
WesTrac China over the next five 
years as it continues to focus on 
delivering quality and improving the 
value it offers to win customers. 

WesTrac China  
($m)

Product sales

Product support

Other revenue and 
other income

Total revenue and 
other income

Segment EBIT

Segment EBIT margin

2016

421.2

177.5 

8.5

2015

411.1

137.2

15.5

607.2

563.8

31.3

5.2%

23.5

4.2%

% 
Change

2

29

(45)

8

33

24

From a customer perspective, 
WesTrac China is committed to 
strengthening its key relationships 
and maximising the contact it has 
with customers to ensure it can 
leverage every opportunity available 
to it. To this end the business has 
recently deployed a mobility based 
CRM system which enables real 
time monitoring and management 
of customers as well as tracking 
of call response and resolution 
times. A branch based service 
excellence program with flat rate 
service has also been implemented 
to drive improvements in customer 
experience. These are just two 
examples of where WesTrac China 
is prioritising the service delivered 
to customers in an effort to 
improve loyalty and drive repeat 
and recommended business in 
an increasingly customer-centred, 
service-oriented economy.

As the business continues to move 
forward, WesTrac China maintains 
its focus on strengthening cash 
flow, improving its balance sheet 
and maintaining a competitive cost 
structure that will enable it to capture 
the many growth opportunities in 
China’s used equipment, power 
systems, earth moving and paving 
machinery industries.

The Caterpillar product continues to 
provide a significant differentiator in 
the Chinese market, particularly as 
the market matures and the value 
proposition presents a competitive 
advantage. Building on Caterpillar’s 
brand strength and broad product 
portfolio, the business recently 
entered into an OEM agreement 
which enables it to sell customised 
equipment, such as amphibious 
excavators, frontless excavators 
and crawler undercarriage, utilising 
Caterpillar’s hydraulic power 
generation unit. The initial results 
of this project have been very 
encouraging and demonstrated 
WesTrac China’s innovative approach 
to growing market share, as well 
as the unique advantage of the 
WesTrac/Caterpillar relationship 
in delivering specific and tailored 
solutions to the Chinese market. 

Chinese customers place a high 
value on suppliers who can deliver 
a quality, cost effective product or 
service and WesTrac China is well 
placed to deliver on this requirement. 
The WesTrac Tianjin Equipment 
Rebuild Centre (WERC) has 
maintained a consistent reputation 
in FY16 delivering high utilisation 
and support for long-wall mining 
equipment and has been formally 
recognised for doing so. In addition, 
WesTrac China’s rebuild capabilities 
continue to support traditional mining 
operations, large engine rebuild and 
Armoured Face Conveyor (AFC) 
businesses across the region.

China’s fast developing mobile and 
online economy is also creating new 
opportunities for WesTrac China as 
the demand for cloud computing and 
large scale data centres increases 
the need for high performing, reliable 
back-up power generation solutions. 
This standby power demand 
supports critical infrastructure 
applications such as China’s financial 
services industry and WesTrac China 
continues to grow its footprint in this 
highly valuable segment.

ANNUAL REPORT 201622

INDUSTRIAL 
SERVICES

COATES HIRE FY16 REVENUE END 
MARKET SPLIT

  Engineering 
  Residential 
  Non-residential 
  Government 
  Commercial manufacturing 
  Events 
  Industrial maintenance 
  Mining & resources (development) 
  Mining & resources (production) 
  Oil & gas 

26%
5%
15%
6%
12%
3%
7%
9%
10%
7%

aligns the remaining effective asset 
life with the current demand cycle, 
reducing the risk of equipment 
oversupply in the future.

Early in the financial year the 
business was restructured to 
delayer the levels of management, 
align the sales team through 
centralising the reporting structure, 
and implementing new structures 
for support functions. Through this 
change Coates Hire strengthened 
key accounts and product teams 
with additional National Key 
Account Managers and National 
Product Managers appointed.

Looking forward, Coates Hire will 
build on its strengths as the market 
leader to move from a period 
of consolidation to a more agile 
approach to the market. The next 
phase of the strategy includes a 
new lens on customer experience 
and outstanding customer service, 
growth of the specialist business 
and increased discipline on pricing 
and cost. 

We recently announced that 
Michael Byrne resigned. Michael 
was employed to improve 
productivity and make Coates Hire 
more agile given the significant 
industry change following the 
resources investment boom; and 
he successfully implemented a 
number of initiatives in this regard. 
Importantly, and as a tribute to 
the strength of the executive team 
at Coates Hire, Jeff Fraser, the 
existing CFO has been chosen to 
replace Michael.

Coates Hire will continue to focus 
on growing the business whilst 
competing vigorously to win 
market share through providing 
innovative solutions for their 
customers’ business challenges. 

COATES HIRE 
Coates Hire is Australia’s largest 
equipment solutions provider 
offering over 20 categories 
of general hire and specialist 
equipment to customers across 
a range of industries including 
mining, resources, construction, 
infrastructure and major events. 
Coates Hire has operations across 
Australia and in Indonesia. 

Coates Hire full year underlying 
EBIT of $97.3 million is 
seven per cent lower than the 
prior year reflecting the pressure 
on price and margin. In addition, a 
disciplined debt management plan 
was implemented for senior debt, 
supporting $75 million in principal 
being repaid in FY16.

With significant changes in the 
external environment, Coates Hire 
has been on a journey of 
transformation and maintains its 
leadership position in the hire and 
equipment solutions industry. Over 
the last three years a number of 

Coates Hire  
($m)

Revenue and other 
income

Gross profit

Underlying EBITDA

Underlying EBIT

Statutory NPAT

Segment result  
($m)

Share of Coates 
underlying NPAT

Management fee

Segment result

2016

873.0

514.6

266.7

97.3

(17.8)

2016

3.7

1.5

5.2

2015

919.3

557.0

309.5

104.4

(435.9)

% 
Change

(5)

(8)

(14)

(7)

96

2015

5.9

2.0

7.9

% 
Change

(37)

(25)

(34)

changes have been put in place to 
move Coates Hire to a more agile, 
sustainable and profitable position.

During the financial year significant 
focus was placed on right-sizing 
headcount and the cost base. 
This involved redundancies of 
approximately 200 employees 
through voluntary and compulsory 
redundancy programs, and the 
closure of 14 branches in areas of 
low demand or project completions. 
A strategic program to streamline 
procurement processes and reduce 
operating expenditure continues 
to be implemented, resulting in the 
reduction of hundreds of suppliers, 
significantly fewer with preferred 
supplier status, and delivering an 
annualised equivalent of $8.0 million 
in savings, with more savings to 
follow as the program is completed 
in 2017. 

Fleet productivity and accelerated 
disposals were a significant 
area for the business with over 
$268.0 million original cost of 
assets disposed of across the 
county; the redeployment of $50.0 
million of fleet from the West to 
the Eastern Seaboard; and the 
implementation of a number of 
key fleet productivity measures. 
The strategy has involved moving 
the fleet to where there is strong 
demand and there is continued 
growth in this demand related to the 
east coast infrastructure activity.

During FY16, Coates Hire acquired 
3,700 access and truck assets 
from Force Equipment Ltd. (in 
Administration) to become the 
biggest equipment supplier in the 
access product category – now 
offering over 10,000 access assets 
to customers. This optimises future 
access fleet capital investment and 

Seven Group Holdings23

AllightSykes  
($m)

Product sales

Product support

Other revenue and 
other income

Total revenue and 
other income

2016

40.9

28.8

0.1

2015

52.6

29.9

0.3

% 
Change

(22)

(4)

(67)

69.8

82.8

(16)

Segment EBIT

(3.4)

(6.4)

Segment EBIT margin

(8.3)% 

(12.2)%

47

32

The company anticipates growth 
from its specialist and general 
hire businesses and specifically 
growth in the area of propping, 
shoring, pumps and fluid 
management equipment, as well 
as increased demand for design 
and engineering, certification and 
installation services. 

Innovation and agility coupled with 
a national footprint, disciplined 
business management and 
the company’s management 
depth of experience is the key 
to Coates Hire’s success in the 
challenging market.

ALLIGHTSYKES 
AllightSykes provides lighting, 
dewatering, and power solutions 
to a wide range of mining, 
construction, and industrial 
customers in Australia and 
internationally. The company 
is the market leader in its key 
segments and develops customer 
specific engineered solutions. It 
also distributes innovative product 
solutions for these markets out of 
three primary facilities.

During FY16 Paul Thompson was 
appointed as the AllightSykes CEO. 
Mr Thompson was previously the 
COO of the Caterpillar dealership 
in Taiwan and has extensive 
experience working with mining and 
industrial services customers.

AllightSykes has a diverse range 
of products and markets, which 
enables the business to meet the 
ongoing challenges within the 
markets it operates. However, the 
domestic market conditions have 
not been without their challenges 
across AllightSykes’ core product 
offering. The customers with 
exposure to mining have been 
increasingly feeling the effects 
of the lower commodity prices 
and pared back the demand 
for product. 

As a consequence, the aftermarket 
proportion of the business 
continues to grow, as parked-up 
assets are consumed or retired, 
and increased maintenance is 
required to support ageing assets 
whilst production output increases.

AllightSykes reported FY16 trading 
revenue of $69.8 million on a 
standalone basis, down 16 per 
cent due to the contraction in the 
mining and rental industries both 
domestically and internationally. 

The business remains focused 
on driving internal efficiencies in 
the face of a market that lacked 
demand depth, primarily from 
a forward-looking perspective. 
AllightSykes continues to develop 
strong partnerships with global 
OEMs to develop new channels to 
access global markets.

The challenging conditions 
have necessitated a deeper 
understanding of customer 
requirements which has led to a 
number of joint developments that 
offer bespoke solutions. During 
the year, AllightSykes received 
a runner-up safety award from 
one of the “big three miners” 
and the Water division secured a 
supply arrangement with a major 
international water company. 
The supply is for proprietary 
componentry for the customer’s 
global operations. 

The product value proposition has 
been strengthened through the 
introduction of industry leading 
technology into the lighting 
business, both as new build 
and as retrofit options. FY17 will 
see ongoing efforts in delivering 
a strategic product cost down 
program that ensures the cost  
base of the locally assembled 
products remain competitive with 
offshore competitors.

ANNUAL REPORT 20162424 Seven Group Holdings

MEDIA 
INVESTMENTS

Ten years of  
TV ratings dominance

Seven Group HoldingsANNUAL REPORT 2016

2525

RATINGS 
Largest ever lead 
in ratings in total 
people in every key 
demographic achieved 
in the six months 
to June 2016

CONTENT 
Seven West Media 
creates and owns 
the best content 
and delivers it to the 
widest multi-platform 
audience in Australia

ANNUAL REPORT 201626

MEDIA 
INVESTMENTS

Softer audience trends for linear 
viewing across the FTA market 
impacted market revenue with 
Seven’s advertising revenue down 
5.8 per cent in the period. Seven 
is tackling these challenges with 
its strategy to increasingly make 
its content available anytime, on 
any device and where it can be 
incrementally monetised.

As part of this strategy, the 
Seven Network delivered a major 
milestone in the year with an 
Australian first, the launch of live 
streaming of all of the network’s 
broadcast channels. This was 
launched with the Melbourne 
Cup, and recorded over 400,000 
concurrent live streams through 
the event. This success has been 
built on and exceeded with Seven’s 
coverage of the Australian Open, 
which recorded over 7.4 million 
live streams through the event. 
With the Olympics firmly in its 
sights, the Seven Network is set 
to exclusively deliver the most 
comprehensive, technologically 
advanced, multi-platform 
coverage to all Australians on any 
communications device.

The Seven Network continues 
to make a strong commitment 
to live sport, holding multi-
year rights to premium events, 
including the Olympic Games, 
the 2018 Commonwealth Games, 
Australian Football League, the 
Melbourne Spring Carnival, 
including the Melbourne Cup, 
and all major tennis tournaments 
in Australia, including the 
Australian Open and the Davis Cup.

Seven Productions growth 
trajectory continued unabated with 
its 5th year of double digit revenue 
growth. International demand 
for Seven’s finished programs 
and the third party production 
capabilities of Seven, 7Wonder and 
7Beyond continue to be strong. 
Finished program sales and third 
party productions now represent 
approximately seven per cent of 
Seven’s earnings.

Seven West Media leads 
the market in content production 
and audience delivery

SEVEN WEST MEDIA  
– MEDIA AND CONTENT
Seven West Media Limited 
is Australia’s leading multi-
platform media company 
with a market-leading 
presence in television, content 
production, digital, magazine 
and newspaper publishing. 
Seven Group Holdings owns a 
41.0 per cent interest in Seven 
West Media. The company is 
the home to many of Australia’s 
best performing media 
businesses – Seven Network, 
Pacific, The West Australian, 
Yahoo 7 and Presto.

As the media landscape continues 
to transform, Seven West Media 
is demonstrating its agility in 
adapting to future consumption 
habits and monetising the 
audiences that follow the leading 
brands. Content is at the core of 
Seven West Media’s businesses, 
which will always be fundamental, 
however, the landscape evolves.

Seven West Media’s strategic 
focus is on maintaining leadership, 
delivering content anywhere, 
anytime and on any device as 
well as growing the production of 
owned content and expanding into 
international markets. At the same 
time, the company continues to 
explore new ways to redefine the 
operating model, cutting costs 
by over $60 million over the last 
three years, while continuing 
to deliver a strong operational 
performance, building on its 
leadership position.

The Seven Network has maintained 
strong momentum through the year, 
marking up a decade of dominance 
with its 10th consecutive year of 
ratings leadership. In the 2016 
calendar year to date, Seven 
delivered its largest ratings lead 
ever over its nearest rival, testament 
to the network’s ability to develop 
and promote engaging content that 
attracts Australia’s largest audiences, 
not only through broadcast, but also 
through digital channels. 

The Seven Network delivered a 
38.9 per cent revenue share of 
the free-to-air television market 
for the 2016 financial year. 

Seven Group Holdings27

Media 
investments ($m)

Share of associates 
NPAT:
– Seven West Media

Other income:
– Other investment 
income

2016

85.0

2015

66.0

% 
Change

29

3.3

37.5

(91)

Segment EBIT

88.3

103.5

(15)

These new initiatives are expected 
to deliver a meaningful contribution 
in FY17.

Yahoo7 is driving new revenue 
streams through its MAVENS 
(Mobile Video Native Social) 
strategy, particularly through strong 
demand from third party publishers 
for Yahoo’s native advertising 
technology. Strong growth in this 
area (of over 100%) has largely 
offset softness in the traditional 
display advertising business. 
Combined with a strong approach 
to cost management, Yahoo7 has 
limited the impact to current year 
earnings (EBIT down 4 per cent 
on prior year) while setting itself 
to capitalise on growth markets 
going forward.

Seven West Media continues 
to invest and establish new 
businesses. Red Live business, 
which launched in 2015 has 
recorded a stellar performance with 
key marquee events including the 
Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo, 
which sold over 150,000 tickets 
for the five shows over three 
days. Seven West Media has 
made further investments in 
adjacent businesses that are 
disrupting existing business 
models, such as HealthEngine, 
Nabo, SocietyOne, Airtasker, 
Newzulu and Startsat60.com.au 
– all of which have the potential 
to benefit significantly from 
Seven West Media’s considerable 
market reach. These investments 
are being made while effectively 
managing the balance sheet (net 
debt maintained at 2x EBITDA) 
to ensure the business has 
sufficient flexibility in the short 
to medium term.

The West Australian newspaper 
is the dominant news publication 
in the West Australian market, 
reaching over 70 per cent of 
Western Australians over the 
age of 14 every day. Through the 
integration of The West and Seven 
Perth, the business is efficiently 
delivering the highest quality news 
coverage with the latest breaking 
news and relevant local stories 
through print and digital editorial, 
TV and short form video. 

The digital transformation strategy 
is gaining pace with digital editions 
of The West increasing strongly 
in the year. Softer economic 
conditions and structural 
challenges continue to place 
pressure on revenue. However, The 
West is developing new revenue 
streams that target specific content 
verticals in areas it believes can 
better monetise its loyal audience. 
In the face of some of the top line 
revenue challenges, The West 
has continued to deliver market 
leading margins with its focus on 
costs, down 10.5 per cent in the 
period. The acquisition of The 
Sunday Times will provide further 
opportunities for The West to grow.

Pacific has a combined audience 
of approximately 24.2 million 
consumers per month via print, 
social and digital platforms 
– an increase of 90 per cent 
year-on-year. Leveraging its leading 
brands including, Better Homes 
and Gardens, marie claire, New 
Idea, Home Beautiful, that’s life! 
and Who with their loyal audiences 
is key to the transformation of 
Pacific which is pursuing its strategy 
to drive deeper engagement 
and monetisation through print, 
digital, events, eCommerce and 
digital services. The company 
has invested in several digital 
initiatives in this year as part of this 
strategy, including the launch of 
BEAUTYcrew, Foodiful, Allrecipes, 
StyledBy marie claire and 
mywedding. Advertising conditions 
have been challenging for print and 
circulation has also been under 
pressure, which has resulted in 
8.6 per cent revenue decline in the 
year. Despite the investment in new 
initiatives, the business has reduced 
costs by 3.8 per cent in the year. 

ANNUAL REPORT 20162828 Seven Group Holdings

ENERGY

SGH is strengthening 
the Energy business for 
growth in Australian and 
International markets

Seven Group Holdings29

The Group’s view of longer 
term growth prospects in the 
Australian East Coast gas market 
and Asian energy markets 
is reinforced by regulator 
forecasts of domestic gas 
demand and the start-up and 
operation of four LNG trains 
in Queensland for export into 
Asian demand centres.

Throughout the integration of the 
energy group into the business in 
2015, SGH has applied disciplined 
capital allocation and significant 
reduction in corporate overheads 
to manage earnings through the 
cyclical downturn in commodity 
prices. Through constantly 
challenging the unit operating costs, 
the business is and will continue 
to be positioned to withstand the 
low-cycle and then maximise the 
benefit of an up-cycle. In parallel to 
the management of costs we have 
maintained a determined focus on 
the strategic activities to realise 
value on the assets in the portfolio.

The Longtom field (100 per cent 
SGH Energy interest) in the 
Gippsland Basin, with both 
developed and undeveloped 
conventional resources and existing 
infrastructure in place, is ideally 
positioned to supply the demand 
for gas along the Australian 
East Coast. Plans for the start-up 
of the field and further development 
of the proven reservoirs across the 
field are progressing, with keen 
interest from both industrial and 
retail gas buyers in the Longtom 
supply. The Gemfish exploration 
prospect on the Longtom 
production permit remains an 
upside opportunity for exploitation 
with future Longtom development.

Energy  
($m)

Sale of gas, oil and condensate
Expenses 

Segment EBITDA

Depreciation and amortisation

Segment EBIT

2016

5.7
(8.2)

0.7

(3.0)

(2.3)

2015

21.4
(11.7)

11.6

(10.5)

% 
Change

(73)
30

(94)

71

1.1

<(100)

The merging of the Beach Energy 
and Drillsearch companies in 
February 2016 provides more 
efficient and lower cost operations 
and development of quality Cooper 
Basin assets that support the 
East Coast market. This strategic 
SGH Energy investment provides 
exposure to a successful and 
experienced team of onshore 
operators with a strengthened 
balance sheet for significant 
growth capacity.

Activity at the Bivins Ranch 
producing asset (11.2 per cent SGH 
Energy working interest) operated 
by Apache Corporation in the 
Texas Panhandle region of the USA 
has been prudently managed in 
the prevailing market conditions. 
Production continues, while drilling 
activity has been scaled back to 
the minimum lease commitments, 
however, exciting results have come 
from the recent Quanah 95-1H 
well drilled in the upper portion 
of the Canyon Lime. The 30-day 
rate averaged 1,660 boe per day, 
with ongoing assessment of the 
potential of this new zone. Future 
capital investment includes an 
enhanced oil recovery project for 
existing vertical well producers and 
horizontal well development across 
the southern blocks of the Ranch.

Development planning for the 
Crux field (15 per cent SGH Energy 
interest) in the Browse Basin off 
the coast of North-West Australia 
continues by the operator 
(Shell Australia Pty Ltd), with 2016 
seeing a ramp up in commercial 
discussions as potential 
development concepts are further 
defined. The proximity of Crux to 
surrounding developments provides 

the potential for future brownfield 
tie-in and future LNG supply at 
a time when an LNG demand 
gap is predicted to increase. The 
Auriga West exploration well was 
drilled on the Crux retention lease 
permit in a location approximately 
3 km from the Crux field. 
Hydrocarbons were discovered, 
and while technical evaluation is 
ongoing, it is anticipated that this 
resource can provide tie-back 
volumes to the Crux project.

Also located in the Browse Basin 
is the exploration permit WA377P 
(100 per cent SGH Energy interest). 
Geotechnical assessment is 
continuing to define the larger 
prospect around the earlier 
discovery of gas and condensate 
at the Echuca Shoals well. This 
prospect is ideally located for 
potential future development 
within 50 km of the surrounding 
Browse Basin developments at 
Icthys and Prelude.

The rationalised business has a 
greater resilience to the current 
market conditions and a capability 
to respond quickly to change. 

The opportunity for growth 
through acquisition is likely to 
increase through 2016 as more 
assets and businesses succumb 
to the roll-off of price hedges 
and debt redeterminations.  
SGH Energy remains vigilant to 
quality opportunities that are 
consistent with the strategic plans 
for the Energy business and create 
shareholder value. 

ANNUAL REPORT 20163030 Seven Group Holdings

OTHER 
INVESTMENTS

Other investments comprise 
the Group’s listed investment 
portfolio as well as direct and 
indirect property holdings 
through unlisted trusts. The 
listed investment portfolio 
excludes the Group’s strategic 
holding in Beach Energy Limited 
which has been included in the 
Energy segment with effect from 
1 July 2015 and comparatives 
have been restated accordingly.

The listed investment portfolio 
provided a gross dividend yield 
of 5.8 per cent for the Group. 
Dividend income was impacted by 
dividend reductions by some of the 
underlying investments.

The Group has direct property 
holdings which include the Kings 
Square site and former Seven 
Network’s Dianella studio, both 
located in Perth as well as exposure 
to holdings through unlisted 
property trusts. During the year, 
the Group recognised revenue of 
$11.8 million relating to the sale of 
25 lots following the completion 
of the first stage of the Seven Hills 
residential development in Perth 
which yield a profit of $4.7 million 
for the year with further sales 
expected over the following 
two years.

Other investments underlying 
segment EBIT was $40.4 million, 
nine per cent ahead of the previous 
year’s $37.1 million.

The Group also recognised a 
gain of $14.1 million relating to 
the development of Kings Square 
4 which has been included within 
significant items for the year.

The Group’s indirect holdings in 
unlisted property trusts include 
a 25 per cent stake in Revy 
Investments Trust (Revy) and a 
47.3 per cent stake in Flagship. 

Other investments 
($m)

Revenue

Other income

Share of results from equity 
accounted investees

Total revenue and other income

Expenses 

Segment EBITDA

Depreciation and amortisation

Segment EBIT

2016

11.8 

36.5 

1.5 

49.8 

(9.2)

40.6 

(0.2)

40.4 

2015

–

41.5 

5.0 

46.5 

(6.5)

40.0 

(2.9)

37.1 

% 
Change

–

(12)

(70)

7

(42)

2

93

9

Sale of Revy building in Pyrmont NSW 
subject to FIRB approval. Anticipated 
share of profit of ~$28m expected to 
be recognised in FY17

The Group’s investment portfolio 
yielded a (8.3) per cent on a total 
return pre-tax basis (capturing 
the portfolio’s mark-to-market 
movement, any gain or loss on 
disposal and dividend income 
combined), under-performing the 
ASX/200 Index which returned 
2.2 per cent. The portfolio 
was impacted by negative 
mark-to-market movements given 
lower underlying share prices at 
year end. Despite this, at year 
end the listed portfolio included 
unrealised gains of $173.1 million 
on the original cost of the 
underlying shares.

The Group will continue to monitor 
the market for opportunities to 
enhance the value of its investment 
portfolio as a store of value 
and liquidity.

These and other unlisted property 
trust investments are accounted for 
using the equity method. During the 
year, Revy completed the sale of a 
building in Pyrmont for which the 
Group recognised its proportionate 
share of the profit on the transaction 
of $13.8 million within significant 
items. This company has also 
entered into sale contracts relating 
to the property in Pyrmont where 
Seven West Media is currently 
headquartered and completion 
is subject to Foreign Investment 
Review Board approval which had 
not been received by year end.

The Group’s listed investment 
portfolio as at the end of June 2016 
totaled $621.6 million (excluding 
the Group‘s strategic investments 
in Seven West Media Limited, 
Prime Media Group Limited and 
Beach Energy Limited). The listed 
portfolio is a store of liquidity, 
allowing the Group to fund 
potential opportunities when they 
become available. 

Seven Group HoldingsANNUAL REPORT 2016

3131

ANNUAL REPORT 201632

RISK FACTORS ASSOCIATED WITH SGH
The business activities of the Group are subject to various risks 
and there are many factors which may impact on the future 
performance and position of SGH. These risks are both specific 
to SGH as well as general commercial and economic risks. 
These risks may, either individually or in combination, affect the 
future operating and financial performance of SGH and the value 
of SGH shares.

RISK MANAGEMENT
The Company recognises that 
the management of business and 
economic risk is an integral part of 
its operations and has established 
policies and procedures for the 
oversight and management of 
material business risks, including 
the establishment of the Audit & 
Risk Committee.

The Company maintains a Strategic 
Risk Assessment register that 
identifies, assesses, ranks and 
updates the main strategic risks, 
including material business risks, 
facing the Company in respect of 
which management formulates and 
records the internal risk controls 
implemented for those risks.

Each of the material business risks 
highlighted below is monitored and 
managed by appropriate senior 
management within the Group 
who are delegated responsibility to 
manage or escalate issues to the 
SGH executive. Where appropriate, 
external advisers are appointed to 
assist in managing the risk.

SGH has various risk management 
policies and procedures in place 
to enable the identification, 
assessment and mitigation of risks 
that arise through its activities. 
These include tender, project, 
interest rate, foreign exchange 
and credit risks. For further 
information in relation to SGH’s risk 
management framework, refer to 
pages 49 to 50 of the Corporate 
Governance Statement in the 
Annual Report.

The material business risks are 
summarised below but should not 
be regarded as an exhaustive list 
of all risks that affect the business, 
furthermore, the items have not 
been prioritised.

MATERIAL BUSINESS RISKS
Investment risks
Investment opportunities 
The financial performance of SGH 
and the returns available to SGH 
shareholders will be affected by 
the recognition and availability of 
suitable investment opportunities in 
the future. Investment opportunities 
are subject to market conditions 
and other factors largely outside of 
the control of SGH. SGH’s ability to 
divest its investments will also be 
subject to these factors.

Minority investment risk
SGH holds minority interests in 
a number of listed companies 
including Seven West Media 
Limited, Beach Energy Limited 
and Prime Media Group Limited. 
Where SGH holds an investment 
and is limited in its ability to exert 
control over the investee entity, 
it may become subject to the 
operational control of other parties 
and the financial performance this 
may entail. Additionally, SGH will 
be exposed to the risks inherent 
in minority shareholdings and may 
not be able to achieve an easy or 
profitable exit from its investments. 
This could lead to a reduction in 
the financial performance of SGH. 
Listed equity markets fluctuate 
with time, which leads to the risk 
that the value of SGH’s significant 
listed investment portfolio will 
also fluctuate.

Free float
SGH is controlled by a majority 
shareholder and, as a result, has a 
limited free float which means that 
SGH’s share price can be more 
volatile given comparatively lower 
average daily trading volumes.

Investment portfolio 
SGH has investments in a number 
of ASX listed, and unlisted, 
companies that it does not control. 
There are price, liquidity and 
other risks associated with any 
investment in such companies, 
including the risk that distributions 
paid to security holders will be 
reduced, adversely impacting the 
yield of the broader portfolio. The 
price of shares in SGH’s portfolio 
may rise or fall due to numerous 
factors, which may affect the 
market performance of SGH. These 
include changes in Australian and 
international stock markets and 
investor sentiment; domestic and 
world economic conditions and 
outlook; inflation rates, interest 
rates, employment, taxation and 
changes to government policy, 
legislation or regulation. 

Coates Hire joint venture risk 
SGH is exposed to risks 
associated with its investment 
in Coates Hire. Carlyle and 
SGH each hold a ~47 per cent 
economic interest in Coates 
Hire. Under the co-investment 
arrangements with Carlyle, SGH 
(via its wholly owned subsidiary 
National Hire Group Limited) or 
Carlyle may seek to sell their 
investment in Coates Hire in 
the future. 

Seven Group Holdings33

WesTrac Group has maintained a 
strong relationship with Caterpillar 
and although WesTrac Group 
expects this relationship to 
continue, as is customary in dealer 
agreements with Caterpillar, the 
dealer agreements with Caterpillar 
can be terminated by either party 
upon 90-day notice at any time. 
The dealer agreements also 
contain provisions for automatic 
or accelerated termination in 
certain circumstances, such as 
material breach, insolvency events, 
and changes in control without 
Caterpillar consent, and are not 
exclusive. The Caterpillar dealer 
agreements are not, however, 
subject to periodic renewal 
requirements and are perpetual in 
nature (subject to the termination 
right noted above). In the event 
Caterpillar terminates or appoints 
another dealer or deals directly in 
the territories in which WesTrac 
Group operates, it would have a 
material adverse effect on WesTrac 
Group’s business, financial 
condition and results of operations 
as well as trigger accelerated 
prepayments across the SGH 
Group’s key funding arrangements.

WesTrac Group is dependent on 
Caterpillar for timely supply of 
equipment and parts from their 
global manufacturing factories and 
distribution warehouses. During 
periods of intense demand or in the 
event of disruption to Caterpillar’s 
business there may be delays in the 
supply of equipment and parts to 
WesTrac Group. This has not in the 
past proven to be an impediment 
to WesTrac Group. In the event 
that Caterpillar is unable to supply 
its products in the quantities and 
timeframes required by WesTrac 
Group’s customers, it may have 
a material adverse effect on 
WesTrac Group’s business, financial 
condition and results of operations. 
WesTrac Group is also dependent 
on Caterpillar to maintain product 
development and innovation to 
ensure that it has a quality product 
offering for its customers. 

There is a risk that SGH’s interest 
in Coates Hire will increase or 
decrease and that this increase or 
decrease will not be within SGH’s 
absolute control. There is a risk that 
the transaction by which SGH’s 
investment decreases or increases 
does not realise or attribute the 
same value as SGH attributes to 
that investment. This risk maybe 
further exacerbated due to the 
leverage related to this structure.

Financial risks 
Interest rate, liquidity and bank  
default risk 
SGH has substantial cash reserves 
on deposit with a number of 
major financial institutions. These 
reserves are invested in both cash 
call and term deposit accounts. 
Cash call accounts are immediately 
available to SGH but offer lower 
yields. Conversely, term deposits 
lock up SGH’s cash reserves for a 
specified period of time but earn 
higher yields. The use of term 
deposits exposes SGH to liquidity 
risk as SGH may be unable to 
access its cash reserves to fund an 
immediately available investment 
opportunity if the reserves are 
invested for a specified period of 
time. SGH manages the proportion 
of its cash reserves held in each 
type of account, seeking to 
maximise the return on its cash 
and cash equivalents. The rate of 
return available to SGH is largely 
outside of its control and is a 
function of both the Reserve Bank 
of Australia’s overnight cash rate 
and the spreads offered by deposit 
taking institutions. SGH is exposed 
to risk that the interest rates offered 
for both cash call and term deposit 
accounts could materially fluctuate, 
which may affect the financial 
and operating performance. 
Additionally, SGH is exposed to 
the risk of default by one or all of 
the deposit-taking institutions with 
which SGH banks.

Foreign exchange 
WesTrac Group is exposed to 
foreign exchange risk with the 
purchase of equipment and 
inventory which is denominated in 
USD and also from the derivation 
of revenues from WesTrac China 
which is denominated in Renminbi 
and USD. As part of its pricing 
of equipment globally, Caterpillar 
generally resets pricing annually 
for heavy equipment which is 
denominated in USD. Movements 

in the pricing of equipment impacts 
WesTrac Group’s cost of machines 
and may also affect the overall profit 
earned on the sale of equipment to 
customers which is denominated 
in either AUD, USD or both. 
Fluctuations in the AUD/USD,  
AUD/Renminbi and AUD/HKD 
exchange rates could have an 
adverse impact on WesTrac 
Group’s business, financial 
condition and results of operations 
which are reported in Australian 
dollars. The Group’s investments in 
WesTrac China and US oil and gas 
assets have not been hedged given 
the indeterminable duration of the 
investment horizon. 

WesTrac Group has a large diversified 
customer base and is not dependent 
on any single customer or group 
of customers 
WesTrac Group’s customers may 
default due to bankruptcy or other 
reasons. A customer’s termination 
of, or default under, a contract with 
WesTrac Group, could result in a 
loss of expected revenues from the 
sale or rental of equipment and the 
provision of parts and maintenance, 
and additional expenses for 
WesTrac Group. Accordingly, the 
termination of, or default under, 
a contract by any of WesTrac 
Group’s customers could have an 
adverse effect on WesTrac Group’s 
business, financial condition and 
results of operations. 

Tax risk
The Company and its wholly owned 
subsidiaries may be subject to 
reviews by taxation authorities from 
time to time in the ordinary course 
of business. These reviews may 
result in the taxation authorities 
taking a different view on the tax 
treatment of particular transactions 
from that of the Company and 
its wholly owned subsidiaries, 
which could lead to additional tax 
liabilities. SGH proactively manages 
this risk through the use of taxation 
advisers and working closely with 
taxation authorities. 

Operational risks 
Dependence on Caterpillar
WesTrac Group is dependent 
on Caterpillar to maintain its 
authorisation as the authorised 
dealer of Caterpillar equipment 
and parts in its Western Australia, 
New South Wales/ACT and North 
Eastern China Service Territories. 
WesTrac Group’s predecessor 
companies have been associated 
with Caterpillar since 1925 and 
WesTrac’s association with 
Caterpillar has been since 1990. 

ANNUAL REPORT 201634

Decline in demand from mining 
or construction industries
WesTrac Group’s customer base 
consists primarily of companies in 
the mining and civil construction 
industries. Demand for WesTrac 
Group’s products and services 
in these industries is driven by 
the volume of earth and material 
moved. This is in turn driven 
by demand for commodities, 
stripping ratios in mining, demand 
for construction materials 
and the number and scale of 
infrastructure projects.

If these are negatively impacted, 
WesTrac Group’s business, 
financial condition and results of 
operations could be materially 
adversely affected.

Increased competition from other 
equipment suppliers
WesTrac Group operates in a 
competitive environment in each 
of its business sectors. Many of its 
competitors are well established 
companies. WesTrac Group’s 
range and quality of products 
and services, its ability to 
meet sophisticated customer 
requirements and its extensive 
dealer network enhance its 
competitive position. However, 

during periods of low demand, 
price competition can increase 
and this may have a material 
adverse effect on WesTrac Group’s 
business, financial condition and 
results of operations. 

Customer contracts
WesTrac Group’s alliance 
agreements for equipment supply 
exist with select customers 
only. However, where they exist 
they are underpinned by global 
customer alliances with Caterpillar. 
The routine supply agreements 
which make up the majority 
of WesTrac Group’s customer 
contracts relate to specific pieces 
of equipment and are, therefore, 
short to medium term in nature. The 
maintenance and repair agreements 
are medium to long term in duration 
but, whilst material in value, are 
fewer in number. As there are very 
few contracts tying customers to 
WesTrac Group for terms in excess 
of five years, although viewed as 
unlikely, an event such as a strong 
competitor entering the market 
or Caterpillar authorising another 
dealer in the service territories in 
which WesTrac Group operates, 
WesTrac Group’s territories service 
business, financial condition and 
results of operations could be 
materially adversely affected.

Variation in pricing 
Generally, Caterpillar resets 
pricing annually for equipment 
and reviews its parts pricing twice 
a year, with any Caterpillar parts 
pricing changes implemented 
in January and July. Usually, at 
least two-month notice is given 
of equipment pricing changes. 
WesTrac may have committed 
to sell equipment to a customer 
at a certain price when the new 
Caterpillar prices are issued. 
WesTrac Group manages this risk 
through flexibility in the terms and 
conditions of sale and Caterpillar 
usually offers price protection 
policies to mitigate this risk. 

Media
The company is exposed to 
the Media industry through 
its minority investment in 
Seven West Media Limited and 
Prime Media Group Limited. The 
industry is currently undergoing 
structural change with viewer 
fragmentation in television as well 
as reductions in magazine and 
newspaper readership resulting 
in declines in advertising markets 
across all three platforms. 
Company earnings could also be 
negatively impacted by increased 
sporting broadcast rights.

Seven Group Holdings35

Environmental and safety risks  
and social licence to operate 
A range of health, safety and 
environmental risks exists with oil 
and gas exploration and production 
activities. Accidents, environmental 
incidents and real or perceived 
threats to the environment or the 
amenity of local communities could 
result in a loss of the Company‘s 
social licence to operate, leading 
to delays, disruption or the 
shutdown of exploration and 
production activities. SGH Energy, 
Shell Australia Pty Limited and 
Apache Corporation have a 
comprehensive environmental, 
health and safety management 
system to mitigate the risk 
of incidents. 

Joint venture arrangements
SGH’s business is carried out 
through joint ventures. The use of 
joint ventures is common in the 
exploration and production industry 
and serves to mitigate the risk and 
associated cost of exploration, 
production and operational failure. 
However, failure of agreement 
or alignment with joint venture 
partners or the failure of third party 
joint venture operators could have a 
material effect on SGH’s business. 
The failure of joint venture partners 
to meet their commitments and 
share costs and liabilities can 
result in increased costs to SGH. 
SGH will work closely with its joint 
venture partners in order to reduce 
the risk of misalignment in joint 
venture activities.

Further television spectrum licences 
are currently held in perpetuity 
which means that the book value 
attributed to licences has an 
indefinite life. 

Should the current licence model 
move to a non-perpetual system the 
carrying value attributed to licences 
may need to be amortised, which 
could significantly impact investee 
company earnings. 

Safety and environment 
The health and safety of the 
Group’s staff is the Group’s first 
priority and SGH has improved 
its health and safety performance 
in recent years. SGH will seek to 
continue to improve its health and 
safety performance targeting a goal 
of zero work-related injuries and 
environmental incidents. 

The Group’s activities can 
result in harm to people and the 
environment. SGH has sought to 
mitigate this risk by assessing, 
understanding and mitigating 
the critical risks facing its various 
businesses and implementing 
Life Saving Rules which provide 
direction and guidance on these 
critical risks. 

Volatility in oil and gas prices 
The Energy segment relies on 
the production and sale of oil and 
gas products (including LNG) to a 
variety of buyers under a range of 
short-term and long-term contracts 
some of which are expected to be 
oil-linked. A downward movement 
in oil prices could have a significant 
effect on SGH’s performance and 
future prospects. Crude oil prices 
are affected by numerous factors 
beyond SGH’s control and have 
fluctuated widely historically. SGH 
has the option of entering into 
commodity crude oil price swap 
and option contracts to manage 
its oil price risk, and continually 
monitors oil price volatility to 
assess the need for commodity 
price hedging. During 2016 due 
to the infancy of these operations 
and limited production, and at 
the time of publishing this report, 
SGH did not have any hedging 
positions in place. 

Project development risk 
SGH proposes to invest significant 
amount of capital in the assets of 
SGH Energy (Longtom and Crux) 
projects. These and other projects 
may be delayed or be unsuccessful 
for many reasons, including 
unanticipated economic, financial, 
operational, engineering, technical, 
environmental, contractual or 
political events. Delays, changes 
in scope, cost increases or poor 
performance outcomes pose risks 
that may impact SGH’s financial 
performance. For example, SGH’s 
ambition to grow production 
may not be achieved if any of 
the projects currently under 
consideration are not delivered 
successfully or any of the yet to 
be sanctioned projects are not 
approved for development. SGH 
has project and risk management 
and reporting systems in place and 
the progress and performance of 
material projects will be regularly 
reviewed by senior management 
and the Board. 

System implementation risk
WesTrac Australia is implementing 
a new enterprise resource 
planning (ERP) system which 
requires changes to core business 
processes, system interfaces and 
the way the company interacts with 
its key customers and employees. 
While change management 
disciplines and practices have 
been put in place, there are 
inherent risks in any such system 
implementation and supporting 
business process redesign.

Oil and gas reserves 
Estimations of recoverable oil 
and gas reserves and resources 
contain significant uncertainties, 
which are inherent in the reservoir 
geology, seismic and well data 
available and other factors such 
as project development and 
operating costs, together with 
commodity prices. SGH will adopt 
a reserves management system 
that is consistent with the Society of 
Petroleum Engineers standards. 

Exploration risk 
SGH’s future long-term prospects 
are also directly related to the 
success of efforts to replace 
existing oil and gas reserves as they 
are depleted through production. 
Exploration is a high risk endeavour 
subject to geological and 
technological uncertainties and the 
failure to replace utilised reserves 
with additional proved reserves is 
a risk inherent in the oil and gas 
exploration and production industry. 

ANNUAL REPORT 20163636 Seven Group Holdings

CORPORATE SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY
SGH is focused on the long-term 
sustainability of its businesses.

SGH is focused on the long-term 
sustainability of its businesses 
and its relationships with key 
stakeholders and is mindful of 
making a positive contribution 
to the community. This section 
outlines SGH’s practices in 
relation to the environment, human 
capital management and social 
responsibility, principally in relation 
to the Group’s predominant 
operating business, WesTrac 
Australia, as well as environmental 
practices relating to SGH Energy. 
Refer to pages 44 to 45 of this 
Annual Report for reporting on 
The Diversity Policy and the 
measureable objectives and 
related initiatives.

Under SGH’s risk framework, the 
Group has identified investment, 
financial and operational risks which 
it manages and mitigates. More 
detail concerning these risks, as 
well as the Company’s sustainable 
business practices, is set out in the 
Operating and Financial Review 
of this Annual Report on pages 
32 to 35. For more information on 
the Company’s risk management 
framework refer to pages 49 to 
50 of the Corporate Governance 
Statement of this Annual Report.

WESTRAC GROUP 
WesTrac Group’s mission to provide 
ground-breaking equipment 
solutions that help build the world 
is supported by its commitment 
to a work culture that empowers 
and rewards its employees for 
maintaining the highest standards 
of workplace health, safety, 
environmental management and 
quality control. 

Seven Group HoldingsANNUAL REPORT 2016

3737

ENVIRONMENT
Caring for the environment is central 
to how WesTrac Group conducts 
business. WesTrac Group achieves 
its environmental objectives by:

•  Being constantly aware of 

environmental risks and ensuring 
the right designs, plans, actions 
and people are in place to 
control them;

•  Using energy, water and other 

• 

finite resources efficiently, thereby 
reducing greenhouse gas 
emissions and waste;
Integrating environmental 
requirements when designing  
or modifying our facilities, 
products and services, in order 
to reduce life cycle costs and 
environmental impacts;

•  Complying with relevant laws 
and regulations and applying 
responsible standards where laws 
do not currently exist;
Implementing clear and 
meaningful environmental targets 
across the business to ensure 
clear visibility and control over 
potential environmental impacts;

• 

•  Adopting best practice and 
focusing on continuous 
improvement of environmental 
performance throughout 
the business with the 
goal of achieving zero 
environmental incidents;
Integrating environmental 
requirements into the design 
or modification of facilities to 
reduce life cycle costs and 
environmental impacts; and 

• 

•  Focusing on continuous 

improvement of environmental 
performance throughout 
the business.

Sustainability begins within 
WesTrac Group’s own operations. 
At its facilities, WesTrac Group 
has established high performance 
standards for the environment, 
health and safety and has adopted 
Caterpillar’s Production System 
(CPS) methodology. CPS is the 
order-to-delivery process that 
Caterpillar implemented on an 
enterprise-wide basis to achieve 
people, quality, velocity and cost 
goals. WesTrac Group has achieved 
Caterpillar CC100 Accreditation 
for achieving a minimum 
Contamination Control rating of 
three stars or higher at each branch 
right across West Australia, New 
South Wales and the Australian 
Capital Territory.

Environmental risks relating to 
the use or storage of hazardous 
materials within WesTrac Group are 
identified and managed through 
regular inspections of business 
premises, reviews of compliance 
and emergency procedures, and 
advice from external consultants 
and government agencies on 
environmental matters. Internal 
firefighting capabilities and 
equipment are regularly tested and 
emergency arrangements with key 
external response agencies have 
been established. 

WesTrac’s main business 
premises at South Guildford in 
Western Australia and Tomago in 
New South Wales are purpose-built 
for product distribution and each 
incorporated significant sustainable 
design features, including energy 
efficient lighting, rain water capture 
for onsite reuse, and native and 
drought resistant landscaping.

HUMAN CAPITAL MANAGEMENT
Safety
WesTrac Group promotes the early 
identification, assessment and 
control of all risks and hazards 
in order to prevent injury and we 
are committed to providing a safe 
working environment above all else. 

WesTrac Group’s goal is to be 
recognised as an industry leader in 
health and safety management by:

•  Making health and safety central 
to all business activities and 
encouraging employees to stop 
or delay work if they believe 
adequate risk management 
controls are not in place;
•  Being constantly aware of 

WesTrac Australia’s major accident 
and health risks and ensuring 
the right designs, plans, actions 
and people are in place to 
control them;

•  Ensuring the ongoing physical 
integrity of WesTrac Australia’s 
facilities as well as the currency 
and relevance of our operating 
procedures;

•  Complying with all relevant laws, 
regulations and standards such  
as our Life Saving Rules;
•  Setting internal objectives 

and targets, which drive us to 
continually improve our health  
and safety performance, with the 
aim of eliminating work-related 
injury and illness; and
•  Engaging contractors and 

suppliers who share WesTrac 
Australia’s values and working 
with them to consistently meet 
WesTrac Australia’s health and 
safety expectations.

Injury Reporting for WesTrac Australia

January 
2015

January 
2016

WesTrac Aust. TRIFR

WesTrac Aust. LTIFR

16.81

1.45

10.33

1.20

YTD as 
at June  
2016

9.99

0.89

Both Total Recordable Injury 
Frequency Rate (TRIFR) and Lost 
Time Injury Frequency Rate (LTIFR) 
above are calculated as events per 
1,000,000 hours worked. 

ANNUAL REPORT 20163838 Seven Group Holdings

Training
As one of the largest employers of 
apprentices in Australia, WesTrac 
developed the WesTrac Institute 
as part of its initiative to establish 
a National Skills Training Centre 
of Excellence. Through the 
Institute, WesTrac keeps its service 
capabilities up to date with training 
in the latest equipment advances as 
well as general training needs. 

With modern, state of the art 
campuses located in South 
Guildford, WA and Tomago, NSW, 
the WesTrac Institute is a 
comprehensive training centre 
for those looking to enter the 
heavy equipment industry. It is the 
preferred provider for all WesTrac 
training needs, including pre-trade 
and post-trade training (Automotive 
Heavy vehicle mechanics), 
machine operations, Occupational 
Health and Safety (OHS) and 
management training.

The WesTrac Institute currently 
delivers training and assessment in 
the following areas: 
•  Pre-employment/pre apprentice
•  Apprentice
•  Post trade (technical)
•  Machine operation
•  Technology
•  High Risk Work Licences
•  OHS

The Institute is also registered 
to deliver and asses units of 
competence and qualifications from 
the following training packages: 
•  Automotive
•  Metals and engineering
•  Resources and Infrastructure 

Industries
•  Construction
•  Business

Seven Group HoldingsANNUAL REPORT 2016

3939

WesTrac endeavours to make 
a positive contribution to the 
communities in which it operates

The WesTrac Institute is also 
available to customers wishing to 
advance the knowledge and skills 
of their employees in all aspects 
of machine operating techniques, 
preventative maintenance and 
diagnostic inspection procedures. 

Employee Retention 
and Engagement
WesTrac Group recognises that 
its people are its most valuable 
resource. In order to attract, retain 
and engage the most talented 
people, WesTrac Group offers a 
competitive salary and benefits 
scheme commensurate with 
industry standards. WesTrac 
Group also provides its employees 
with comprehensive learning and 
development programs designed 
to encourage their professional and 
personal development.

In order to track employee 
engagement and develop strategies 
to improve employee retention, 
the business participates in an 
annual Employee Opinion Survey 
which provides key insights into 
leadership, teamwork, engagement, 
satisfaction, reward and recognition 
and safety leadership. Employees 
are also provided with free, around 
the clock access to a dedicated 
employee assistance program 
(Access EAP), which provides pro-
active and preventative counselling 
and support services focused 
on equipping employees with 
greater knowledge and practical 
skills to enhance workplace and 
personal wellbeing. 

In 2015, WesTrac invested in a suite 
of new employee performance 
management tools to help improve 
employee engagement, satisfaction 
and retention.

SOCIAL
WesTrac Group endeavours to 
make a positive contribution to the 
communities in which it operates. 
As well as contributing to a variety 
of community based charities 
and organisations throughout 
the year, WesTrac Group also 
maintains a strategic donations and 
sponsorship portfolio, designed to 
benefit our employees, customers 
and the community organisations 
in which they participate. Each 
year the business participates in 
a number of charity fundraisers 
by sponsoring teams or providing 
financial donations to events 
such as:

•  MACA Ride to Conquer Cancer
•  Channel Seven Perth Telethon
•  Newcastle Variety Bash
•  Oxfam Australia Trailwalker
•  Sydney’s City to Surf

WesTrac Group has also 
established a number of strategic 
partnerships with charities and 
organisations involved in the 
communities and industries in 
which it operates, including:

•  The Trans-Help Foundation
•  Convoy for Kids
•  The NSW Rescue Helicopter 

Service

•  The Red Cross
•  RU Okay Organisation
•  Cerebral Palsy Australia
•  The Jodi Lee Foundation
•  The McGrath Foundation
•  The Princess Margaret Hospital 

Foundation

SGH ENERGY – ENVIRONMENT
Seven Group Holdings is mindful 
of its environmental obligations 
relating to its operations and 
investments held through 
SGH Energy. Seven Group Holdings 
has oversight of SGH Energy’s 
commitment to and achievement 
of high standards of health, 
safety, environment, quality and 
community (HSEQC) performance, 

and fostering a culture of 
continuous improvement in these 
areas. SGH Energy operates within 
the expectation adopted across 
the oil and gas industry that all 
hazards must be reduced to as low 
as reasonably practicable (ALARP). 
This is an integral part of SGH 
Energy’s HSEQC policy, standards 
and processes, which includes: 

•  Documenting, setting and 

applying standards that relate 
to HSEQC in the workplace 
and also with regards to their 
effect on employees, customers, 
contractors and the public; 
•  Maintaining and continuously 

improving the HSEQC 
Management System across the 
organisation;

•  Providing adequate training to 
SGH Energy personnel and 
consultants in order to fulfil their 
responsibilities; and

•  Fostering a culture that empowers 
and rewards everyone to act in 
accordance with this Policy.

SGH Energy’s Longtom 
Environment Plan and Longtom 
Safety Case, concerning the 
operation of SGH Energy’s 
Longtom production facilities, 
document the hazards and the 
specific controls that have been 
implemented by SGH Energy as 
well as targeted and measurable 
performance standards for 
the key controls to ensure that 
they continue to be effective. 
Stakeholder consultation is also 
a key part of the SGH Energy’s 
environmental management 
process for the Longtom operation. 
The Longtom Environment 
Plan and Longtom Safety Case 
have both been independently 
accepted by Federal Petroleum 
Industry Regulator, the National 
Offshore Petroleum Safety and 
Environmental Management 
Authority, with regular inspections, 
both internal and by the regulator. 

ANNUAL REPORT 201640

BOARD OF 
DIRECTORS

KERRY MATTHEW STOKES AC
Executive Chairman of Seven Group Holdings Limited since 
22 April 2010.

Executive Chairman of Seven Network Limited since July 1999. 
Prior to that Non Executive Chairman since June 1995. 

Appointed a Companion in the General Division of the Order 
of Australia in the Queen’s Birthday honours announced on 
9 June 2008. 

Chairman of Seven Media Group Pty Limited since 
December 2006.

Chairman of Australian Capital Equity Pty Limited Group which 
has significant interests in activities which include media and 
entertainment, resources, energy, property, pastoral and 
industrial activities. 

Chairman of Seven West Media Limited (formerly West Australian 
Newspapers Holdings Limited) since 11 December 2008. 
Appointed a Director on 25 September 2008. 

Mr Stokes is Chairman and Fellow (since November 2015)  
for the Australian War Memorial (previously a Council Member).

RYAN KERRY STOKES 
Mr Ryan Stokes is Managing Director & Chief Executive Officer  
of Seven Group Holdings Limited (SGH) since July 2015. 

He was previously Chief Operating Officer of SGH from 
28 August 2012 until 30 June 2015 and an Executive Director  
of the Company since 16 February 2010.

Mr Stokes is a Director of Seven West Media Limited (SWM), 
WesTrac Pty Ltd and Coates Hire. Mr Stokes was appointed  
to the Board of Beach Energy Limited in July 2016.

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 is Chairman of the National Library of Australia since 
2012. He is also a member of the Prime Ministerial Advisory Council 
on Veterans Mental Health established in 2014. In 2015, he became 
a Committee member of innovationXchange (within the Department 
of Foreign Affairs and Trade), which provides strategic guidance on 
innovation in aid programs. He is also a member of the International 
Olympic Committee Olympic Education Commission.

Mr Stokes holds a BComm from Curtin University.

SALLY ANNABELLE CHAPLAIN
Director of Seven Group Holdings Limited since 
24 November 2015.

Ms Chaplain is a Fellow of the Australian Institute of Company 
Directors and holds a Master of Business Administration from 
Melbourne University, a Bachelor of Arts majoring in Economics 
and Mandarin from Griffith University and a Diploma from the 
Securities Institute of Australia. She was recently awarded the 2015 
Outstanding Alumnus of the Year for Griffith University Business 
School and is a member of the Griffith University Business School 
Strategic Advisory Board.

TERRY JAMES DAVIS 
Director of Seven Group Holdings Limited since 1 June 2010.

Group Managing Director, Coca-Cola Amatil Limited from 
12 November 2001 to 3 March 2014. 

Chairman of the Independent & Related Party Committee, Member 
of the Remuneration & Nomination Committee.

Director of St. George Bank Limited from December 2004 to 
December 2008.

Over fifteen years experience in the global wine industry including 
Managing Director of Beringer Blass (the wine division of Foster’s 
Group Limited) and Managing Director of Cellarmaster Wines 
Group between 1987 and 1997.

Council Member of the University of New South Wales Council 
from June 2006 to June 2014. 

CHRISTOPHER JOHN MACKAY
Director of Seven Group Holdings Limited since 1 June 2010.

Former Chairman of Magellan Financial Group Limited and 
Managing Director of Magellan Flagship Fund Limited since 
1 October 2013.

Member of the Audit & Risk Committee, Member of the 
Independent & Related Party Committee. 

Considerable experience in business management, capital 
allocation, risk management and investment. A former investment 
banker and corporate and banking lawyer, with broad experience  
in the financial and corporate sectors over many years. 

Formerly Chairman of the investment bank UBS Australasia; having 
previously been its Chief Executive Officer. 

A director of Consolidated Media Holdings Limited from 8 March 
2006 until 19 November 2012, when the company was taken over 
by News Corporation. 

A director of Magellan Financial Group Limited from 
21 November 2006 to 30 September 2013 and a director  
of Magellan Flagship Fund Limited since 29 September 2006.

Member of the Audit & Risk Committee, member of the 
Remuneration & Nomination Committee and member of the 
Independent & Related Party Committee.

Ms Chaplain brings to Seven Group Holdings extensive experience 
in investment banking, financial services, mining, engineering and 
major infrastructure services.

Ms Chaplain is the independent Chairman of Queensland Airports 
Limited and Chairman of Canstar Pty Limited. Ms Chaplain is a 
Director of Downer – EDI Limited. She is also a Director of EFIC, 
Australia’s export credit agency and a member of the Gold Coast 
2018 Commonwealth Games Finance and Audit Committee.

DAVID IAN MCEVOY
Director of Seven Group Holdings Limited since 27 May 2015.

Member of the Audit & Risk Committee and member of the 
Independent & Related Party Committee.

Mr McEvoy has been engaged in the oil and gas industry for 
over 40 years, in a variety of technical, senior executive and 
non-executive director roles. He was employed for almost 
34 years with ExxonMobil. He concluded his executive career at 
ExxonMobil in 2002 as Vice President Business Development, 
ExxonMobil Exploration Company. Mr McEvoy earlier served as 
a Regional Vice President of Exxon Exploration Company from 

Seven Group Holdings41

1992 to 1997, where he was responsible for exploration activities 
in the Far East, USA, Canada and South America. He joined Esso 
Australia Limited in 1969.

Mr McEvoy graduated from the University of New South Wales with  
a degree in Science and a graduate diploma in Applied Geophysics. 

Mr McEvoy is currently a Non-Executive Director of Woodside 
Petroleum Limited (since 2005) and AWE Limited (since 2006). 
He is a former Non-Executive Director of Acer Energy (formerly 
Innamincka Petroleum Limited) and Po Valley Energy Ltd.

BRUCE IAN MCWILLIAM 
Director of Seven Group Holdings Limited since 28 April 2010.

Director of Seven Network Limited since September 2003. 

RICHARD ANDERS UECHTRITZ 
Director of Seven Group Holdings Limited since 1 June 2010.
Acting Chairman of the Remuneration & Nomination Committee, 
Member of the Independent & Related Party Committee.

Director of JB Hi-Fi Limited since 28 April 2011.

Chief Executive Officer and Director of JB Hi-Fi Limited from 
June 2000 to May 2010.

Over thirty years experience in retailing. 

Co-founder of Rabbit Photo and Smith’s Kodak Express.

Director of Kodak (Australasia) Proprietary Limited from 
30 July 1998 to 20 July 2000.

Appointed Commercial Director for Seven Network Limited in 
May 2003. 

PROFESSOR MURRAY CHARLES WELLS 
Director of Seven Group Holdings Limited since 28 April 2010.

Director of Seven Media Group Pty Limited since December 2006.

Director of Seven Network Limited since July 1995. 

Chairman of the Audit & Risk Committee, Member of the 
Independent & Related Party Committee. PhD, University of 
Sydney. M.Com, University of Canterbury. Fellow of CPA Australia, 
Fellow of the Academy of Social Sciences in Australia. Chairman, 
Kaplan Higher Education Pty Limited. Deputy Chairman, 
Australian Scholarships Foundation. Director Flagship Property 
Holdings Pty Limited.

Emeritus Professor of Accounting, former Dean of Economics, and 
Director of the Graduate School of Business and the Foundation 
of the Graduate School of Business at the University of Sydney. 
Former Chairman and Director of Australian National Business 
School Limited. 

Life Member, American Accounting Association; inducted into the 
Australian Accounting Hall of Fame, 2012. Life Fellow, Australia and 
New Zealand Academy of Management, 2000.

COMPANY SECRETARY 
WARREN WALTER COATSWORTH
Company Secretary of Seven Group Holdings Limited since 
28 April 2010.

Company Secretary of Seven West Media Limited since April 2013.

Company Secretary of Seven Network Limited since July 2005. 

Solicitor holding a current practising certificate with degrees in Arts 
and Law (Hons) from the University of Sydney. Legal Counsel with 
Seven Network Limited for the past sixteen years, advising broadly 
across the company, and formerly a solicitor at Clayton Utz. He has 
completed a Graduate Diploma in Applied Corporate Governance 
and is a qualified Chartered Company Secretary and a Fellow 
and member of the Governance Institute of Australia. In 2016, he 
completed his Masters of Law in Media and Technology Law from 
the University of New South Wales.

Former partner of law firms Gilbert & Tobin, Turnbull McWilliam 
and Allen Allen & Hemsley specialising in media and commercial 
law. Former Director BSkyB, Executive Director News International 
Television and General Counsel, News International plc.

Director of Australian News Channel Pty Limited. 

Alternate Director of Seven West Media Limited from 
4 November 2008 to 5 March 2015.

Honorary Fellow of the University of Sydney. 

Chairman, Sydney University Law School Advisory Committee. 

Council Member, St Pauls College, University of Sydney.

Honorary Governor – The Thalidomide Foundation Limited.

THE HON. WARWICK LESLIE SMITH AM
Director of Seven Group Holdings Limited since 12 September 2014.

Member of the Audit & Risk Committee, Member of the 
Remuneration & Nomination Committee.

Chairman, New South Wales and Australian Capital Territory and 
Senior Managing Director, Australia for Australia and New Zealand 
Banking Group Limited. Board Director of ANZ Bank China. 
Chairman of the Advisory Board of the Australian Capital Equity 
Group of companies.

Director of Coates Hire since May 2016.

Chairman of the Australia China Council and Global Trustee  
of the Asia Society.

Former Executive Director with the Macquarie Bank Group  
of companies and a former Chairman of E*Trade Limited.

Former Chairman of the Australian Sports Commission. 
Former -Telecommunications Ombudsman.

Former Minister for Sport, Territories and Local Government, 
Minister Assisting the Prime Minister on the Olympic Games  
in Sydney and Minister for Family Services. 

Mr. Smith was awarded the Member of the Order of Australia 
(AM) in 2008, for service to the Parliament of Australia, to the 
telecommunications industry, to the promotion of international trade 
and tourism and to philanthropy through a range of charitable and 
community organisations.

ANNUAL REPORT 201642

CORPORATE GOVERNANCE STATEMENT
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2016

This statement outlines the Company’s main corporate governance 
practices and its compliance with the 3rd edition of the ASX 
Corporate Governance Council Corporate Governance Principles 
and Recommendations (ASX Recommendations).

The Company’s Board and Committee Charters and a number of 
the corporate governance policies referred to in this statement are 
available in the “Corporate Governance” section of the Company’s 
website at www.sevengroup.com.au/about-us/corporate-
governance. Those policies which are not separately available on 
the Company’s website are summarised in this statement. A copy 
of this statement is available on the Company’s website.

PRINCIPLE 1 – LAY SOLID FOUNDATIONS FOR 
MANAGEMENT AND OVERSIGHT

Role and responsibilities of the Board
The Board is empowered to manage the business of the Company 
subject to the Corporations Act 2001 (Corporations Act) and the 
Company’s Constitution.

The Board is responsible for the overall corporate governance of 
the Group and has adopted a Board Charter, which is available 
on the Company’s website. The Board Charter sets out the 
role and responsibilities of the Board as well as those functions 
delegated to management.

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;

•  contributing to, and approving management’s development of, 
corporate strategy and performance objectives and monitoring 
management’s performance and implementation of strategy 
and policies;
reviewing and monitoring systems of risk management and 
internal control and ethical and legal compliance;

• 

•  monitoring and reviewing management processes aimed at 

ensuring the integrity of financial and other reporting;

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

•  on an annual basis, reviewing the effectiveness of the 

Company’s Diversity Policy.

The Board Charter provides that matters which are specifically 
reserved for the Board or its Committees include:
•  appointment and removal of the Chief Executive Officer;
•  approval of dividends;
•  approval of annual budget;
•  monitoring capital management and approval of major 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, the Remuneration & Nomination Committee 
and the Independent & Related Party Committee. These standing 
Committees were established by the Board to allow detailed 
consideration of complex issues.

Each Committee has its own written Charter which is reviewed on 
an annual basis. The Charter of each Committee is available on the 
Company’s website.

Further details regarding the Audit & Risk Committee are set out 
under “Principle 4 – Safeguard Integrity in Corporate Reporting” 
and further details regarding the Remuneration & Nomination 
Committee and the Independent & Related Party Committee are 
set out under “Principle 2 – Structure the Board to Add Value” in 
this Corporate Governance Statement.

The Directors’ Report on page 53 sets out the number of Board 
and Committee meetings held during the 2016 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 and Board Charter, and the Corporations Act, it is 
the role of management to carry out functions that are expressly 
delegated to management by the Board, as well as those 
functions not specifically reserved to the Board, as it considers 
appropriate, including those functions and affairs which pertain to 
the day-to-day management of the operations and administration 
of the Company.

Management is responsible for implementing the policies and 
strategic objectives approved by the Board. Management must 
supply the Board with information in a form, time-frame and quality 
that will enable the Board to discharge its duties effectively.

The Company has adopted a Delegated Authority Policy, which 
delegates to management the authority to carry out expenditure 
in relation to specified areas of the Company’s operations, subject 
to the Company’s policies and procedures in respect of the 
authorisation and signing of Company contracts, which includes 
a system of legal review.

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

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

The management of the Company during the financial year 
comprised the Managing Director & Chief Executive Officer, 
Chief Operating Officer, Chief Financial Officer as well as several 
Group Executives who together provide expertise in finance, 
mining, systems and processes, security and compliance. In 
addition, several Seven West Media Limited executives provided 
management services to the Company, and as part of these 
arrangements, a portion of their salary cost was charged to the 
Company for the services provided to it.

Seven Group Holdings43

•  an invitation to be appointed as 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, including remuneration 
entitlements and the Company’s Corporate Governance Policies, 
including the Company’s Share Trading Policy, which Directors 
are to abide by. Under the letter of appointment, Directors are also 
provided with a schedule of Board meetings, a Deed of Indemnity 
& Access and a summary of Director insurance arrangements.

The date at which each Director was appointed to the Board 
is announced to ASX and is provided in this Annual Report on 
pages 40 to 41.

New Director appointment during the year
During the year, the Board, with the assistance of the 
Remuneration & Nomination Committee, undertook a review of the 
Board’s structure and composition, and appointed an additional 
Non-Executive Director, Ms Annabelle Chaplain, to the Board on 
24 November 2015.

The Board considers that Ms Chaplain’s experience in investment 
banking, financial services, mining, engineering and major 
infrastructure services as well as overall board experience adds 
further depth and strength to the Board and its Committees and 
that Ms Chaplain will make a valuable contribution to the Company.

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 reelection at 
the third Annual General Meeting of the Company since they were 
last elected.

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

Company Secretary
The Company Secretary’s role is to support the Board’s 
effectiveness by:
•  monitoring whether Company policies and procedures 

are followed;

•  preparing Board and Committee minutes;
•  advising the Board and Committees on governance matters; and
•  co-ordinating the timely distribution of Board and Committee 

agendas and briefing materials.

The Company Secretary’s appointment and removal is a matter 
for the Board. The Company Secretary is accountable to the 
Board through the Executive Chairman on corporate governance 
matters. Each of the Directors has unrestricted access to the 
Company Secretary.

Mr Ryan Stokes is Managing Director & Chief Executive Officer 
of the Company who is charged with the responsibility for 
overseeing and supervising the Company’s investments in 
accordance with the Board’s strategies as well as managing the 
Company’s executive team. Mr Ryan Stokes also reports to the 
Board on the performance, management and operations of the 
Group as well as matters relating to process, governance and 
optimisation of the businesses of the Group. The Chief Financial 
Officer of the Company is Mr Richard Richards. Mr Richards 
works closely with the Managing Director & Chief Executive Officer 
and the Chief Operating Officer and reports to the Board on the 
financial performance and position of the Group and its businesses 
as well as matters relating to Group’s financial governance, controls 
and processes.

Mr James Scott was Chief Operating Officer of the Company from 
1 July 2015 tasked with responsibility for continuous improvement 
of the Company’s operating activities, driving business 
transformation and productivity initiatives. Effective 1 July 2016, 
Mr Scott will occupy the role of Group Executive – Technology 
and Innovation.

Appointment of Directors
The Board has established a Remuneration & Nomination 
Committee to assist it in the appointment of new Directors. Further 
information regarding the Committee is set out under “Principle 2 – 
Structure the Board to Add Value” in this statement.

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

the skills, experience, expertise and personal qualities that 
will best complement the Board effectiveness, including a 
deep understanding in the areas of corporate management, 
operational, safety and financial matters and the media, 
industrial services and energy industries in which the 
Group operates;
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 Remuneration & Nomination Committee, if 
so requested, 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;

ANNUAL REPORT 201644

CORPORATE  
GOVERNANCE 
STATEMENT

Board, Committee and Director performance evaluation
The Executive Chairman closely monitors the performance 
and actions of the Board and its Committees and meets with 
individual Board members during a financial year to ensure that 
the Board and its Committees operate effectively and efficiently. 
The Executive 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.

During a financial year, the Chair of each Committee also monitor 
and evaluate the performance of their respective Committee 
according to the function and objectives of the Committee, its 
program of work, and the contributions of its members, and 
discuss the Committee’s performance with the Executive Chairman 
and its members.

For the purposes of his own performance evaluation, the 
Executive Chairman met with two Directors, including at least one 
Independent Director to review his performance.

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

Assessment of management performance
The performance of the Managing Director & Chief Executive 
Officer is formally reviewed by the Board against the achievement 
of strategic and budgetary objectives in respect of the Group’s 
operations and investments whilst also having regard for his 
personal performance in the leadership of the Group. The Board’s 
review is carried out annually in regard to certain goals against 
which he is assessed, and throughout the year in regard to others, 
and forms the basis of the determination of the Managing Director 
& Chief Executive Officer’s performance-based remuneration. 
The Remuneration Report sets out further details of the 
performance criteria against which the Managing Director & Chief 
Executive Officer’s performance-based remuneration is assessed 
on pages 55 to 71.

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

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

Diversity Policy
The Company’s Diversity Policy is posted on the Company’s 
website. Under the policy the Company recognises the benefits 
of an inclusive and respectful workplace culture that draws on 
the experiences and perspectives of all Directors and employees, 
having regard to diversity factors, including but not limited to 
gender, age and cultural background.

The Diversity Policy requires that the Board set measurable 
objectives and assess the objectives and the company’s progress 
towards achieving them annually. The Board is committed to:
•  flexible work practices – developing, on a case by case basis, 
flexible work practices that assist employees to balance work 
with family, carer or other responsibilities;

•  career development and performance – ensuring that 

decisions regarding employment and remuneration are based 
on merit, ability, performance and potential and are made in a 
transparent and fair manner; and

•  equal employment opportunities – upholding the Company’s 
obligations in regard to equal opportunity through training and 
workplace awareness.

The Company undertakes an annual review of its Diversity Policy 
to assess the effectiveness of the Policy and to incorporate 
any developments concerning the Company’s practices and 
commitments in regards to workplace diversity.

The Board is also committed to regularly establishing, reviewing 
and assessing achievement of the work practices objectives above 
in relation to gender diversity. The Board will continue to review the 
appropriateness of its diversity objectives.

Company progress on diversity objectives in 2016
Flexible work practices
In the Board’s view, the Company has achieved the objective of 
offering flexible working arrangements with an increased take up of 
flexible working across the Group. During the year, the Company 
implemented a parental leave program which includes additional 
personal leave provisions to ensure that parents returning to the 
workplace have the flexibility to care for sick children when needed. 
Support is also extended to an employee assistance program for 
employees who are experiencing family or domestic violence.

The Company continues to set clear expectations of behaviours for 
employees that foster an inclusive and supportive organisational 
culture. The Company monitors performance against this objective 
to ensure expectations are clear and cultural outcomes attained.

Career development and performance
The Company’s commitment and progress towards achieving 
this objective includes establishing processes to determine fair 
and equitable benchmarked remuneration, commensurate with 
the employee’s experience and performance in the position they 
hold, regardless of age, gender or cultural background. Within 
the WesTrac Australia business, the implementation of a new 
talent management system and alignment of positions with a 
remuneration banding framework has enabled greater ability 
to ensure transparency in both performance management and 
remuneration processes.

Equal employment opportunities
The Company strives to maintain a significant level of female 
participation throughout the organisation and endeavours to 
attract female employees at all levels.

The Group has continued to focus on partnering with indigenous 
employment agencies to assist in cultural awareness training and 
supporting candidates to assist with increasing representation of 
indigenous Australians and to provide specific services to assist 
indigenous employees at work. Additionally, the WesTrac Australia 
business has set a minimum goal of 15 per cent for its intake of 
indigenous employees into its apprentice program.

Seven Group Holdings45

Board independence
The Board acknowledges the ASX Recommendation that a 
majority of the Board should be Independent Directors. The Board 
currently comprises a majority of Independent Directors, with 
four Non-Independent Directors and six Independent Directors. 
From 1 July 2015 until Ms Annabelle Chaplain’s appointment 
to the Board on 24 November 2015, the Board comprised four 
Non-Independent Directors and five Independent Directors.

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

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

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 five per cent, then a 
relationship will be considered material.

Mr Kerry Stokes AC, Mr Ryan Stokes and Mr Bruce McWilliam are 
not considered to be independent due to their executive positions 
with the Company. In addition, Mr Warwick Smith AM is not 
considered to be independent as he is the chairman of the advisory 
board of Australian Capital Equity Group of companies which is 
controlled by Mr Kerry Stokes AC.

In the Board’s view, the Independent Directors referred to above 
are free from any interest and any business or other relationship 
which could, or could reasonably be perceived to, materially 
interfere with the Directors’ ability to act with a view to the best 
interests of the Company. In terms of longevity of time in office, 
the Board does not consider that independence can be assessed 
with reference to an arbitrary and set period of time, and the 
independence of Directors who have held office for some time is 
considered on a case-by-case basis. The Company has diverse 
operations that have grown considerably over the course of time 
and, in the Board’s view, the Company derives the benefits from 
having long-serving Directors with detailed knowledge of the 
history and experience of the Group’s operations.

Gender Diversity
The proportion of women employed within the Group is as follows:

Level

Board
Senior executives*
Whole of organisation

Number of 
Women

Proportion 
of Women

1 of 10
10 of 76
542 of 3,979

10%
13%
14%

*  Senior executives include Executive Directors of Seven Group Holdings Limited and its 
subsidiaries, as well as other members of the Executive leadership team and, where 
appropriate, direct reports to the Executive leadership team. Executive Directors have 
been included in both the Board and the senior executive categories. The Board and 
senior executives are included in the Whole of Organisation category. For the purpose of 
this section of the report employee numbers and statistics have been calculated based 
on employees who were paid in the final pay periods of April 2016.

The Board is mindful of and recognises the benefits of a Board 
comprising directors with a broad range of skills, experience and 
perspectives.  With these considerations in mind, in the 2015 
Annual Report the Board committed to the appointment of a 
female director as part of the succession process to fill the vacancy 
on the Board created by the retirement of Mr Don Voelte AO. 
Fulfilling that commitment, Ms Annabelle Chaplain was appointed 
to the Board on 24 November 2015. The Board will continue to 
review its composition to ensure that it remains appropriate for the 
Company, including with regard to gender diversity, as it manages 
succession on the Board.

Additionally, the Company has posted its Workplace Gender 
Equality Act Public Report for 2015–2016 on its website, which 
contains the Company’s Gender Equality Indicators, in the 
‘Corporate Governance’ section of its website.

PRINCIPLE 2 – STRUCTURE THE BOARD TO ADD VALUE

Board composition
The Company’s Constitution provides for a minimum of three 
Directors and a maximum of 12 Directors on the Board.

As at the date of this statement, the Board comprises 10 Directors, 
including six Non-Executive Directors.

The Non-Independent Directors in office are:
•  Mr Kerry Stokes AC  
•  Mr Ryan Stokes  

•  Mr Bruce McWilliam  
•  Mr Warwick Smith AM 

Executive Chairman
 Managing Director &  
Chief Executive Officer
Commercial Director
Director

The Independent Directors in office are:
•  Ms Annabelle Chaplain 
•  Mr Terry Davis  
•  Mr David McEvoy 
•  Mr Christopher Mackay  
•  Mr Richard Uechtritz  
•  Professor Murray Wells  

Director
Director
Director
Director
Director
Director

The qualifications, experience, expertise and period in office 
of each Director of the Company at the date of this report are 
disclosed in the Board of Directors section of this Annual Report 
on pages 40 to 41.

ANNUAL REPORT 201646

CORPORATE  
GOVERNANCE 
STATEMENT

Independent & Related Party Committee
The Independent Directors (identified above) are members of the 
Independent & Related Party Committee, which has Mr Terry 
Davis as its Chairman. The Committee provides a forum for the 
review of material transactions between the Company and its 
related parties, including transactions with Australian Capital 
Equity Pty Limited and interests associated with Mr Kerry Stokes 
AC. Review of related party transactions by the Committee 
occurs without management or Non Independent Directors 
present. The Committee meets at least twice during the year, 
and the Committee otherwise holds discussions and receives 
management reports concerning related party transactions as 
necessary. As such, the Committee provides an opportunity for the 
Independent Directors to meet regularly without management or 
Non-Independent Directors present.

Chairman
The roles of the Chairman and Managing Director & Chief Executive 
Officer are separate. Mr Kerry Stokes AC is Executive Chairman of 
the Company. The Board acknowledges the ASX Recommendation 
that the Chairman should be an Independent Director, however the 
Board has formed the view that Mr Stokes AC is the most appropriate 
person to lead the Board as its Chairman, given his history of 
leadership across the businesses and investments comprising the 
Group, including in the areas of heavy equipment management and 
services, property and television management and related media 
investments. In addition, Mr Stokes AC’s grasp of new technologies 
driving television production and transmission and his incentive 
to maximise the interests of the Group are considered beneficial 
for the Company. Mr Stokes AC has been involved in investing in 
and managing diverse businesses for more than four decades and 
currently has broad business interests and investments in a range 
of major business sectors in Australia and overseas, including 
construction, mining, oil and gas exploration. His experience and 
insights are considered to be invaluable to the Group.

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 industries in which it holds 
investments and operates, as well as corporate management 
and operational, financial and safety matters. Directors devote 
significant time and resources to the discharge of their duties.

The Board has identified the following areas as strategic priorities 
for the Company to drive shareholder value:
1.  Investing and operating in a diversified portfolio of market 

leading assets and businesses in the Company’s core business 
areas of industrial services, media, and energy investments with 
a focus on maximising profit and return on capital.
2.  Driving efficiencies and adding value to the Company’s 

operations and investments in assets and businesses through 
ensuring the best teams are in place with strong governance 
and oversight of systems and processes.

3.  Identifying and investing in growth opportunities which leverage 
off our Company’s expertise in areas that could be outside our 
core current operating areas with a focus on taking advantage 
of opportunistic situations.

4.  Prudent capital and balance sheet management to 

sustain future development of the Company and enhance 
shareholder returns.

The Board has achieved a membership which has regard to the 
strategic aims and priorities of the Company, including the following 
skills and experience which are well-represented on the Board:

Skills and experience 

Percentage 

Executive leadership
Significant business experience at a senior 
executive level 

Financial analysis, risk management and reporting
Senior executive or equivalent experience in 
financial accounting and reporting, corporate 
finance and internal financial controls 

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

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

Energy, oil and gas
Senior executive or Board level experience in the 
energy, oil and gas industry, including in-depth 
knowledge of the legislative and regulatory 
framework governing this industry 

Technology
Senior executive or Board level experience in the
strategic use and governance of information 
management, information technology as well 
as the oversight of implementation of major 
technology projects

Strategy and corporate activity
Experience in identifying, developing and 
implementing a successful strategy and 
developing an asset or investment over 
the long-term 

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

Remuneration and people
Board remuneration committee membership or 
management experience in relation to managing 
people and remuneration, including incentive 
arrangements and the legislative framework 
governing employees and remuneration 

100% 

90% 

60% 

40% 

40% 

50%

90% 

100% 

80% 

The percentages of Directors assessed to possess each category 
of skill and/or experiences was determined as at the date this 
Corporate Governance Statement was approved.

Seven Group Holdings47

Remuneration & Nomination Committee
The Board has established a Remuneration & Nomination 
Committee, which is comprised of:
•  Mr Richard Uechtritz (Chairman)
•  Ms Annabelle Chaplain
•  Mr Terry Davis
•  Mr Warwick Smith AM

Ms Chaplain was appointed to the Committee on 14 April 2016 
following a Board review of the composition of Committees of the 
Board. Prior to her appointment Ms Chaplain attended meetings 
of the Committee as a non-member.

The Remuneration & Nomination Charter is available on the 
Company’s website. The Charter provides that the Committee 
must consist of a minimum of three members and must have 
a majority of Independent Directors, all of whom must be 
Non-Executive Directors.

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

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

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

Director induction and ongoing training
As part of the induction process, Board appointees attend a 
briefing with the Executive Chairman, meet with the Company 
Secretary about the Company’s corporate governance 
(including its policies and procedures), visit key business sites 
and meet with senior executives.

In addition to the 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.

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

PRINCIPLE 3 – ACT ETHICALLY AND RESPONSIBLY

Code of Conduct and other Company policies
The Board has adopted a Code of Conduct for Directors, available 
on the Company’s website, which establishes guidelines for their 
conduct in matters such as ethical standards and the disclosure 
and management of conflicts of interests.

Formal Employee Conduct Guidelines have been adopted by 
the Company for employees, including senior executives, and 
are available on the Company’s website. These Guidelines help 
to guide employees on how to act and clarify how the Company 
expects employees to perform.

The Company and its controlled subsidiaries, as applicable, uphold 
and maintain the following ethical standards:
•  General statutory requirements and regulations of the 
Corporations Act, ASX Listing Rules and Income Tax 
Assessment Act;

•  Equal employment opportunity and affirmative action;
•  Encouraging high standards of safe work practices 
and implementing Occupational Health & Safety 
compliance procedures;

•  Policy of community service through charitable organisations; 

and

•  Policy of responding to national disasters and tragedies.

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

The Company has adopted a formal Issue Escalation Guideline 
to encourage the reporting and investigation of unethical and 
unlawful practices and matters of concern which cannot otherwise 
be adequately dealt with under Company policies. The Guideline, 
including reporting contacts, is available on the Company’s 
website. The Company requires compliance with Company policies 
by employees under the terms of their employment and carries out 
training of employees in relation to its policies and procedures.

The Company has adopted Share Trading Policies for Group 
Directors and Executives and Staff, which are available on the 
Company’s website.

PRINCIPLE 4 – SAFEGUARD INTEGRITY IN 
CORPORATE REPORTING

Audit & Risk Committee
As at the date of this statement, the Committee comprised the 
following members, all of whom are Independent Directors except 
for Mr Warwick Smith AM:
•  Professor Murray Wells (Chairman)
•  Ms Annabelle Chaplain
•  Mr David McEvoy
•  Mr Chris Mackay
•  The Hon Warwick Smith AM

ANNUAL REPORT 201648

CORPORATE  
GOVERNANCE 
STATEMENT

Until 14 April 2016, the Audit & Risk Committee comprised two 
independent and one non-independent Non-executive Directors: 
Professor Murray Wells (Chairman), Mr Chris Mackay and 
Mr Warwick Smith AM. Professor Wells is an Emeritus Professor of 
Accounting, University of Sydney. Mr Mackay, a former investment 
banker and corporate and banking lawyer, has considerable 
experience in business management, capital allocation, risk 
management and investment. Over the course of a highly 
distinguished career, Mr Smith has held a variety of senior roles in 
finance, banking and government.

Ms Chaplain and Mr McEvoy were each appointed to the 
Committee on 14 April 2016 following a Board review of 
the composition of Committees of the Board. Prior to their 
appointments, Ms Chaplain and Mr McEvoy attended meetings 
of the Committee as non-members. Ms Chaplain and Mr McEvoy 
each possess extensive experience on Audit & Risk Committees 
of substantial Australian listed companies. Mr McEvoy 
brings particular expertise in accounting and operations 
relating to the oil and gas industries as well as extensive risk 
management experience.

The Audit & Risk Committee has adopted a formal Charter which is 
available on the Company’s website.

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

the accounting and financial reporting practices of the Company 
and its subsidiaries;
the consideration of matters relating to the financial controls and 
systems of the Company and its subsidiaries;
the identification and management of financial risk; and 
the examination of any other matters referred to it by the Board.

• 

• 

• 

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 external audit function 

• 

through the assessment of external audit reports and meetings 
with the External Auditor;
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

•  assessing whether non-audit services provided by the External 
Auditor are consistent with maintaining the External Auditor’s 
independence.

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

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

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

External Audit function
Each reporting period, the External Auditor provides an 
independence declaration in relation to the audit of the Company. 
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 current practice is for the rotation of the appropriate 
External Audit partner(s) to occur every five years (subject to the 
requirements of applicable professional standards and regulatory 
requirements). If a new auditor is to be appointed, the selection 
process involves a formal tender evaluated by the Audit & Risk 
Committee. The Chair of the Committee leads the process, in 
consultation with the Chief Financial Officer.

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

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

The required declarations from the Chief Executive Officer and 
Chief Financial Officer have been given for the half-year ended 
31 December 2015 and financial year ended 30 June 2016.

PRINCIPLE 5 – MAKE TIMELY AND BALANCED DISCLOSURE
The Company complies with the disclosure obligations of the 
ASX Listing Rules.

The Company has adopted and implemented a Continuous 
Disclosure Policy which sets out the procedure for the identification 
of material price sensitive information and reporting of such 
information to the Company Secretary for review. A summary of the 
Continuous Disclosure Policy is available on the Company’s website.

The Company Secretary has been nominated as the person with 
primary responsibility for communication and liaison with the 
ASX in relation to ASX Listing Rules and disclosure requirements, 
including periodic and continuous disclosure issues. The Company 
Secretary also has responsibility for ensuring internal compliance 
with those ASX Listing Rules and the oversight of information 
released to the ASX and shareholders.

PRINCIPLE 6 – RESPECT THE RIGHTS OF SHAREHOLDERS

Communications with shareholders
As disclosed in the Shareholder Communications Policy, which 
is available on the Company’s website, the Board aims to ensure 
that shareholders are informed of all major developments affecting 
the Company’s state of affairs and that there is effective two-way 
communication with shareholders.

Seven Group Holdings49

•  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 report to the 
Board regarding its review and 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.
•  Review, and make recommendations to the Board in relation 
to, any incidents involving fraud or other break down of the 
Company’s internal controls.

The Board requires management to design and implement a risk 
management and internal control system to manage the Group’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 FY16:
• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

the Audit & Risk Committee reviewed the Group’s risk reporting 
and risk management framework consistent with Australian 
Standard ISO 31000:2009;
the Committee received risk briefings at its meetings from 
external auditors, management, Head of Internal Audit & 
Process Improvement concerning review of the Group’s 
key business operations. The Group’s business divisions 
provide regular reporting on workplace safety practices and 
management within the Group;
the Committee conducted 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;
the Company conducted risk reviews and assessments in a 
series of workshops conducted by the Head of Internal Audit 
and Process Improvement jointly with senior management, 
which identified, assessed and ranked the main strategic risks, 
including material business risks, facing the Group in respect 
of which management continues to formulate and record the 
internal risk controls implemented for those risks; and
the Board and management continued to focus on driving 
enhanced risk assessment and mitigation processes in the 
areas of physical risk and systems risk through the senior Group 
Executives respectively responsible for security & compliance 
and for systems & processes, each reporting to the Managing 
Director & Chief Executive Officer.

The Company adopts a communications strategy that promotes 
effective communication with shareholders, principally through ASX 
announcements, the Company website, the provision of the Annual 
Report, including the financial statements, and the Annual General 
Meeting (and any extraordinary meeting held by the Company) and 
notices of general meetings. Information concerning resolutions for 
consideration at the Company’s general meetings is provided in the 
notice of meeting. Shareholders are encouraged to participate in 
general meetings and are invited to put questions to the Chairman 
of the Board in that forum.

Shareholders are given the option to receive communications 
from, and to send communications to, the Company and the 
Company’s Share Registry electronically, to the extent possible. 
The Board continues to review its channels of communications 
with shareholders for cost effectiveness and efficiencies, including 
using electronic delivery systems for shareholder communications 
where appropriate.

The Company’s website
The Company’s website www.sevengroup.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 Board and Committee Charters;
•  Corporate Governance Policies;
•  Annual Reports and Financial Statements;
•  Announcements to ASX;
•  Security price information;
•  Contact details for the Company’s Share Registry;
•  Details concerning the date of the Annual General Meeting, 

including the Notice of Meeting, when available; and
•  Access to live webcasts of the Annual General Meeting.

PRINCIPLE 7 – RECOGNISE AND MANAGE RISK

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

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

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

ANNUAL REPORT 201650

CORPORATE  
GOVERNANCE 
STATEMENT

Internal Control Framework
The Head of Internal Audit & Process Improvement reports to 
the Chairman of the Audit & Risk Committee. The Internal Audit 
function is charged with conducting detailed reviews of relevant 
controls in the areas of accounting, information and business 
operations and fulfilling a program of work to test controls 
implemented by management in these areas. The Audit & Risk 
Committee reviews and approves the Internal Audit plan, its 
resourcing as well as monitors its independence and performance. 
Internal Audit reviews carried out in accordance with the Internal 
Audit plan are reported to the Committee which reviews and 
ensures ownership by management in regard to Internal Audit’s 
findings and recommendations and management’s responsiveness 
to any required action items.

Risk Management Policy
The Company has adopted a Risk Management Policy to:
•  ensure there is a consistency in the methods used in assessing, 
monitoring and communicating risks throughout the Company 
and that risk management efforts are aligned with the 
Company’s strategic and business objectives; and

•  promote a balanced approach to risk and return and to ensure 
that the Board knows in advance the risks of the business.

A summary of the Company’s Risk Management Policy is available 
on the Company’s website.

Material risks
Under the risk framework described above, the Company has 
identified investment, financial and operational risks which 
it manages and mitigates. Each of the foregoing material 
business risks is monitored and managed by appropriate Senior 
Management within the Company who are delegated responsibility 
to manage or escalate issues to the Company’s senior executive 
team. Where appropriate, external advisers are engaged to 
assist in managing the risk. More detail concerning these risks 
is set out in the Operating and Financial Review of this Annual 
Report on pages 32 to 35. The Company does not believe it has 
any material exposure to environmental or social sustainability 
risks. Commentary on the Company’s environmental compliance 
and human capital related initiatives as well as its community 
engagement is provided on pages 36 to 39 of this Annual Report.

Workplace Safety
The Company is committed to providing a safe workplace and 
maintains comprehensive workplace safety policies and systems 
which are managed by health and safety specialists within 
the Company. Safety related arrangements, particularly within 
WesTrac’s operations, are developed following a risk assessment 
process that considers potential events in accordance with current 
Emergency Risk Management guidelines. Workplace health and 
safety policies are promulgated to staff through induction and 
training and the availability of information on the Company’s intranet 
as well as through Occupational Health & Safety representatives 
who ensure that any workplace safety issues are dealt with 
promptly and in a consultative manner.

Security arrangements at the Company’s business sites 
are developed through formal security risk assessment and 
vulnerability determination processes using an ‘all hazards’ 
approach. Potential security related incidents are rated against 
consequence and likelihood and security plans are documented 
following a criticality assessment, incorporating internal prevention 
and preparedness measures, as well as internal and external 
emergency response arrangements.

Management provides leadership by promoting a culture of safety 
and risk identification and monitors and responds to incident 
reporting and provides regular workplace safety updates and 
briefings to the Board.

Additionally, to support well-being within the workplace, the 
Company provides a free and confidential external counselling 
service for employees and their immediate families.

Refer to pages 36 to 39 of this Annual Report for more information 
on the Group’s workplace safety practices within WesTrac, the 
Group’s predominant operating business.

Environment and Sustainability
Environmental risks are considered as part of the Company’s risk 
assessment processes.

Refer to pages 37 and 39 of this Annual Report for more 
information on the Group’s environmental practices within WesTrac 
and SGH Energy.

PRINCIPLE 8 – REMUNERATE FAIRLY AND RESPONSIBLY
The Directors consider that the attraction, retention and motivation 
of its Directors and senior executives is of critical importance in 
securing the future growth of the Company, its profits, share price 
and shareholder returns.

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

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

to review and advise the Board on Directors’ fees and the 
remuneration packages, including equity incentive grants, of the 
Managing Director & Chief Executive Officer, Chief Executives 
and senior executives of the Group subsidiaries;
to provide advice and support and serve as a sounding-board 
for the Managing Director & Chief Executive Officer and the 
Board in human resource and remuneration-related matters; 
and
to advise on succession planning and employee 
development policies.

• 

• 

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

Seven Group Holdings51

The Remuneration & Nomination Committee met after the end 
of the financial year to review and recommend to the Board any 
performance-based remuneration for the Managing Director & 
Chief Executive Officer during the financial year, Mr Ryan Stokes, 
as well as for senior Company executives. This process and the 
outcomes are summarised in the Remuneration Report.

Hedging Policy
The Company’s Group Directors Share Trading Policy, and the 
Executive and Staff Share Trading Policy, prohibit employees 
(including Key Management Personnel (KMP)) from dealing in 
the Company’s shares, 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 relation to an element of their 
remuneration that has not yet vested or is subject to a holding 
lock. The ability to deal with unvested rights is restricted in the 
Employee Share Option Plan and LTI Plan rules, which apply to any 
options over shares in the Company which may be granted from 
time to time.

Further details relating to remuneration and the Company’s 
remuneration policy, framework and structure are contained within 
the Remuneration Report on pages 55 to 71.

This statement has been approved by the Board and is current 
as at 3 August 2016.

Remuneration of Non-Executive Directors
The remuneration of the Non-Executive Directors is restricted, 
in aggregate, by the Constitution of the Company and the 
requirements of the Corporations Act.

Currently, Non-Executive Directors’ remuneration in aggregate 
must not exceed $2 million per annum. Non-Executive Directors 
receive base fees and fees for chairing or serving on Board 
Committees. In contrast to Executive Directors and senior 
executives, Non-Executive Directors do not receive performance-
related payments, although they may receive additional payments 
at the discretion of the Board where appropriate in relation to 
special services that they perform for the Company. Throughout 
the financial year no such additional fees were paid to Non-
Executive Directors. Fees for Non-Executive Directors are set out  
in the Remuneration Report on page 61 and pages 70 to 71. 

No retirement benefits apply in respect of Company directorships 
other than superannuation contributions. One Non-Executive 
Director Retirement Deed remains current in respect of Seven 
Network Limited. The benefits payable upon retirement under 
that Deeds was frozen on 1 August 2003 and from that date, 
retirement benefits have not been offered to any newly appointed 
Non-Executive Directors.

During the year, fees received by Non-Executive Directors were 
reviewed by the Remuneration & Nomination Committee and the 
Committee recommended that the fees not be changed. There has 
been no change to the fees paid to Non-Executive Directors since 
their approval in 2010.

Remuneration of Executive Directors and senior executives
The objective of the remuneration process for Executive Directors 
and senior executives is to ensure that remuneration packages 
properly reflect the duties and responsibilities of 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 best skills from the industries in which the 
Company operates. This policy provides for the Managing Director 
& Chief Executive Officer to consider the remuneration packages 
paid within the industry and the impact these people are expected 
to have on the operational and financial performance of the 
Company. Remuneration packages may be structured to include 
bonuses, options or share-based payments and the Company has 
established Share and Option Plans for that purpose. The payment 
of bonuses is based on the achievement of specific goals which 
relate to the performance of the Company or as otherwise specified 
in the relevant employment contracts. Options, performance 
share rights and share appreciation rights are issued as a part of 
remuneration packages where they are considered appropriate, 
with exercise prices and hurdle rates which reflect the long-term 
objectives of the Company.

Remuneration matters concerning WesTrac Senior Executives who 
are Key Management Personnel of the Company are brought to 
the Remuneration & Nomination Committee for its consideration. 
Otherwise, WesTrac largely determines performance-based 
incentives for senior employees and executives of the WesTrac 
Group within a budget approved by the Board and reported to the 
Remuneration & Nomination Committee. However, remuneration 
policy matters relating to WesTrac may also be brought to the 
Remuneration & Nomination Committee or Board as appropriate.

ANNUAL REPORT 201652

DIRECTORS’  
REPORT

The Directors present their report together with the 
consolidated financial statements of the Group consisting of 
Seven Group Holdings Limited and the entities it controlled at 
the end of, or during, the year ended 30 June 2016 and the 
auditor’s report thereon.

BOARD
The following persons were Board members of Seven Group 
Holdings Limited during the whole of the financial year and up to 
the date of this report, unless otherwise stated:

Kerry Matthew Stokes AC (Executive Chairman)
Ryan Kerry Stokes (Managing Director & Chief Executive Officer)
Sally Annabelle Chaplain (appointed 24 November 2015)
Terry James Davis
Christopher John Mackay
David Ian McEvoy
Bruce Ian McWilliam
The Hon Warwick Leslie Smith AM
Richard Anders Uechtritz
Professor Murray Charles Wells

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

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

PRINCIPAL ACTIVITIES
The principal activities of the Group during the financial year 
were those of a diversified operating and investment group; with 
interests in heavy equipment sales and service, equipment hire, 
media, broadcasting and energy assets. There were no significant 
changes in the nature of the Group’s principal activities during the 
financial year.

BUSINESS STRATEGIES, PROSPECTS AND LIKELY 
DEVELOPMENTS
Information on the Group’s operations and the results of those 
operations, financial position, business strategies and prospects 
for future financial years has been included in the “Operating and 
Financial Review”.

The Operating and Financial Review also refers to likely 
developments in the Group’s operations and the expected results 
of those operations in future financial years. Information in the 
Operating and Financial Review 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 25 February 2015, the Company announced details of an 
on-market buy-back of up to 17.7 million of the Company’s 
shares, representing approximately 5.97% of the Company’s 
ordinary shares. The buy-back commenced on 23 March 2015 
and concluded on 11 March 2016. 14.8 million ordinary shares 
were bought back at a cost of $71.0 million.

•  On 23 February 2016, the Company announced details of an 
on-market buy-back of up to 16.6 million of the Company’s 
shares, representing approximately 5.9% of the Company’s 
ordinary shares. The buy-back commenced on 23 March 2016, 
at the date of this report, 0.3 million ordinary shares have been 
bought back at a cost of $1.7 million.

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

MATTERS SUBSEQUENT TO THE END OF THE FINANCIAL YEAR
•  On 20 July 2016, Managing Director & Chief Executive Officer 
of the Company, Mr Ryan Stokes became a Non-Executive 
Director of Beach Energy Limited, an ASX-listed oil and gas 
production and exploration company.

•  On 2 August 2016, the carrying value of the Group’s equity 

accounted investment in Seven West Media Limited decreased 
$133.0 million to $522.8 million due to the fall in its share price 
from $1.06 at 30 June 2016 to $0.845 at 2 August 2016.
•  On 3 August 2016, the Company announced details of an 
on-market buy-back of up to 0.5 million of the Company’s 
TELYS4 shares, representing approximately 10.0% of the 
Company’s TELYS4 shares.

Except for the above, there are no other matters or circumstances 
which have arisen since 30 June 2016 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.

Seven Group Holdings53

MEETINGS OF DIRECTORS
The number of meetings of the Company’s Board of Directors and of each Board Committee held during the year ended 30 June 2016, 
and the number of those meetings attended by each Director, were: 

Director

KM Stokes AC
RK Stokes 
SA Chaplain ^
TJ Davis
CJ Mackay
DI McEvoy 
BI McWilliam 
WL Smith AM 
RA Uechtritz
MC Wells

Board ~

Audit & Risk 

Remuneration &  
Nomination

Independent &  
Related Party

(a)

6
7 (1)
4
6
6
6
7 (1)
7 (1)
6
7 (1)

(b)

6
7 (1)
4
6
5
6
7 (1)
7 (1)
6
7 (1)

(a)

(b)

(a)

(b)

(a)

(b)

1
6
4
1
6
5
6
6
–
6

1
6
4
1
5
5
6
6
–
6

1
4
3
4
–
–
–
4
4
–

1
4
3
4
–
–
–
4
4
–

–
–
3
3
3
3
2
–
3
3

–
–
3
3
2
3
2
–
3
3

(a)  The number of meetings held while the Director concerned held office during the year.
(b)  The 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 in the above. A Director may also have been absent from a meeting, or part thereof, if there was a conflict of interest.

^  Appointed a Director on 24 November 2015.
~  Bracketed numbers in the columns refer to the number of meetings of a Sub-Committee of the Board held and attended.

DIVIDENDS – ORDINARY SHARES
Since the start of the financial year, a final fully franked dividend 
for the 2015 financial period of 20.0 cents per share, amounting to 
$58.5 million, was paid on 9 October 2015.

Since the start of the financial year, an interim fully franked dividend 
for the 2016 financial year of 20.0 cents per share, amounting to 
$56.4 million, was paid on 12 April 2016.

A final fully franked dividend for the 2016 financial year of 20.0 cents 
per share of $56.2 million will be paid on 7 October 2016, based on 
the number of issued shares at the date of this report.

DIVIDENDS – TELYS4
Since the start of the financial year, a fully franked dividend of 
$2.4497 per TELYS4 based on 4,963,640 TELYS4 on issue, 
amounting to $12.1 million was paid on 30 November 2015.

A further fully franked dividend of $2.4971 per TELYS4 based on 
4,963,640 TELYS4 on issue, amounting to $12.5 million, was paid 
on 31 May 2016.

ENVIRONMENTAL DISCLOSURE
In respect of the environmental regulations under any laws of the 
States, Territories and Commonwealth of Australia, the significant 
regulations that apply to the media operations of the entities the 
Company holds investments in are those guidelines and standards 
issued by the Australian Communications and Media Authority.

It is the Directors’ understanding that the Company is fully 
compliant with the provisions of these guidelines and standards. 
Various State Environmental Protection Authorities have issued 
licenses to the Company under the laws of the respective States. 
All requirements and conditions of these licenses have been 
complied with to the satisfaction of the issuing authority.

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

The Group is also subject to significant environmental regulations 
in respect of resources exploration, development and production 
activities. The Group is committed to undertaking all of its 
exploration, development and production activities in an 
environmentally responsible manner. The Board believes that the 
Company has adequate systems in place for the management of 
its environmental requirements and is not aware of any significant 
breach of those environmental requirements as they apply to the 
resources operations of the Group.

There are no other particular environmental regulations applying 
to the Group.

ANNUAL REPORT 201654

DIRECTORS’
REPORT

DIRECTORS’ INTERESTS IN SHARES
The relevant interest of each Director in ordinary shares, TELYS4, or options or performance rights issued by the companies within the 
Group at the date of this report is as follows:

Directors’ holdings of Seven Group Holdings Limited securities as at 3 August 2016

Ordinary Shares

Options over Ordinary Shares 

TELYS4

Performance Rights

KM Stokes AC 

RK Stokes

SA Chaplain

TJ Davis

CJ Mackay

DI McEvoy

BI McWilliam

WL Smith AM

RA Uechtritz

MC Wells

207,304,349

260,780

17,000

80,000

10,000

30,000

159,011

40,800

1,002,476

4,000

Nil

Nil

Nil

Nil

Nil

Nil

Nil 

Nil

Nil

Nil

Nil

2,500

Nil

10,000

Nil

Nil

Nil

Nil

Nil

710

Nil

57,251

Nil

Nil

Nil

Nil

Nil

Nil

Nil

Nil

OPTIONS OR PERFORMANCE RIGHTS GRANTED OVER 
ORDINARY SHARES IN SEVEN GROUP HOLDINGS LIMITED
At the date of this report, there are 57,251 performance rights to 
an equivalent number of fully paid ordinary shares in the Company 
issued to Mr Ryan Stokes under the Company’s Long-term 
Incentive Plan (LTI Plan). In addition to the performance rights 
awarded to Mr Ryan Stokes, there are 120,195 performance rights 
issued to other senior executives. These rights were granted on 
1 December 2014 and will expire on 1 September 2017. These 
rights do not carry an entitlement to participate in any share issue. 
Rights were granted for nil consideration.

Performance rights will be awarded under the FY16 LTI Plan in 
respect of FY16 performance to Mr Ryan Stokes and other senior 
executives in FY17.

There are no options on issue.

No options or rights have vested or been exercised during or since 
the end of the financial year, nor have they expired.

Seven Group Holdings55

Long Term Incentive Plan
Awards under the LTI plan are only made if the statutory 
NPAT target for the relevant year is achieved. Once granted, 
awards only vest if the performance hurdles over the three-
year performance period are met. From FY17, the Company is 
proposing to seek shareholder approval to amend the plan and 
remove the initial statutory NPAT hurdle for grants to be awarded.

The LTI Plan is intended to encourage sustained long-term 
performance and enhance the alignment between executive 
remuneration outcomes and shareholders’ interests. The LTI 
gateway (achievement of statutory NPAT) is proposed to be 
removed to ensure that all senior executives are eligible to 
participate in the LTI plan. The Remuneration & Nomination 
Committee considers it paramount that those individuals 
responsible for executing the long term strategy for the Group 
remain aligned with the long term interests of shareholders 
through an annual LTI grant opportunity. The Remuneration & 
Nomination Committee will retain its discretion to reduce awards 
in instances where LTI vesting outcomes are considered to be 
inconsistent with the shareholder experience for the respective 
performance period.

Further details concerning executive remuneration arrangements 
and the performance-linked remuneration outcomes for FY16 are 
set out in this Remuneration Report.

Yours faithfully,

Richard Uechtritz
Chairman of the Remuneration & Nomination Committee

REMUNERATION  
REPORT

Year ended 30 June 2016

MESSAGE FROM THE REMUNERATION & NOMINATION COMMITTEE
Dear Shareholders

On behalf of the Board, I am pleased to present the 
Remuneration Report for Seven Group Holdings for the 2016 
financial year (FY16), which sets out remuneration information for 
Key Management Personnel and Non-Executive Directors.

CHANGES TO KEY MANAGEMENT PERSONNEL
Mr Ryan Stokes was appointed Managing Director & Chief 
Executive Officer (MD & CEO) of the Company on 1 July 2015. 
Prior to his appointment as MD & CEO, Mr Ryan Stokes was 
Group Chief Operating Officer until 30 June 2015.

Mr James Scott transitioned to the role of Group Executive, 
Technology and Innovation as a contracted consultant from 
1 July 2016 and ceased in the role of Group Chief Operating Officer 
and as Key Management Personnel on 30 June 2016.

Remuneration arrangements for the MD & CEO are set out in 
section 6.C. of the Remuneration Report.

Details of Key Management Personnel of the Group are set out in 
section 1 of the Remuneration Report.

CHANGES TO REMUNERATION FRAMEWORK
During FY16 the Remuneration & Nomination Committee 
undertook a review of executive remuneration, in particular 
examining remuneration structures that align with the Group’s 
business strategies and reflect economic and market conditions.

Following the review, changes to the Group’s Short Term 
Incentive (STI) plan were made in FY16 and a change to the 
Group’s Long-term Incentive (LTI) plan is proposed to apply from 
FY17. A summary of the changes is set out below. Full details 
of the STI plan are set out in section 6.A of the Remuneration 
Report. Details of the LTI plan are set out in section 6.B.

Short Term Incentive Plan
A number of key changes were made to the Group’s STI plan 
to further align executive remuneration outcomes with the 
performance of the Group.
•  STI awards were previously delivered in cash. From FY16, half 
of STI awards will be delivered in cash and half will be deferred 
for 12 months. For certain executives, the deferred component 
of the STI award will be provided in the form of deferred share 
rights that will vest 12 months from the date of grant.

•  STI awards were previously not subject to a financial gateway. 
From FY16, STI awards are subject to a financial gateway 
of Group underlying EBIT as set out in section 6.A of the 
Remuneration Report.

•  The STI plan previously included a fixed corporate goal of 
Group NPAT for all participants. From FY16, the financial 
measures in the STI plan vary for participants based upon 
the individual’s capacity to influence achievement of the 
goal and the weighting allocated to each goal varying based 
upon the role. Details of Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) 
set for FY16 for Key Management Personnel and their 
achievement against the KPIs are set out in section 6.A of 
the Remuneration Report.

ANNUAL REPORT 201656

REMUNERATION  
REPORT

REMUNERATION REPORT – AUDITED
This Remuneration Report for the year ended 30 June 2016 (FY16) outlines the remuneration arrangements of the Company and the 
Group in accordance with the Corporations Act 2001 (the Corporations Act) and its regulations. This information has been audited as 
required by section 308(3C) of the Corporations Act.

Introduction

The Remuneration Report is presented under the following main headings:
1. 
2.  Remuneration governance
3.  Executive remuneration principles and strategy
4.  Link between remuneration and Group performance
5.  Executive Chairman and Non-Executive Director remuneration framework
6.  KMP Executive remuneration framework

A.  Short-term incentive plan
B.  Long-term incentive plan
C.  Managing Director & Chief Executive Officer remuneration

7.  Key Management Personnel equity holdings
8.  Key Management Personnel related party transactions
9.  Summary of executive contracts
10.  Remuneration in detail

Seven Group Holdings57

INTRODUCTION

1. 
The Remuneration Report outlines key aspects of remuneration policy, framework and remuneration awarded to Key Management 
Personnel (KMP) during FY16. KMP include Executive Directors, Non-Executive Directors and certain senior executives of the Group who 
have authority and responsibility for planning, directing and controlling the activities of the Group (Group Executives). Executive Directors 
and Group Executives are hereafter collectively referred to in this report as KMP Executives.

The Group’s KMP for FY16 are listed in the table below.

Executive Directors 

Kerry Matthew Stokes AC 
Ryan Kerry Stokes 
Bruce Ian McWilliam(a)

Non-Executive Directors 

Sally Annabelle Chaplain
Terry James Davis
Christopher John Mackay
David Ian McEvoy
Warwick Leslie Smith AM
Richard Anders Uechtritz
Professor Murray Charles Wells

Group Executives

Melanie Jayne Allibon(a)
Jarvas Ernest Croome
Lawrence Luo
Richard Joseph Richards
James Robert Scott(b)

Executive Chairman
Managing Director & Chief Executive Officer
Commercial Director

Director (appointed 24 November 2015)
Director
Director
Director
Director
Director
Director

Group Executive, Human Resources
Chief Executive Officer, WesTrac Australia
Chief Executive Officer, WesTrac China
Group Chief Financial Officer 
Group Chief Operating Officer (appointed 1 July 2015)

(a)  Mrs Melanie Allibon and Mr Bruce McWilliam are employed by Seven West Media Limited and their services are provided to Seven Group Holdings Limited under a company to company 
agreement. Remuneration disclosed in this report relates to amounts paid by Seven Group Holdings Limited to Seven West Media Limited in respect of their services. Remuneration for 
Mr Bruce McWilliam also includes payments to a company associated with Mr Bruce McWilliam that was party to a consulting agreement with the Group.

(b)  Mr James Scott transitioned to the role of Group Executive, Technology and Innovation as a contracted consultant to the Company on 1 July 2016 and ceased in the role of Group Chief Operating 

Officer and ceased as Key Management Personnel on 30 June 2016.

ANNUAL REPORT 201658

REMUNERATION  
REPORT

2.  REMUNERATION GOVERNANCE

Role of the Remuneration & Nomination Committee
The role and responsibilities of the Remuneration & Nomination Committee (the Committee) are explained in detail in the Corporate 
Governance Statement. The key responsibilities of the Committee are summarised below and include the following:
•  Make recommendations to the Board in relation to the remuneration of the MD & CEO and Non-Executive Directors, as necessary, or 

requested by the Board;

•  Review and make recommendations to the Board on all proposed offers to participate in, and all grants made pursuant to, the 

Company’s equity plans and the overall functioning of the equity plans; and

•  Review and advise on senior management succession planning and employee development policies, as requested by the Board or the 

MD & CEO.

During the financial year the Committee comprised the following members:
•  Mr Richard Uechtritz (Chairman of the Committee)
•  Ms Annabelle Chaplain (appointed 14 April 2016)
•  Mr Terry Davis
•  Mr Warwick Smith AM

Engagement of remuneration advisers
During FY16 no remuneration recommendations, as defined by the Corporations Act, were requested by or provided to the Remuneration 
& Nomination Committee or the Board by any remuneration consultant.

3.  EXECUTIVE REMUNERATION PRINCIPLES AND STRATEGY

Remuneration principles
The Group’s executive reward structure has been designed to attract and retain high performing individuals, align executive reward to the 
Group’s business objectives and to create long-term shareholder value.

The Board’s objective is to ensure remuneration packages appropriately reflect employees’ duties, responsibilities and levels of 
performance, as well as ensuring that remuneration attracts and motivates people of the highest calibre.

The key principles of the Group’s executive reward structure are to:
•  Ensure the Group’s remuneration structures are equitable and rewards are aligned to the creation of shareholder value, implementation 

of business strategy and delivering results;

•  Ensure that remuneration packages properly reflect the duties and responsibilities of the employees and that the remuneration is at an 

appropriate, competitive market rate which enables the Group to attract, retain and motivate people of the highest calibre;

•  Provide a balance between fixed remuneration and at-risk elements and short- and long-term outcomes that encourages appropriate 

• 

behaviour to provide reward for short-term delivery and long-term sustainability; and
Implement targeted goals that encourage high performance and establish a clear link between executive remuneration and 
performance, both at Company and individual business unit levels.

Seven Group Holdings59

Remuneration strategy
The following diagram illustrates how the Group’s remuneration principles are linked to, and support, the business’ objectives and how they 
are aligned to the long-term interests of shareholders and the creation of sustainable shareholder returns. Further details on the executive 
remuneration framework are in section 6 of the Remuneration Report.

Deliver strong revenue and earnings growth in core operating businesses. Efficiently allocate capital to work with investee companies in 
which it has a significant stake to increase the value of its investments.

Business objective

Remuneration strategy and objectives

Attract, retain and motivate people of the highest calibre

Attract, motivate and retain key talent by providing market 
competitive remuneration, which provides a mix of fixed and 
variable short-term and long-term incentives.

Align remuneration structures with the creation of shareholder 
value, implementation of business strategy and delivering results

Short-term and long-term incentive outcomes are dependent 
on the achievement of financial and non-financial business 
objectives, and shareholder return measures including 
relative Total Shareholder Return (TSR) and diluted Earnings 
Per Share (EPS).

Fixed remuneration (FR)

Short-term incentives

Long-term incentives

The LTI plan provides for grants of 
performance rights to eligible senior 
executives. The plan provides that any 
grants made are subject to performance 
hurdles of diluted Earnings per Share 
growth and relative Total Shareholder 
Return over a three-year period.

FR consists of base salary as well as 
employer superannuation contributions.

FR is set by having regard to listed 
companies of a similar size and 
complexity.

Non-monetary benefits are provided in 
addition to FR. Non-monetary benefits, 
as disclosed in the remuneration tables, 
include benefits paid for by the Company 
such as car parking and tickets to events.

The STI plan delivers an annual incentive 
where executives have achieved 
stretch performance measures. The 
incentive is delivered via deferred share 
rights and cash.

The share rights vest twelve months 
after grant, provided the KMP Executive 
remains employed within the Group at the 
time of vesting.

Performance is typically measured using 
a mix of corporate goals such as Group 
underlying EBIT, operating cash flow and 
other goals including:
•  Divisional EBIT performance;
•  Leadership and staff development;
•  Strategic direction; and
• 

Investment performance.

Minimum shareholding guidelines for KMP Executives
With effect from 1 July 2012, the Board implemented minimum shareholding guidelines to encourage KMP Executives to hold Seven Group 
Holdings Limited shares and further align their interests with those of shareholders. The guidelines impose a minimum level of shareholding 
based on the KMP Executive’s length of service with the Group, as set out in the table below.

Years of service of KMP Executive

Minimum value of shares to be held by KMP Executive

5

10

15

20

20% of annual fixed remuneration

40% of annual fixed remuneration

60% of annual fixed remuneration

80% of annual fixed remuneration

All KMP Executives are presently complying with the minimum shareholding guidelines. Shareholdings for each KMP are detailed in 
section 7 of the Remuneration Report.

ANNUAL REPORT 201660

REMUNERATION  
REPORT

4.  LINK BETWEEN REMUNERATION AND GROUP PERFORMANCE
The remuneration framework of the Group is designed to offer appropriate rewards for those giving superior performance. It is designed to 
closely align the interests of executives to those of shareholders and other stakeholders.

The remuneration structure is focused on achievement of the Group’s financial and operating objectives. The incentive to achieve these 
objectives is an important contributing factor in the Group’s financial performance and, ultimately, the value of the Company’s shares and 
distributions to shareholders.

Group performance is linked to the LTI plan through the diluted EPS and relative TSR targets.

Awards under the STI plan are determined based on performance against financial and non-financial measures. Group performance is 
linked to the STI plan through the Group underlying EBIT target and through other financial measures set relevant to the responsibility of 
each KMP Executive.

The table below shows the Group performance in key areas for the last five financial years.

Statutory NPAT ($m)
NPAT (excluding significant items) ($m)(a) 
Significant items ($m) 
Profit before significant items, net finance costs 
and tax (Group underlying EBIT) ($m)
Dividends per ordinary share 
Share price at financial year end
Statutory basic EPS
EPS (excluding significant items)
Diluted EPS (excluding significant items)
Total Shareholder Return
Relative Total Shareholder Return

2016

$197.8
$184.2
$13.6

2015

$(359.1)
$204.3
$(563.4)

2014

$262.5
$253.2
$9.3

$302.8
40.0 cents

$314.5
40.0 cents

$374.4
40.0 cents

$6.01 (b)
$0.60
$0.56
$0.56
2.4%
(10.1)%

$6.54 (b)
$(1.29)
$0.59
$0.59
(4.2)%
(20.0)%

$7.41 (b)
$0.77
$0.74
$0.74
12.9%
(4.8)%

2013

$488.6
$398.9
$89.8

$622.8
40.0 cents
$6.90
$1.49
$1.20
$1.20
(6.5)%
(30.0)%

2012

$176.7
$343.2
$(166.5)

$553.1
38.0 cents
$7.74
$0.43
$0.98
$0.98
(16.5)%
(18.3)%

(a)  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.

(b)  On 11 December 2013, the Group announced it would undertake an on-market buy-back of up to 11.9 million of the Company’s shares, representing approximately 3.86 per cent of the 
Company’s ordinary shares. The Company completed the on-market share buy-back on 9 December 2014 as the target of 11.9 million of the Company’s shares had been acquired and 
subsequently cancelled. A further share buy-back was announced on 25 February 2015, with a target of 17.7 million shares, being approximately 5.97 per cent of the Company’s issued 
capital. At 30 June 2016, 14.7 million shares had been acquired on-market and subsequently cancelled. A further buy-back was announced on 23 February 2016 with 0.3 million shares 
being acquired and subsequently cancelled by 30 June 2016.

5.  EXECUTIVE CHAIRMAN AND NON-EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR REMUNERATION FRAMEWORK
Non-Executive Directors’ remuneration is reviewed by the Board, taking into account the recommendations of the Remuneration & 
Nomination Committee and, as appropriate, external benchmarking of remuneration for Non-Executive Directors of comparable companies.

The objective of the Committee in making its recommendations is to attract, retain and properly motivate Directors who will, through their 
contribution to the Board and the Group, work towards creating sustainable value for shareholders and stakeholders.

Approved fee pool
In accordance with the Company’s Constitution and the requirements of the Corporations Act and ASX Listing Rules, the aggregate fees 
payable to the Non-Executive Directors are set at a maximum level approved by shareholders. The current aggregate pool available for the 
payment of fees to the Executive Chairman and Non-Executive Directors is $2 million per annum.

Executive Chairman and Non-Executive Director fees
The Executive Chairman receives a fixed director’s fee which is paid in the form of cash and statutory superannuation contributions. 
The Executive Chairman does not receive any additional fees for being the Chair or a member of a Board Committee.

Non-Executive Directors receive a fixed fee which includes a base fee and additional fees for being the Chair or member of a Board 
Committee (Committee fees). Board and Committee fees are paid in the form of cash and statutory superannuation contributions.

The Executive Chairman and the Non-Executive Directors do not receive any variable remuneration or other performance related incentives 
such as options or rights to shares, and no retirement benefits (except as outlined below) are provided to the Executive Chairman or to 
Non-Executive Directors.

Seven Group Holdings61

The table below sets out the base and Committee fees inclusive of superannuation which applied during FY16. There was no increase in 
fees during FY16, which have remained unchanged since August 2010.

Executive Chairman fees

Fee
Non-Executive Director fees

Base fee
Committee Chair fees
  Audit & Risk
  Remuneration & Nomination
Independent & Related Party

Committee member fees
  Audit & Risk 
  Remuneration & Nomination
Independent & Related Party

$350,000

$150,000

$60,000
$40,000
$40,000

$20,000
$20,000
$20,000

Non-Executive Director Retirement Benefits
A Retirement Deed was previously entered into with three qualifying Non-Executive Directors of Seven Network Limited in relation to the 
benefit payable on retirement to Directors who have served more than five years as Seven Network Limited Directors. The benefits payable 
upon retirement under the Deeds were frozen on 1 August 2003 at three times the average of the Directors’ emolument over the previous 
three years and no further increases will apply.

One Non-Executive Director Retirement Deed remains current in respect of Seven Network Limited.

6.  KMP EXECUTIVE REMUNERATION FRAMEWORK
The Group’s remuneration structures are designed to attract suitably qualified candidates, reward the achievement of strategic objectives 
and achieve the broader outcome of creation of value for shareholders.

Total remuneration comprises of fixed and variable remuneration (which is dependent on the achievement of financial and non-financial 
performance measures).

The Group aims to reward KMP Executives with a level and mix (comprising fixed remuneration, short- and long-term incentives) of 
remuneration appropriate to their position, responsibilities and performance within the Group and aligned with market practice.

The Group’s policy is to position total reward for KMP Executives principally within a competitive range of its peers which includes 
Australian listed companies with characteristics most like Seven Group Holdings Limited when compared against a set of financial and 
qualitative metrics.

Total reward opportunities are intended to provide the opportunity to earn median to top quartile rewards for outstanding performance 
against stretch targets set.

Fixed remuneration
Fixed remuneration consists of base salary, as well as employer contributions to superannuation funds.

Remuneration levels are reviewed by the Remuneration & Nomination Committee through a process that considers individual, segment 
and overall performance of the Group. In addition, external consultants may be requested to provide analysis and advice to ensure the 
KMP Executives’ remuneration is competitive in the market place.

Variable remuneration
Performance linked remuneration is designed to reward KMP Executives for meeting or exceeding annual financial and individual objectives 
that are linked to the Group’s strategy and business plans. 

Further details on the STI and LTI plans are set out on the following page.

ANNUAL REPORT 2016 
 
62

REMUNERATION  
REPORT

Remuneration mix
The following table outlines the FY16 target remuneration mix for the KMP Executives (excluding the Executive Chairman who does 
not receive any variable remuneration). For the majority of senior executives, half of the total remuneration package is comprised of 
performance-based ‘at risk’ incentive programs.

KMP Executive

Position

RK Stokes
MJ Allibon
JE Croome
L Luo
BI McWilliam
RJ Richards
JR Scott

Managing Director & Chief Executive Officer
Group Executive, Human Resources
Chief Executive Officer, WesTrac Australia
Chief Executive Officer, WesTrac China
Commercial Director
Group Chief Financial Officer
Group Chief Operating Officer

FR

50%
50%
50%
67%
50%
50%
50%

Cash STI

Deferred STI

12.5%
12.5%
12.5%
16.5%
12.5%
12.5%
12.5%

12.5%
12.5%
12.5%
16.5%
12.5%
12.5%
12.5%

LTI

25%
25%
25%
–
25%
25%
25%

A.  SHORT-TERM INCENTIVE PLAN
Certain KMP Executives participated in the Company’s STI plan in FY16 which provided executives with the opportunity to receive an 
annual incentive subject to the achievement of annual corporate and other performance objectives.

Financial gateway
From FY16, the Company introduced a financial gateway to the STI plan. The Company determined that a financial gateway was 
appropriate to better align the interests of shareholders and executives by limiting STI awards to KMP Executives where minimum financial 
performance of the Group is not achieved.

The financial gateway applied is Group underlying EBIT compared to target in accordance with the following table. Group underlying EBIT 
means the Group’s audited statutory profit before significant items, net finance costs and income tax.

% of Group underlying EBIT Achieved

Potential % of On-Target STI Award

<90
90-94
95-99
100

–
25%
50%
100%

Performance measurement
The Committee assesses the performance of the MD & CEO and makes a recommendation on the level of STI award to the Board 
for approval. The performance of other KMP Executives against targets is assessed by the MD & CEO and the level of STI award is 
recommended to the Committee for approval.

STI awards are not provided in circumstances where individual performance is unsatisfactory.

The Board retains discretion to determine whether STI awards are appropriate based on the overall performance of the KMP Executive 
and the Group.

STI opportunity
The target opportunity under the STI plan for each KMP Executive participating in the STI plan is 50 per cent of fixed remuneration.

STI goals
The goals for each of the STI participants are measured using a balanced scorecard approach based on measurable and quantifiable 
targets. Financial and non-financial measures are differentially weighted to reflect the different focus for KMP Executives in driving the 
overall business strategy.

Seven Group Holdings63

STI delivery
Half of STI awards are made as lump sum cash payments and half of the award is deferred for twelve months. For Australian resident KMP 
Executives employed directly by the Group, the deferred component of the STI award will be made into deferred share rights. The share 
rights vest twelve months after the grant of share rights provided the KMP Executive remains employed by the Group at the time of vesting.

Further details on the deferred share rights under the STI plan are set out below.

Short-Term Incentive plan – Deferred STI Share Rights

Who will participate?

What will be granted?

How many shares rights 
will be granted?

What will be the vesting 
performance measures?

Do the performance rights carry 
dividend or voting rights?

What happens in the event 
of a change in control?

What happens if the participant 
ceases employment?

Australian resident KMP Executives employed directly by the Group will have half of their STI 
award deferred into share rights in the Company.

Subject to the achievement of KPIs for the relevant financial year, 50 per cent of certain STI 
awards will be made as share rights which will be granted for nil consideration. Each right 
entitles the participant to one ordinary share in the Company, which vest in 12 months.

The number of share rights granted to each participating KMP Executive is equivalent to 
50 per cent of their STI award divided by the share price at 30 June adjusted for the value 
of expected dividends foregone. 

The share rights granted under the STI plan do not have any further performance hurdles and 
vest subject to continuous employment.

The share rights do not carry dividend or voting rights. 

In the event of a change of control of the Company, any unvested share rights will vest.

If the participant ceases employment with the Company due to termination for cause or 
gross misconduct, or other reasons determined by the Board (which would normally include 
resignation) all unvested share rights will lapse.

If the participant ceases employment other than for the reasons outlined above the share 
rights will not lapse, unless the Board determines otherwise. 

Mr Bruce McWilliam and Mrs Melanie Allibon are not directly employed by the Group and as such have different terms of participation 
for the deferred component of the STI plan. Their deferred STI award component is paid in cash. The after tax amount is required to be 
used to purchase shares in the company that are subject to a twelve month trading restriction. If employment ceases prior to the trading 
restriction being removed, the shares are required to be sold with proceeds returned to the Company.

Mr Lawrence Luo is not an Australian resident and as such has different terms of participation for the deferred component of the STI 
plan. Mr Luo’s deferred STI award component will be made in cash twelve months after the STI award is made, provided Mr Luo remains 
employed by the Group at this time.

Mr James Scott ceased as a KMP Executive on 30 June 2016 and was awarded his deferred component in cash.  
Therefore Mr James Scott’s entire FY16 STI award will be paid in cash in FY17.

FY16 STI outcomes
Executive variable remuneration outcomes in FY16 were dependent on executive performance outcomes against financial and non-
financial key performance indicators.

Under the design of the STI plan, STI awards may be available where the Group’s underlying EBIT threshold target is met as set out in 
section 6.A of the Remuneration Report.

The Group’s underlying EBIT target for FY16 was $278.9 million. 109 per cent of the Group’s underlying EBIT target for FY16 was achieved 
($302.8 million) and as a result, 100 per cent of the on-target amount may be paid as STI awards to executives.

The transformation of the Group has continued as we respond to the current market conditions. Our financial targets have been achieved 
and the end result from an underlying EBIT perspective is above the market guidance provided. During the year we have sought to grow 
our market share and generate strong cash flow with strong results across those targets. In addition to the financial performance our safety 
and people leadership has continued to improve during the year.

ANNUAL REPORT 201664

REMUNERATION  
REPORT

The table below provides the detail of the level of performance achieved against KPIs and resulting STI (expressed as a percentage of fixed 
remuneration) awarded for FY16.

Cash 
incentive
 awarded 
for 2016 
(as a
 percentage 
of FR)

Deferred 
equity
 incentive
 awarded for 
2016 (as a 
percentage 
of FR)

Deferred 
cash
 incentive
 awarded for
 2016 
(as a
 percentage
 of FR)

Percentage 
of STI 
awarded

Percentage
 of STI not
 awarded

20%

20%

–

80%

20%

17.5%

17.5%

17.5%

17.5%

–

–

70%

30%

70%

30%

15%

–

15%

60%

40%

15%

15%

21.3%

21.3%

–

–

60%

40%

85%

15%

34.6%

–

–

70%

30%

KMP Executive Position

KPIs

RK Stokes

Managing 
Director & Chief 
Executive Officer

MJ Allibon

Group Executive,  
Human 
Resources

JE Croome

Chief Executive 
Officer,  
WesTrac Australia

L Luo

Chief Executive 
Officer,  
WesTrac China

BI McWilliam Commercial 

Director

RJ Richards Group Chief 

Financial Officer

JR Scott

Group Chief 
Operating Officer

Group Underlying EBIT
Investment Portfolio Performance 
Group Strategic Direction 
Financial Stability and Security 
Leadership and Staff Development 
Operating Risk, Safety & Security 
Management

Group Underlying EBIT 
Subsidiary companies’ performance 
to budget People Development 
Culture and Engagement 
Safety

Group Underlying EBIT 
WesTrac WA Underlying EBIT 
WesTrac Australia Budget, Revenue 
and Sales Targets WesTrac Working 
Capital Targets 
WesTrac Costs and Organisational 
Development Targets People 
Safety

Group Underlying EBIT 
WesTrac China Underlying EBIT 
WesTract China Budget, Revenue, 
Sales and Working Capital Targets 
Organisational Development 
Risk/Safety Performance & 
Leadership

Group Underlying EBIT 
Seven West Media Group Underlying 
EBIT Subsidiary companies’ 
performance to budget Legal Strategy 
Transactions & Investments

Group Underlying EBIT 
Group Operating Cash Budget 
Subsidiary companies’ EBIT 
contribution, working capital and 
margins Banking and Investor 
Relations 
Leadership

Group Underlying EBIT 
Subsidiary companies’ performance 
to budget Transformation Program 
Delivery Organisational Development 
Leadership

Each individual KPI is allocated a specific weighting such that the sum of the collective measures’ weightings equals the relevant 
percentage of the participant’s STI opportunity. For the MD & CEO, 80 per cent of his STI KPIs relate to quantitative measures. For the 
other KMP Executives, between 50 and 80 per cent of their STI KPIs relate to quantitative measures.

Seven Group Holdings65

B.  LONG-TERM INCENTIVE PLAN
Selected KMP Executives participate in an LTI plan. The purpose of the LTI plan is to encourage sustained performance, drive long-term 
shareholder value creation and ensure alignment of executive remuneration outcomes to shareholder interests.

LTI opportunity
The target opportunity under the LTI plan for each KMP Executive participating in the LTI plan is 50 per cent of fixed remuneration.

Awards under the LTI plan are only made if the statutory NPAT target for the relevant year has been achieved.

Once granted, awards only vest if the performance hurdles over the three-year performance period are met. LTI awards are structured 
as rights to acquire ordinary shares in the Company at no cost to the participant and will only deliver benefits to participants if certain 
earnings targets and shareholder returns are achieved and the KMP Executive remains employed by the Company over the three-year 
performance period. For Mrs Melanie Allibon and Mr Bruce McWilliam who are not employed directly by the Company, should the LTI 
award rights vest, they will be cash settled. 

The statutory NPAT target for FY16 was $176.5 million. The FY16 statutory NPAT target set by the Board was achieved ($197.8 million) and 
as a result the Board has determined that LTI awards will be granted in FY17 in respect of FY16 performance to eligible KMP Executives, 
with the grant to Mr R Stokes to be made subject to shareholder approval as an Executive Director of the Company. The Board exercised 
its discretion to not make an LTI award to Mr James Scott.

Rights were granted under the LTI plan during FY15 in respect of FY14 performance and currently remain on foot in accordance with the 
vesting conditions of the LTI plan.

Further details on the LTI plan are set out below.

Long-Term Incentive plan

What will be granted?

How many performance 
rights will be granted?

Subject to the achievement of the statutory NPAT target for the relevant financial year, performance 
rights will be granted for nil consideration. Each right entitles the participant to one ordinary share in the 
Company, subject to the achievement of the performance hurdles for vesting, as outlined below. For 
Mrs Melanie Allibon and Mr Bruce McWilliam who are not employed directly by the Company, each right 
entitles the participant to a cash amount equivalent to one ordinary share in the Company, subject to the 
achievement of the performance hurdles for vesting, as outlined below.

The value of LTI granted annually is 50% of the relevant KMP Executive’s fixed remuneration. The number 
of performance rights granted to each KMP Executive is equivalent to the face value of the LTI grant divided 
by an amount calculated based on the 5 day Volume Weighted Average Price following the release of the 
Company’s full year financial results in accordance with the terms and conditions of the plan. 

What will be the vesting 
performance measures?

The vesting of performance rights granted under the LTI plan will be dependent on two independent 
performance measures, diluted Earnings Per Share (EPS) and relative Total Shareholder Return (TSR).

Why was the EPS 
performance hurdle chosen, 
and how is performance 
measured?

Half (50%) of the award will be subject to an EPS hurdle. EPS provides a direct link between executive reward 
with the creation of wealth driven through the increase in earnings per share received by shareholders.

EPS performance will be measured with reference to the diluted EPS from the audited annual accounts after 
allowing for any adjustments to this figure for abnormal or unusual profit items as the Board considers appropriate.

Threshold and stretch annual percentage EPS growth targets for three years will be set each year for each 
proposed LTI grant, with the proportion of vesting ranging from 0% (where the threshold EPS growth target 
is not achieved) to 100% (where the stretch EPS growth target is achieved).

The percentage of EPS performance rights that vest (if any) at the end of the three-year performance period 
is based on the following schedule:

Company’s EPS over the three years

Proportion of EPS performance rights that vest (%)

Equal to or above the stretch EPS

100%

Between the threshold EPS  
and the stretch EPS

At the threshold EPS

Less than the threshold EPS

Between 51% and 100%, increasing on  
a straight-line basis

50%

Nil

The Board has discretion to make adjustments to the EPS for significant items as it considers appropriate.

Threshold EPS hurdle is the aggregate of budget EPS targets for each financial year of the performance 
period and the stretch EPS hurdle is the aggregate of budget EPS plus 10% for each financial year of the 
performance period.

For FY15, threshold EPS was $0.76 and stretch EPS was $0.84. Actual EPS for FY15 was $(1.29).

For FY16, threshold EPS was $0.53 and stretch EPS was $0.58. Actual EPS for FY16 was $0.60.

ANNUAL REPORT 201666

REMUNERATION  
REPORT

Long-Term Incentive plan

Why was the TSR 
performance hurdle chosen, 
and how is performance 
measured?

The other half of the LTI award will be subject to a relative TSR hurdle. 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 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 at least at the median of the comparator group.

The comparator group chosen for assessing the Company’s relative TSR consists of constituents of the 
S&P / ASX 100 index excluding companies classified as Financials under the Global Industry Classification 
System. This comparator group was selected as it represents a broad base of companies against which 
investors in SGH may benchmark their investment.

The comparator group is defined at the start of the performance period. The composition of the comparator 
group may change as a result of corporate events, such as mergers, acquisitions, de-listings etc. The Board 
has agreed guidelines for adjusting the comparator group following such events, and has the discretion to 
determine any adjustment to the comparator group.

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 ranking relative  
to comparator group companies

Proportion of TSR performance  
rights that vest (%)

Equal to or above the 75th percentile

100%

Between the 50th and 75th percentiles

Straight-line vesting

At the 50th percentile

Less than the 50th percentile

50%

Nil

When will performance 
be tested?

Awards will be subject to a three-year performance period. Immediately following the completion 
of the performance period, the performance hurdles are tested to determine whether, and to what extent, 
awards vest. Upon vesting of the rights, the Board has discretion to either issue new shares or acquire 
shares on market.

Do the performance 
rights carry dividend or 
voting rights?

What happens in the event  
of a change in control?

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. 

Performance rights do not carry dividend or voting rights. 

In the event of a change of control of the Company the Board will have discretion to determine whether, and 
the extent to which, unvested performance rights vest. The Board will consider when making its decision 
the extent to which performance hurdles have been achieved to the date of the event.

What happens if the 
participant ceases 
employment?

If the participant ceases employment with the Company due to termination for cause or gross misconduct, 
or other reasons determined by the Board (which would normally include resignation) all unvested 
performance rights will lapse.

If the participant ceases employment other than for the reasons outlined above the performance rights will 
not lapse, unless the Board determines otherwise. 

C.  MANAGING DIRECTOR & CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER REMUNERATION
Mr Ryan Stokes was appointed Managing Director & Chief Executive Officer on 1 July 2015. Mr Ryan Stokes is employed under an 
open-ended employment contract under which the MD & CEO may give six months’ notice to terminate employment. The Company 
is also required to provide six months’ notice to terminate.

The remuneration mix for the MD & CEO comprises both a fixed component and a variable (or “at risk”) component (which comprises 
separate short-term incentive and long-term incentive elements). These components are explained in detail below.

Fixed remuneration
The MD & CEO’s fixed remuneration is $1,600,000 per annum inclusive of superannuation.

Fixed remuneration for the MD & CEO has been set in line with the Group’s policy of positioning total reward for KMP Executives principally 
within a competitive range of its peers which includes Australian listed companies with characteristics most like Seven Group Holdings 
Limited when compared against a set of financial and qualitative metrics.

Seven Group Holdings67

Variable remuneration
The MD & CEO is eligible to participate in performance-linked remuneration consistent with other KMP Executives under the 
Company’s STI plan described at section 6.A of the Remuneration Report and the Company’s LTI plan described at section 6.B 
of the Remuneration Report.

The MD & CEO’s at-target opportunity under the STI plan is 50% of fixed remuneration. The MD & CEO’s at-target opportunity under 
the LTI plan is 50% of fixed remuneration.

7.  KEY MANAGEMENT PERSONNEL EQUITY HOLDINGS

A.  EQUITY GRANTED AS REMUNERATION
Performance rights granted as remuneration
Long-term incentive plan
The Group offered certain KMP Executives the opportunity to participate in the Group’s LTI plan in respect of FY12, FY13, FY14, FY15 
and FY16 performance. Awards under the LTI plan are only made where the NPAT target for the relevant year has been achieved and 
once granted, awards only vest if the performance hurdles over the three-year performance period are met. LTI awards are structured as 
rights to acquire ordinary shares in the Company at no cost to the executive. For Mrs Melanie Allibon and Mr Bruce McWilliam who are not 
employed directly by the Company, should the LTI award rights vest, they will be cash settled.

The Company did not achieve its NPAT target in FY12, FY13 or FY15 and accordingly grants were not made in respect of performance 
in those years.

The FY14 NPAT target was achieved and as a result LTI awards were granted in FY15 in respect of FY14 performance to eligible executives.

On the basis that the FY16 statutory NPAT target set by the Board was achieved, LTI awards will be made to eligible KMP Executives in 
FY17 and may vest subject to achievement of the three year performance hurdles under the LTI plan.

Details of the vesting profiles of the performance rights held by KMP Executives during FY16 under the LTI plan are detailed below.

Number of 
share rights

Grant Date

Expiry Date

Fair value per
 right at Grant
 Date TSR
 component

Fair value per
 right at Grant
 Date EPS
 component

Number of
 rights vested
 during 2016

% forfeited 
in 2016

Financial year
 in which grant 
may vest

57,251
23,536
45,801
31,700

1 Dec 14
1 Dec 14
1 Dec 14
1 Dec 14

1 Sep 17
1 Sep 17
1 Sep 17
1 Sep 17

$3.89
$3.89
$3.89
$3.89

$6.33
$6.33
$6.33
$6.33

–
–
–
–

–
–
–
–

30 Jun 18
30 Jun 18
30 Jun 18
30 Jun 18

KMP

RK Stokes
JE Croome
RJ Richards
JR Scott

No amount is paid or payable by KMP Executives in relation to this grant.

Further details about the LTI plan are set out in Section 6.B of the Remuneration Report.

B.  EQUITY GRANTED AS REMUNERATION AFFECTING FUTURE PERIODS
The fair value of equity granted as remuneration is amortised over the service period and therefore remuneration in respect of equity 
grants may be reported in future years. The following table summarises the maximum value of these grants that will be reported in the 
remuneration tables in future years, assuming all vesting conditions are met. The minimum value of the grant is nil should vesting conditions 
not be satisfied.

KMP

RK Stokes
JE Croome
RJ Richards
RK Stokes
JE Croome
RJ Richards

Award

Performance rights (2014 LTI)
Performance rights (2014 LTI)
Performance rights (2014 LTI)
Performance rights (2016 LTI)
Performance rights (2016 LTI)
Performance rights (2016 LTI)

2017

2018

2019

$46,360
$22,870
$39,561
$111,480
$76,643
$69,676

–
–
–
$111,480
$76,643
$69,676

–
–
–
$111,480
$76,643
$69,676

C.  SHAREHOLDINGS AND TRANSACTIONS
Movements in the holdings of ordinary shares and TELYS4 by KMP held directly, indirectly, beneficially and including their personally-
related entities are set out in the tables below.

ANNUAL REPORT 201668

REMUNERATION  
REPORT

Ordinary Shares

KMP

KM Stokes AC
SA Chaplain(a)
TJ Davis
CJ Mackay
DI McEvoy
WL Smith AM
RA Uechtritz
MC Wells
RK Stokes
MJ Allibon
JE Croome
L Luo
BI McWilliam
RJ Richards
JR Scott

Number held at 
1 July 2015

Purchases and
 other changes
 during the year

Shares granted
 as remuneration
 during the year

Rights converted 
to shares during 
the year

Number held at 
30 June 2016

207,304,349
–
40,000
10,000
–
30,600
702,476
4,000
185,780
8,000
–
–
134,011
65,774
–

–
17,000
40,000
–
30,000
10,200
300,000
–
75,000
–
20,000
–
25,000
–
–

–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–

–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–

207,304,349
17,000
80,000
10,000
30,000
40,800
1,002,476
4,000
260,780
8,000
20,000
–
159,011
65,774
–

(a)  Opening details are as at date of commencement as KMP.

TELYS4

KMP

TJ Davis
MC Wells
RK Stokes
MJ Allibon
JE Croome
RJ Richards

Number held at 
1 July 2015

Purchases and
 other changes
 during the year

Number held at 
30 June 2016

7,000
710
–
400
200
–

3,000
–
2,500
(200)
1,450
14,560

10,000
710
2,500
200
1,650
14,560

D.  HEDGING POLICY
The Company’s Group Directors Share Trading Policy, and the Executive and Staff Share Trading Policy, prohibits employees (including 
KMP) from dealing in Seven Group Holdings Limited shares, if the dealing is prohibited under the Corporations Act 2001. Therefore, in 
accordance with this policy, all KMP are prohibited from entering into arrangements in connection with Seven Group Holding Limited 
shares which operate to limit the executives’ economic risk under any equity-based incentive schemes.

The ability to deal with unvested rights is restricted in the relevant equity plan rules which apply to the options over shares in the Company 
which have been granted. The Company will continue to monitor the appropriateness of this approach.

8.  KEY MANAGEMENT PERSONNEL RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS

Key Management Personnel related party transactions
A number of Key Management Personnel, or their personally-related entities, hold positions in other entities that can result in them 
having control or significant influence over those entities. A number of these entities transacted with the Company or its subsidiaries 
during the year.

The Group transacted with entities of which the Directors of the Company, Mr Kerry Stokes AC and Mr Ryan Stokes are or were Directors 
of Officers (excluding equity accounted investees, which are disclosed in Note 32 of the Financial Statements) or otherwise had an interest.

Seven Group HoldingsThe aggregate value of the related party transactions with Director and director related entities was as follows:

Expenses
–  Lease of premises and related outgoings
–  Travel expenses
–  Electricity under supply agreement
–  Consulting agreement
–  Other net expense reimbursements

Total expenses

Assets and liabilities
–  Trade and other receivables – current
–  Trade and other payables – current

69

2016
$

2015
$

41,337,604
48,778
1,723,689
250,000
587,290

40,273,905
3,197,197
2,144,018
250,000
220,039

43,947,361

46,085,159

–
–

–
–

The lease of premises cost relates to triple net leases that the WesTrac Group entered into, the material terms of which were set out in 
page 406 of Part B of the merger scheme documentation and include annual rent increases of the greater of 3% and CPI, responsibility 
for most costs of maintaining the properties (including capital / structural repairs), and extensive insurance obligations. The rent expense for 
the use of these properties is disclosed in the table within expenses.

Loans and other transactions with Key Management Personnel
During the year, a company associated with a Director, Mr Bruce McWilliam, was party to a consulting agreement with the Group. Total 
fees paid during the year in relation to this consulting agreement totalled $250,000 (2015: $250,000). This amount is included in the 
remuneration disclosures and in the table above.

During the year ended 30 June 2016, Mr Kerry Stokes AC and Mr Ryan Stokes were directors on the board of Seven West Media Limited, 
representing Seven Group Holdings Limited. They are paid a director fee by Seven West Media Limited for their services provided which is 
disclosed in Seven West Media Limited’s Remuneration Report. Professor Murray Wells and Mr Warwick Smith AM receive director fees 
for their services provided to Flagship Property Holdings Pty Limited. As the amounts are not paid or payable by Seven Group Holdings 
Limited they have not been included in the remuneration disclosures or the above table.

Other director fees

KM Stokes AC
RK Stokes
MC Wells
WL Smith AM

2016
$

347,510
149,529
55,000
65,000

2015
$

335,000
145,000
55,000
55,000

9.  SUMMARY OF EXECUTIVE CONTRACTS
The key terms of the executive contracts including the term of the contract, the period of notice required to terminate the contract 
(by either the Company or executive) and any contractual termination payments are set out below.

KMP Executive

Contract term

Notice period 
required by the 
Company

Notice period 
required by the 
Executive

RK Stokes
JE Croome 
L Luo
RJ Richards 
JR Scott 

On-going
On-going
Three years
On-going
On-going

6 months
6 months
6 months
6 months
6 months

6 months
6 months
6 months
6 months
6 months

Contractual termination payments

No contractual termination payments
No contractual termination payments
No contractual termination payments
No contractual termination payments
No contractual termination payments

Mr Bruce McWilliam and Mrs Melanie Allibon are not directly employed by the Company however their services are provided under an 
agreement with Seven West Media Limited. Consequently Mr Bruce McWilliam and Mrs Melanie Allibon do not have any applicable 
contract term, notice period or contractual termination payments.

There are no formal employment contracts for Non-Executive Directors that provide notice provisions or contractual termination payments. 
Each Non-Executive Director has a formal appointment letter agreed with the Company which confirms their appointment in accordance 
with the Constitution of the Company and provides information in relation to the structure and practices of the Board and the Company.

ANNUAL REPORT 201670

REMUNERATION  
REPORT

10.  REMUNERATION IN DETAIL
The following table sets out the remuneration details for the Group’s KMP for the year ended 30 June 2016.

KMP

KM Stokes AC  
(Executive Chairman)
PD Ritchie AO  
(Deputy Chairman) (retired 19 November 2014)
ED Boling
(Non-Executive Director) (retired 19 November 2014)
SA Chaplain
(Non-Executive Director) (appointed 24 November 2015)
TJ Davis
(Non-Executive Director)
CJ Mackay
(Non-Executive Director)
DI McEvoy(a)
(Non-Executive Director) 
WL Smith (b)
(Non-Executive Director) 
RA Uechtritz
(Non-Executive Director)
MC Wells
(Non-Executive Director)
DR Voelte AO
(Managing Director & Chief Executive Officer) (retired 29 June 2015)
RK Stokes  
(Managing Director & Chief Executive Officer)
(appointed 1 July 2015)
MJ Allibon (c)
(Group Executive, Human Resources) 
M Bryant
(Chief Executive Officer, WesTrac China) (resigned 31 December 2014)
JE Croome
(Chief Executive Officer, WesTrac Australia) 
DJ Leckie  
(Executive Director, Media) (resigned 22 August 2014)
L Luo (d)
(Chief Executive Officer, WesTrac China)
BI McWilliam (e)  
(Commercial Director)
RJ Richards
(Group Chief Financial Officer) 
JR Scott(g)
(Group Chief Operating Officer) (appointed 1 July 2015)
Total KMP
Total KMP

Short-term benefits

Post- 
employment 
benefits

Salary 
& fees
$

330,692
331,217
–
81,846
–
67,237
101,471
–
191,781
191,781
173,516
173,516
159,165
13,669
173,516
131,900
191,781
184,779
210,692
211,217
–
3,223,263
1,580,692

768,717
131,250
131,250
–
358,816
1,072,379
1,012,977
–
107,361
734,981
266,168
525,000
525,000
971,565
826,167
630,693
–
7,179,174
8,606,881

Year

2016
2015
2016
2015
2016
2015
2016
2015
2016
2015
2016
2015
2016
2015
2016
2015
2016
2015
2016
2015
2016
2015
2016

2015
2016
2015
2016
2015
2016
2015
2016
2015
2016
2015
2016
2015
2016
2015
2016
2015
2016
2015

STI 
cash 
bonus
$

–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
320,000

–
22,969
–
–
–
192,500
–
–
–
124,348
–
41,250
–
212,500
–
227,500
–
1,141,067
–

Non-
monetary
benefits
$

Super-
annuation
benefits
$

39,624
222,026
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
15,940
14,734

25,878
–
–
–
91,957
29,614
24,829
–
13,422
97,435
31,841
–
–
4,210
8,806
7,477
–
193,094
434,699

19,308
18,783
–
7,348
–
6,388
9,640
–
18,219
18,219
16,484
16,484
15,121
1,299
16,484
11,161
18,219
16,820
19,308
18,783
–
–
19,308

18,783
–
–
–
18,434
19,308
18,783
–
2,758
86,680
5,097
–
–
28,435
30,084
19,308
–
305,822
209,224

Other long-term 

benefits

Termination 

benefits

Share-based payments

Long 

service

 leave and

 annual 

leave

$

Deferred

 Incentive

Termination

Performance

 benefits

 Rights (f)

$

$

$

Deferred 

shares/ 

share 

rights

$

Cash 

settled

equity

$

Remuneration

performance

related

%

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

(49,231)

20,375

237,135

2,868

21,203

41,348

67,887

8,751

118,548

276,994

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

157,840

44,748

460,000

160,000

1,444,478

11,485

8,203

453,859

99,513

22,605

96,250

20,625

17,188

106,250

109,237

38,529

53,572

45,206

62,174

62,174

453,859

420,162

105,882

394,610

460,000

25,391

9,840,042

1,444,478

11,992,017

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

Total

$

389,624

572,026

89,194

73,625

111,111

–

–

–

210,000

210,000

190,000

190,000

174,286

14,968

190,000

143,061

210,000

201,599

230,000

230,000

–

–

–

5,094,450

2,272,949

1,095,261

173,907

131,250

923,066

1,512,432

1,100,397

123,541

1,150,824

303,106

604,063

525,000

1,473,545

971,473

947,301

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

37

28

4

25

26

–

–

–

2

–

–

10

13

–

–

29

4

30

–

Seven Group Holdings10.  REMUNERATION IN DETAIL

The following table sets out the remuneration details for the Group’s KMP for the year ended 30 June 2016.

Short-term benefits

Other long-term 
benefits

Termination 
benefits

Share-based payments

Long 
service
 leave and
 annual 
leave
$

–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
(49,231)
20,375

237,135
–
–
–
–
2,868
21,203
–
–
45,206
–
–
–
41,348
67,887
8,751
–
118,548
276,994

Deferred
 Incentive
$

Termination
 benefits
$

Performance
 Rights (f)
$

–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–

–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–

–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
62,174
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
62,174
–

–
–
–
–
453,859
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
453,859

–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
157,840

44,748
–
–
–
–
99,513
22,605
–
–
–
–
–
–
109,237
38,529
53,572
–
420,162
105,882

Deferred 
shares/ 
share 
rights
$

–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
460,000
160,000

–
11,485
–
–
–
96,250
–
–
–
–
–
20,625
–
106,250
–
–
–
394,610
460,000

Cash 
settled
equity
$

–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
1,444,478
–

–
8,203
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
17,188
–
–
–
–
–
25,391
1,444,478

End of Audited Remuneration Report.

Remuneration
performance
related
%

Total
$

389,624
572,026
–
89,194
–
73,625
111,111
–
210,000
210,000
190,000
190,000
174,286
14,968
190,000
143,061
210,000
201,599
230,000
230,000
–
5,094,450
2,272,949

1,095,261
173,907
131,250
–
923,066
1,512,432
1,100,397
–
123,541
1,150,824
303,106
604,063
525,000
1,473,545
971,473
947,301
–
9,840,042
11,992,017

–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
37
28

4
25
–
–
–
26
2
–
–
10
–
13
–
29
4
30
–

(Deputy Chairman) (retired 19 November 2014)

(Non-Executive Director) (retired 19 November 2014)

(Non-Executive Director) (appointed 24 November 2015)

KMP

KM Stokes AC  

(Executive Chairman)

PD Ritchie AO  

ED Boling

SA Chaplain

TJ Davis

(Non-Executive Director)

CJ Mackay

(Non-Executive Director)

DI McEvoy(a)

(Non-Executive Director) 

WL Smith (b)

(Non-Executive Director) 

RA Uechtritz

(Non-Executive Director)

MC Wells

(Non-Executive Director)

DR Voelte AO

(Managing Director & Chief Executive Officer) (retired 29 June 2015)

RK Stokes  

(Managing Director & Chief Executive Officer)

(appointed 1 July 2015)

MJ Allibon (c)

(Group Executive, Human Resources) 

(Chief Executive Officer, WesTrac China) (resigned 31 December 2014)

(Chief Executive Officer, WesTrac Australia) 

(Executive Director, Media) (resigned 22 August 2014)

(Chief Executive Officer, WesTrac China)

BI McWilliam (e)  

(Commercial Director)

RJ Richards

(Group Chief Financial Officer) 

(Group Chief Operating Officer) (appointed 1 July 2015)

M Bryant

JE Croome

DJ Leckie  

L Luo (d)

JR Scott(g)

Total KMP

Total KMP

Post- 

employment 

benefits

Super-

annuation

benefits

$

STI 

cash 

bonus

$

Non-

monetary

benefits

$

39,624

222,026

Salary 

& fees

$

330,692

331,217

–

–

–

81,846

67,237

101,471

191,781

191,781

173,516

173,516

159,165

13,669

173,516

131,900

191,781

184,779

210,692

211,217

3,223,263

1,580,692

768,717

131,250

131,250

358,816

1,072,379

1,012,977

–

–

–

107,361

734,981

266,168

525,000

525,000

971,565

826,167

630,693

–

Year

2016

2015

2016

2015

2016

2015

2016

2015

2016

2015

2016

2015

2016

2015

2016

2015

2016

2015

2016

2015

2016

2015

2016

2015

2016

2015

2016

2015

2016

2015

2016

2015

2016

2015

2016

2015

2016

2015

2016

2015

2016

2015

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

320,000

22,969

192,500

124,348

41,250

212,500

227,500

19,308

18,783

7,348

6,388

9,640

–

–

–

18,219

18,219

16,484

16,484

15,121

1,299

16,484

11,161

18,219

16,820

19,308

18,783

19,308

18,434

19,308

18,783

2,758

86,680

5,097

28,435

30,084

19,308

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

15,940

14,734

91,957

29,614

24,829

13,422

97,435

31,841

4,210

8,806

7,477

25,878

18,783

7,179,174

8,606,881

1,141,067

193,094

434,699

305,822

209,224

71

(a)  Mr David McEvoy was appointed as 
KMP on 24 May 2015 and as such 
the 2015 comparison is not for a 
full year.

(b)  Mr Warwick Smith AM 

was appointed as KMP on 
12 September 2014 as such the 
2015 comparison is not for a full 
year.

(c)  Salary & Fees for Mrs Melanie 
Allibon relates to amounts 
recharged by Seven West 
Media Limited to Seven Group 
Holdings Limited.

(d)  Mr Lawrence Luo was appointed 
as KMP on 1 January 2015 and 
as such the 2015 comparison is 
not for a full year. Remuneration 
amounts converted from US dollars 
based on an exchange rate of 
0.7283 Australian dollars for each 
$1 US dollar.

(e)  Salary & Fees for Mr Bruce 

McWilliam includes $275,000 
recharged by Seven West Media 
Limited to Seven Group Holdings 
Limited and payments to a 
company associated with Mr Bruce 
McWilliam that was party to a 
consulting agreement with the 
Group of $250,000.

(f)  Expense includes notional amounts 
included for the FY16 LTI award of 
rights which will be granted in FY17 
in respect of FY16 performance.
(g)  Mr James Scott ceased as KMP on 
30 June 2016. His entire STI cash 
bonus is payable in cash without a 
deferred component. The share-
based payment amount includes 
$26,786 relating to amortisation 
that would have occurred in future 
years on Mr James Scott’s share-
based payments had the Board not 
determined for his performance 
right to remain on foot subject to 
their original vesting schedule. 
The Board exercised its discretion 
to not make an FY16 LTI award 
to Mr James Scott following his 
transition to a contracted consultant 
role from 1 July 2016.

(h)  Mr Richard Richards was appointed 

to the role of Chief Financial 
Officer in October 2013, his first 
appointment as a Chief Financial 
Officer of an ASX listed company. 
The Company committed to 
review his fixed remuneration 
following successful performance 
in the role, consistent with market 
remuneration. Following Mr Richard 
Richards’ exceptional performance 
as Chief Financial Officer, a 
review of his remuneration 
was undertaken and his fixed 
remuneration was increased.

ANNUAL REPORT 2016ROUNDING OFF
The Company is of a kind referred to in ASIC Instrument 2016/19 
and in accordance with that Instrument, amounts in this report 
and the accompanying financial report have been rounded off to 
the nearest whole number of millions of dollars and one place of 
decimals representing hundreds of thousands of dollars.

Signed for and on behalf of the Board of Directors and in 
accordance with a resolution of the Directors.

KM Stokes AC
Executive Chairman

MC Wells
Chairman of the Audit & Risk Committee

Sydney
3 August 2016

72

DIRECTORS’  
REPORT

INDEMNITY
The Constitution of the Company provides an indemnity to 
any current or former Director and secretary of the Company 
against any liabilities incurred by that person, or 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 in specified circumstances.

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 taken pursuant to these 
indemnities during the year.

INSURANCE PREMIUMS
The Company has paid insurance premiums in respect of a 
directors’ and officers’ liability insurance contract insuring against 
certain liabilities (subject to exclusions) of all current and former 
officers of the Company and its subsidiaries, including all Directors 
named in this report, the Company Secretary and all persons 
concerned in, or taking part in the management of, the Company 
and its controlled entities, and former Directors and officers who 
have retired or relinquished their positions.

The insurance policies prohibit disclosure of the premiums paid in 
respect of those policies and the nature of the liabilities insured by 
the policies.

NON-AUDIT SERVICES
During the year KPMG, the Company’s auditor, has performed 
certain other services in addition to their statutory duties.

The Board has considered the non-audit services provided 
during the year by the auditor and, in accordance with the advice 
received from the Audit & Risk Committee, is satisfied that the 
provision of those non-audit services during the year by the 
auditor is compatible with, and 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 Company and have been reviewed 
by the Board in terms of the Company’s formal Auditor 
Independence Policy to ensure that they do not impact the 
integrity and objectivity of the auditor; and
the non-audit services provided do not undermine the general 
principles relating to auditor 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 or decision making capacity for the 
Company, acting as an advocate for the Company or jointly 
sharing risks and rewards.

• 

A copy of the auditor’s independence declaration as required under 
section 307C of the Corporations Act 2001 is set out on page 73.

Details of amounts paid or payable to the auditor, KPMG, for audit 
and non-audit services provided during the year are set out in 
Note 33 to the financial statements.

Seven Group HoldingsAUDITOR’S 
INDEPENDENCE 
DECLARATION

73

ANNUAL REPORT 2016Lead Auditor’s Independence Declaration under Section 307C of the Corporations Act 2001To: the Directors of Seven Group Holdings LimitedI declare that, to the best of my knowledge and belief, in relation to the audit for the financial year ended 30 June 2016 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 Kevin Leighton PartnerSydney 3 August 2016auditor’s independence declaration ABCDLead Auditor’s Independence Declaration under Section 307C of the Corporations Act 2001   To: the directors of Seven Group Holdings LimitedI declare that, to the best of my knowledge and belief, in relation to the audit for the financial year ended 30 June 2014there 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. KPMGKevin Leighton PartnerSydney 27 August 2014  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. Pre-Press ProofVersion:PPV1Approved:Client:sGHJob Name:14395 ArDate:15.09.15ABCDIndependence In conducting our audit, we have complied with the independence requirements of the Corporations Act 2001.  Auditor’sopinionIn our opinion: (a) the financial report of the Group is in accordance with the Corporations Act 2001, including:  (i)giving a true and fair view of the Group’s financial position as             at 30 June 2014 and of itsperformance for the year ended on that date; and  (ii) complying with Australian Accounting Standards and the Corporations   Regulations  2001. (b) the financial report also complies with International Financial Reporting Standards as disclosed in Note 1(A).Report on the remuneration reportWe have audited the Remuneration Report included in pages 19 to 40 of the directors’ report for the year ended 30 June 2014. The directors of the Company are responsible for the preparation and presentation of the remuneration report in accordance with Section 300A of the Corporations Act 2001. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the remuneration report, based on our audit conducted in accordance with auditing standards. Auditor’s opinion In our opinion, the remuneration report of Seven Group Holdings Limited for the year ended 30 June 2014, complies with Section 300A of the Corporations Act 2001. KPMGKevin Leighton PartnerSydney 27 August 2014 ABCDIndependence In conducting our audit, we have complied with the independence requirements of the Corporations Act 2001.  Auditor’sopinionIn our opinion: (a) the financial report of the Group is in accordance with the Corporations Act 2001, including:  (i)giving a true and fair view of the Group’s financial position as             at 30 June 2014 and of itsperformance for the year ended on that date; and  (ii) complying with Australian Accounting Standards and the Corporations   Regulations  2001. (b) the financial report also complies with International Financial Reporting Standards as disclosed in Note 1(A).Report on the remuneration reportWe have audited the Remuneration Report included in pages 19 to 40 of the directors’ report for the year ended 30 June 2014. The directors of the Company are responsible for the preparation and presentation of the remuneration report in accordance with Section 300A of the Corporations Act 2001. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the remuneration report, based on our audit conducted in accordance with auditing standards. Auditor’s opinion In our opinion, the remuneration report of Seven Group Holdings Limited for the year ended 30 June 2014, complies with Section 300A of the Corporations Act 2001. KPMGKevin Leighton PartnerSydney 27 August 2014 74

Seven Group Holdings

FINANCIAL REPORT

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF PROFIT OR LOSS 
AND OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL POSITION

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN EQUITY

CONSOLIDATED CASH FLOW STATEMENT

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

BASIS OF PREPARATION
1  Basis of preparation

RESULTS FOR THE YEAR
2  Operating segments

3  Significant items

4  Revenue and expenditure

5  Net finance expense

6 

Income tax

7  Earnings per share

OPERATING ASSETS AND LIABILITIES
8  Trade and other receivables

9  Trade and other payables

10 

Inventories

11 

 Investments accounted for using the  
equity method

12  Property, plant and equipment

13  Producing and development assets

14  Exploration and evaluation assets

15 

Intangible assets

16  Provisions

17  Employee benefits

CASH MANAGEMENT
18  Cash and cash equivalents

19  Notes to the cash flow statement

20 

Interest bearing loans and borrowings

FINANCIAL ASSETS
21  Financial risk management

22  Other financial assets

23  Derivative financial instruments

CAPITAL STRUCTURE
24  Capital and reserves

25  Dividends

UNRECOGNISED ITEMS
26  Contingent liabilities

27  Commitments

28  Events subsequent to balance date

GROUP STRUCTURE
29  Parent entity disclosures

30  Controlled entities

31  Business combination

OTHER
32  Related party disclosures

33  Auditor’s remuneration

DIRECTORS’ DECLARATION

INDEPENDENT AUDITOR’S REPORT

INVESTOR INFORMATION

SHAREHOLDER INFORMATION

CORPORATE DIRECTORY

COMPANY INFORMATION

75

76

77

78

79

80

81

84

85

86

87

90

91

92

93

94

98

99

100

102

105

107

108

108

109

110

120

121

123

125

125

126

127

127

128

132

133

134

135

136

138

139

IBC

IBC

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF PROFIT OR LOSS 
AND OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2016

75

Revenue
Revenue
Other income
Dividend income
Gain on sale of investments and equity accounted investees
Other investment income
Other

Total other income

Share of results from equity accounted investees
Impairment of equity accounted investees
Fair value movement of derivatives
Expenses excluding depreciation and amortisation

Profit/(loss) before depreciation, amortisation, net finance expense and income tax

Depreciation and amortisation

Profit/(loss) before net finance expense and income tax

Finance income
Finance expense

Net finance expense

Profit/(loss) before income tax

Income tax (expense)/benefit

Profit/(loss) for the year

Profit/(loss) for the year attributable to:
Equity holders of the Company
Non-controlling interest

Profit/(loss) for the year

Other comprehensive income
Items that will not be reclassified subsequently to profit or loss
Net change in fair value of financial assets at fair value through other comprehensive income
Impact of transition – AASB 9: Financial Instruments
Income tax relating to items that will not be reclassified subsequently to profit or loss

Total items that will not be reclassified subsequently to profit or loss

Items that may be reclassified subsequently to profit or loss
Net change in fair value of available-for-sale financial assets
Cash flow hedges: effective portion of changes in fair value
Foreign currency differences for foreign operations
Impact of transition – AASB 9: Financial Instruments
Income tax relating to items that may be reclassified subsequently to profit or loss

Total items that may be reclassified subsequently to profit or loss

Total comprehensive income for the year

Total comprehensive income for the year attributable to:
Equity holders of the Company
Non-controlling interest

Total comprehensive income for the year

Note

2016
$m

2015
$m

 4 

 2,837.7 

 2,779.6 

 11 
 11 

 4 

 5 
 5 

 6 

 24 
1(E) 
24

24
 24 
24
1(E) 
 24 

 36.8 
 7.9 
 – 
 48.7 

 93.4 

 91.0 
 (0.4)
 5.2 
 (2,682.7)

 344.2 

 (38.0)

 306.2 

 4.6 
 (93.8)

 (89.2)

 217.0 

 (19.2)

 197.8 

 196.8 
 1.0 

 197.8 

 (225.5)
 (4.8)
 67.7 

 (162.6)

 – 
 28.6 
 15.6 
 0.4 
 (9.6)

 35.0 

 70.2 

 69.2 
 1.0 

 70.2 

2016
 $ 

 44.4 
 36.5 
 37.9 
 66.8 

 185.6 

 (377.4)
 (99.3)
 – 
 (3,009.2)

 (520.7)

 (62.1)

 (582.8)

 35.1 
 (102.4)

 (67.3)

 (650.1)

 291.0 

 (359.1)

 (360.3)
 1.2 

 (359.1)

 – 
 – 
 – 

 – 

 77.2 
 16.9 
 148.3 
 – 
 (25.1)

 217.3 

 (141.8)

 (143.5)
 1.7 

 (141.8)

2015
 $ 

Statutory earnings per share (EPS)
Ordinary shares
Basic earnings per share
Diluted earnings per share

 7 
 7 

 0.60 
 0.60 

 (1.29)
 (1.29)

The consolidated statement of profit or loss and other comprehensive income is to be read in conjunction with the notes to the financial statements.

ANNUAL REPORT 201676

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL POSITION
AS AT 30 JUNE 2016

Current assets
Cash and cash equivalents
Trade and other receivables
Inventories
Current tax assets
Other current assets
Derivative financial instruments

Total current assets

Non-current assets
Investments accounted for using the equity method
Other financial assets
Property, plant and equipment
Producing and development assets
Exploration and evaluation assets
Intangible assets
Deferred tax assets
Derivative financial instruments

Total non-current assets

Total assets

Current liabilities
Trade and other payables
Interest bearing loans and borrowings
Deferred income
Current tax liability
Provisions
Employee benefits
Derivative financial instruments

Total current liabilities

Non-current liabilities
Other payables
Interest bearing loans and borrowings
Deferred tax liabilities
Deferred income
Provisions
Employee benefits
Derivative financial instruments

Total non-current liabilities

Total liabilities

Net assets

Equity
Contributed equity
Reserves
Retained earnings

Total equity attributable to equity holders of the Company
Non-controlling interest

Total equity

Note

 18 
 8 
 10 

 23 

 11 
 22 
 12 
 13 
 14 
 15 
 6 
 23 

 9 
 20 

 16 
 17 
 23 

 9 
 20 
 6 

 16 
 17 
 23 

 24 
 24 

2016
$m

 366.8 
 542.7 
 824.8 
 – 
 28.9 
 1.7 

2015
$m

 290.7 
 489.2 
 929.2 
 11.0 
 41.7 
 2.5 

 1,764.9 

 1,764.3 

 998.0 
 974.6 
 172.0 
 214.5 
 218.0 
 694.9 
 9.5 
 184.4 

 3,465.9 

 5,230.8 

 373.0 
 220.1 
 228.7 
 9.9 
 49.8 
 36.8 
 16.4 

 934.7 

 0.4 
 1,514.2 
 29.5 
 12.7 
 50.8 
 12.5 
 8.8 

 1,628.9 

 2,563.6 

 2,667.2 

 2,472.7 
 (466.0)
 648.7 

 2,655.4 
 11.8 

 2,667.2 

 983.9 
 1,140.9 
 216.3 
 208.5 
 238.5 
 665.5 
 12.9 
 142.1 

 3,608.6 

 5,372.9 

 380.8 
 79.2 
 209.4 
 6.4 
 83.3 
 37.3 
 12.0 

 808.4 

 1.1 
 1,556.1 
 98.3 
 13.1 
 49.2 
 8.1 
 29.2 

 1,755.1 

 2,563.5 

 2,809.4 

 2,544.6 
 (344.2)
 596.2 

 2,796.6 
 12.8 

 2,809.4 

The consolidated statement of financial position is to be read in conjunction with the notes to the financial statements.

Seven Group HoldingsCONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN EQUITY
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2016

77

Contributed
 equity
$m

Note

Reserves
$m

Retained
 earnings
$m

Non-
controlling
 interest
$m

Total 
$m

Total 
equity
$m

Year ended 30 June 2016
Balance as at 1 July 2015
Profit for the year
Impact of transition – AASB 9: Financial Instruments
Net change in fair value of financial assets measured 
at fair value through other comprehensive income
Cash flow hedges: effective portion of
changes in fair value
Foreign currency differences for foreign operations
Income tax on items of other comprehensive income

Total comprehensive income for the year

Transactions with owners recognised 
directly in equity
Ordinary dividends paid
TELYS4 dividends paid
Shares bought back on-market
Shares vested to employees
Share based payments

Total contributions by and distributions to owners

1(E)
24

24

24
24

25
25
24
24

 2,544.6 
 – 
 – 
 – 

 (344.2)
 – 
 0.4 
 (225.5)

 596.2 
 196.8 
 (4.8)
 – 

 2,796.6 
 196.8 
 (4.4)
 (225.5)

 12.8 
 1.0 
 – 
 – 

 2,809.4 
 197.8 
 (4.4)
 (225.5)

 – 

 – 
 – 

 – 

 28.6 

 15.6 
 58.1 

 – 

 – 
 – 

 (122.8)

 192.0 

 28.6 

 15.6 
 58.1 

 69.2 

 – 
 – 
 (72.1)
 0.2 
 – 

 (71.9)

 – 
 – 
 – 
–
 1.0 

 1.0 

 (114.9)
 (24.6)
 – 
 – 
 – 

 (114.9)
 (24.6)
 (72.1)
 0.2 
 1.0 

 (139.5)

 (210.4)

 – 

 – 
 – 

 1.0 

 (2.0)
 – 
 – 
 – 
 – 

 (2.0)

 (1.0)

 28.6 

 15.6 
 58.1 

 70.2 

 (116.9)
 (24.6)
 (72.1)
 0.2 
 1.0 

 (212.4)

 (142.2)

Total movement in equity for the year

 (71.9)

 (121.8)

 52.3 

 (141.2)

Balance as at 30 June 2016

 2,472.7 

 (466.0)

 648.7 

 2,655.4 

 11.8 

 2,667.2 

Year ended 30 June 2015
Balance as at 1 July 2014
Loss for the year
Net change in fair value of available-for-sale financial assets
Cash flow hedges: effective portion of changes in fair value
Foreign currency differences for foreign operations
Income tax on items of other comprehensive income

Total comprehensive income for the year

Transactions with owners recognised directly 
in equity
Ordinary dividends paid
TELYS4 dividends paid
Shares bought back on-market
Own shares acquired
Share based payments

Total contributions by and distributions to owners

Total movement in equity for the year

Balance as at 30 June 2015

24
24
24
24

25
25
24
24

 2,586.2 
 – 
 – 
 – 
 – 
 – 

 (557.7)
 – 
 77.2 
 16.9 
 147.8 
 (25.1)

 1,102.3 
 (360.3)
 – 
 – 
 – 
 – 

 3,130.8 
 (360.3)
 77.2 
 16.9 
 147.8 
 (25.1)

 11.9 
 1.2 
 – 
 – 
 0.5 
 – 

 3,142.7 
 (359.1)
 77.2 
 16.9 
 148.3 
 (25.1)

 – 

 216.8 

 (360.3)

 (143.5)

 1.7 

 (141.8)

 – 
 – 
 (40.9)
 (0.7)
 – 

 (41.6)

 (41.6)

 – 
 – 
 – 
 – 
 (3.3)

 (119.7)
 (26.1)
 – 
 – 
 – 

 (119.7)
 (26.1)
 (40.9)
 (0.7)
 (3.3)

 (0.8)
 – 
 – 
 – 
 – 

 (120.5)
 (26.1)
 (40.9)
 (0.7)
 (3.3)

 (3.3)

 (145.8)

 (190.7)

 (0.8)

 (191.5)

 213.5 

 (506.1)

 (334.2)

 0.9 

 (333.3)

 2,544.6 

 (344.2)

 596.2 

 2,796.6 

 12.8 

 2,809.4 

The consolidated statement of changes in equity is to be read in conjunction with the notes to the financial statements.

ANNUAL REPORT 201678

CONSOLIDATED CASH FLOW STATEMENT
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2016

Cash flows related to operating activities
Receipts from customers
Payments to suppliers and employees
Dividends received from equity accounted investees
Other dividends received
Interest and other items of a similar nature received
Interest and other costs of finance paid
Income taxes refunded
Income tax funding paid to equity accounted investee

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 purchase of intangible assets
Payment for production, development and exploration expenditure
Consideration for business combinations, net of cash acquired
Acquisition of equity accounted investees
Return of capital from investment in equity accounted investee
Payments for other investments
Proceeds from sale of other financial assets

Net investing cash flows

Cash flows related to financing activities
Payments under share buy-back
Ordinary dividends paid
TELYS4 dividends paid
Dividend paid to non-controlling interests
Proceeds from borrowings 
Repayment of borrowings

Net financing cash flows

Net increase in cash and cash equivalents
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of the year
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents

Cash and cash equivalents at end of the year

Note

2016
$m

2015
$m

 3,028.4 
 (2,740.6)
 73.8 
 37.5 
 4.9 
 (86.7)
 4.3 
 (7.2)

 314.4 

 (8.6)
 0.7 
 (22.6)
 (18.0)
 – 
 (4.8)
 – 
 (141.0)
 95.4 

 (98.9)

 (72.1)
 (114.9)
 (24.6)
 (2.0)
 385.9 
 (318.0)

 (145.7)

 69.8 
 290.7 
 6.3 

 366.8 

 3,170.5 
 (2,921.5)
 47.0 
 52.9 
 9.6 
 (97.5)
 35.6 
 (9.5)

 287.1 

 (15.3)
 0.6 
 (22.4)
 (72.1)
 (52.1)
 (0.3)
 0.5 
 (514.3)
 414.3 

 (261.1)

 (40.9)
 (119.7)
 (26.1)
 (0.8)
 602.7 
 (300.5)

 114.7 

 140.7 
 128.3 
 21.7 

 290.7 

19

31

24
25
25

18

18

The consolidated cash flow statement is to be read in conjunction with the notes to the financial statements.

Seven Group HoldingsNOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2016

79

1.   BASIS OF PREPARATION
Seven Group Holdings Limited (the Company) is a for profit 
company limited by shares and the shares are publicly traded 
on the Australian Securities Exchange (ASX). The Company is 
domiciled in Australia. These consolidated financial statements 
cover the year ended 30 June 2016 and comprise the Company 
and its subsidiaries (together referred to as the Group), and the 
Group’s interest in equity accounted investees.

The financial report was authorised for issue in accordance with a 
resolution of the Directors on 3 August 2016.

The financial report is a general purpose financial report which 
has been prepared in accordance with the Australian Accounting 
Standards (AASBs) adopted by the Australian Accounting 
Standards Board (AASB) and the Corporations Act 2001. 
The consolidated financial report of the Group complies with 
International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRSs) adopted by the 
International Accounting Standards Board (IASB).

The financial report is prepared on the historical cost basis except 
for the following items:
•  financial instruments that are measured at amortised cost or fair 

value through other comprehensive income;

•  derivative financial instruments are measured at fair value 

• 

through profit or loss; and
liabilities for cash-settled share based payments are measured 
at fair value through profit or loss.

The Company is of a kind referred to in ASIC Instrument 2016/19 
and in accordance with that Instrument, amounts in the Directors’ 
Report and consolidated financial statements have been rounded 
off to the nearest whole number of millions of dollars and one place 
of decimals representing hundreds of thousands of dollars.

Certain comparative amounts in this financial report have been 
reclassified to conform to the current year’s presentation or to 
correct a misstatement in classification. In particular:
•  certain assets and liabilities have been restated to reflect the 
finalisation of the acquisition accounting for Nexus Energy 
Limited (now known as SGH Energy Pty Limited) as required by 
AASB 3: Business Combinations. Refer to Note 31: Business 
Combination for details of amounts restated. There was no 
impact on the Group’s net assets as a result of the restatement.
•  an amount of $37.1 million has been reclassified from deferred 
income to trade receivables in the prior year to align with the 
current year’s presentation in which deferred income relating 
to the Group’s maintenance and repair contracts is presented 
on a gross rather than a net basis. The restatement had no 
impact on the Group’s profit or loss, net assets or equity.
for segment reporting purposes, the Energy segment now 
includes amounts in relation to the Group’s investment in 
Beach Energy Limited, reflecting the way the information is 
provided to the chief operating decision maker. Comparatives 
in Note 2: Operating Segments have been restated as amounts 
were previously disclosed in Other investments.

• 

•  an amount of $0.3 million has been reclassified from finance 

income to finance expense in the prior year to align with current 
year reporting.

(A)   Accounting policies
Note 1 sets out the Group’s accounting policies that relate to the 
financial statements as a whole. Where an accounting policy is 
specific to one note, the policy is described in the note to which 
it relates. This note also outlines new accounting policies and 
the expected impact on the financial position and performance 
of the Group.

The Group has early adopted AASB 9: Financial Instruments 
(AASB 9) with effect from 1 July 2015. 

With the exception of AASB 9, the accounting policies set out in 
this financial report have been consistently applied by group entities 
and equity accounted investees. The Group has considered, and 
adjusted where necessary, the impact of Group equity accounted 
investees who have not early adopted AASB 9.

(B)   Principles of consolidation
Subsidiaries
Subsidiaries are entities controlled by the Group. The Group 
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 to direct the activities of the 
entity. The financial statements of subsidiaries are included in the 
consolidated financial statements from the date on which control 
commences until the date on which control ceases.

Where there is loss of control of a subsidiary, the Group 
derecognises the assets and liabilities of the subsidiary and any 
related non-controlling interest and other components of equity. 
Any resulting gain or loss is recognised in profit or loss.

Any interest retained in the former subsidiary is measured at fair 
value when control is lost.

All inter-company balances and transactions, including unrealised 
gains arising from intra-group transactions, are eliminated in full. 
Unrealised losses are eliminated unless costs cannot be recovered.

Non-controlling interests in the equity and the results of subsidiaries 
are shown separately in the consolidated statement of profit or 
loss and other comprehensive income, consolidated statement of 
financial position and consolidated statement of changes in equity.

Business combinations are accounted for in accordance with the 
accounting policy outlined in Note 31: Business Combination.

(C)   Foreign currency translation
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 financial report is presented in Australian Dollars, which is the 
Company’s functional and presentation currency.

Transactions
Foreign currency transactions are translated into the respective 
functional currencies of Group entities 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 balance date exchange rates of 
monetary assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies 
are recognised in profit or loss, except when they are deferred in 
equity such as for qualifying cash flow hedges and qualifying net 
investment hedges.

ANNUAL REPORT 201680

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2016

1.   BASIS OF PREPARATION (CONTINUED)

(C)   Foreign currency translation (continued)
Transactions (continued)
Translation differences on financial assets and liabilities carried 
at fair value are reported as part of the fair value gain or loss. 

Translation differences on non-monetary financial assets are 
included in the fair value through other comprehensive income 
reserve in equity.

Foreign group entities
The results and financial position of all the Group entities (none of 
which have the currency of a hyper-inflationary economy) that have 
a functional currency different from Australian Dollars are translated 
into Australian Dollars as follows:
•  assets and liabilities are translated at the closing rate at the 

• 

balance date;
income and expenses of foreign entities are translated at 
average exchange rates (unless this is not a reasonable 
approximation of the cumulative effect of the rates prevailing on 
the transaction dates, in which case income and expenses are 
translated at the date of the transaction); and

•  all resulting exchange differences are recognised in other 

comprehensive income and presented in the foreign currency 
translation reserve.

Borrowings and other financial instruments designated as hedges 
of any net investment in a foreign entity are recognised in other 
comprehensive income and presented in the foreign currency 
translation reserve. When a foreign entity is sold or any borrowings 
forming part of the net investment are repaid, a proportionate share 
of such exchange differences are transferred to profit or loss as 
part of the gain or loss on sale where applicable.

Goodwill and fair value adjustments arising on the acquisition of 
a foreign entity are treated as assets and liabilities of the foreign 
entity and translated at the closing rate.

(D)   Goods and services tax (GST)
Revenues, expenses and assets are recognised net 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 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 consolidated statement 
of financial position.

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

(E)   Changes in accounting policies
The Group has early adopted AASB 9: Financial Instruments 
with a date of initial application of 1 July 2015. A number of 
new standards, amendment to standards and interpretations 
are effective for future reporting periods. Other than AASB 
9, these standards have not been applied in preparing this 
financial report.

AASB 9: Financial Instruments (2014)
AASB 9 addresses the classification, measurement and 
derecognition of financial assets and financial liabilities and also 
sets out new rules for hedge accounting. The impact of adopting 
AASB 9 for the Group is outlined below.

The Group has elected to apply the limited exemption in AASB 9 
(paragraph 7.2.15) relating to transition for classification and 
measurement and accordingly has not restated comparative 
periods in the year of initial application. As a result, any adjustments 
to carrying amounts of financial assets or liabilities are recognised 
at the beginning of the current reporting period, with the difference 
recognised in opening retained earnings.

Classification and measurement
The Group has classified its existing financial assets and financial 
liabilities in accordance with AASB 9. On adoption, the Group 
assessed each of its financial assets held to determine whether they 
met the criteria to be measured at amortised cost, fair value through 
profit or loss or fair value through other comprehensive income.

The Group has elected to classify its existing listed and unlisted 
equity securities as ‘financial assets measured at fair value through 
other comprehensive income’ as it more closely reflects the manner 
in which the Group manages its investment portfolio. The fair 
value measurements for these securities will now be recorded in 
other comprehensive income and not subsequently reclassified to 
profit or loss.

There were no material changes in the measurement of the Group’s 
financial liabilities as a result of adopting AASB 9.

For further detail refer to Note 21: Financial Risk Management.

Hedge accounting
AASB 9 introduced a hedge accounting model which simplifies 
hedge accounting outcomes and more closely align hedge 
accounting with risk management objectives. The impact from 
adopting AASB 9 on the Group’s hedging positions was a 
decrease of $0.4 million to the Group’s hedge reserve.

Impairment
AASB 9 introduced a new impairment assessment model for 
financial assets that impacts the Group’s assessment of its provision 
for impairment losses. Under AASB 9, the provision for impairment 
losses is assessed as the expected credit losses over a 12 month 
period or the lifetime of expected credit losses for the financial asset.

The impact from adopting AASB 9 on the Group’s provision 
for impairment losses on trade receivables was an increase of 
$6.2 million to the provision, $1.4 million to deferred tax asset and 
an adjustment of $4.8 million to retained earnings on transition.

(F)   New accounting standards
A number of new standards, amendments to standards and 
interpretations are effective for future reporting periods.

These have not been applied in preparing this financial report. 
Those which may be relevant to the Group are set out below. The 
Group does not plan to adopt these standards early and is yet to 
fully determine the effect of the standards on the Group.

AASB 15: Revenue from Contracts with Customers
AASB 15 outlines a single comprehensive model to use in 
accounting for revenue arising from contracts with customers. 

Seven Group Holdings81

Under AASB 15, revenue is recognised at an amount that reflects 
the consideration to which an entity expects to be entitled in 
exchange for transferring goods or services to a customer. The 
principles in AASB 15 provide a more structured approach to 
measuring and recognising revenue. It is mandatory for the Group’s 
30 June 2019 financial statements.

AASB 16: Leases
AASB 16 removes the lease classification test and requires all 
leases (including operating leases) to be brought onto the balance 
sheet. The definition of a lease is also amended and is now the 
new on/off balance sheet test for lessees. It is mandatory for the 
Group’s 30 June 2020 financial statements.

(G)   Critical accounting estimates and judgements
The preparation of financial statements requires that management 
make estimates, judgements and assumptions that affect the 
application of accounting policies and the reported amounts of 
assets, liabilities, income and expenses. Actual results may differ 
from these estimates. Estimates and underlying assumptions 
are reviewed on an ongoing basis and are based on historical 
experience and other factors, including expectations of future 
events that may have a financial impact on the Group and that are 
believed to be reasonable under the circumstances. Revisions to 
accounting estimates are recognised in the period in which the 
estimates are incorporated and in any future periods affected.

Significant areas of estimation, uncertainty and critical judgements 
in applying accounting policies that have the most significant effect 
on the amounts recognised in the financial statements are outlined 
in the relevant note, except as detailed below.

Environmental risk and regulation
The Group and the industries in which it operates are subject to 
a broad range of environmental laws, regulations and standards 
(including certain licensing requirements). This could expose the 
Group to legal liabilities or place limitations on the development of 
its operations. In addition there is a risk that property utilised by 
the Group from time to time may be contaminated by materials 
harmful to human health (such as hazardous chemicals). In these 
situations the Group may be required to undertake remedial 
works on contaminated sites and may be exposed to third 
party compensation claims and other environmental liabilities. 
Management judgement is therefore required to estimate the 
impact of such factors on future earnings supporting existing 
goodwill and intangible assets.

2.   OPERATING SEGMENTS

Recognition and measurement
Identification of reportable segments
The Group has identified its operating segments based on the 
internal reports that are reviewed and used by the executive 
management team (the chief operating decision maker) in assessing 
performance and in determining the allocation of resources.

An operating segment is a component of the Group that engages 
in business activities from which it may earn revenues and 
incur expenses, including revenues and expenses that relate 
to transactions with any of the Group’s other components. 
All operating segments’ operating results are regularly reviewed 
by the Group’s executive management team and Board to make 
decisions about resources to be allocated to the segment and to 
assess its performance.

Segment results that are reported to the executive management 
team and Board include items directly attributable to a segment 
as well as those that can be allocated on a reasonable basis. 
Unallocated items comprise mainly corporate assets, head office 
expenses and income tax assets and liabilities.

Segment capital expenditure is the total cost incurred during the 
year to acquire property, plant and equipment, oil and natural gas 
assets and intangible assets other than goodwill.

The operating segments are identified by management based 
on the manner in which products are sold, the nature of services 
provided and country of origin. 

WesTrac Australia
WesTrac Australia is the authorised Caterpillar dealer (including 
Bucyrus/Expanded Mining Products) in Western Australia, New 
South Wales and the Australian Capital Territory, providing heavy 
equipment sales and support to customers.

WesTrac China
WesTrac China is the authorised Caterpillar dealer (including 
Bucyrus/Expanded Mining Products) in the North Eastern China 
provinces of Hebei, Liaoning, Heilongjiang, Jilin, Shanxi, Inner 
Mongolia and the municipalities of Beijing and Tianjin, providing 
heavy equipment sales and support to customers.

AllightSykes
AllightSykes represents the Group’s operations in the manufacture, 
assembly, sales and support of lighting, FG Wilson power 
generation and dewatering equipment as well as distribution of 
Perkins engines.

Coates Hire
Coates Hire represents the Group’s equity accounted investment in 
Coates Group Holdings Pty Limited. 

Coates Hire is Australia’s largest equipment hire company and 
provides a full range of general and specialist equipment to a wide 
variety of markets including engineering, building construction and 
maintenance, mining and resources, manufacturing, government 
and events.

Media investments
Media investments relate to investments in listed and unlisted 
media organisations, including but not limited to, Seven West 
Media Limited.

Energy
Energy relates to the Group’s 11.2 per cent working interest in 
the Bivins Ranch basin in Texas USA and wholly-owned interest 
in SGH Energy Pty Limited and the Group’s investment in Beach 
Energy Limited.

Other investments
Other investments incorporates listed investments and property.

The Group is domiciled in Australia and operates predominantly in 
three countries: Australia, China and the United States of America.

ANNUAL REPORT 201682

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2016

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Seven Group Holdings 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
83

2016
$m

2015
$m

 324.8 
 (22.0)
 7.9 
 1.0 
 5.2 
 (0.4)
 – 
 – 
 (9.8)
 (9.1)
 8.6 
 (89.2)

 217.0 

 335.0 
 (20.5)
 36.5 
 (457.5)
 (4.4)
 (99.3)
 (327.0)
 (10.4)
 (7.0)
 (37.6)
 9.4 
 (67.3)

 (650.1)

 4,656.7 
 366.8 
 – 
 9.5 
 186.1 
 11.7 

 4,902.5 
 290.7 
 11.0 
 12.9 
 144.6 
 11.2 

Reconciliation of segment EBIT to net profit/(loss) before tax  
per consolidated income statement
Segment net operating profit before net finance expense and tax (EBIT)
Corporate operating costs
Gain on sale of investments and equity accounted investees
Share of significant items relating to results from equity accounted investees
Fair value movement of derivatives
Impairment of equity accounted investees
Impairment of non-current assets
Write-down of inventory to net realisable value
Restructuring and redundancy costs
Loss on sale of investments
Other significant items
Net finance expense

Profit/(loss) before tax per consolidated income statement

Reconciliation of segment operating assets to total assets  
per consolidated statement of financial position
Segment operating assets
Corporate cash holdings
Current tax assets
Deferred tax assets
Derivative financial instruments
Assets held at corporate level

Total assets per consolidated statement of financial position

 5,230.8 

 5,372.9 

Reconciliation of segment operating liabilities to total liabilities  
per consolidated statement of financial position
Segment operating liabilities
Derivative financial instruments
Interest bearing loans and borrowings – current
Interest bearing loans and borrowings – non-current
Current tax liability
Deferred tax liabilities
Liabilities held at corporate level

Total liabilities per consolidated statement of financial position

Segment revenue by geographic segment
Australia
China
United States of America

Total segment revenue by geographic segment

 (690.9)
 (25.2)
 (220.1)
 (1,514.2)
 (9.9)
 (29.5)
 (73.8)

 (720.1)
 (41.2)
 (79.2)
 (1,556.1)
 (6.4)
 (98.3)
 (62.2)

 (2,563.6)

 (2,563.5)

 2,231.5 
 600.5 
 5.7 

 2,837.7 

 2,215.4 
 555.7 
 8.5 

 2,779.6 

Segment revenues are allocated based on the country in which the customer is located. The WesTrac China segment represents 
all revenue derived from China. The Energy segment includes revenue derived from the United States of America of $5.7 million 
(2015: $8.5 million) with no revenue derived in Australia in the current year (2015: $12.9 million).

Non-current assets by geographic segment(a)
Australia
China
United States of America

Total non-current assets by geographic segment

 855.1 
 339.0 
 105.3 

 896.0 
 331.6 
 101.2 

 1,299.4 

 1,328.8 

(a)   Non-current assets other than financial instruments and deferred tax assets (there are no employment benefit assets and rights arising under insurance contracts) is outlined above. 

Segment assets are allocated to countries based on where the assets are located.

ANNUAL REPORT 201684

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2016

3.  SIGNIFICANT ITEMS
Profit/(loss) before tax includes the following income and expenses for which disclosure is relevant in explaining the underlying financial 
performance of the Group.

Significant items
Net gain on sale of investments and equity accounted investees
Impairment of equity accounted investees
Share of results from equity accounted investees attributable to significant items
Write-down of inventory to net realisable value
Impairment of non-current assets
Loss on sale of investments and derivative financial instruments
Fair value movement of derivatives
Restructuring and redundancy costs
Significant items in finance income
Acquisition transaction costs incurred
Significant items in other income

Total significant items before income tax

ATO formation valuation settlement
Remeasurement of tax exposures
Income tax benefit on significant items

Total significant items

2016
$m

 7.9 
 (0.4)
 1.0 
 – 
 – 
 (9.1)
 5.2 
 (9.8)
 – 
 (0.7)
 9.3 

 3.4 

 – 
10.0
 0.2 

2015
$m

 36.5 
 (99.3)
 (457.5)
 (10.4)
 (327.0)
 (37.6)
 (4.4)
 (7.0)
 16.3 
 (13.1)
 22.5 

 (881.0)

 142.3 
–
 175.3 

 13.6 

 (563.4)

Net gain on sale of investments and equity accounted investees relates to the net profit realised on the sale of stage four of the 
Kings Square property development in Perth, Western Australia. The prior year includes the net gain on disposal of listed equity securities.

Impairment of equity accounted investees relates to the impairment of the Group’s investment in the ordinary equity of 
Seven West Media Limited of $0.4 million (2015: impairment reversal of $14.7 million) and, in the prior year the impairment 
of the Group’s investment in Coates Hire of $114.0 million. Refer to Note 11: Investments Accounted for Using the Equity Method.

Share of results from equity accounted investees attributable to significant items relates to the Group’s share of significant items included in 
the results of equity accounted investees, such as the gain on sale of property, restructuring and redundancy costs, impairment charges, 
payments for the termination of senior management, onerous contract provisions and asset redeployment program costs.

Write-down of inventory to net realisable value relates to the write-down of aged and slow moving inventory in AllightSykes in the prior year. 

Impairment of non-current assets relates to the impairment of WesTrac China distribution network of $237.6 million, impairment of 
AllightSykes’ intangibles of $63.0 million and impairment of listed equity securities of $26.4 million in the prior year. Under AASB 9: 
Financial Instruments, impairment of listed equity securities are now recorded through other comprehensive income and will not be shown 
in the profit or loss.

Loss on sale of investments and derivative financial instruments relates to the loss on disposal of equity swaps and, in the prior year, 
disposal of listed equity securities.

Fair value movement of derivatives relates to the Group’s mark-to-market of cash-settled equity derivatives which are not part of a 
designated hedge.

Restructuring and redundancy costs relate to the restructuring programs undertaken by Group subsidiaries.

Significant items in finance income comprises finance fee income in the prior year relating to the loans receivable from Nexus Energy 
Limited (now known as SGH Energy Pty Limited) prior to acquisition. 

Acquisition transaction costs incurred relates to acquisition costs incurred for one-off transactions.

Significant items in other income relates to leasing bonuses received on property developments and, in the prior year the net of unrealised 
foreign exchange gains/losses and a one-off legal settlement receivable.

Remeasurement of tax exposures relates to the release of a provision for tax uncertainty due to the resolution of audits and reviews  
by internal revenue authorities during the year.

ATO formation valuation settlement comprises the settlement in the prior year of an outstanding tax objection with the Australian  
Taxation Office (ATO).

Seven Group Holdings85

4.   REVENUE AND EXPENDITURE

Accounting policy
Revenues are recognised at the fair value of the consideration received or receivable, net of goods and services tax (GST). Amounts 
disclosed as revenue are net of returns, trade allowances and amounts collected on behalf of third parties. Sales revenue comprises 
revenue earned from the provision of goods and services to entities outside of the Group. 

The Group recognises revenue when the amount of revenue can be reliably measured, it is probable that the future economic benefits 
will flow to the entity and specific criteria have been met for each of the Group’s activities as described below. The amount of revenue is 
not considered to be reliably measurable until all contingencies relating to the sale have been resolved. The Group bases its estimates on 
historical results, taking into consideration the type of customer, the type of transaction and the specifics of each arrangement.

Revenue from product sales

Revenue from product support

Maintenance and repair contracts  
(MARC)

Revenue from sale of oil,  
gas and condensate

Other revenue

Other income

Revenue from product sales is recognised upon the delivery of goods to customers:
•  when risks and rewards have been transferred which is considered to occur upon the 

• 

delivery of goods to the customers; and
there is no significant unfulfilled obligation that could affect the customer’s acceptance 
of the products.

Revenue from product support is recognised in the accounting period in which the services 
are rendered. For fixed price contracts, revenue is recognised under the percentage of 
completion method, based on the actual services provided as a proportion of the total 
services to be provided.

Contract revenues and expenses are recognised in accordance with the percentage of 
completion method unless the outcome of the contract cannot be reliably estimated. Where 
it is probable that a loss will arise from a MARC, the excess of total expected contract costs 
over total directly attributable expected contract revenue is recognised as an expense 
immediately. Where the outcome of a contract cannot be reliably estimated, contract costs 
are recognised as an expense as incurred, and where it is probable that the costs will be 
recovered, revenue is recognised to the extent of the costs incurred.

Oil and gas sales are recognised on production following delivery into the pipeline. Revenue 
derived from the sale of condensate is brought to account after each shipment is loaded. 

Other revenue is recognised when all performance obligations are met, including when 
a contractual entitlement exists, it can be reliably measured and it is probable that the 
economic benefits will flow to the Group.

Other income comprises sundry income and is earned when goods and services are 
rendered. Dividend income is recognised net of any franking credits. Dividend income is 
recognised when the Group’s right to receive payment is established, which in the case of 
quoted securities is the ex-dividend date. 

CRITICAL ACCOUNTING ESTIMATES AND JUDGEMENTS

Revenue recognition – MARC

Contract revenues and expenses are recognised by reference to the percentage of 
completion method for each identifiable component. In determining revenue and 
expense for MARC, management makes assumptions and estimates regarding 
the work performed to date as a percentage of the total work to be performed and 
estimated revenues and expenses over the life of the contract. Where contract 
variations are recognised in revenue, assumptions are made regarding the probability 
that customers will approve those contract variations and the amount of revenue 
arising from contract variations.

ANNUAL REPORT 201686

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2016

4.   REVENUE AND EXPENDITURE (CONTINUED)

Revenue
Revenue from product sales
Revenue from product support
Revenue from sale of oil, gas and condensate
Other revenue

Total revenue

Expenditure excluding depreciation and amortisation
Materials cost of inventory sold and used in product sales and product support
Raw materials and consumables purchased
Employee benefits
Operating lease rental
Write-down of inventory to net realisable value
Impairment of intangible assets
Impairment of other financial assets
Loss on sale of investments and derivative financial instruments
Fair value movement of derivatives
Other expenses

2016
$m

2015
$m

 1,153.8 
 1,658.3 
 5.7 
 19.9 

 2,837.7 

 (1,840.4)
 (87.1)
 (489.9)
 (65.9)
 – 
 – 
 – 
 (9.1)
 – 
 (190.3)

 1,056.7 
 1,677.0 
 21.4 
 24.5 

 2,779.6 

 (1,789.1)
 (88.6)
 (476.0)
 (68.9)
 (10.4)
 (300.6)
 (26.4)
 (37.6)
 (4.4)
 (207.2)

Total expenses excluding depreciation and amortisation

 (2,682.7)

 (3,009.2)

5.   NET FINANCE EXPENSE

Accounting policy
Net finance expense comprises interest payable on borrowings calculated using the effective interest method, unwinding of discount on 
provisions and deferred consideration and interest receivable on funds invested.

Interest income and interest expense include components of finance lease payments which are recognised in profit or loss as they accrue, 
using the effective interest method. Interest expense also includes the net fair value adjustment for cash-settled share appreciation rights.

Finance income
Interest income on bank deposits
Interest income on loans receivable – Nexus Energy Limited (pre-acquisition)
Finance fee income – Nexus Energy Limited (pre-acquisition)

Total finance income

Finance expense
Interest expense
Borrowing costs
Unwind of discount on provisions

Total finance expense

Net finance expense

2016
$m

 4.6 
 – 
 – 

 4.6 

 (83.5)
 (7.9)
 (2.4)

 (93.8)

 (89.2)

2015
$m

 7.9 
 10.9 
 16.3 

 35.1 

 (90.2)
 (9.7)
 (2.5)

 (102.4)

 (67.3)

Seven Group Holdings87

CRITICAL ACCOUNTING ESTIMATE AND JUDGEMENT
The Group is subject to income taxes in Australia and 
jurisdictions where it has foreign operations. Judgement is 
required in determining the provision for income taxes and 
the tax cost base of assets and liabilities.

Management judgement is also applied in assessing the 
recoverability of revenue and capital losses recognised 
as deferred tax assets by the Group. Deferred tax 
assets have been recognised for deductible temporary 
differences and unused tax losses only if it is probable 
that future taxable amounts will be available to utilise those 
temporary differences and losses. Deferred tax assets are 
reviewed at each reporting date and are reduced to the 
extent that it is no longer probable that the related tax benefit 
will be realised.

Deferred tax liabilities and assets are not recognised for 
temporary differences between the carrying amount and tax 
bases of investments in controlled entities and joint ventures 
where the parent entity is able to control the timing of the 
reversal of the temporary differences and it is probable that 
the differences will not reverse in the foreseeable future.

There are many transactions and calculations undertaken 
for which the ultimate tax determination is uncertain. 
Assumptions are made about the application of income 
tax legislation. These assumptions are subject to risk 
and uncertainty and there is a possibility that changes in 
circumstances will alter expectations which may impact the 
amount of deferred tax assets, liabilities and provision for 
income taxes recorded in the statement of financial position. 
In these circumstances the carrying amount of deferred tax 
assets, liabilities and provision for income taxes may change 
impacting the profit or loss of the Group.

6.   INCOME TAX

Accounting policy
Income tax expense comprises current and deferred tax expense. 
Income tax expense is recognised in profit or loss except to the 
extent that it relates to a business combination, or items recognised 
directly in equity or in other comprehensive income. 

Current tax expense for the period is the expected tax payable 
on the current period’s taxable income based on the enacted or 
substantively enacted income tax rate for each jurisdiction adjusted 
by changes to tax payable in respect of previous years.

Deferred income tax is recognised on temporary differences 
arising between the expected tax bases of assets and liabilities 
and their carrying amounts in the financial statements. However, 
the deferred income tax is not accounted for if it arises from initial 
recognition of an asset or liability in a transaction other than a 
business combination that at the time of the transaction affects 
neither accounting nor taxable profit or loss. Deferred income tax 
is determined using tax rates (and laws) that have been enacted or 
substantively enacted by the reporting date and are expected to 
apply when the related deferred income tax asset is realised or the 
deferred income tax liability is settled.

Deferred tax assets and liabilities are offset if there is a legally 
enforceable right to offset current tax assets and liabilities and 
when they relate to income taxes levied by the same taxation 
authority. Current tax assets and tax liabilities are offset where 
the entity has a legally enforceable right to offset and intends 
either to settle on a net basis, or to realise the asset and settle the 
liability simultaneously.

Tax exposures
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 that will impact tax expense 
in the period if such a determination is made.

The Company, its wholly-owned Australian resident entities 
and Coates Hire 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 Group Holdings Limited.

ANNUAL REPORT 201688

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2016

6.   INCOME TAX (CONTINUED)

Income tax expense
Current tax expense
Deferred tax (expense)/benefit
ATO formation valuation settlement
Adjustment for prior years – non-temporary differences 

Total income tax (expense)/benefit

Reconciliation between tax expense and  
pre-tax statutory (profit)/loss:
Income tax using the domestic corporation tax rate 30%
  Recognition of deferred tax asset on capital and revenue losses, not previously recognised
  Franked dividends
  Share of equity accounted investee’s net profit
  Remeasurement of tax exposures 
  Provisional settlement of Hong Kong Inland Revenue Department tax matter
  Non-assessable income
  Non-deductible expenses

Impairment of assets

  ATO formation valuation settlement
  Over-provided in prior years
  Difference in overseas tax rates

Income tax (expense)/benefit

Deferred income tax recognised directly in equity

Relating to financial assets at fair value through other comprehensive income
Relating to available-for-sale financial assets
Relating to cash flow hedge reserve
Relating to foreign currency translation

Total deferred income tax recognised directly in equity

Note

 24 
 24 
 24 

2016
$m

 (19.6)
 (7.4)
–
 7.8 

 (19.2)

 (65.1)
1.7
27.6
 (1.8)
 10.0 
(6.1)
4.1
 (1.9)
 – 
 – 
 7.8 
4.5

 (19.2)

 67.7 
–
 (9.6)
–

 58.1 

2015
$m

 (123.6)
 268.5 
 142.3 
 3.8 

 291.0 

 195.1 
 2.8 
 25.5 
 (12.0)
–
–
 5.4 
 (4.5)
 (71.1)
 142.3 
 3.8 
 3.7 

 291.0 

 – 
 (19.7)
 (5.4)
 1.1 

 (24.0)

During the year, the Company provisionally agreed an outstanding tax audit with the Hong Kong Inland Revenue Department. The 
Company previously held a tax liability for potential tax exposures on this tax audit and other matters. Due to this agreement and other 
factors, $10.0 million of tax liabilities has now been released through the tax expense.

The Company continues to have a number of outstanding tax positions that are currently under review and objection with the relevant 
taxation authorities. Successful resolution of these matters could potentially result in the realisation of tax benefits for the Group. These 
outstanding tax positions are yet to meet the recognition requirements of actual or contingent assets.

Seven Group Holdings 
 
 
 
89

Year ended 30 June 2016
Deferred tax assets and liabilities
Investments
Derivative financial instruments
Inventories and receivables
Property, plant and equipment
Trade and other payables
Provisions
Tax losses
Transaction costs deducted over five years
Other

Net deferred tax liability

Deferred tax asset
Deferred tax liability

Net deferred tax liability

Year ended 30 June 2015
Deferred tax assets and liabilities
Investments
Derivative financial instruments
Inventories and receivables
Intangible assets
Property, plant and equipment
Trade and other payables
Provisions
Tax losses – revenue
Transaction costs deducted over five years
Other

Net deferred tax liability

Deferred tax asset
Deferred tax liability

Net deferred tax liability

Opening
balance
$m

Recognised
in profit
$m

Recognised
in equity
$m

Other (a)
$m

Closing
balance
$m

 (149.8)
 (5.3)
 13.9 
 (17.0)
 45.2 
 17.6 
 18.2 
 1.1 
 (10.2)

 (86.3)

 (389.7)
 (4.8)
 7.7 
 (18.7)
 (1.7)
 35.7 
 18.9 
 – 
 1.6 
 2.0 

 (349.0)

 (8.7)
 16.1 
 (13.2)
 (11.3)
 12.3 
 2.8 
(8.9)
 (0.7)
 4.2 

 (7.4)

 259.6 
 4.9 
 6.2 
 18.7 
 (15.3)
 9.5 
 (1.3)
 – 
 (0.5)
 (13.3)

 268.5 

53.6
 (9.6)
 – 
 – 
 – 
 – 
14.1
–
–

 58.1 

 (19.7)
 (5.4)
 – 
 – 
 – 
 – 
 – 
 – 
 – 
 2.0 

 (23.1)

–
–
–
–
–
–
15.6
–
–

15.6

 – 
 – 
 – 
 – 
 – 
 – 
 – 
 18.2 
 – 
 – 

 18.2 

 (104.9)
 1.2 
 0.7 
 (28.3)
 57.5 
 20.4 
39.0
 0.4 
 (6.0)

 (20.0)

 9.5 
 (29.5)

 (20.0)

 (149.8)
 (5.3)
 13.9 
 – 
 (17.0)
 45.2 
 17.6 
 18.2 
 1.1 
 (9.3)

 (85.4)

 12.9 
 (98.3)

 (85.4)

(a)  Tax loss referable to equity accounted investee in the SGH tax-consolidated group.

As at 30 June 2016, the Group had not recognised:
•  deferred tax assets of $115.3 million (2015: $114.0 million) for deductible temporary differences relating to unrealised tax benefits 

as it is not probable that future gains will be realised against which it could utilise the benefits;

•  deferred tax asset of $311.0 million (2015: $262.5 million) for deductible temporary differences relating to Petroleum Resource Rent 

Tax credits; 

•  deferred tax assets of $22.9 million (2015: nil) for foreign tax losses substantiated during the year; and
•  deferred tax liabilities of $6.0 million (2015: $4.7 million) in respect of assessable temporary differences in relation to investments where 
management controls the timing of the reversal of the temporary difference and the temporary difference is not expected to reverse in 
the foreseeable future.

ANNUAL REPORT 201690

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2016

7.  EARNINGS PER SHARE

Accounting policy
Basic earnings per share (EPS) is calculated by dividing the profit or loss attributable to ordinary shareholders of the Company by the 
weighted average number of ordinary shares outstanding during the year. Diluted EPS is determined by adjusting the profit or loss 
attributable to ordinary shareholders and the weighted average number of ordinary shares outstanding for the effects of all dilutive potential 
ordinary shares.

Underlying earnings per share from continuing operations is statutory earnings per share adjusted for significant items. 

The weighted average number of shares used to calculate underlying earnings per share is the same as the weighted average number of 
shares used to calculate statutory earnings per share.

Profit or loss attributable to ordinary shareholders is stated after allocation of the portion of profit or loss attributable to holders of TELYS4.

Statutory earnings per share
Ordinary shares – total earnings per share from continuing operations
Basic/diluted

Earnings reconciliation by category of share
Ordinary shares
TELYS4

Net profit/(loss) attributable to equity holders of the Company

Weighted average number of shares
Ordinary shares for basic earnings per share
Issued shares as at 1 July
Shares bought back and cancelled (a)

Issued shares as at 30 June

Weighted average number of shares (basic and diluted) as at 30 June (b)

TELYS4
Issued shares at as 1 July

Issued shares as at 30 June

Weighted average number of shares (basic and diluted) as at 30 June

(a)  Refer to Note 24: Capital and Reserves for details of shares bought back and cancelled during the year.
(b)  Weighted average number of shares adjusted for effect of treasury shares held.

There were no options that were exercisable, dilutive or anti-dilutive in the current or prior year.

2016
$

2015
$

 0.60 

 (1.29)

2016
$m

 172.2 
 24.6 

 196.8

2016
Million

 296.2 
 (15.0)

 281.2 

 285.7 

 5.0 

 5.0 

 5.0 

2015
$m

 (386.2)
 25.9 

 (360.3)

2015
Million

 302.7 
 (6.5)

 296.2 

 298.3 

 5.0 

 5.0 

 5.0 

Seven Group Holdings91

2016
$

2015
$

 0.56 

 0.59 

Underlying earnings per share (non-IFRS measure)
Ordinary shares – total underlying earnings per share from continuing operations
Basic/diluted

Underlying earnings from continuing operations is a non-IFRS measure and is reconciled to statutory profit/(loss) as follows:

Underlying earnings reconciliation by category of share
Net profit/(loss) attributable to equity holders of the Company
(Less)/add: significant items (refer Note 3)
Underlying net profit attributable to equity holders of the Company

Allocated underlying earnings to category of share
Ordinary shares
TELYS4

Net underlying earnings attributable to equity holders of the Company

8.   TRADE AND OTHER RECEIVABLES

2016
$m

 196.8 
 (13.6)
 183.2 

158.6
 24.6 

 183.2 

2015
$m

 (360.3)
 563.4 
 203.1 

 177.2 
 25.9 

 203.1 

Accounting policy
The Group has adopted the simplified expected credit loss model for trade receivables as permitted by AASB 9: Financial Instruments. 
Trade receivables are generally due for settlement no more than 30 days from the date of recognition with the exception of some 
receivables from State Owned Enterprises in China and WesTrac Australia customers with alternative settlement terms.

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

Under the expected credit loss model, an impairment provision for receivables is established based on the expected credit losses over 
a 12 month period or the lifetime of expected credit losses for the financial asset. The calculation of expected credit loss considers the 
impact of past events and exercises judgement over the impact of current and future economic conditions. The amount of the provision 
is recognised in profit or loss as the difference between the asset’s carrying amount and the present value of estimated future cash flows, 
discounted at the original effective interest rate. Cash flows relating to short-term receivables are not discounted if the effect of discounting 
is immaterial.

The Group has an established credit policy under which new customers are analysed individually for creditworthiness before the Group’s 
standard payment, delivery terms and conditions are offered. The Group’s review includes external ratings, when available, such as Veda 
Advantage. Purchase limits are established for each customer and these limits are reviewed annually or upon request. Customers that fail 
to meet the Group’s benchmark creditworthiness may transact with the Group upon lodging of a bank guarantee as a security document 
or on a strictly pre-paid (cleared funds) only basis.

Trade receivables
Provision for impairment losses
Collateral provided
Other receivables

Total trade and other receivables

2016
$m

 492.1 
 (29.4)
 3.1 
 76.9 

 542.7 

Restated 
2015
$m

 425.5 
 (14.4)
 18.1 
 60.0 

 489.2 

Collateral provided relates to cash collateral in respect of equity derivative positions.

The creation and release of the provision for impaired receivables has been included in other expenses in profit or loss.

Due to the short-term nature of these receivables their carrying value is assumed to approximate their fair value.

The Group’s and the Company’s exposure to credit risk is predominately in Australia and China. The Group’s exposure to credit risk and 
impairment losses related to trade receivables is outlined below. 

ANNUAL REPORT 201692

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2016

8.   TRADE AND OTHER RECEIVABLES (CONTINUED)
Past due but not impaired
As at 30 June 2016, trade receivables of $112.4 million (2015: $98.8 million) were past due but not impaired. These relate to a number 
of independent customers for whom there is no recent history of default. The ageing analysis of these trade receivables is as follows:

Past due 1-30 days
Past due 31-60 days
Past due 61-90 days
> 91 days

Total trade receivables past due but not impaired

The movement in the allowance for impairment in respect of trade receivables during the year was as follows:

Balance at beginning of the year
Impairment loss recognised in profit or loss
Impairment loss reversed in profit or loss
Receivables expensed as uncollectable during the year
Impact of transition – AASB 9: Financial Instruments(a)
Exchange differences

Balance at end of the year

2016
$m

68.6
14.0
14.0
15.8

112.4

 14.4 
11.1
–
(2.0)
 6.2 
(0.3)

 29.4 

2015
$m

 52.4 
 14.7 
 6.1 
 25.6 

 98.8 

 10.2 
 3.8 
 (0.7)
 (0.6)
–
 1.7 

 14.4 

(a)  Reflects an opening balance adjustment (with corresponding reduction in opening retained earnings) resulting from a change in accounting policy due to the Group’s adoption of AASB 9: 

Financial Instruments.

9.   TRADE AND OTHER PAYABLES

Accounting policy
Trade payables are carried at amortised cost and represent liabilities for goods and services provided to the Group prior to the end of the 
year which are unpaid. The amounts are unsecured and are usually paid within normal trading terms.

Current
Trade payables
Other payables
Accruals
Payable to equity accounted investee

Total trade and other payables – current

Non-current
Cash settled share appreciation rights

Total other payables – non-current

2016
$m

 148.3 
 144.0 
 42.1 
 38.6 

 373.0 

 0.4 

 0.4 

2015
$m

 147.9 
 166.5 
 35.7 
 30.7 

 380.8 

 1.1 

 1.1 

The Group’s trade and other payables (excluding accruals) are due to mature within one year. Due to the short-term nature of these 
payables their carrying value is assumed to approximate their fair value.

The Company has entered into a Deed of Cross Guarantee with certain subsidiaries as described in Note 30: Controlled Entities. Under the 
terms of the Deed, the Company has guaranteed the repayment of all current and future creditors in the event that any of the entities party 
to the Deed are wound up. Details of the consolidated financial position of the Company and parties to the Deed are set out in Note 30.

Seven Group Holdings93

10.  INVENTORIES

Accounting policy
Inventories are measured at the lower of cost and net realisable value. 

Cost is based on the actual costs, with the exception of exchange component inventory and parts inventory for which cost is based on 
weighted average cost, and includes expenditure incurred in acquiring the inventories and bringing them to their existing condition and 
location. Net realisable value is determined on the basis of the Group’s normal selling pattern. 

Expenses for marketing, selling and distribution to customers are estimated and are deducted to establish net realisable value.

CRITICAL ACCOUNTING ESTIMATE AND JUDGEMENT
Management is required to make judgements regarding write-downs to determine the net realisable value of inventory.

These write-downs consider factors such as the age and condition of goods as well as recent market data.

Raw materials – at cost
Work-in-progress – at cost

Finished goods
  – at cost
  – at net realisable value

Total finished goods

Total inventories

2016
$m

 25.3 
 63.3 

 658.1 
 78.1 

 736.2 

 824.8

2015
$m

 26.9 
 32.5 

 774.7 
 95.1 

 869.8 

 929.2 

Work-in-progress includes $12.0 million (2015: nil) in relation to the development of residential properties at Seven Hills, Western Australia.

11.    INVESTMENTS ACCOUNTED FOR USING THE EQUITY METHOD

Accounting policy
Investments accounted for using the equity method comprise investments in associates and joint ventures (equity accounted investees). 
Investments in equity accounted investees are initially recognised at cost and subsequently accounted for using the equity method.

Associates are those entities in which the Group has significant influence, but not control or joint control, over the financial and operating 
policies. Significant influence generally exists when the Group holds between 20 and 50 per cent of the voting rights of another entity, 
unless it can be clearly demonstrated that this is not the case.

Joint ventures are those entities over whose activities the Group has joint control and rights to the net assets of the arrangement, rather 
than rights to the assets and obligations for its liabilities.

The Group’s investments include goodwill identified on acquisition, net of any accumulated impairment losses. The consolidated financial 
statements include the Group’s share of post acquisition income and expenses and equity movements of equity accounted investees, after 
adjustments to align the accounting policies with those of the Group. When the Group’s share of losses equals or exceeds its interest in an 
equity accounted investee, the carrying amount of that interest, including any long-term investments, is reduced to nil, and the recognition 
of further losses is discontinued except to the extent that the Group has an obligation or has made payments on behalf of the investee.

Dividends received or receivable from equity accounted investees are recognised as a reduction in the carrying amount of the investment.

Unrealised gains arising from transactions with equity accounted investees are eliminated against the investment to the extent of the 
Group’s interest in that investee. Unrealised losses are eliminated in the same way as unrealised gains, but only to the extent that there is 
no evidence of impairment.

ANNUAL REPORT 201694

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2016

11.    INVESTMENTS ACCOUNTED FOR USING THE EQUITY METHOD (CONTINUED)

Accounting policy (continued)

CRITICAL ACCOUNTING ESTIMATES AND JUDGEMENTS

Control, joint control or significant influence

Significant judgement and assumptions are made in determining whether an entity has control, joint control or significant influence 
over another entity and the type of the joint arrangement. In considering the classification, management considers whether control, 
significant influence or joint control exists, the nature and structure of the relationship and other facts and circumstances.

Seven West Media Limited

The Group has classified its investment in Seven West Media Limited (Seven West Media) as an associate as the Group, through its 
41.0 per cent (2015: 40.9 per cent) ownership interest and equivalent voting rights has the ability to significantly influence, but not 
control or jointly control the financial and operating policy decisions of Seven West Media. The Group’s interest in Seven West Media 
has increased following the cancellation of ordinary shares by Seven West Media under the Seven West Media on-market share buy-
back. Despite the increase in ownership percentage, management continue to assess that the Group has significant influence, but 
not control, over Seven West Media.

Coates Group Holdings Pty Limited

A wholly-owned Group subsidiary, National Hire Group Limited (National Hire) and The Carlyle Group (Carlyle) own  
Coates Group Holdings Pty Limited (Coates Hire). Under the investment deed, equal control rights are conferred to National Hire 
and Carlyle. As the Group has joint control and Coates Hire is a separate entity in which the Group has an interest in the residual 
net assets, the Group’s investment in Coates Hire is classified as a joint venture. Although the Group’s voting rights in Coates Hire 
is 50 per cent, the Group has determined its economic interest to be 46.5 per cent (2015: 46.4 per cent) after considering vesting 
conditions for options issued under Coates Hire’s Management Equity Plan.

Beach Energy Limited

The Group holds a 22.9 per cent interest in Beach Energy Limited (Beach Energy) following a step-up in ownership from the merger 
of Beach Energy with Drillsearch Energy Limited during the year and a further acquisition of shares. Although the Group’s holding 
in Beach Energy is greater than 20.0 per cent (which generally indicates significant influence), management have determined that 
the Group does not have control or significant influence over Beach Energy on the basis that the Group does not have the ability to 
significantly influence the financial and operating policy decisions of Beach Energy, nor hold a Non-Executive Director position on 
the Beach Energy board. Accordingly the Group continues to account for Beach Energy within its listed investments portfolio.

On 20 July 2016, Managing Director & Chief Executive Officer of the Company, Mr Ryan Stokes became a Non-Executive Director 
of Beach Energy. The board representation, combined with the Group’s 22.9 per cent interest result in the Group having significant 
influence over Beach Energy. Accordingly the Group’s investment in Beach Energy will change from being a financial asset fair valued 
through other comprehensive income to an equity accounted investee from 20 July 2016.

Impairment of investments accounted for using the equity method

In accordance with AASB 136: Impairment of Assets, the recoverable amount of assets is the greater of its value-in-use and its fair 
value less cost of disposal. In the absence of quoted market prices, an asset’s value-in-use is calculated by estimating the present 
value of future cash flows using an asset specific discount rate. These calculations also require the use of assumptions regarding 
profit margins, growth rates and discount rates.

In determining the amount of impairment for equity accounted investees that are listed, management has made judgements in 
identifying financial assets that are impaired due to industry factors or whose decline in fair value below original cost is considered 
significant or prolonged. A significant decline is assessed based on the percentage decline from acquisition cost of the share, while 
a prolonged decline is based on the length of the time over which the share price has been depressed below cost. Management 
considers a decline of 30 per cent to be significant and a period of 12 months to be prolonged.

Seven Group Holdings95

Investee

Principal activities

Country of
incorporation

Balance
date

2016
%

2015
%

OWNERSHIP INTEREST

Associates
Energy Power Systems Australia Pty Ltd

iSeekplant Pty Ltd (a)
Mo’s Mobiles Pty Limited
Premier Capital Developments Pty Limited
Revy Investments Pty Limited
Revy Investment Trust
Seven West Media Limited (b)

Joint ventures
Coates Group Holdings Pty Limited (c)
Flagship Property Holdings Pty Limited
Kings Square Pty Ltd
Kings Square No. 4 Unit Trust

Distribution and rental of
CAT engine products
Online services
Mobile phone retailer
Property management
Property management
Property management
Media

Rental services
Property management
Property development
Property development

Australia

30 Jun

40.0%

40.0%

Australia
Australia
Australia
Australia
Australia
Australia

Australia
Australia
Australia
Australia

30 Jun
30 Jun
30 Jun
30 Jun
30 Jun
25 Jun

30 Jun
31 Dec
30 Jun
30 Jun

10.0%
25.0%
25.0%
25.0%
25.0%
41.0%

46.5%
47.3%
50.0%
50.0%

–
25.0%
25.0%
25.0%
25.0%
40.9%

46.4%
47.3%
50.0%
50.0%

(a)  Despite the Group’s interest in iSeekplant Pty Limited being only 10.0%, the Group has the ability to significantly influence the financial and operating policy decisions through its 

representation on the iSeekplant Pty Limited board.

(b)  The Group’s interest in Seven West Media increased to 41.0% during the year as a result of the on-market share buy-back undertaken by Seven West Media.
(c)  The Group has determined its economic interest in Coates Group Holdings Pty Limited to be 46.5% after the lapsing of options issued under Coates Hire’s Management Equity Plan.

The country of incorporation of the above associates and joint ventures is also their principal place of business.

Seven West Media is the leading listed national multi-platform media business based in Australia. The Group’s investment in Seven West 
Media is held for strategic purposes and disclosed within the Media investments segment.

Coates Group Holdings Pty Limited (Coates Hire) is Australia’s largest and leading rental company. The Group’s investment in Coates Hire 
is held for strategic purposes and disclosed within the Coates Hire segment.

Investments in associates
  Seven West Media Limited

Individually immaterial associates

Investments in joint ventures
  Coates Group Holdings Pty Limited
Individually immaterial joint ventures

Total investments accounted for using the equity method

2016
$m

 655.8 
 33.5 

 283.0 
 25.7 
 998.0 

2015
$m

 631.1 
 32.8 

 291.7 
 28.3 
 983.9 

ANNUAL REPORT 2016 
 
96

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2016

11.  

INVESTMENTS ACCOUNTED FOR USING THE EQUITY METHOD (CONTINUED)

The summarised financial information for the Group’s material associate and material joint venture is detailed below.

The information disclosed reflects the amounts presented in the financial statements of the relevant associate and joint venture and not the 
Group’s share of those amounts. 

Summarised financial information of investees (100%)
Summarised Statement of Financial Position
Current assets
  Cash and cash equivalents
  Other current assets
Total current assets
Non-current assets
  Goodwill

Intangible assets

  Other non-current assets
Total non-current assets
Current liabilities
  Financial liabilities (excluding trade and other payables and provisions)
  Other current liabilities
Total current liabilities
Non-current liabilities
  Financial liabilities (excluding trade and other payables and provisions)
  Other non-current liabilities
Total non-current liabilities

Net assets

Group’s share (%)

Group’s share of net assets
Share of goodwill impairment not recognised as previously impaired
Adjustment to align accounting policies
Fair value adjustment on acquisition
Share of rights issue not taken up
Elimination of unrealised profits to equity accounted investee
Change in ownership interest
Impairment

Carrying amount

Summarised Statement of Comprehensive Income
Revenue
Depreciation and amortisation
Impairment expense
Net interest expense
Income tax expense
Profit/(loss) for the year
Other comprehensive income

Total comprehensive income for the year

Dividends received by the Group

ASSOCIATE
SEVEN WEST MEDIA

JOINT VENTURE
COATES HIRE

2016
$m

2015
$m

2016
$m

2015
$m

 94.8 
 536.6 
 631.4 

 29.7 
 1,523.3 
 481.3 
 2,034.3 

 29.0 
 431.0 
 460.0 

 819.2 
 134.0 
 953.2 

 141.8 
 432.3 
 574.1 

 29.7 
 1,525.5 
 476.7 
 2,031.9 

– 
 411.5 
 411.5 

 874.7 
 124.8 
 999.5 

 1,252.5 

 1,195.0 

41.0%

 513.5 
 571.0 
 (18.3)
 – 
 (125.2)
 – 
 177.1 
 (462.3)

 655.8 

 1,720.5 
 (45.3)
 – 
 (37.8)
 (63.1)
 184.3 
 (1.9)

 182.4 

 49.5 

40.9%

 488.8 
 571.0 
 (18.3)
 – 
 (125.2)
 – 
 176.7 
 (461.9)

 631.1 

 1,781.1 
 (50.7)
 (2,065.2)
 (60.7)
 (60.2)
 (1,887.4)
 (2.3)

 (1,889.7)

 42.4 

 15.1 
 175.8 
 190.9 

 920.9 
 101.3 
 809.9 
 1,832.1 

 144.8 
 151.1 
 295.9 

 1,043.0 
 45.8 
 1,088.8 

 638.3 

46.5%

 296.8 
 156.5 
 – 
 (35.6)
–
 (6.3)
 (14.4)
 (114.0)

 283.0 

 873.0 
 (169.5)
 – 
 (83.1)
 6.0 
 (17.8)
 (3.4)

 (21.2)

 – 

 25.6 
 259.1 
 284.7 

 920.9 
 103.5 
 766.8 
 1,791.2 

 135.0 
 142.9 
 277.9 

 1,103.9 
 32.8 
 1,136.7 

 661.3 

46.4%

 306.8 
 156.5 
 – 
 (35.6)
 – 
 (7.6)
 (14.4)
 (114.0)

 291.7 

 919.3 
 (205.2)
 (337.3)
 (104.3)
 39.7 
 (435.9)
 5.1 

 (430.8)

 – 

Seven Group Holdings 
97

2016
$m

2015
$m

75.5
 13.9 

 (6.0)
 7.6 

 91.0 

 (342.5)
 3.2 

 (43.1)
 5.0 

 (377.4)

Share of investees’ net profit/(loss)
Investments in associates
  Seven West Media Limited

Individually immaterial associates (a)

Investments in joint ventures
  Coates Group Holdings Pty Limited
Individually immaterial joint ventures

Share of net profit/(loss) of equity accounted investees

(a)  A distribution of $13.8 million was received during the year from Revy Investment Trust following the successful settlement of the sale of Building C in Jones Bay Wharf, Pyrmont, 

New South Wales.

Market values of listed investments accounted for using the equity method
Seven West Media Limited
  Book value
  Market value

 655.8 
 655.8 

 631.1 
 631.1 

An impairment expense of $0.4 million (2015: impairment reversal of $14.7 million) relating to the Group’s investment in Seven West Media 
was recognised in profit or loss during the year.

Coates Hire recoverable value
The Group assessed the recoverable value of its investment in Coates Hire as a result of a below budget net loss after tax for the year 
incurred by the business. At 30 June 2016, the recoverable amount of the Group’s investment in Coates Hire exceeded its carrying value.

The recoverable amount of the Group’s investment in Coates Hire was determined using value-in-use calculations. These calculations use 
discounted cash flow projections based on financial budgets approved by the board covering a five year period plus terminal value.

Cash flows beyond the five year period are extrapolated using the estimated growth rates stated below. The growth rate does not exceed 
the long-term average growth rate for the business in which Coates Hire operates.

Value-in-use
  Coates Hire

(a)  The weighted average growth rate used to extrapolate cash flows beyond the budget or forecast period.

2016
Growth

2016
Discount rate

rate (a)
%

(pre-tax) (b)

%

2015
Growth

2015
Discount rate

rate (a)
%

(pre-tax) (b)

%

2.50

11.84

 2.50 

 11.79 

ANNUAL REPORT 2016 
 
98

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2016

12.  PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT

Accounting policy
Property, plant and equipment is measured at historical cost less accumulated depreciation and impairment losses. 

Historical cost includes expenditure that is directly attributable to the acquisition of the items. Subsequent expenditure is capitalised in 
the asset’s carrying amount or recognised as a separate asset, as appropriate, only when it is probable that future economic benefits 
associated with the item will flow to the Group and the cost of the item can be measured reliably. 

All other repairs and maintenance is charged to the profit or loss during the reporting period in which they are incurred.

Freehold land is not depreciated. The cost of improvements to or on leasehold properties is amortised over the shorter of the unexpired 
period of the lease or the estimated useful life of the improvement to the Group.

Depreciation on the following assets is calculated using the straight line method to allocate their cost or revalued amounts, net of their 
residual values, over their estimated useful lives, as follows:

Buildings  
Leasehold improvements 
Plant and equipment 

40 years
1 – 25 years
2 – 12 years

Rental fleet assets are depreciated on a reducing balance method at a rate of 30%.

Residual values and useful lives of assets are reviewed, and adjusted if appropriate, at each reporting date. 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 are included in profit or loss.

Year ended 30 June 2016
Movement in property, plant and equipment
Carrying amount at beginning of the year
Additions
Disposals
Depreciation
Exchange differences
Other(a)

Carrying amount at end of the year

At cost
Accumulated depreciation

Total property, plant and equipment

Year ended 30 June 2015
Movement in property, plant and equipment
Carrying amount at beginning of the year
Additions
Acquisition from business combination
Disposals
Depreciation
Exchange differences
Other(a)

Carrying amount at end of the year

At cost
Accumulated depreciation

Total property, plant and equipment

(a)  Other includes net transfer from or to inventory, impairments and reclassifications.

Freehold land
and buildings
$m

Leasehold
improvements
$m

Plant and
equipment
$m

 41.8 
 – 
 (4.8)
 (1.0)
 (0.2)
 (10.3)

 25.5 

 36.0 
 (10.5)

 25.5 

 43.9 
 – 
 – 
 – 
 (3.6)
 1.5 
 – 
 41.8 

 51.6 
 (9.8)

 41.8 

 48.5 
 2.1 
–
 (3.9)
 0.1 
 (0.9)

 45.9 

 72.0 
 (26.1)

 45.9 

 49.4 
 2.3 
 – 
 – 
 (3.9)
 0.8 
 (0.1)
 48.5 

 72.1 
 (23.6)

 48.5 

 126.0 
 6.1 
 (0.3)
 (26.3)
 (0.3)
 (4.6)

 100.6 

 263.9 
 (163.3)

 100.6 

 144.0 
 13.2 
 0.4 
 (0.8)
 (36.0)
 2.6 
 2.6 
 126.0 

 280.5 
 (154.5)

 126.0 

Total
$m

 216.3 
 8.2 
 (5.1)
 (31.2)
 (0.4)
 (15.8)

 172.0 

 371.9 
 (199.9)

 172.0 

 237.3 
 15.5 
 0.4 
 (0.8)
 (43.5)
 4.9 
 2.5 
 216.3 

 404.2 
 (187.9)

 216.3 

Seven Group Holdings 
99

13.  PRODUCING AND DEVELOPMENT ASSETS

Accounting policy
Producing and development assets are carried at historical cost.

Development costs
Expenditure on the construction, installation or completion of infrastructure facilities such as platforms, pipelines and the drilling of 
development wells, including unsuccessful development or delineation wells, is capitalised within development assets.

Depreciation/amortisation
Producing oil and gas properties are depreciated/amortised on a unit of production basis over the total proved developed and 
undeveloped reserves of the field concerned, except in the case of assets whose useful life is shorter than the lifetime of the field, in which 
case the straight-line method is applied.

CRITICAL ACCOUNTING ESTIMATES AND JUDGEMENTS

Assessment of recoverable amount and key assumptions used 

Producing and development asset valuations are based on proved and probable (2P) reserve production profiles and various 
estimates and assumptions. For the purposes of assessing impairment, the recoverable amount of the cash generating unit (CGU) 
was estimated as its fair value less costs of disposal using a discounted cash flow methodology (DCF). The post tax discount rates 
that have been applied range between 8.1% to 10% (2015: between 9% to 10%).

Estimates on reserve quantities

The estimated quantities of proven plus probable reserves are integral to the calculation of amortisation expense and the 
assessment of the recoverable amount of assets. Estimated reserve quantities are based upon interpretations of geological and 
geophysical models and assessments of technical feasibility and commercial viability of producing the reserves. These estimates 
require assumptions to be made regarding future development and production costs, commodity prices and exchange rates. 
The estimates of reserves may change from period to period, and as additional geological data is generated or obtained from the 
operator during the course of the operations. Reserve estimates are prepared in accordance with guidelines prepared by the Society 
of Petroleum Engineers.

Estimation on commodity prices

The Group’s best estimate of future commodity prices is made with reference to internally derived forecast data, current spot prices, 
external market analysts forecast and forward curves. Future commodity price assumptions impact the recoverability of carrying 
values and are reviewed at least annually.

Movement in producing and development assets
Carrying amount at beginning of the year
Additions
Acquisition from business combination(a)
Depreciation
Exchange differences
Transfer
Other

Carrying amount at end of the year

At cost
Accumulated depreciation

Total producing and development assets

2016
$m

 208.5 
 5.9 
 – 
 (3.0)
 3.1 
 – 
 – 

 214.5 

 228.3 
 (13.8)

 214.5 

2015
$m

 45.1 
 40.8 
 101.6 
 (10.5)
 16.2 
 23.5 
 (8.2)

 208.5 

 219.0 
 (10.5)

 208.5 

(a)  The Group’s investment in the Crux AC/RL9 joint venture operation has been reclassified from a development asset to an exploration and evaluation asset, consistent with the 

characterisation adopted by the operator, Shell Australia Pty Ltd. This adjustment was made as part of finalising the accounting for the acquisition of Nexus Energy Limited (now known 
as SGH Energy Pty Limited) during the year. The comparative information has been restated.

ANNUAL REPORT 2016100

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2016

13.  PRODUCING AND DEVELOPMENT ASSETS (CONTINUED)
Joint operation
The Group, through its wholly-owned subsidiary Seven Network (United States) Inc., is party to the Bivins Ranch basin joint venture 
operation in Texas, USA.

Principal activities

Oil and gas production

UNINCORPORATED INTEREST

Operator of 
joint venture operation

2016
%

2015
%

Apache Corporation

11.2%

11.2%

Producing and development assets comprise of the Group’s operating interests in oil and gas assets located in the United States of 
America and Australia. 

During the year, no impairment expense has been recognised in respect of the Group’s producing and development assets (2015: nil).

A sensitivity analysis was performed on the recoverable value of the Group’s Bivins Ranch producing asset produced by the DCF model 
based on changes to the long-term oil price assumption. Any material adverse change in a key assumption may result in an impairment.

14.  EXPLORATION AND EVALUATION ASSETS

Accounting policy
Exploration and evaluation expenditure is accounted for using the successful efforts method of accounting.

Exploration and evaluation assets
Exploration and evaluation activity involves the search for hydrocarbon resources, the determination of technical feasibility and the 
assessment of commercial viability of an identified resource. Once the legal right to explore has been acquired, costs directly associated 
with an exploration well are capitalised as exploration and evaluation assets until the drilling of the well is complete and the results have 
been evaluated. These costs include directly attributable employee benefits, materials and fuel used, rig costs and payments made to 
contractors.

If no potentially commercial hydrocarbons are discovered, the exploration asset is written off through profit or loss as a dry hole. If 
extractable hydrocarbons are found and, subject to further appraisal activity (e.g., the drilling of additional wells), are likely to be capable of 
being commercially developed, the costs continue to be carried as an exploration and evaluation asset while sufficient/continued progress 
is made in assessing the commerciality of the hydrocarbons. 

Costs directly associated with appraisal activity undertaken to determine the size, characteristics and commercial potential of a reservoir 
following the initial discovery of hydrocarbons, including the costs of appraisal wells where hydrocarbons were not found, are initially 
capitalised as an exploration and evaluation asset.

All such capitalised costs are subject to technical, commercial and management review, as well as review for indicators of impairment at 
least annually. This is to confirm the continued intent to develop or otherwise extract value from the discovery. When this is no longer the 
case, the costs are written off through profit or loss. When proved reserves of oil and natural gas are identified, the relevant capitalised 
expenditure is first assessed for impairment and (if required) any impairment loss is recognised, then the remaining balance is transferred to 
producing and development assets. Other than licence costs, no amortisation is charged during the exploration and evaluation phase.

The ultimate recoupment of the carrying value of the Group’s exploration and evaluation assets is dependent on successful commercial 
exploitation, or the sale of the respective area of interest.

CRITICAL ACCOUNTING ESTIMATES AND JUDGEMENTS

Recoverability of exploration and evaluation assets

Assessment of recoverability of capitalised exploration and evaluation expenditure requires certain estimates and assumptions 
to be made as to future events and circumstances, particularly in relation to whether economic quantities of reserves have been 
discovered. Such estimates and assumptions may change as new information becomes available. If concluded that the carrying 
value of an exploration and evaluation asset is unlikely to be recovered by future exploitation or sale, the relevant amount will be 
written off to profit and loss.

Seven Group Holdings101

2016
$m

 238.5 
 6.9 
 – 
 (0.3)
 (27.1)
 – 
 – 
 218.0 

 218.0 
 – 

 218.0 

2015
$m

 25.6 
 0.3 
 230.0 
 (2.1)
 – 
 (23.5)
 8.2 
 238.5 

 238.5 
 – 

 238.5 

Movement in exploration and evaluation assets
Carrying amount at beginning of the year
Additions
Acquisition from business combination(a)
Exploration costs expensed
Restoration provision(b) 
Transfer
Other
Carrying amount at end of the year

At cost
Accumulated amortisation

Total exploration and evaluation assets

(a)  The Group’s investment in the Crux AC/RL9 joint venture operation has been reclassified from a development asset to an exploration and evaluation asset, consistent with the 
characterisation adopted by the operator, Shell Australia Pty Ltd. This adjustment was made as part of finalising the accounting for the acquisition of Nexus Energy Limited  
(now known as SGH Energy Pty Limited) during the year. The comparative information has been restated.

(b)  The plug and abandonment work for the Crux asset was completed during the year, resulting in a write-back of the provision and corresponding restoration asset.

Exploration and evaluation assets are located in Australia.

Joint operation
The Group, through its wholly-owned subsidiary SGH Energy WA Pty Ltd, is party to the Crux AC/RL9 oil and gas joint venture operation. 
The Group has disclosed its interests in the following permits:

UNINCORPORATED INTEREST

Petroleum exploration permit/licence

Principal activities

Operator of 
joint venture operation

2016
%

AC/RL9

Oil and gas exploration

Shell Australia Pty Ltd

15.0%

2015
%

15.0%

The Group continues to work with Shell Australia Pty Ltd as operator and fellow Crux AC/RL9 joint venture partners in conducting the 
necessary technical feasibility studies, as well as evaluating commercialisation and development options for the Crux asset to enable 
concept select decision by the end of the Retention Lease period in February 2018. 

There are no facts or circumstances indicating an impairment of the asset under AASB 6: Exploration and Evaluation of Mineral Resources 
at 30 June 2016.

Contingent liabilities in respect of joint venture operations are detailed in Note 26: Contingent Liabilities. Exploration expenditure 
commitments and capital commitments in respect of joint venture operations are detailed in Note 27: Commitments.

ANNUAL REPORT 2016102

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2016

15.  INTANGIBLE ASSETS

Accounting policy
Distribution networks
The distribution networks of the Group are considered by the 
Directors to be identifiable intangible assets.

The Directors are of the opinion that the distribution networks 
have an indefinite useful life, and as such the distribution 
networks are not subject to amortisation but rather are tested 
annually for impairment or more frequently if events or changes in 
circumstances indicate impairment. The basis for the classification 
of indefinite life is that the dealership agreements do not require 
specific renewal over set intervals thus the distribution rights 
continue uninterrupted unless a cause to terminate is triggered.

Goodwill
Goodwill represents the excess of the cost of an acquisition over 
the fair value of the Group’s share of the net identifiable assets 
of the acquired subsidiary/equity accounted investee at the 
date of acquisition. Goodwill on acquisitions of subsidiaries is 
included in intangible assets. Goodwill on acquisitions of equity 
accounted investees is included in investments accounted for using 
the equity method. 

Goodwill is not amortised, but instead tested for impairment 
annually or more frequently if events or changes in circumstances 
indicate that it might be impaired, and is carried at cost less 
accumulated impairment losses. Gains and losses on the disposal 
of an entity include the carrying amount of goodwill relating to the 
entity sold.

Goodwill is allocated to CGUs for the purpose of impairment 
testing. Each of those CGUs represents the Group’s investment in 
each country of operation by each primary reporting segment.

Impairment of intangible assets
Goodwill and intangible assets that have an indefinite 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. An impairment loss is recognised 
for the amount by which the asset’s carrying amount exceeds its 
recoverable amount.

The recoverable amount of an asset or CGU is the greater of its 
value-in-use and its fair value less cost of disposal.

In assessing value-in-use, the estimated future cash flows are 
discounted to their present value using a pre-tax discount rate that 
reflects current market assessments of the time value of money and 
the risks specific to the asset. For impairment testing, assets are 
grouped together into the smallest group of assets that generates 
cash inflows from continuing use that are largely independent of 
the cash inflows of other assets or CGUs. Subject to an operating 
segment ceiling test, CGUs to which goodwill has been allocated 
are aggregated so that the level at which impairment is tested 
reflects the lowest level at which goodwill is monitored for internal 
reporting purposes. Goodwill acquired in a business combination is 
allocated to groups of CGUs that are expected to benefit from the 
synergies of the combination.

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 or 
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 profit or loss.

CRITICAL ACCOUNTING ESTIMATES AND JUDGEMENTS

Dependency on key suppliers

WesTrac Group is dependent on Caterpillar to maintain 
its authorisation as an authorised dealer of Caterpillar 
equipment and parts in its Western Australia, New South 
Wales/ACT and North Eastern China Service Territories. 
The WesTrac Group has maintained a strong relationship 
with Caterpillar and although WesTrac Group expects 
this relationship to continue, as is customary in dealer 
agreements with Caterpillar, the dealer agreement can be 
terminated by either party upon 90 days notice at any time.

The Group is also dependent on Caterpillar for timely supply 
of equipment and parts from their global manufacturing 
factories and distribution warehouses. During periods of 
intense demand or in the event of disruption to Caterpillar’s 
business there may be delays in the supply of equipment and 
parts to WesTrac Group. This has not in the past proven to 
be an impediment to the WesTrac Group.

Management judgement is required to estimate the impact 
of the loss of key suppliers on future earnings, supporting 
existing goodwill and intangible assets.

Impairment of intangible assets

In accordance with AASB 136 Impairment of Assets, the 
recoverable amount of assets is the greater of its value-in-
use and its fair value less cost of disposal. In the absence of 
quoted market prices, an asset’s value-in-use or fair value 
less cost of disposal is calculated by estimating the present 
value of future cash flows using an asset specific discount 
rate. These calculations also require the use of assumptions 
regarding profit margins, growth rates and discount rates.

Seven Group Holdings103

Distribution
network
$m

Goodwill
$m

Other (a)
$m

Total
$m

 637.6 
 – 
 – 
 10.7 

 648.3 

879.8
(231.5)
 – 

 648.3 

 783.6 
 – 
 2.0 
 – 
 (231.5)
 (14.1)
 97.6 

 637.6 

869.1
(231.5)
 – 

 637.6 

 9.2 
 – 
 – 
 – 

 9.2 

69.1
(59.9)
 – 

 9.2 

 53.1 
 – 
 1.9 
 – 
 (59.9)
 14.1 
 – 

 9.2 

69.1
(59.9)
 – 

 9.2 

 18.7 
 22.5 
 (3.8)
 – 

 37.4 

91.4
(9.2)
 (44.8)

 37.4 

 12.5 
 23.4 
 – 
 (8.1)
 (9.2)
 – 
 0.1 

 18.7 

68.9
(9.2)
 (41.0)

 18.7 

 665.5 
 22.5 
 (3.8)
 10.7 

 694.9 

1,040.3
(300.6)
 (44.8)

 694.9 

 849.2 
 23.4 
 3.9 
 (8.1)
 (300.6)
 – 
 97.7 

 665.5 

1,007.1
(300.6)
 (41.0)

 665.5 

Year ended 30 June 2016
Movement in intangible assets
Carrying amount at beginning of the year
Additions
Amortisation
Exchange differences

Carrying amount at end of the year

At cost
Accumulated impairment
Accumulated amortisation

Total intangible assets

Year ended 30 June 2015
Movement in intangible assets
Carrying amount at beginning of the year
Additions
Acquisition from business combination(b)
Amortisation
Impairment
Transfer(c)
Exchange differences

Carrying amount at end of the year

At cost
Accumulated impairment
Accumulated amortisation

Total intangible assets

(a)  Other includes intellectual property, customer contracts, software and brand names.
(b)  Comparative has been restated as required by AASB 3: Business Combinations, reflecting the finalisation of the acquisition accounting of Nexus Energy Limited (now known 

as SGH Energy Pty Limited).

(c)   Transfer relates to finalising purchase price accounting adjustments in the prior year on the acquisition of Bucyrus China.

ANNUAL REPORT 2016104

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2016

15.  INTANGIBLE ASSETS (CONTINUED)

Impairment of intangible assets
(a) Impairment tests for goodwill and distribution network
Goodwill and distribution network costs are allocated to the Group’s CGUs identified according to the appropriate operating segment. 

A segment level summary of the goodwill and distribution network allocation is presented below.

Year ended 30 June 2016
Goodwill
Distribution network

Total goodwill and distribution network

Year ended 30 June 2015
Goodwill
Distribution network

Total goodwill and distribution network

WesTrac
Australia
$m

WesTrac
China
$m

 9.2 
 321.0 

 330.2 

 9.2 
 321.0 

 330.2 

 – 
 327.3 

 327.3 

 – 
 316.6 

 316.6 

Total
$m

 9.2 
 648.3 

 657.5 

 9.2 
 637.6 

 646.8 

WesTrac Australia distribution network and goodwill
The recoverable amount of goodwill and the WesTrac Australia distribution network is determined based on value-in-use calculations. 
These recoverable amount calculations use discounted cash flow projections based on financial budgets and forecasts approved 
by management. Cash flow projections utilised for value in use financial budgets and cover a five year period with a terminal value.

Based on sensitivity analysis performed no reasonable change in these assumptions would give rise to an impairment.

WesTrac China distribution network
Following a below budget operating profit for the year ended 30 June 2016, the Group assessed the recoverable amount of the WesTrac 
China CGU.

The recoverable amount of the WesTrac China distribution network was assessed on a fair value less cost of disposal basis, estimated 
using discounted cash flow projections in United States Dollars, the functional currency of the WesTrac China CGU. 

Fifteen years of cash flows were included in the discounted cash flow model which is consistent with independent valuation methodologies 
utilised in previous years. The recoverable amount calculations use discounted cash flow projections based on financial budgets and 
forecasts approved by management for the first three years, then budgeted/forecasted growth rates until the terminal year which is 
extrapolated at a terminal growth rate of 4%. In determining the appropriate cash flows, assumptions were made regarding discount rate, 
terminal value growth rates, sales growth and gross margins.

The value assigned to the key assumptions represents management’s assessment of assumptions that a market participant would make, 
including future trends in the heavy equipment market in Northern China, and were assessed by management against external market 
data. Gross margin and sales growth assumptions vary over the 15 year cash flow period based on management forecasts and external 
market data forecasts.

At 30 June 2016, the recoverable amount of the CGU was determined to be higher than its carrying amount by $51.9 million. However, as 
any adverse change in a key assumption may result in a further impairment, no reversal of the $237.6 million impairment loss incurred in 
the prior year has been recognised at 30 June 2016.

Seven Group Holdings105

(b) Key assumptions used for value-in-use and fair value less cost of disposal calculations

Value-in-use
  Caterpillar distribution network – Australia
  AllightSykes

Fair value less cost of disposal
  Caterpillar distribution network – China(c)

2016
Growth

2016
Discount rate

rate (a)
%

(pre-tax) (b)

%

2015
Growth

2015
Discount rate

rate (a)
%

(pre-tax) (b)

%

3.00
–

4.00

11.68
–

 3.00 
 2.50 

 13.32 
 11.78 

11.57

 4.00 

 11.89 

(a)  The weighted average growth rate used to extrapolate cash flows beyond the budget or forecast period.
(b)  The discount rates used reflect specific risks relating to the relevant segments and the countries in which they operate.
(c)  Key drivers of the forecast include general growth in China’s mining industry, heavy machinery volume growth, increased market share and operating margins. The growth rate of 4% 

represents the terminal growth rate after 15 years. The growth rate assumed for the period prior to 15 years is based on budgets and forecasts up to 2019 and then extrapolated based 
on forecast growth consistent with growth forecasts for the region. These percentage growth forecasts are based on the latest economic forecasts for China and do not exceed the 
growth forecasts for the region.

16.  PROVISIONS

Accounting policy
Provisions are recognised when the Group has a present legal or constructive obligation as a result of a past event and it is probable that 
an outflow of resources will be required to settle the obligation and the amount can be reliably estimated.

Provisions are not recognised for future operating losses.

Where there are a number of similar obligations, the likelihood that an outflow will be required in settlement is determined by considering 
the class of obligations as a whole. A provision is recognised even if the likelihood of an outflow with respect to any one item included in the 
same class of obligations may be small.

Provisions are determined by discounting the expected future cash flows at a pre-tax rate that reflects current market assessments of the 
time value of money and the risks specific to the liability.

Service warranties

Restoration

Restructuring

A service warranties provision is made for the estimated liability on products under warranty at balance 
date. This provision is estimated having regard to service warranty experience. 
Other warranty costs are accrued as and when the liability arises.

A provision for restoration is recognised when there is a legal or constructive obligation to do so.
A corresponding restoration asset amount is created equivalent to the amount of the provision.
The amount recognised is the estimated cost of restoration, discounted to its net present value.
This is reassessed each year in accordance with local conditions and requirements.

A provision for restructuring is recognised when steps have been taken to implement a detailed plan, 
including discussions with affected personnel, with employee related costs recognised over the period of 
any required future service.

Onerous contracts

An onerous contract is a contract, including an operating lease, in which the unavoidable cost of meeting 
the obligations under the contract exceeds the economic benefit expected to be received.

ANNUAL REPORT 2016106

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2016

16.  PROVISIONS (CONTINUED)

CRITICAL ACCOUNTING ESTIMATES AND JUDGEMENTS

Restoration

Management is required to make judgements regarding removal method, future legislation, reclamation activities required, 
engineering methodology for estimating costs, future removal technologies and discount rates to determine the present value of the 
cash flows. Changes in the estimates of restoration cost estimates are dealt with prospectively by recording an adjustment to the 
provision and a corresponding adjustment to the restoration asset.

Year ended 30 June 2016
Movement in provisions
Balance at beginning of the year
Amounts provided for
Amounts used
Write-back of provision
Exchange differences
Transfer
Unwind of discount

Balance at end of the year

Current
Non-current

Total provisions

Year ended 30 June 2015
Movement in provisions
Balance at beginning of the year
Amounts assumed in a business combination (a)
Amounts provided for
Amounts used
Exchange differences
Unwind of discount
Balance at end of the year

Current
Non-current

Total provisions

Service
warranties
$m

Restoration (a)

$m

Onerous
contracts
$m

Other
$m

Total
$m

 32.4 
 9.7 
 (13.7)
 – 
 (0.4)
 (2.2)
 – 

 25.8 

 25.8 
 – 

 25.8 

 49.1 
 – 
 11.5 
 (28.9)
 0.7 
 – 
 32.4 

 32.4 
 – 

 32.4 

 74.9 
 – 
 – 
 (27.1)
 (0.1)
 – 
 2.4 

 50.1 

 2.1 
 48.0 

 50.1 

 – 
92.5
 9.3 
 (29.4)
 – 
 2.5 
 74.9 

 29.4 
 45.5 

 74.9 

 13.5 
 0.2 
 (3.1)
 – 
 – 
 – 
 – 

 10.6 

 7.8 
 2.8 

 10.6 

 8.5 
 3.0 
 6.0 
 (4.0)
 – 
 – 
 13.5 

 9.8 
 3.7 

 13.5 

 11.7 
 11.2 
 (11.0)
 – 
 – 
 2.2 
 – 

 14.1 

 14.1 
 – 

 14.1 

 8.2 
4.0
 0.4 
 (0.9)
 – 
 – 
 11.7 

 11.7 
 – 

 11.7 

 132.5 
 21.1 
 (27.8)
 (27.1)
 (0.5)
 – 
 2.4 

 100.6 

 49.8 
 50.8 

 100.6 

 65.8 
99.5
 27.2 
 (63.2)
 0.7 
 2.5 
 132.5 

 83.3 
 49.2 

 132.5 

(a)  Comparative has been restated as required by AASB 3: Business Combinations, reflecting the finalisation of the acquisition accounting of Nexus Energy Limited (now known as 

SGH Energy Pty Limited).

Nature and purpose of provisions

Service warranties

Restoration

Onerous contracts

Other

Service warranties provision relate to the estimated warranty claims in respect of products sold which are 
still under warranty at balance date. These claims are expected to be settled in the next financial year but 
this may be extended into the following year if claims are made late in the warranty period and are subject to 
confirmation by suppliers that component parts are defective. 

A provision for site restoration relates to the Group’s estimated present value of costs relating to future site 
restoration, removal and rehabilitation activities, primarily in the Energy segment.

Onerous contract provisions are recognised for the Group’s obligations under onerous property leases and 
other onerous contracts.

Other provisions include amounts that have been provided for in relation to restructuring and redundancies 
workers’ compensation claims, maintenance and repair contracts, legal claims and make good obligations.

Seven Group Holdings107

17.   EMPLOYEE BENEFITS

Accounting policy
Employee benefits
Employee benefits include provisions for annual leave, long service 
leave and amounts provided for Director retirement benefits. The 
current provision for long service leave includes all unconditional 
entitlements where employees have completed the required 
service period and those where employees are entitled to pro-rata 
payments in certain circumstances. 

The majority of the amount is presented as current, since the 
Group does not have an unconditional right to defer settlement. 

However, based on past experience, the Group does not expect all 
employees to take the full amount of accrued long service leave or 
require payment within the next 12 months.

Wages, salaries and annual leave
Liabilities for wages and salaries, including non-monetary benefits 
and annual leave due to be settled within 12 months of the 
reporting date are recognised in provisions in respect of employees 
services up to the reporting date and are measured at the amounts 
expected to be paid when the liabilities are settled.

Long service leave
The liability for long service leave is recognised in the provision for 
employee benefits and measured as the present value of expected 
future payments to be made in respect of services provided by 
employees up to the reporting date. Consideration is given to 
expected future wage and salary levels, experience of employee 
departures and periods of service. Expected future payments are 
discounted using market yields at the reporting date on high quality 
corporate bonds with terms of maturity and currency that match, 
as closely as possible, the estimated future cash outflows. 

Superannuation
The Group contributes to a superannuation fund which provides 
accumulated contribution plans. Contributions are charged against 
the profit or loss in the period to which they relate.

Share based payments
The fair value of options granted under the Company’s cash-settled 
option plan is recognised as an employee benefit expense with 
a corresponding increase in liability. The expense and the liability 
incurred are measured at the fair value of the liability.

The fair value at grant date is independently determined using 
Black-Scholes and Binomial option pricing models that take into 
account the exercise price, the term of the option, the vesting and 
performance criteria, the impact of dilution, the non-tradable nature 
of the option, the share price at grant date and expected price 
volatility of the underlying share, the expected dividend yield and 
the risk-free interest rate for the term of the option.

The fair value of the options and performance rights granted 
excludes the impact of any non-market vesting conditions. 
Non-market vesting conditions are included in assumptions about 
the number of options that are expected to become exercisable. 
At each reporting date, the entity remeasures the fair value of the 
options, with any changes in value recognised in the profit or loss 
as a finance cost.

The fair value of equity-based entitlements, including deferred 
short-term incentives, settled in equity instruments is recognised 
as an employee benefit expense with a corresponding increase in 
equity. The fair value is estimated at grant date and recognised over 
the period during which the employees become unconditionally 
entitled to the equity instrument.

The amount recognised as an expense is adjusted to reflect the 
actual number of entitlements that vest, except where forfeiture is 
only due to share prices not achieving the threshold for vesting.

Current
Annual leave
Long service leave

Total employee benefits – current

Non-current
Long service leave (a)
Other

Total employee benefits – non-current

2016
$m

 25.5 
 11.3 

 36.8 

 11.7 
 0.8 

 12.5 

2015
$m

 23.9 
 13.4 

 37.3 

 7.3 
 0.8 

 8.1 

(a)  Comparative has been restated as required by AASB 3: Business Combinations, reflecting the finalisation of the acquisition accounting of Nexus Energy Limited (now known as 

SGH Energy Pty Limited).

Superannuation contributions
The Group makes contributions on behalf of employees to a defined contribution superannuation fund. The amount recognised as an 
expense was $30.9 million (2015: $31.7 million) for the year ended 30 June 2016.

ANNUAL REPORT 2016108

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2016

18.  CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS

Accounting policy
Bank balances includes cash on hand and deposits held at call with financial institutions. Call deposits include other short-term, highly 
liquid investments with original maturities of three months or less that are readily convertible to known amounts of cash and which are 
subject to an insignificant risk of changes in value.

Bank balances
Call deposits

Total cash and cash equivalents

Cash and cash equivalents in the cash flow statement

19.  NOTES TO THE CASH FLOW STATEMENT

Reconciliation of profit/(loss) for the year to net cash flows related to operating activities
Profit/(loss) after tax
Depreciation and amortisation:
  Property, plant and equipment
  Producing and development assets

Intangible assets
Share option expense
Gain on sale of property, plant and equipment
Gain on sale of investments and equity accounted investees
Loss on sale of investments and derivative financial instruments
Impairment of equity accounted investees
Impairment of non-current assets
Fair value movement of derivatives
Share of results from equity accounted investees
Dividends received from equity accounted investees
Other investment income
Interest income on loans receivable – Nexus Energy Limited (pre-acquisition)
Finance fee income – Nexus Energy Limited (pre-acquisition)
Other
Movement in:
  Trade and other receivables

Inventories
  Other assets
  Trade and other payables/deferred income
  Provisions
  Tax balances

Net operating cash flows

2016
$m

 232.2 
 134.6 

 366.8 

 366.8 

2015
$m

 193.0 
 97.7 

 290.7 

 290.7 

2016
$m

2015
$m

 197.8

 (359.1)

 31.2
 3.0 
 3.8 
 1.7
 (0.5)
 (7.9)
 9.1
 0.4
 –
 (5.2)
 (91.0)
 73.8
 –
 – 
 – 
 (4.0)

 (78.2)
 115.7 
 12.8 
 45.6 
 (0.9)
 7.2

 314.4 

 43.5 
 10.5 
8.1
 1.1 
–
 (36.5)
37.6
 99.3 
 327.0 
4.4
 377.4 
 47.0 
 (37.9)
 (10.9)
 (16.3)
 3.0 

 117.9 
 (72.6)
 (1.3)
 39.0 
 (14.1)
 (280.0)

 287.1 

Seven Group Holdings 
 
109

20.  INTEREST BEARING LOANS AND BORROWINGS

Accounting policy
Borrowings are initially recognised at fair value, net of transaction costs incurred and subsequently measured at amortised cost.

Any difference between the proceeds (net of transaction costs) and the redemption amount is recognised in the profit or loss over the 
period of the borrowings using the effective interest method. Fees paid on the establishment of loan facilities which are not incremental 
costs relating to the actual draw down of the facility, are recognised on a net basis against borrowings and amortised on a straight line 
basis over the term of the facility.

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

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

Current
Interest bearing liabilities
Non-interest bearing liabilities
Fixed term US dollar notes
Finance lease liabilities

Total interest bearing loans and borrowings – current

Non-current
Interest bearing liabilities
Fixed term US dollar notes
Less: capitalised borrowing costs net of accumulated amortisation
Finance lease liabilities

Total interest bearing loans and borrowings – non-current

2016
$m

 37.7 
 80.0 
 101.0 
 1.4 

 220.1 

 869.6 
 648.1 
 (4.1)
 0.6 

2015
$m

 32.8 
 40.0 
 – 
 6.4 

 79.2 

 832.2 
 725.9 
 (5.6)
 3.6 

 1,514.2 

 1,556.1 

The current interest bearing liabilities of $37.7 million (2015: $32.8 million) relate to the Group’s working capital facilities. These 
liabilities are drawn from rolling short dated facilities within Australia of $288.7 million (2015: $262.1 million) and China $241.9 million 
(2015: $196.3 million) and are generally reviewed annually. These liabilities are unsecured.

At 30 June 2016, the Group had available undrawn borrowing facilities of $954.9 million (2015: $966.5 million) and also had access to 
unutilised short dated lines of credit totalling $184.6 million (2015: $205.4 million).

On 2 February 2016, the Group negotiated the extension of the corporate syndicated loan facility. The facility was extended by 12 months, 
however the limit was decreased from $900.0 million to $850.0 million for the extension year. The facility is non-amortising and will now 
mature on 16 February 2020. The facility is unsecured and supported by guarantees by the Company and various subsidiaries within 
the Group.

The $431.0 million facility with Caterpillar Financial Australia Limited has been extended for a further four years and will now mature on 
15 July 2021. This facility is guaranteed by various subsidiaries within the Group.

The Group’s interest bearing liabilities (including derivatives) had a weighted average interest rate of 6.05% (2015: 7.74%) for the year ended 
30 June 2016, including margins and unused line fees.

Lease liabilities are effectively secured as the rights to the assets revert to the financier in the event of default.

Details of the fair values of each of the borrowings as well as the Group’s exposure to interest rate, foreign currency and liquidity risk related 
to interest bearing loans and borrowings is disclosed in Note 21: Financial Risk Management.

ANNUAL REPORT 2016110

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2016

20.  INTEREST BEARING LOANS AND BORROWINGS (CONTINUED)
Fixed term US dollar notes
The US Private Placement notes are unsecured and are hedged by a combination of forward foreign exchange and cross currency 
swaps. The Group has issued notes denominated in US currency of USD $520.0 million (2015: USD $520.0 million). Series E (2011) USD 
$50.0 million was issued and is repayable in AUD. Interest is payable half yearly in arrears. 

The amount and maturity of the notes, including the effective hedge position, is summarised below.

Notes

Series B
Series C
Series D
Series E
Series A
Series B
Series C
Series D
Series E

Agreement

2006
2006
2006
2006
2011
2011
2011
2011
2011

2016
Amount
USD
$m

2016
Spot amount
AUD
$m

2015
Amount
USD
$m

2015
Spot amount
AUD
$m

 75.0 
 55.0 
 30.0 
 85.0 
 45.0 
 55.0 
 75.0 
 100.0 
–

 520.0 

 101.0 
 74.1 
 40.4 
 114.4 
 60.6 
 74.1 
 101.0 
 134.7 
 48.8 

 749.1 

 75.0 
 55.0 
 30.0 
 85.0 
 45.0 
 55.0 
 75.0 
 100.0 
–

 520.0 

 97.7 
 71.6 
 39.1 
 110.6 
 58.6 
 71.6 
 97.7 
 130.2 
 48.8 

 725.9 

Hedged 
amount
AUD
$m

 108.8 
 80.3 
 43.9 
 125.2 
 43.8 
 53.6 
 73.1 
 97.4 
 48.8 

 674.9 

Interest rate
(incl. margin)
%

7.48%
7.50%
7.53%
7.56%
3.99%
4.21%
4.04%
4.21%
7.96%

Maturity
date

23 Aug 16
23 Aug 18
23 Aug 20
23 Aug 21
7 Jun 23
7 Jul 23
7 Jun 26
7 Jul 26
7 Jul 41

21.  FINANCIAL RISK MANAGEMENT
Overview
Risk management policies are established to identify and demonstrate that the Group understands and manages risk and seeks to ensure 
that there is consistency to the methods used in assessing, monitoring and communicating risks and that risk management efforts are 
aligned with the Group’s strategic and business objectives.

The Group has exposure to the following risks through the normal course of its operations and from its use of financial instruments:
(a) Market risk
(b) Liquidity risk
(c) Credit risk

The following presents information, both qualitative and quantitative, about the Group’s exposure to each of the above risks, its objectives, 
policies and processes for measuring and managing risk, and the management of capital. 

The Board of Directors has overall responsibility for the establishment and oversight of the risk management framework.

The Board has established a sound system of risk oversight and management and internal control which includes the establishment of 
the Audit & Risk Committee. The Committee has been constituted with the function of assisting the Board to ensure that its corporate 
governance and oversight responsibilities are fulfilled in relation to risk management and compliance with applicable laws and regulations.

The Audit & Risk Committee is responsible for reviewing, evaluating and making recommendations to the Board in relation to:
•  assessing the risk management, compliance and control environment as it relates to the external and internal audit plans;
•  overseeing financial reporting; and 
•  evaluating internal and external audit.

Seven Group Holdings111

Note

 18 

 8 
 9 
20
 20 

 22 
 22 

 23 
 23 

2016
$m

2015
$m

 366.8 

 290.7 

542.7
 (330.9)
 (749.1)
 (985.2)

 892.4 
 82.2 

 186.1 
 (25.2)

 (20.2)

489.2
 (345.1)
 (725.9)
 (909.4)

 1,097.6 
 43.3 

 144.6 
 (41.2)

 43.8

At the reporting date the Group held the following financial instruments:

Financial assets/(liabilities)
Cash and cash equivalents
Financial assets/(liabilities) carried at amortised cost
  Trade and other receivables
  Trade and other payables (excluding accruals)
  Fixed term US dollar notes

Interest bearing loans and borrowings

Financial assets carried at fair value through other comprehensive income (a)
  Listed equity securities (excluding derivatives)
  Unlisted equity securities
Financial assets/(liabilities) carried at fair value through profit or loss
  Derivative financial assets
  Derivative financial liabilities

Total financial assets and financial liabilities

(a)  Comparative relates to available-for-sale financial assets prior to the transition to AASB 9.

(a)  Market risk
The Group is exposed to market risk through foreign exchange, interest rate, equity price and commodity price risk.

Foreign exchange risk

(i) 
Foreign exchange risk arises when future commercial transactions and recognised assets and liabilities are denominated in a currency that 
is not the entity’s functional currency. 

The Group is exposed to fluctuations in foreign currency, predominantly in United States Dollar (USD) and Hong Kong Dollar (HKD).

The Group will seek to minimise exposure to foreign exchange risk by initially seeking contracts effectively denominated in AUD where 
possible. Where this is not possible the Group will manage foreign exchange risk as follows:
• 

in certain circumstances the Group invoices customers in USD. Where the Group invoices in USD it may seek to match the USD receipt 
with USD denominated vendor payments, creating an economic hedge. Payments and receipts are made from and to the Group’s USD 
denominated bank account.

•  external forward contracts and options are used to manage foreign exchange risk. Contracts are entered into on a transaction by 

transaction basis to hedge specific purchases, sales and borrowings.

The Group’s foreign exchange risk from recognised assets and liabilities arises primarily from WesTrac’s long term USD denominated 
borrowings (refer to Note 20: Interest Bearing Loans and Borrowings). The Group effectively hedges its long-term foreign denominated 
borrowings using a combination of designated forward exchange contracts and cross currency swaps. At times, the Company may 
choose to hold cash positions in USD to hedge against anticipated weakening in the AUD.

The financial statements for foreign group companies that have a functional currency different from Australian Dollars are translated 
into Australian Dollars on consolidation in accordance with Note 1(C): Foreign Currency Translation. Exchange differences arising from 
the translation are taken to reserves and as such the individual account balances of these Group companies are excluded from the 
table below.

ANNUAL REPORT 2016 
112

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2016

21.  FINANCIAL RISK MANAGEMENT (CONTINUED)

Foreign exchange risk (continued)

(a)  Market risk (continued)
(i) 
Excluding assets and liabilities for foreign Group entities translated in accordance with Note 1, the Group’s exposure to foreign currency 
risk was as follows, based on notional amounts:

As at 30 June 2016
Cash and cash equivalents
Trade and other receivables
Trade and other payables
Borrowings
Derivative financial instruments

Closing exchange rates (a)

As at 30 June 2015
Cash and cash equivalents
Trade and other receivables
Trade and other payables
Borrowings
Derivative financial instruments

Closing exchange rates (a)

USD
m

145.4 
18.3
 (28.1)
 (520.0)
 135.3 

 0.7426 

 84.0 
 50.9 
 (49.3)
 (520.0)
 92.3 

HKD
m

0.1
 – 
 – 
 – 
 – 

IDR
m

 – 
 – 
 – 
 – 
 – 

 5.7617 

 9,790 

 666.1 
 – 
 – 
 – 
 – 

 29.2 
 – 
 – 
 – 
 – 

 0.7680 

 5.9536 

 10,228 

(a)  Closing exchange rates at 30 June as reported by the Reserve Bank of Australia at 4pm (AEST).

Sensitivity analysis
As at 30 June 2016 the closing AUD/USD exchange rate, as reported by the Reserve Bank of Australia at 4pm (AEST) was 0.7426  
(2015: 0.7680). A foreign currency sensitivity of +/- 10% has been selected and is considered reasonable given the historical AUD/USD 
exchange rates prevailing in the year ended 30 June 2016. During this period the average AUD/USD exchange rate was 0.7283  
(2015: 0.8382) and traded within a range of 0.6867 and 0.7812 (2015: 0.7590 and 0.9458).

At 30 June 2016, had the AUD/USD exchange rate moved by 10%, with all other variables held constant, post tax profit/(loss) and equity 
would have been affected as illustrated in the table below:

Judgement of reasonably possible movements
AUD to USD +10% 
AUD to USD -10% 

2016
Profit/(loss)
$m

2016
Equity
$m

2015
Profit/(loss)
$m

 (9.1)
 11.2 

 (6.1)
 8.0 

 8.8 
 (10.8)

2015
Equity
$m

 1.0 
 (11.0)

Adverse versus favourable movements are determined relative to the net underlying exposure. An adverse movement in exchange 
rates implies an increase in the Group’s foreign currency exposure leading to deterioration in the Group’s financial position. A favourable 
movement in exchange rates implies a decrease in the Group’s foreign currency exposure and an improvement in the Group’s 
financial position.

The Group’s exposure to other foreign exchange movements is not material.

Interest rate risk

(ii) 
The Group’s exposure to interest rate risk arises from AUD cash deposits and borrowings which are at variable interest rates in AUD, USD, 
HKD and RMB. Generally, long term fixed rate borrowings are obtained in the USA and Australia, while shorter term variable borrowings are 
denominated in local Australian and Chinese currencies and expose the Group to interest rate risk. The Group manages this risk by using 
derivative financial instruments including interest rate swaps to fix interest rate exposure.

As at 30 June 2016, 59% (2015: 66%) of the Group’s total borrowings were subject to fixed interest rates or were effectively hedged with 
derivative financial instruments.

Seven Group Holdings113

At balance date, the Group had the following mix of financial assets and liabilities exposed to Australian, United States, Hong Kong and 
Chinese variable interest rate risk:

Financial assets
Cash and cash equivalents

Financial liabilities
Interest bearing liabilities

2016
$m

2015
$m

 232.1 

 232.1 

 (711.8)

 (711.8)

 193.0 

 193.0 

 (557.7)

 (557.7)

The following table shows the annualised impact on profit or loss and equity of interest bearing assets and liabilities if floating interest rates 
at balance date had been 1% (100 basis points) higher or lower for the year, with all other variables held constant.

If interest rates were 1% (100 basis points) higher with all other variables 
held constant – increase/(decrease)

If interest rates were 1% (100 basis points) lower with all other variables 
held constant – increase/(decrease)

 (3.4)

 3.4 

–

–

 (2.6)

 2.6 

2016
Profit/(loss)
$m

2016
Equity
$m

2015
Profit/(loss)
$m

2015
Equity
$m

–

–

(iii)   Equity price risk
Equity price risk refers to the risk that the value of a financial instrument or its associated cash flows will fluctuate due to changes in the 
underlying share prices.

The Group has exposure to equity price risk arising from its portfolio of listed equity securities. The Group utilises derivatives to hedge this 
exposure as well as to gain economic exposure to equity securities.

The Group may also be exposed to equity price risk through its holdings of listed investments accounted for using the equity method and 
as part of the Group’s impairment assessment process.

The following table shows the impact on the profit or loss and equity of the Group if equity prices at balance date had been 15% higher or 
lower, with all other variables held constant. A sensitivity of 15% is considered reasonable given the current level of prices and the volatility 
observed both on a historical basis and market expectations for future movement.

If share prices were 15% higher with all other  
variables constant – increase/(decrease)

If share prices were 15% lower with all other  
variables constant – increase/(decrease)

2016
Profit/(loss)
$m

2016
Equity
$m

2015
Profit/(loss)
$m

2015
Equity
$m

 0.4 

 93.7 

 18.7 

 98.4 

 (0.5)

 (93.7)

 (19.3)

 (98.4)

(iv)  Commodity price risk
The Group has an operating interest in oil and gas assets located in Australia and the United States of America. These investments expose 
the Group to commodity price risk from fluctuations in the prices of oil, natural gas and other condensates and natural gas liquids (NGLs). 
The Group does not currently hedge its exposure to commodity price risk.

ANNUAL REPORT 2016114

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2016

21. FINANCIAL RISK MANAGEMENT (CONTINUED)

(b)  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 employs a prudent liquidity risk management approach. This involves maintaining a large amount of liquid reserves (cash 
deposits, listed shares and available credit lines) that can be drawn or sold at short notice to meet the Group’s financial commitments. 
Management monitors the Group’s ongoing cash flow requirements on a daily basis. Due to the dynamic nature of the underlying 
businesses, the Group aims to maintain flexibility in funding by keeping credit lines available.

Financing arrangements
The Group had access to the following undrawn borrowing facilities at the reporting date:

Floating rate
Expiring within one year
Expiring beyond one year

Additional liquidity
Cash and cash equivalents
Financial assets carried at fair value through other comprehensive income – listed equity securities(a)
Unutilised short dated lines of credit

2016
$m

492.9
 462.0 

954.9

 366.8 
 892.4 
 184.6 

2015
$m

 426.5 
 540.0 

 966.5 

 290.7 
 1,097.6 
 205.4 

 1,443.8 

 1,593.7 

(a)  Comparative relates to available-for-sale financial assets prior to the transition to AASB 9.

Subject to continued compliance with facility terms, the facilities may be drawn at any time. The average maturity for drawn facilities is 
5.3 years (2015: 5.1 years) and 2.0 years (2015: 2.1 years) for undrawn facilities.

Maturities of financial liabilities
The table below analyses the Group’s financial liabilities (including derivative financial instruments) into relevant maturity groupings based 
on the remaining period at the reporting date to the contractual maturity date. Gross cash flows include principal, coupon and premium 
(on put options) payments at contracted rates. The amounts disclosed are the contracted undiscounted cash flows.

Seven Group Holdings115

Year ended 30 June 2016
Trade and other payables (excluding accruals)
Borrowings – variable rate
  – principal (including derivative)
  – coupon interest and derivative
Borrowings – fixed rate
  – principal (including derivative)
  – coupon interest and derivative
Interest rate derivative contracts

Year ended 30 June 2015
Trade and other payables (excluding accruals)
Borrowings – variable rate
  – principal (including derivative)
  – coupon interest and derivative
Borrowings – fixed rate
  – principal (including derivative)
  – coupon interest and derivative

Within
1 year
$m

Between 1 
and 2 years
$m

Between 2
and 5 years
$m

Over 5
years
$m

Total
contractual
cash flows
$m

Carrying
amount
$m

 330.9 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 330.9 

330.9

 7.1 
 26.6 

 220.7 
 51.7 

 0.4 
 26.6 

 0.1 
 47.0 

 434.0 
 52.5 

 124.3 
 127.5 

 167.9 
 39.9 

705.5
 89.7 

609.4
 145.6 

 529.8 
 – 

 1,050.7 
 315.9 

 1,038.5 
 0.6 

 639.4

 74.1 

 738.2 

 1,003.1 

2,454.9

 1,899.8 

 345.1 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 345.1 

345.1

 31.9 
 19.7 

 46.4 
 61.6 

 2.2 
 19.7 

 110.1 
 54.5 

 370.0 
 54.9 

 585.3 
 75.4 

 267.9 
 16.6 

 174.0 
 137.7 

 672.0 
 110.9 

 915.8 
 329.2 

 504.7 

 186.5 

 1,085.6 

 596.2 

 2,373.0 

 415.6 
 – 

 1,101.3 
 3.2 

 865.2 

(c)  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 the Group’s receivables, cash and cash equivalents and investment securities. 

The Group’s maximum exposure to credit risk at the reporting date was:

Cash and cash equivalents
Trade and other receivables
Listed equity securities (excluding derivatives)
Unlisted equity securities
Derivative financial instruments

Note

18
8
22
22
23

2016
$m

 366.8 
542.7
 892.4 
 82.2 
 186.1 

2015
$m

 290.7 
489.2
 1,097.6 
 43.3 
 144.6 

2,070.2

 2,065.4 

In certain circumstances the Group enters into guarantees as part of ordinary trading operations. These guarantees are included within 
financial guarantees in Note 26: Contingent Liabilities.

ANNUAL REPORT 2016116

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2016

21. FINANCIAL RISK MANAGEMENT (CONTINUED)

(d) Fair value measurements
Financial instruments measured at fair value
The fair value of financial instruments traded in active markets 
are based on quoted market prices at the reporting date. The 
quoted market prices used for financial assets held by the Group 
are the closing bid prices for the assets. On transition to AASB 9, 
the Group elected that the fair value adjustments on the Group’s 
existing listed and unlisted equity securities would now be 
recorded in other comprehensive income and not subsequently 
reclassified to profit or loss.

The fair value of forward foreign exchange contracts are determined 
using quoted forward exchange rates at the reporting date.

The fair value of interest rate swaps and cross currency interest 
rate swaps are calculated using the present value of the estimated 
future cash flows of these instruments.

The fair value of equity derivatives are calculated based on the 
closing bid price of the underlying equities.

Financial instruments not measured at fair value
The interest rates used to discount estimated cash flows relating 
to the fixed term US dollar notes were 1.8% to 5.1% (2015: 1.9% 
to 6.2%) and are based on the government yield curve at the 
reporting date plus an adequate credit spread.

The interest rate used to discount estimated cash flows relating 
to other borrowings was 5.5% (2015: 5.2%).

The Group uses various methods in estimating the fair value 
of a financial instrument. The methods comprise:
Level 1 –  fair value is estimated using quoted prices in 

active markets.

Level 2 –  fair value is estimated using inputs other than quoted 
prices included in Level 1 that are observable for the 
asset or liability either directly (as prices) or indirectly 
(derived from prices).

Level 3 –  fair value is estimated using inputs for the asset or liability 
that are not based on observable market data.

Level in
fair value
hierarchy

Note

Financial assets measured at fair value
Listed equity securities (excluding derivatives)(a)
Unlisted equity securities
Forward foreign exchange contracts – used for hedging
Cross currency swaps – used for hedging
Equity derivatives

Financial assets not measured at fair value
Cash and cash equivalents
Trade and other receivables

Financial liabilities measured at fair value
Forward foreign exchange contracts – used for hedging
Cross currency swaps – used for hedging
Interest rate swaps – used for hedging
Equity derivatives

Financial liabilities not measured at fair value
Trade and other payables (excluding accruals)
Fixed term US dollar notes
Other borrowings

22
22

23
23

18
8

23
23
23
23

9
20
20

1
3

2
2

–
–

2
2
2
2

–
2
2

2016
Carrying
amount
$m

 892.4 
 82.2 
 0.7 
 184.4 
 1.0 

2016
Fair
value
$m

 892.4 
 82.2 
 0.7 
 184.4
 1.0 

2015
Carrying
amount
$m

 1,097.6 
 43.3 
 2.5 
 142.1 
 – 

2015
Fair 
value
$m

 1,097.6 
 43.3 
 2.5 
 142.1 
 – 

 1,160.7 

 1,160.7 

 1,285.5 

 1,285.5 

 366.8 
542.7

909.5

 17.7 
 2.1 
 1.5 
 3.9 

 25.2 

330.9
 749.1 
 985.2 

 366.8 
542.7

909.5

 17.7 
 2.1 
 1.5 
 3.9 

 25.2 

330.9
 831.9 
 985.2 

 290.7 
489.2

779.9

 27.2 
 – 
 6.6 
 7.4 

 41.2 

345.1
 725.9 
 909.7 

 290.7 
489.2

779.9

 27.2 
 – 
 6.6 
 7.4 

 41.2 

345.1
 777.5 
 910.4 

 2,065.2 

2,148.0

1,980.4

2,033.0

(a)  Comparative relates to available-for-sale financial assets prior to the transition to AASB 9.

There were no transfers between the fair value hierarchy levels during the year ended 30 June 2016.

Seven Group Holdings117

Valuation process for Level 3 valuations
The valuation of unlisted equity is performed on a quarterly basis 
by the investment fund’s manager and reviewed by their investment 
committee. The valuations are also subject to quality assurance 
procedures performed within the investment fund.

The investment fund manager verifies the major inputs applied 
in the latest valuation by agreeing the information in the valuation 
computation to relevant documents and market information. In 
addition, the accuracy of the computation is tested. The latest 
valuation is also compared with the valuations in the four preceding 
quarters as well as with the valuations of the two preceding annual 
periods. If fair value changes (positive or negative) are more than 
certain thresholds set, the changes are further considered by the 
fund’s investment committee.

The fund’s investment committee considers the appropriateness of 
the valuation methods and inputs, and may request that alternate 
valuation methods are applied to support the valuations arising 
from the method chosen. Any changes in valuation methods are 
discussed and agreed with the investment partners.

The investment fund presents the valuation results on a quarterly 
basis to the Group. The report includes a discussion of the major 
assumptions used in the valuations, with an emphasis on the more 
significant investments and investments with fair value changes 
outside of the relevant thresholds set out above. The Group’s 
investment committee regularly reviews this information and 
assesses the performance of the Group’s investment.

Valuation techniques – Level 3
Unlisted equity securities
Unlisted equity securities comprise of the Group’s investment in 
an unlisted investment fund (investment fund), which is accounted 
for as a financial asset measured at fair value through other 
comprehensive income. Whilst this investment fund invests in both 
foreign listed and unlisted equity securities, the investment is not 
quoted in an active market and accordingly the fair value of this 
investment is included within Level 3 of the hierarchy.

Audited information is obtained from the investment fund regarding 
the fair value of the investment. The Group recognises any 
movement in the fair value of the investment in equity through 
the fair value through OCI reserve. The methodology followed by 
the investment fund in fair valuing its underlying investments is 
outlined below.

Under the market based method, the investment fund’s manager 
determines comparable public companies (peers) based on 
industry size, leverage and strategy and calculates an appropriate 
trading multiple for each comparable company identified. The 
trading multiple is then discounted for considerations such as 
illiquidity and size differences between the comparable companies 
based on company specific facts and circumstances. The 
discounted multiple is applied to the corresponding earnings 
measure of the investee company to measure the fair value.

In the prior year, the investment fund uses a market based valuation 
technique and the discounted cash flow (DCF) method to calculate 
the fair value of its underlying positions. Under the DCF method, 
the investment’s fair value is estimated using explicit assumptions 
regarding the benefits and liabilities of ownership over the 
investment’s life including estimated income and terminal value. 

This involves the projection of a series of cash flows and to this an 
appropriate, market derived discount rate is applied to establish the 
present value of the income stream.

Quantitative information on significant unobservable inputs – Level 3

Description

Valuation technique

Unobservable input

Unlisted equity investments

P/E multiple

EV/sales multiple

DCF

Average P/E multiple of peers
Discount for lack of liquidity
Average EV/sales multiple of peers
Discount for lack of liquidity
Discount rate
Terminal growth rate
Discount for lack of liquidity

2016
Range

22.9x
25%
7.28x
25%
–
–
–

2015
Range

26.1x
25%
1.0x–5.6x
15%–25%
20%
2%
15%

Reconciliation – Level 3
The following table shows a reconciliation of all movements in the fair value of financial instruments categorised within Level 3.

Balance at the beginning of the year
Contributions, net of capital returns
Fair value gains

Balance at the end of the year

2016
$m

 43.3 
 11.3 
 27.6 

 82.2 

2015
$m

 14.7 
 19.3 
 9.3 

 43.3 

ANNUAL REPORT 2016118

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2016

21. FINANCIAL RISK MANAGEMENT (CONTINUED)

(e)  Master Netting or Similar Arrangements
The Group enters into derivative transactions under International Swaps and Derivatives Association (ISDA) master netting agreements. In 
general, under such agreements the amounts owed by each counterparty on a single day in respect of all transactions outstanding in the 
same currency are aggregated into a single net amount that is payable by one party to the other. In certain circumstances, e.g. when a 
credit event such as a default occurs, all outstanding transactions under the agreement are terminated, the termination value is assessed 
and only a single net amount is payable in settlement of all transactions.

The ISDA agreements do not meet the criteria for offsetting in the statement of financial position. This is because the Group does not have 
any currently legally enforceable right to offset recognised amounts, because the right to offset is enforceable only on the occurrence of 
future events such as a default on the bank loans or other credit events.

The following table sets out the carrying amounts of recognised financial instruments that are subject to the above agreements.

Financial instruments 
in the statement of
 financial position
$m

Related financial
 instruments that 
are not offset
$m

Net amount
$m

Year ended 30 June 2016
Financial assets
Forward foreign exchange contracts – used for hedging
Cross currency swaps – used for hedging
Equity derivatives

Financial liabilities
Forward foreign exchange contracts – used for hedging
Cross currency swaps – used for hedging
Interest rate swaps – used for hedging
Equity derivatives

Year ended 30 June 2015
Financial assets
Forward foreign exchange contracts – used for hedging
Cross currency swaps – used for hedging

Financial liabilities
Forward foreign exchange contracts – used for hedging
Interest rate swaps – used for hedging
Equity derivatives

 0.7 
 184.4 
 1.0 

 186.1 

 17.7 
 2.1 
 1.5 
 3.9 

 25.2 

 2.5 
 142.1 

 144.6 

 27.2 
 6.6 
 7.4 

 41.2 

 – 
 14.4 
 0.9 

 15.3 

 – 
 – 
 – 
 6.8 

 6.8 

 2.5 
 25.2 

 27.7 

 21.1 
 6.6 
 – 

 27.7 

 0.7 
 170.0 
 0.1

 170.8 

 17.7 
 2.1 
 1.5 
 (2.9)

 18.4 

 – 
 116.9 

 116.9 

 6.1 
 – 
 7.4 

 13.5 

At 30 June 2016, the Group held various types of derivative financial instruments that were designated as cash flow hedges of future 
forecast transactions. These were hedging of:

• 

• 

• 

future foreign currency operational payments by exchange derivative contracts (forwards);
future foreign currency principal and coupon payments by exchange derivative contracts (forwards, swaps);
future interest payments by interest rate derivative contracts (swaps).

Seven Group Holdings119

The effective portion of the cumulative net change in the value of derivative financial instruments designated as a cash flow hedge are 
included in the hedge reserve. The periods in which the related cash flows are expected to occur are summarised below.

Year ended 30 June 2016
Contracts to hedge
Future operational (sales and purchases)
Future principal and interest on USPP

Total net gain/(loss) included in hedge reserve

Year ended 30 June 2015
Contracts to hedge
Future operational (sales and purchases)
Future principal and interest on USPP

Total net gain/(loss) included in hedge reserve

Hedge accounting

Within
1 year
$m

Between 1
and 5 years
$m

Over
 5 years
$m

0.3
 (9.5)

 (9.2)

 (0.4) 
 (3.7)

 (4.1)

 – 
 (4.5)

 (4.5)

 – 
 (19.3)

 (19.3)

 – 
 180.1 

 180.1 

 – 
 135.2 

 135.2 

Total
$m

0.3
 166.0 

 166.3 

 (0.4) 
 112.2 

 111.8 

As at 30 June 2016

Nominal
 amount of 
hedging
 instrument
 and 
hedged 
item
$m

Carrying amount of the 
hedging instrument

Hedge 
rates
$m

Assets
$m

Liabilities
$m

Change in value
 of the hedging
 instrument 
used for 
calculating 
hedge 
ineffectiveness
 for 2016 
$m

Change in 
the value of
 the hedged
 item used for
 calculating
 hedge 
ineffectiveness
 for 2016 
$m

Hedge 
ineffectiveness
 recognised 
in profit 
and loss 
$m

Amount
 reclassified
 from cash
 flow hedge
 reserve 
to profit 
and loss 
$m

Cash flow hedges
Future operational 
(sales and purchases)
(up to 12 months)

Future principal and 
interest on USPP
(up to 10 years)

Future interest on 
floating rate debt
(up to 1 month)

AUD $40.8

AUD $700.2

AUD/USD
0.68-0.76

AUD/USD
0.68-1.03

0.5

(0.2)

0.2

(0.1)

184.4

(16.8)

76.6

(91.7)

–

–

–

–

AUD $100

Fixed 4.8%

–

(1.5)

0.2

(0.1)

0.3

0.3

ANNUAL REPORT 2016120

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2016

21. FINANCIAL RISK MANAGEMENT (CONTINUED) 

(f)  Capital management
The Group manages its capital to safeguard the Group’s ability to 
continue as a going concern and to maintain an optimal capital 
structure while maximising shareholder value. As such, the Board 
regularly reviews the Group’s capital structure in order to take 
advantage of favourable costs of capital and returns on assets.

The Company maintains a diversified capital base with a mixture of 
equity and debt funding. Equity funding comprises both ordinary 
shares and preference shares (TELYS4).

The Group’s dividend policy is to distribute cash from operating 
activities after financing costs, subject to the retention of adequate 
cash reserves to capitalise on investment opportunities. Dividends 
are franked to the greatest extent possible.

Refer to Note 25: Dividends for details of dividends paid and 
proposed but not provided for during the current year.

22.  OTHER FINANCIAL ASSETS

Accounting policy
The Group classifies its investments in the following categories: 
financial assets at fair value through profit or loss, financial assets 
at fair value through other comprehensive income (FVTOCI) and 
amortised cost financial assets. The classification depends on the 
Group’s business model for managing the financial asset as well as 
its contractual cash flow characteristics. 

Management determines the classification of its investments 
at initial recognition. In the case of financial assets classified as 
FVTOCI, this designation is irrevocable.

Financial assets at fair value through other comprehensive income (FVTOCI) 
The Group’s listed and unlisted equity securities have been 
designated as financial assets at fair value through other 
comprehensive income.

Financial assets at fair value through profit or loss
Financial assets at fair value through profit or loss are either 
financial assets held for trading which are acquired principally 
for the purpose of selling with the intention of making a profit or 
financial assets that are managed and have their performance 
regularly evaluated by management and the directors on a fair 
value basis. Derivatives are also categorised as held for trading 
unless they are designated as hedges.

Recognition and de-recognition
Regular purchases and sales of investments are recognised on 
trade date – the date on which the Group commits to purchase or 
sell the asset. Investments are initially recognised at fair value plus 
transaction costs for all financial assets not carried at fair value 
through profit or loss. Financial assets carried at fair value through 
profit or loss are initially recognised at fair value and transaction costs 
are expensed in profit or loss. Financial assets are derecognised 
when the rights to receive cash flows from the financial assets have 
expired or have been transferred and the Group has transferred 
substantially all the risks and rewards of ownership.

Subsequent measurement
Financial assets at fair value through profit or loss and financial 
assets FVTOCI are subsequently carried at fair value. 

Gains or losses arising from changes in the fair value of the financial 
assets at fair value through profit or loss category, are presented 
in the profit or loss within other income or other expenses in the 
period in which they arise. Dividend income from financial assets is 
recognised in the profit or loss as other income.

Gains or losses arising from changes in the value of financial assets 
at FVTOCI category are taken to the fair value through OCI reserve. 
In accordance with AASB 9, any gain or losses realised on the sale 
of these assets remain in the fair value reserve rather than being 
transferred to the profit or loss.

Non-current
Listed equity securities
Unlisted equity securities

Total other financial assets – non-current

2016
$m

 892.4 
 82.2 

 974.6 

2015
$m

 1,097.6 
 43.3 

 1,140.9 

Listed and unlisted equity securities are designated as financial assets at FVTOCI in accordance with the Group’s accounting policies. 
The carrying amounts are determined based on their market price at 30 June 2016. 

Dividends totalling $36.8 million (2015: $44.4 million) were received from the Group’s financial assets at FVTOCI during the year. Losses of 
$46.9 million relating to disposals of listed equity securities were realised during the year. These losses remain in the fair value through OCI 
reserve and will not be recycled to profit or loss in accordance with AASB 9. 

Unlisted equity securities comprise of the Group’s investments in an unlisted private equity media investment fund.

Refer to Note 21: Financial Risk Management for further detail on the valuation methodology for unlisted equity securities.

Seven Group Holdings121

23. DERIVATIVE FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS

Accounting policy
Derivatives are initially recognised at fair value on the date 
a derivative contract is entered into and are subsequently 
remeasured at their fair value at each reporting date. 
The accounting for subsequent changes in fair value depends 
on whether the derivative is designated as a hedging instrument, 
and if so, the nature of the item being hedged. 

The Group designates certain derivatives as either:
•  hedges of the fair value of recognised assets or liabilities or 

a firm commitment (fair value hedges); or

•  hedges of the cash flows of recognised assets and liabilities 

and highly probable forecast transactions (cash flow hedges).

The Group documents at the inception of the hedging 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 fair values or cash flows of hedged items.

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 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. Trading derivatives are classified 
as a current asset or liability.

Fair value hedges
Changes in the fair value of derivatives that are designated and 
qualify as fair value hedges are recorded in profit or loss, together 
with any changes in the fair value of the hedged asset or liability 
that are attributable to the hedged risk. The gain or loss relating 
to the effective portion of interest rate swaps hedging fixed rate 
borrowings is recognised in profit or loss within finance expenses, 
together with changes in the fair value of the hedged fixed rate 
borrowings attributable to interest rate risk.

The gain or loss relating to the ineffective portion is recognised in 
the profit or loss within other income or other expenses.

If the hedge no longer meets the criteria for hedge accounting, the 
adjustment to the carrying amount of a hedged item for which the 
effective interest method is used is amortised to profit or loss over 
the period to maturity using a recalculated effective interest rate.

Cash flow hedges
The effective portion of changes in the fair value of derivatives that 
are designated and qualify as cash flow hedges is recognised 
in other comprehensive income in the cash flow hedge reserve. 
The gain or loss relating to the ineffective portion is recognised 
immediately in profit or loss within other income or other expenses.

Amounts accumulated in other comprehensive income are recycled 
in the profit or loss in the periods when the hedged item affects 
profit or loss (for instance when the forecast sale that is hedged 
takes place). The gain or loss relating to the effective portion of 
interest rate swaps hedging variable rate borrowings is recognised 
in profit or loss within finance expenses. 

The gain or loss relating to the effective portion of forward foreign 
exchange contracts hedging export sales is recognised in profit 
or loss within sales. However, when the forecast transaction that 
is hedged results in the recognition of a non financial asset (for 
example, inventory or property, plant and equipment), the gains 
and losses previously deferred in other comprehensive income are 
transferred from other comprehensive income and included in the 
initial measurement of the cost of the asset. The deferred amounts 
are ultimately recognised in profit or loss as a cost of goods sold 
in the case of inventory, or as depreciation in the case of property, 
plant and equipment.

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 other comprehensive 
income at that time remains in other comprehensive income 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 other 
comprehensive income is immediately transferred to profit or loss.

Derivatives that do not qualify for hedge accounting
Certain derivative instruments do not qualify for hedge accounting. 
Changes in the fair value of any derivative instrument that does 
not qualify for hedge accounting are recognised immediately 
in profit or loss.

ANNUAL REPORT 2016122

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2016

23. DERIVATIVE FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS (CONTINUED)

Accounting policy (continued)

Current assets
Forward foreign exchange contracts – cash flow hedges
Equity derivatives

Non-current assets
Cross currency swaps – cash flow hedges

Current liabilities
Forward foreign exchange contracts – cash flow hedges
Equity derivatives

Non-current liabilities
Forward foreign exchange contracts and cross currency swaps – cash flow hedges
Interest rate swaps – cash flow hedges

Net derivative financial instruments

2016
$m

0.7
1.0
1.7

2015
$m

 2.5 
 – 
 2.5 

 184.4

 142.1 

 (12.5)
 (3.9)
 (16.4)

 (7.3)
(1.5) 

 (8.8)

 160.9 

 (4.6)
 (7.4)
 (12.0)

 (22.6)
 (6.6)

 (29.2)

 103.4 

The Group is a party to derivative financial instruments in the normal course of business in order to hedge exposure to fluctuations in 
interest rates and foreign exchange rates in accordance with the Group’s financial risk management policies.

Refer to Note 21: Financial Risk Management. 

Interest rate swaps
The Group’s policy is to hedge a portion of its interest bearing liabilities from exposure to changes in interest rates.

The gain or loss from remeasuring the hedging instruments to fair value is deferred in equity in the hedge reserve and reclassified into 
profit and loss when the hedged interest expense is recognised. To the extent that the hedge is ineffective or undesignated, the fair value 
movement is recognised in profit or loss.

Forward foreign exchange contracts
The Group has entered into forward foreign currency exchange contracts to hedge the USD denominated debt in conjunction with cross 
currency swaps. The Group has obligations to repay the principal amount of USD denominated debt and interest thereon. 100% of USD 
denominated debt and coupon obligations are hedged with foreign exchange derivatives.

The Group from time to time also enters into forward foreign exchange contracts to hedge certain known trading commitments 
predominantly denominated in US Dollars. The terms of these commitments are generally shorter than one year.

Cross currency swaps
The Group has obligations to repay the principal and interest relating to USD denominated debt. The Group enters into cross currency 
swap contracts to hedge these obligations.

Equity derivatives
The Group enters into equity derivatives from time to time to hedge the value of listed investments or to gain exposure to certain 
market sectors.

Seven Group Holdings123

24.  CAPITAL AND RESERVES

CAPITAL
Accounting policy
Contributed equity
Ordinary shares, redeemable preference shares, non-share equity and other equity securities are classified as equity.

Incremental costs directly attributable to the issue of new shares or options are shown in other comprehensive income and presented 
as contributed equity as a deduction, net of tax, from the proceeds. Incremental costs directly attributable to the issue of new shares or 
options, for the acquisition of a business, are not included in the cost of the acquisition as part of the purchase consideration.

When share capital recognised as equity is repurchased, the amount of the consideration paid, including directly attributable costs is 
recognised as a deduction from equity.

Transferable Extendable Listed Yield Shares (TELYS4)
TELYS4 have been classified as equity and the dividend payable on the TELYS4 is treated as a distribution of shareholders equity.

Treasury shares
Treasury shares consist of shares held in trust for the Group’s executives in relation to employee equity benefits.

Contributed equity
281,240,870 ordinary shares, fully paid (2015: 296,181,800)
4,963,640 TELYS4 preference shares, fully paid (2015: 4,963,640)
77,544 treasury shares, fully paid (2015: 116,316)

Balance at end of the year 

Movements in ordinary shares
Balance at beginning of year
On-market share buy-back and cancellation of shares

Balance at end of the year

Movements in preference shares – TELYS4
Balance at beginning of year

Balance at end of the year

Movements in treasury shares
Balance at beginning of year
Shares vested and transferred to employee
On-market share acquisition – 27 November 2014

Balance at end of the year

2016
$m

2015
$m

 2,046.0 
 427.2 
 (0.5)

 2,472.7 

 2,118.1 
 (72.1)

 2,046.0 

 2,118.1 
 427.2 
 (0.7)

 2,544.6 

 2,159.0 
 (40.9)

 2,118.1 

 427.2 

 427.2 

 427.2 

 427.2 

 (0.7)
 0.2 
 – 

 (0.5)

 – 
 – 
 (0.7)

 (0.7)

The Company does not have authorised share capital or par value in respect of its issued shares. All issued shares are fully paid. Holders 
of ordinary shares are entitled to receive dividends as declared from time to time and are entitled to one vote per share at shareholders’ 
meetings. In the event of winding up of the Company, ordinary shareholders rank after creditors and preference shareholders and are fully 
entitled to any proceeds on liquidation.

The Company completed the on-market share buy-back on 11 March 2016, with 14.7 million of the Company’s shares having been 
acquired and subsequently cancelled at a total cost of $71.0 million. A further share buy-back was announced on 23 February 2016, with a 
target of 16.6 million shares, being approximately 5.9 per cent of the Company’s ordinary shares. At 30 June 2016, 0.3 million shares had 
been acquired on-market and subsequently cancelled at a total cost of $1.7 million.

TELYS4 holders are entitled to a preferential non-cumulative floating rate dividend, which is based on a Bank Bill Swap Rate for 180 days 
plus Margin. The Margin is set at 4.75% subject to the Company’s right of Conversion and Exchange. There are no voting rights attached 
except in limited circumstances, in which case holders will have one vote per TELYS4 held.

During the year ended 30 June 2016, there were nil options exercised, cancelled or forfeited (2015: nil options exercised, cancelled or forfeited).

ANNUAL REPORT 2016124

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2016

24.  CAPITAL AND RESERVES (CONTINUED)

RESERVES
Nature and purpose of reserves

Acquisitions reserve

The acquisitions reserve is used to record the difference between the fair value of consideration paid for 
the non-controlling interest of subsidiaries, and the book value of those subsidiaries’ share of net assets 
at date of acquisition.

Employee equity 
benefits reserve

The employee equity benefits reserve is used to record the value of equity benefits provided to 
employees and Directors as part of their remuneration.

Common control reserve

Hedge reserve

Fair value through  
OCI reserve

The acquisition of WesTrac Group by the Company during the period ended 30 June 2010 was 
accounted for as a common control transaction. As a consequence, the difference between the fair value 
of the consideration paid and the existing book values of assets and liabilities of the WesTrac Group was 
debited to a common control reserve. Upon disposal of all interests in WesTrac Group by the Group this 
reserve would be transferred to retained earnings.

The hedge reserve records the effective portion of the cumulative net change in fair value of hedging 
instruments related to cash flow hedged transactions that have not yet occurred. Prior to the adoption 
of AASB 9: Financial Instruments, this reserve was known as the Cash Flow Hedge Reserve.

In the prior year, the fair value reserve comprises the cumulative net change in the fair value of 
available-for-sale financial assets until the assets are derecognised. From 1 July 2015, the Group 
has elected to recognise changes in the fair value of certain investments in equity securities in other 
comprehensive income (refer to Note 1E). Under AASB 9, the net change in the fair value of financial 
assets measured at fair value through other comprehensive income (FVTOCI) will not be subsequently 
reclassified to profit or loss.

Foreign currency 
translation reserve

The foreign currency translation reserve records the foreign currency differences arising from the
translation of the financial statements of foreign operations.

Year ended 30 June 2016
As at 1 July 2015
Impact of transition – AASB 9: 
Financial Instruments
Fair value movement on financial assets 
measured at FVTOCI
Tax effect of net gain on financial assets 
measured at FVTOCI
Net gain on cash flow hedges
Tax effect of net gain on cash flow hedges
Movement in reserves of equity 
accounted investees
Currency translation differences
Share based payments

As at 30 June 2016

Year ended 30 June 2015
As at 1 July 2014
Fair value movement on available-for-sale 
financial assets
Tax effect of net gain on available-for-sale 
financial assets
Net gain on cash flow hedges
Tax effect of net gain on cash flow hedges
Movement in reserves of equity 
accounted investees
Currency translation differences
Share based payments

Employee
equity
benefits
reserve
$m

Common
control
reserve
$m

Hedge
reserve
$m

Fair value
through
OCI
reserve
$m

Foreign
currency
translation
reserve
$m

Acquisitions
reserve
$m

Total
$m

 (63.5)
 – 

 4.3 
 – 

 (642.6)
 – 

 9.6 
 0.4 

 216.4 
 – 

 131.6 
 – 

 (344.2)
 0.4 

 – 

 – 

 – 
 – 
 – 

 – 
 – 

 (63.5)

 (63.5)
 – 

 – 

 – 
 – 
 – 

 – 
 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 
 – 
 (0.4)

 – 
 1.4 

 5.3 

 7.6 
 – 

 – 

 – 
 – 
 (3.9)

 – 
 0.6 

 4.3 

 – 

 – 

 – 
 – 
 – 

 – 
 – 

 – 

 – 

 (225.5)

 67.7 

 31.9 
 (9.6)
 (3.3)

 – 
 – 

 – 
 – 
 – 

 – 
 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 
 – 
 1.2

 14.4 
 – 

 (225.5)

 67.7 

 31.9 
 (9.6)
 (2.5)

 14.4 
 1.4 

 (642.6)

 29.0 

 58.6 

 147.2 

 (466.0)

 (642.6)
 – 

 (1.9)
 – 

 158.9 
 77.2 

 (16.2)
 – 

 (557.7)
 77.2 

 – 

 – 
 – 
 – 

 – 
 – 

 – 

 (19.7)

 – 

 (19.7)

 17.7 
 (5.4)
 (0.8)

 – 
 – 

 – 
 – 
 – 

 – 
 – 

 – 
 – 
 2.5 

 17.7 
 (5.4)
 (2.2)

 145.3 
 – 

 131.6 

 145.3 
 0.6 

 (344.2)

As at 30 June 2015

 (63.5)

 (642.6)

 9.6 

 216.4 

Seven Group Holdings 
125

Date of
payment

Franked /
unfranked

Amount
per share

Total
$m

9 Oct 15
12 Apr 16

 Franked 
 Franked 

 $0.20 
 $0.20 

25.  DIVIDENDS

Year ended 30 June 2016
Dividends paid 
Ordinary shares
Final dividend in respect of 2015 year 
Interim dividend 

 58.5 
 56.4 

114.9

 12.1 
 12.5 
24.6

 56.2 
 142.2 

 60.5 
 59.2 

 119.7 

 13.0 
 13.1 

 26.1 

 59.2 
 170.5 

Transferable Extendable Listed Yield Shares (TELYS4)
Dividend 
Dividend 

30 Nov 15
31 May 16

 Franked 
 Franked 

 $2.45 
 $2.50 

Subsequent event
Current period final dividend on ordinary shares proposed but not 
provided for

Ordinary shares
Final dividend in respect of 2016 year
Balance of franking account at 30% 

Year ended 30 June 2015
Dividends paid 
Ordinary shares
Final dividend in respect of 2014 year 
Interim dividend 

7 Oct 16

 Franked 

 $0.20 

13 Oct 14
10 Apr 15

 Franked 
 Franked 

 $0.20 
 $0.20 

Transferable Extendable Listed Yield Shares (TELYS4)
Dividend 
Dividend 

1 Dec 14
1 Jun 15

 Franked 
 Franked 

 $2.62 
 $2.64 

Ordinary shares
Final dividend in respect of 2015 year
Balance of franking account at 30% 

9 Oct 15

 Franked 

 $0.20 

The balance of the dividend franking account as at the reporting date has been adjusted for:
(a) franking credits/debits that will arise from the payment/refund of current tax liabilities;
(b) franking debits that will arise from the payment of dividends recognised as a liability at the reporting date; 
(c)  franking credits that will arise from the receipt of dividends recognised as receivables by the tax consolidated group  

at the reporting date; and

(d) franking credits that the entity may be prevented from distributing in subsequent years.

The ability to utilise the franking credits is dependent upon there being sufficient available profits to declare dividends. 

The impact on the dividend franking account of dividends proposed after the balance sheet date but not recognised as a liability  
is to reduce it by $24.1 million (2015: $25.4 million).

26.  CONTINGENT LIABILITIES

Performance guarantees
Financial guarantees

Total contingent liabilities

2016
$m

 142.5 
 31.0 

 173.5 

2015
$m

 174.2 
 53.1 

 227.3 

Performance guarantees
Performance guarantees relate to guarantees provided to customers in support of equipment and contract performance.

ANNUAL REPORT 2016 
126

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2016

26.  CONTINGENT LIABILITIES (CONTINUED) 

Financial guarantees
The Group has issued a number of financial guarantees to third parties for various operational and financing purposes. 

To the extent that the Directors expect these third party guarantees to be called upon, a provision has been recorded in the consolidated 
statement of financial position as at 30 June 2016.

The Group has entered into a number of financial guarantees in relation to subsidiary debt facilities and other financing arrangements. 
The drawn amount of these facilities are recorded as interest bearing liabilities in the consolidated statement of financial position and 
disclosed in Note 20: Interest Bearing Loans and Borrowings.

The nature of the Group’s and equity accounted investees’ activities are such that, from time to time, claims are received or made by 
the Group. The Directors are of the opinion that no claims are expected to have a material adverse effect on the financial statements of 
the Group and as such do not require disclosure as a contingent liability.

27.  COMMITMENTS

Capital expenditure commitments
Payable:
Not later than one year
Finance lease commitments
Payable:
Not later than one year
Later than one year but not later than five years
Minimum lease payments (a)
Less future finance charges

Operating lease commitments (b)
Payable:
Not later than one year
Later than one year but not later than five years
Later than five years

Exploration expenditure commitments (c)
Payable:
Not later than one year
Later than one year but not later than five years

The above commitments include exploration expenditure commitments  
relating to joint venture operations in relation to AC/RL9:

Not later than one year
Later than one year but not later than five years

Other commitments (d)
Payable:
Not later than one year

2016
$m

2015
$m

25.9

 25.8 

 1.4 
 0.5 
 1.9 
 – 

 1.9 

 50.5 
 153.8 
 48.7 

 253.0 

 27.2 
 10.5 

 37.7 

7.2
10.5

17.7

 6.3 
 1.3 
 7.6 
 – 

 7.6 

 58.2 
 187.2 
 72.7 

 318.1 

 102.8 
 3.8 

 106.6 

 42.8 
 3.8 

 46.6 

 72.8 

 26.4 

(a)  Minimum future lease payments include the aggregate of all lease payments and any guaranteed residual value.
(b)  The Group leases various offices and sites under non-cancellable operating leases. The leases have varying terms, escalation clauses and renewal rights. On renewal, the terms of the 

leases are renegotiated.

(c)   Exploration expenditure commitments relate to work commitments pursuant to the award of petroleum exploration permits WA377P and AC/RL9. Estimates for future exploration 

expenditure commitments are based on estimated well and seismic costs which will change as actual drilling location and seismic surveys are organised and are determined in current 
dollars on an undiscounted basis. The exploration and evaluation obligations may vary significantly as a result of renegotiations with relevant parties.

(d)  Other commitments relates to the Group’s commitment to invest in an unlisted investment fund.

Seven Group Holdings127

28.  EVENTS SUBSEQUENT TO BALANCE DATE
Other than as outlined below, there has not arisen in the interval between 30 June 2016 and the date of this Report any other event that 
would have had a material effect on the Financial Statements as at 30 June 2016.

On 20 July 2016, Managing Director & Chief Executive Officer of the Company, Mr Ryan Stokes became a Non-Executive Director 
of Beach Energy Limited (Beach Energy), an ASX-listed oil and gas production and exploration company. The board representation, 
combined with the Group’s 22.89% interest result in the Group having significant influence over Beach Energy. Accordingly the Group’s 
investment in Beach Energy will change from being a financial asset fair valued through other comprehensive income to an equity 
accounted investee from 20 July 2016.

On 2 August 2016, the carrying value of the Group’s equity accounted investment in Seven West Media Limited decreased $133.0 million 
to $522.8 million due to the fall in its share price from $1.06 at 30 June 2016 to $0.845 at 2 August 2016.

On 3 August 2016, the Company announced the on-market buy-back of up to 10 per cent of its TELYS4 preferences shares on issue. 
The buy-back will be funded from the Group’s existing cash reserves with any shares acquired subsequently cancelled.

29.  PARENT ENTITY DISCLOSURES
As at and throughout the year ended 30 June 2016 the parent company of the Group was Seven Group Holdings Limited.

The individual financial statements for the parent entity show the following aggregate amounts.

Financial position of parent entity at end of the year
Current assets
Total assets
Current liabilities
Total liabilities
Total equity of the parent entity comprising of:
Contributed equity
Reserves
Retained earnings
Total shareholders equity

Result of the parent entity
Profit for the year
Total comprehensive income for the year

Other information
Contingent liabilities of the parent entity(a)

COMPANY

2016
$m

2015
$m

 0.6 
 3,127.2 
 102.2 
 533.4 

 2,472.7 
 5.9 
 115.2 
 2,593.8 

 1.1 
 3,117.8 
 26.2 
 457.4 

 2,544.6 
 4.5 
 111.2 
 2,660.3 

 143.5 
 143.5 

 179.6 
 179.6 

 126.1 

 145.9 

(a)  Relates to financial guarantees provided to third parties by the parent entity for subsidiary debt facilities and other financing arrangements. These facilities are held by entities that are 

outside of the Deed of Cross Guarantee disclosed in Note 30: Controlled Entities.

Parent entity guarantees in respect of debts of its subsidiaries
The parent entity has entered into a Deed of Cross Guarantee with the effect that the Company guarantees debts in respect of 
certain of its subsidiaries. Further details of the Deed of Cross Guarantee and the subsidiaries subject to the deed are disclosed in 
Note 30: Controlled Entities.

In addition to the contingent liabilities shown above, the parent entity guarantees a number of debt facilities held by various controlled 
entities who are part of the Deed of Cross Guarantee.

ANNUAL REPORT 2016128

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2016

30.  CONTROLLED ENTITIES

Parent entity
Seven Group Holdings Limited

Subsidiaries
Allight Holdings Pty Limited
AllightSykes New Zealand Limited
AllightPrimax FZCO
AllightSykes Pty Limited
AllightSykes SA (Proprietary) Limited
ATPH Pty Limited
ATP1 Pty Limited
ATP2 Pty Limited
ATP3 Pty Limited
C7 Pty Limited
Direct Target Access Pty Limited
EMT Group Pty Limited
FGW Pacific Pty Limited
Industrial Investment Holdings Pty Limited
Kimlin Holdings Pty Limited
Liaoning WesTrac Machinery Equipment Limited
Manooka Holdings Pty Limited
Miltonstar Pty Limited
Mining Equipment Spares Pty Limited
National Hire Facilitation Pty Limited
National Hire Group Limited
Network Investment Holdings Pty Limited 
Point Pty Limited
Primax USA Inc
Priority People Solutions Pty Ltd
PT AllightSykes
Pump Rentals Pty Limited
Realtime Reporters Pty Limited
Seven Broadcast Properties Trust
Seven Custodians Pty Limited
Seven Entertainment Pty Limited 
Seven Finance Pty Limited
Seven Media Group Pty Limited
Seven (National) Pty Limited
Seven Network International Limited
Seven Network Investments Pty Limited
Seven Network Limited
Seven Network Nominees Pty Limited
Seven Network (United States) Inc
Seven Resources Pty Limited
Seven (WAN) Pty Limited
SGH Communications Pty Limited
SGH Energy Aust. Pty Limited
SGH Energy Corporate Pty Ltd
SGH Energy (No 1) Pty Limited
SGH Energy (No 2) Pty Limited
SGH Energy NTP66 Pty Ltd
SGH Energy NV Pty Ltd
SGH Energy Pty Ltd

OWNERSHIP INTEREST

Notes

Country of
incorporation

2016
%

2015
%

(a)

Australia

(a)

(a)
(a)

(a)
(a)

(a)
(a)
(a)
(a)

(a)
Australia
(b) New Zealand
UAE
Australia
South Africa
Australia
Australia
Australia
Australia
Australia
Australia
Australia
Australia
Australia
Australia
China
Australia
Australia
Australia
Australia
Australia
Australia
Australia
USA
Australia
Indonesia
Australia
Australia
Australia
Australia
Australia
Australia
Australia
Australia
Australia
Australia
Australia
Australia
USA
Australia
Australia
Australia
Australia
Australia
Australia
Australia
Australia
Australia
Australia

(a)
(a)
(a)
(a)
(a)
(a)

(a)
(c)

(a)

(a)

(d) (e)
(d) (f)

(d) (f)
(d) (f)
(d) (g)

100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100

100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100

Seven Group Holdings129

30.  CONTROLLED ENTITIES

OWNERSHIP INTEREST

SGH Energy Services Pty Ltd
SGH Energy VICP54 Pty Ltd
SGH Energy VICP56 Pty Ltd
SGH Energy WA Pty Ltd
SGH Energy WA377P Pty Ltd
SGH Productions Pty Limited
Sitech (Beijing) Engineering Technology Development Company Limited
Sitech Solutions Pty Limited
Sitech (WA) Pty Limited
SMG Executives Pty Limited
SMG FINCO Pty Limited
SNZ Pty Limited
Specialised Investments Pty Limited
Sykes Fleet Services Pty Limited
Sykes Group Pty Limited
Tallglen Pty Limited
Tianjin WesTrac Machinery Equipment Limited
Weishan (Beijing) Machinery Equipment Limited
WesTrac (Beijing) Machinery Equipment Limited
WesTrac China Limited
WesTrac (China) Machinery Equipment Limited
WesTrac Fleet Pty Limited
WesTrac Holdings Pty Limited
WesTrac Hong Kong Limited
WesTrac Inventory Pty Limited
WesTrac Machinery Distribution Pty Limited
WesTrac Pty Limited

Notes

(d) (f)
(d) (f)
(d) (f)
(d) (f)
(d) (f)
(a) (h)

(a)
(a)

(a)
(a)

(a)

Country of
incorporation

Australia
Australia
Australia
Australia
Australia
Australia
China
Australia
Australia
Australia
Australia
Australia
Australia
Australia
Australia
Australia
China
China
China
Hong Kong
China
Australia
Australia
Hong Kong
Australia
Australia
Australia

2016
%

100
100
100
100
100
100
51
51
51
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100

2015
%

100
100
100
100
100
100
51
51
51
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100

(a)  Pursuant to ASIC Class Order 98/1418 (as amended) (dated 13 August 1998) these controlled entities are relieved from the Corporations Act 2001 requirements for the preparation, 

audit and lodgement of financial reports.

(b)  This company changed its name to AllightSykes New Zealand Limited on 22 October 2015 (formerly Sykes New Zealand Limited).
(c)   This controlled entity entered into the Deed of Cross Guarantee with the Company via Assumption Deed on 2 November 2015.
(d)  These companies were acquired on 31 December 2014 as part of the Nexus Deed of Company Arrangement.
(e)  SGH Energy Aust. NL changed its name to SGH Energy Aust. Pty Limited on 30 July 2015.
(f)  These companies changed their name on 18 February 2015 (previously Nexus).
(g)  This company changed its name from Nexus Energy Limited to SGH Energy Pty Ltd on 24 March 2015.
(h)  Seven Productions Pty Limited changed its name to SGH Productions Pty Limited on 11 December 2014.

Deed of cross guarantee
Pursuant to ASIC Class Order 98/1418 (as amended) (“Class Order”) the wholly-owned controlled entities listed above (marked (a)) 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 Company and each of the wholly-owned controlled entities (marked (a)) enter into a Deed 
of Cross Guarantee. The effect of the Deed is that the Company guarantees to each creditor payment in full of any debt in the event of 
winding up of any of the parties to the Deed under certain provisions of the Corporations Act 2001. If a winding up occurs under other 
provisions of the Corporations Act 2001, the Company will only be liable in the event that after six months any creditor has not been paid 
in full. The subsidiaries have also given similar guarantees in the event that the Company is wound up.

ANNUAL REPORT 2016130

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2016

30.   CONTROLLED ENTITIES (CONTINUED) 

Deed of cross guarantee (continued)
A combined statement of comprehensive income and combined statement of financial position, comprising the Company and controlled 
entities which are a party to the Deed, after eliminating all transactions between parties to the Deed of Cross Guarantee, are set out below.

Statement of comprehensive income
Revenue
Revenue
Other income
Other income
Gain on sale of investments and equity accounted investees
Dividend income

Total other income

Share of results from equity accounted investees
Impairment reversal/(impairment) of equity accounted investee
Fair value movement of derivatives

Expenses excluding depreciation and amortisation
Expenses
Depreciation and amortisation

Profit/(loss) before net finance expense and income tax

Net finance expense
Profit/(loss) before income tax

Income tax benefit
Profit/(loss) for the year

Other comprehensive income
Items that will not be reclassified subsequently to profit or loss
Net change in financial assets measured at fair value through other comprehensive income
Income tax on items of other comprehensive income

Total items that will not be reclassified subsequently to profit or loss

Items that may be reclassified subsequently to profit or loss
Net change in fair value of available-for-sale financial assets
Cash flow hedges: effective portion of changes in fair value
Foreign currency differences for foreign operations
Income tax on items of other comprehensive income

Total items that may be reclassified subsequently to profit or loss

Total comprehensive income for the year

Movement in retained earnings
Retained profits at beginning of the year
Profit/(loss) for the year
Dividends paid during the year

Retained earnings at end of the year

COMBINED

2016
$m

2015
$m

 69.3 

 65.4 

 11.5 
 0.2 
 134.2 

 145.9 

 79.0 
 5.5 
 4.2 

 (104.2)
 (1.6)

 198.1 

 (39.3)
 158.8 

 24.6 
 183.4 

 (255.0)
 76.5 

 (178.5)

 – 
 – 
 4.3 
 – 

 4.3 

 8.3 

 476.7 
 183.4 
 (139.4)

 520.7 

 27.9 
 26.9 
 175.7 

 230.5 

 (210.4)
 (200.8)
–

 (242.8)
 (6.5)

 (364.6)

 (18.9)
 (383.5)

 281.6 
 (101.9) 

 – 
 – 

 – 

 60.4 
 (0.8)
 5.3 
 (16.8)

 48.1 

 (53.8) 

 724.5 
 (101.9)
 (145.9)

 476.7 

Seven Group Holdings131

COMBINED

2016
$m

2015
$m

 128.4 
 44.1 
 28.2 
 – 
 0.1 
 1.3 

 202.1 

 865.5 
969.1
 892.4 
 2.3 
 0.9 
 2,730.2 
 2,932.3 

 80.1 
 46.9 
28.2
 0.9 
 3.9 
 4.6 

 126.0 
 34.2 
 17.0 
 11.0 
 0.1 
 0.1 

 188.4 

 1,107.4 
 683.8 
 1,074.7 
 14.2 
 0.1 
 2,880.2 
 3,068.6 

 40.1 
 47.8 
127.2
 0.7 
 3.7 
 4.2 

 164.6 

 223.7 

 866.5 
 23.9 
 0.4 
 4.2 
 7.3 
 902.3 

 797.2 
 61.0 
 1.1 
 4.8 
 7.3 

 871.4 

 1,066.9 

 1,865.4 

 1,095.1 

 1,973.5 

 2,472.7 
 (1,128.0)
520.7
1,865.4

 2,544.6 
 (1,047.8)
 476.7 

 1,973.5 

Statement of financial position
Current assets
Cash and cash equivalents
Trade and other receivables
Inventories
Current tax assets
Other current assets
Derivative financial instruments

Total current assets

Non-current assets
Investments in controlled entities
Investments accounted for using the equity method
Other financial assets
Property, plant and equipment
Intangible assets
Total non-current assets
Total assets

Current liabilities
Interest bearing loans and liabilities
Trade and other payables 
Loans from related parties
Deferred income
Provisions
Derivative financial instruments

Total current liabilities

Non-current liabilities
Interest bearing loans and liabilities
Deferred tax liabilities
Trade and other payables 
Provisions
Deferred income

Total non-current liabilities

Total liabilities

Net assets

Equity
Issued capital
Reserves
Retained earnings

Total equity

ANNUAL REPORT 2016132

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2016

31.  BUSINESS COMBINATION

Accounting policy
For every business combination, the Group identifies the acquirer, 
which is the combining entity that obtains control (refer Note 1(B)) 
of the other combining entities or businesses. The Group accounts 
for business combinations using the acquisition method when 
control is transferred to the Group. The acquisition date is the date 
on which control is transferred to the acquirer. 

Judgement is applied in determining the acquisition date and 
determining whether control is transferred from one party to another.

Consideration transferred includes the fair values of the assets 
transferred, liabilities incurred by the Group to the previous 
owners of the acquiree, and equity interests issued by the Group. 
Consideration transferred also includes the fair value of any 
contingent consideration and share-based payment awards of the 
acquiree that are replaced mandatorily in the business combination. 
If a business combination results in the termination of pre-existing 
relationships between the Group and the acquiree, then the lower 
of the termination amount, as contained in the agreement, and the 
value of the off-market element is deducted from the consideration 
transferred and recognised in other expenses.

The fair value of the identifiable assets is based on valuations 
performed by independent experts.

Measuring goodwill
The Group measures goodwill as the fair value of the consideration 
transferred including the recognised amount of any non-controlling 
interest in the acquiree, less the fair value of the identifiable 
assets acquired and liabilities assumed, all measured as of the 
acquisition date. If the cost of the acquisition is less than the Group’s 
share of the fair value of the identifiable net assets of the acquiree, 
the difference is recognised directly in profit or loss, but only after a 
reassessment of the identification and measurement of the net assets 
acquired. Any goodwill that arises is tested annually for impairment.

Consideration
Consideration paid, net of cash acquired
Identifiable assets acquired and liabilities assumed
Trade and other receivables
Producing and development assets
Exploration and evaluation assets
Deferred tax assets
Trade and other payables
Provisions (including employee benefits)

Fair value of net identifiable assets

Goodwill on acquisition
Total consideration transferred for accounting purposes at fair value
Fair value of identifiable net assets

Goodwill on acquisition

Contingent liabilities
A contingent liability of the acquiree is recognised in a business 
combination only if such a liability represents a present 
obligation and arises from a past event, and its fair value can 
be measured reliably.

Non-controlling interest
The Group measures any non-controlling interest at its 
proportionate interest in the identifiable net assets of the acquiree.

Transaction costs
Transaction costs that the Group incurs in connection with 
a business combination, such as finder’s fees, legal fees, 
due diligence fees, stamp duties and other professional and 
consulting fees are expensed as incurred.

Acquisition of Nexus Energy Limited  
(prior year acquisition)
The acquisition accounting of Nexus Energy Limited (now known 
as SGH Energy Pty Limited) was completed during the year.

The final acquisition accounting resulted in a $25.9 million 
reduction in the goodwill recognised on acquisition, predominantly 
attributable to a reduction in the fair value of provisions for 
restoration of $12.4 million as well as a reduction in trade and other 
payables of $18.0 million. The Group’s investment in Crux was 
reclassified from a development to an exploration asset, resulting 
in a reclassification of $224.5 million. Refer to Note 14: Exploration 
and evaluation assets for further detail.

Final
$m

Provisional
$m

 221.4 

 221.4 

 3.5 
 101.6 
 230.0 
 0.9 
 (14.9)
 (99.7)

 221.4 

 221.4 
 (221.4)

 – 

 11.7 
 326.1 
 5.5 
 – 
 (32.9)
 (114.9)

 195.5 

 221.4 
 (195.5)

 25.9 

There is no goodwill on acquisition, reflecting the limited synergies with the Group’s other operating businesses. In determining the fair 
value of assets acquired in a business combination, management have used reports prepared by valuation specialists.

Seven Group Holdings133

32.  RELATED PARTY DISCLOSURES

Key management personnel compensation
Detailed remuneration disclosures, including movements in equity holdings for KMP, are disclosed in the Remuneration Report section of 
the Director’s Report.

The aggregate compensation made to the Key Management Personnel of the Group is set out below:

Short-term employee benefits
Post-employment benefits
Termination benefits
Other long-term employee benefits
Share-based payments

Total key management personnel compensation

2016
$000

 8,513
306
 –
 181
 840

9,840

2015
$000

 9,042 
 209 
 454 
 277 
 2,010 

 11,992 

No Director has entered into a material contract with the Group in the current or prior year other than those disclosed in the 
Remuneration Report.

Subsidiaries
Interests in subsidiaries are set out in Note 30: Controlled Entities.

Other related party transactions
The aggregate value of transactions between the Group and its equity accounted investees is outlined below.

Sales revenue
  Associates
  Joint ventures
Other income
  Joint ventures
Rental expense
  Joint ventures
Other expenses
  Associates
  Joint ventures
Expense reimbursement
  Associates
Outstanding balances arising from transactions with equity accounted investees:
Trade and other receivables
  Associates
  Joint ventures
Tax payable to equity accounted investee who is a member of the tax-consolidated group
  Associates

2016
$m

 1.9 
 29.8 

 2.0 

 (1.3)

 (3.7)
 (0.8)

 (0.2)

 0.6 
11.6 

2015
$m

 2.4 
 25.5 

 3.4 

 (1.7)

 (3.9)
 (0.7)

 (0.4)

 0.7 
 2.9 

(38.6)

 (30.7)

ANNUAL REPORT 2016134

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2016

33.  AUDITOR’S REMUNERATION
Amounts received or due and receivable by auditors of the Company are set out below.

Audit and audit related services
Auditors of the Company
KPMG Australia
  Audit and review of financial reports
Overseas KPMG firms
  Audit and review of financial report

Total audit and audit related services

Other services
Auditors of the Company
KPMG Australia
  Other advisory services
  Other tax and advisory services
Overseas KPMG firms
  Other tax and advisory services

Total other services

Total auditor’s remuneration

2016
$000

2015
$000

 765 

 205 

 970 

 76 
 105 

 19 

 200 

 1,170 

 779 

 239 

 1,018 

 5 
 – 

 17 

 22 

 1,040 

All amounts payable to the auditors of the Company were paid by Group subsidiaries. 

KPMG are only appointed to assignments additional to their statutory audit duties where they are able to maintain their audit independence.

Seven Group HoldingsDIRECTORS’  
DECLARATION

135

1.  In the opinion of the Directors of Seven Group Holdings Limited (the Company):

(a) the consolidated financial statements and notes that are set out on pages 75 to 134, and the Remuneration Report, set out  
  on pages 55 to 71 in the Directors’ Report are in accordance with the Corporations Act 2001, including:

(i) 

 giving a true and fair view of the Group’s financial position as at 30 June 2016 and of its performance for the financial year ended 
on that date; and

(ii)  complying with Australian Accounting Standards and the Corporations Regulations 2001; and 

(b) there are reasonable grounds to believe that the Company will be able to pay its debts as and when they become due and payable. 

2.   There are reasonable grounds to believe that the Company and the group entities identified in Note 30 will be able to meet any 

obligations or liabilities to which they are or may become subject to by virtue of the Deed of Cross Guarantee between the Company 
and those group entities pursuant to ASIC Class Order 98/1418.

3.   The Directors have been given the declarations required by Section 295A of the Corporations Act 2001 from the Managing Director & 

Chief Executive Officer and the Chief Financial Officer for the financial year ended 30 June 2016.

4.   The Directors draw attention to Note 1 to 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 
Executive Chairman 

Sydney 
3 August 2016

MC Wells  
Chairman of the Audit & Risk Committee

ANNUAL REPORT 2016 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
136

INDEPENDENT  
AUDITOR’S REPORT

Independent auditor’s report to the members of Seven Group Holdings Limited

Report on the financial report 

Auditor’s responsibility 

Report on the financial report 

Directors’ responsibility for the financial report 

Directors’ responsibility for the financial report 

Independent auditor’s report to the members of Seven Group Holdings Limited

We  have  audited  the  accompanying  financial  report  of  Seven  Group  Holdings  Limited  (the 
Company), which comprises the consolidated statement of financial position as at 30 June 2016, 
and  consolidated  statement  of  profit  or  loss  and  other  comprehensive  income,  consolidated 
statement of changes in equity and consolidated cash flow statement for the year ended on that 
date, Notes 1 to 33 comprising a summary of significant accounting policies and other explanatory 
information and the directors’ declaration of the Group comprising the company and the entities 
it controlled at the year’s end or from time to time during the financial year. 

We  have  audited  the  accompanying  financial  report  of  Seven  Group  Holdings  Limited  (the 
Company), which comprises the consolidated statement of financial position as at 30 June 2016, 
and  consolidated  statement  of  profit  or  loss  and  other  comprehensive  income,  consolidated 
statement of changes in equity and consolidated cash flow statement for the year ended on that 
date, Notes 1 to 33 comprising a summary of significant accounting policies and other explanatory 
information and the directors’ declaration of the Group comprising the company and the entities 
it controlled at the year’s end or from time to time during the financial year. 

The  directors  of  the  Company  are  responsible  for  the  preparation  of  the  financial  report  that 
gives  a  true  and  fair  view  in  accordance  with  Australian  Accounting  Standards  and  the 
Corporations Act  2001  and  for  such  internal  control  as  the  directors  determine  is  necessary 
to  enable  the preparation of the financial report that is free from material misstatement whether 
due  to  fraud  or  error.  In  Note  1,  the  directors  also  state,  in  accordance  with  Australian 
Accounting  Standard  AASB  101  Presentation  of  Financial  Statements,  that  the  financial 
statements of the Group comply with International Financial Reporting Standards. 

The  directors  of  the  Company  are  responsible  for  the  preparation  of  the  financial  report  that 
gives  a  true  and  fair  view  in  accordance  with  Australian  Accounting  Standards  and  the 
Corporations Act  2001  and  for  such  internal  control  as  the  directors  determine  is  necessary 
to  enable  the preparation of the financial report that is free from material misstatement whether 
due  to  fraud  or  error.  In  Note  1,  the  directors  also  state,  in  accordance  with  Australian 
Accounting  Standard  AASB  101  Presentation  of  Financial  Statements,  that  the  financial 
statements of the Group comply with International Financial Reporting Standards. 

Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the financial report based on our audit. We conducted 
our audit in accordance with Australian Auditing Standards. These Auditing Standards require that 
we comply with relevant ethical requirements relating to audit engagements and plan and perform 
the  audit  to  obtain  reasonable  assurance  whether  the  financial  report  is  free  from  material 
misstatement.  

Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the financial report based on our audit. We conducted 
our audit in accordance with Australian Auditing Standards. These Auditing Standards require that 
we comply with relevant ethical requirements relating to audit engagements and plan and perform 
the  audit  to  obtain  reasonable  assurance  whether  the  financial  report  is  free  from  material 
misstatement.  

An  audit  involves  performing  procedures  to  obtain  audit  evidence  about  the  amounts  and 
disclosures  in  the  financial  report.  The  procedures  selected  depend  on  the  auditor’s  judgment, 
including the assessment of the risks of material misstatement of the financial report, whether due 
to fraud or error. In making those risk assessments, the auditor considers internal control relevant 
to the entity’s preparation of the financial report that gives a true and fair view in order to design 
audit procedures that are appropriate in the circumstances, but not for the purpose of expressing 
an opinion on the effectiveness of the entity’s internal control. An audit also includes evaluating 
the appropriateness of accounting policies used and the reasonableness of accounting estimates 
made by the directors, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the financial report.  

An  audit  involves  performing  procedures  to  obtain  audit  evidence  about  the  amounts  and 
disclosures  in  the  financial  report.  The  procedures  selected  depend  on  the  auditor’s  judgment, 
including the assessment of the risks of material misstatement of the financial report, whether due 
to fraud or error. In making those risk assessments, the auditor considers internal control relevant 
to the entity’s preparation of the financial report that gives a true and fair view in order to design 
audit procedures that are appropriate in the circumstances, but not for the purpose of expressing 
an opinion on the effectiveness of the entity’s internal control. An audit also includes evaluating 
the appropriateness of accounting policies used and the reasonableness of accounting estimates 
made by the directors, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the financial report.  

We performed the procedures to assess whether in all material respects the financial report presents 
fairly, in accordance with the Corporations Act 2001 and Australian Accounting Standards, a true 
and fair view which is consistent with our understanding of the Group’s financial position and of 
its performance.  

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

We performed the procedures to assess whether in all material respects the financial report presents 
fairly, in accordance with the Corporations Act 2001 and Australian Accounting Standards, a true 
and fair view which is consistent with our understanding of the Group’s financial position and of 
its performance.  

Auditor’s responsibility 

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

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 
Profession Standards Legislation. 

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 
Profession Standards Legislation. 

Seven Group Holdings137

ANNUAL REPORT 2016Independence In conducting our audit, we have complied with the independence requirements of the Corporations Act 2001.  Auditor’s opinion In our opinion: (a)the financial report of Group is in accordance with the Corporations Act 2001, including:(i)giving a true and fair view of the Group’s financial position as at 30 June 2016 andof its performance for the year ended on that date; and(ii)complying with Australian Accounting Standards and the Corporations Regulations2001.(b)the financial report also complies with International Financial Reporting Standards asdisclosed in Note 1.Report on the remuneration report We have audited the Remuneration Report included in pages 56 to 71 of the directors’ report for the year ended 30 June 2016. The directors of the Company are responsible for the preparation and presentation of the remuneration report in accordance with Section 300A of the Corporations Act 2001. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the remuneration report, based on our audit conducted in accordance with auditing standards. Auditor’s opinion In our opinion, the remuneration report of Seven Group Holdings Limited for the year ended  30 June 2016, complies with Section 300A of the Corporations Act 2001. [Signature] KPMG [Signature] [Signature] Kevin Leighton Stephen Isaac Partner Partner Sydney 3 August 2016 ABCDIndependence In conducting our audit, we have complied with the independence requirements of the Corporations Act 2001.  Auditor’sopinionIn our opinion: (a) the financial report of the Group is in accordance with the Corporations Act 2001, including:  (i)giving a true and fair view of the Group’s financial position as             at 30 June 2014 and of itsperformance for the year ended on that date; and  (ii) complying with Australian Accounting Standards and the Corporations   Regulations  2001. (b) the financial report also complies with International Financial Reporting Standards as disclosed in Note 1(A).Report on the remuneration reportWe have audited the Remuneration Report included in pages 19 to 40 of the directors’ report for the year ended 30 June 2014. The directors of the Company are responsible for the preparation and presentation of the remuneration report in accordance with Section 300A of the Corporations Act 2001. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the remuneration report, based on our audit conducted in accordance with auditing standards. Auditor’s opinion In our opinion, the remuneration report of Seven Group Holdings Limited for the year ended 30 June 2014, complies with Section 300A of the Corporations Act 2001. KPMGKevin Leighton PartnerSydney 27 August 2014 ABCDIndependence In conducting our audit, we have complied with the independence requirements of the Corporations Act 2001.  Auditor’sopinionIn our opinion: (a) the financial report of the Group is in accordance with the Corporations Act 2001, including:  (i)giving a true and fair view of the Group’s financial position as             at 30 June 2014 and of itsperformance for the year ended on that date; and  (ii) complying with Australian Accounting Standards and the Corporations   Regulations  2001. (b) the financial report also complies with International Financial Reporting Standards as disclosed in Note 1(A).Report on the remuneration reportWe have audited the Remuneration Report included in pages 19 to 40 of the directors’ report for the year ended 30 June 2014. The directors of the Company are responsible for the preparation and presentation of the remuneration report in accordance with Section 300A of the Corporations Act 2001. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the remuneration report, based on our audit conducted in accordance with auditing standards. Auditor’s opinion In our opinion, the remuneration report of Seven Group Holdings Limited for the year ended 30 June 2014, complies with Section 300A of the Corporations Act 2001. KPMGKevin Leighton PartnerSydney 27 August 2014 138

INVESTOR  
INFORMATION

SHAREHOLDER INQUIRIES
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 

GPO Box 3993
Sydney NSW 2001

Telephone: (02) 9290 9600
Facsimile: (02) 9279 0664 or

Visit the online service at boardroomlimited.com.au

Boardroom Pty Limited has an online service for investors called 
InvestorServe. This enables investors to make online changes, 
view balances and transaction history, as well as obtain information 
about recent dividend payments and download various forms to 
assist in the management of their holding. To use this service visit 
the Boardroom Pty Limited website.

Other general inquiries may be directed to Mr W. Coatsworth, 
Company Secretary on (02) 8777 7777 or visit the website 
at www.sevengroup.com.au.

TAX FILE NUMBER INFORMATION
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 Group Holdings 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 Boardroom website.

THE CHESS SYSTEM
Seven Group Holdings 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 number 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.

Seven Group HoldingsSHAREHOLDER 
INFORMATION

139

SUBSTANTIAL SHAREHOLDERS – ORDINARY SHARES
The number of ordinary shares held by the Substantial Shareholders based on the most recent notifications contained in the Company’s 
Register of Substantial Shareholders as at 12 July 2016 are as follows:

Shareholder

KM Stokes; 
North Aston Pty Limited,
Wroxby Pty Limited,
Tiberius (Seven Investments) Pty Limited and
Ashblue Holdings Pty Limited;
Tiberius Pty Limited, Redlake Pty Limited and 
Tiberius group entities;
Australian Capital Equity Pty Limited, 
Clabon Pty Limited and 
Australian Capital Equity Pty Limited group entities.

*  Based on issued capital at date of notification.

DISTRIBUTION OF ORDINARY SHAREHOLDERS AND TELYS4 SHAREHOLDERS

Category (No.s)

1 – 1,000
1,001 – 5,000
5,001 – 10,000
10,001 – 100,000
100,001 – and over

Total number of Holders

Number of Holdings less than a Marketable Parcel

TWENTY LARGEST ORDINARY SHAREHOLDERS 

Name of Shareholder

North Aston Pty Limited
Ashblue Holdings Pty Limited
Wroxby Pty Limited
HSBC Custody Nominees (Australia) Limited
JP Morgan Nominees Australia Limited
Citicorp Nominees Pty Limited
Tiberius (Seven Investments) Pty Limited
National Nominees Limited
BNP Paribas Nominees Pty Limited
Warbont Nominees Pty Limited
HSBC Custody Nominees (Australia) Limited
JAN 123 Pty Limited
JMB Pty Limited
HSBC Custody Nominees (Australia) Limited
AMP Life Limited
Yalgardup Corporation Pty Limited
RBC Investor Services Australia Nominees Pty Limited
Uechtritz Foundation Pty Limited
Mr B.M. Lambert
Elphinstone Holdings Pty Limited

Total Twenty Largest Ordinary Shareholders

No. of Shares

207,304,349

% Held *

73.05

Ordinary 
Shareholders

4,790
3,762
581
332
41

9,506

583

TELYS4

8,070
694
45
23
4

8,836

14

No. of Shares

% Held

114,110,000
62,462,442
23,731,907
15,428,143
10,601,113
 9,371,759
 7,000,000
 3,893,746
 1,906,431
872,476
793,146
667,851
554,400
517,767
509,549
494,345
424,153
271,730
239,547
 222,500

40.58
22.21
 8.44
 5.49
 3.77
3.33
2.49
1.39
0.67
0.31
0.29
0.23
0.19
0.18
0.18
0.18
0.15
0.09
0.09
0.08

254,073,005

 90.34

ANNUAL REPORT 2016140

SHAREHOLDER 
INFORMATION

TWENTY LARGEST TELYS4 SHAREHOLDERS 

Name of Shareholder

Sandhurst Trustees Limited
HSBC Custody Nominees (Australia) Limited
JP Morgan Nominees Australia Limited
Navigator Australia Limited
National Nominees Limited
Nulis Nominees (Australia) Limited
Netwealth Investments Limited
ZW2 Pty Limited 
Jilliby Pty Limited
Australian Executor Trustees Limited 
SR Consolidated Pty Limited
BNP Paribas Nominees Pty Limited 
Excalibur Trading Pty Limited
JGW Investments Pty Limited
Netwealth Investments Limited
Lenhut Pty Limited
Farallon Capital Pty Limited
Mr E.F. and Mrs D.A. Griffin
Conchord Pty Limited
Mr L.C. and Mrs C.K. Lees
Total Twenty Largest TELYS4 Shareholders

VOTING RIGHTS

No. of TELYS4

% Held

165,274
146,643
111,304
111,260
86,532
66,763
46,411
32,900
31,665
27,232
 21,435
18,336 
17,480
 16,404
15,955
 15,619
15,000
12,000
12,000
11,950
982,163

3.33
2.96 
2.24
2.24
1.74
1.34
0.94
0.66
0.64
0.55
0.43
0.37
0.36
0.33
0.32
0.31
0.30 
0.24
0.24
0.24
19.78

Ordinary Shares
On a show of hands, every member present in person or by proxy or attorney, or being a corporation, present by its representative, shall 
have one vote. On a poll, every member present in person or by proxy or attorney, or being a corporation, present by its representative, 
shall have one vote for every share held.

TELYS4
There are limited voting rights attached to TELYS4 as detailed in their terms of issue. In broad terms, a holder has the right to vote if a 
dividend is in arrears, on a proposal to reduce share capital, affecting rights on the TELYS4, on a winding up of the company, on a disposal 
of the whole undertaking of the company, on a resolution to approve a buy-back agreement and during the winding up of the company. 
Upon conversion of the TELYS4, the resulting issued shares will confer full voting rights.

Stock Exchange Listing 
The Company is listed with the Australian Securities Exchange Limited and the home exchange is Sydney.

On-Market Buy-Back
There is a current on-market buy-back.

Seven Group Holdings141

CORPORATE  
DIRECTORY

SEVEN GROUP HOLDINGS LIMITED

HEAD OFFICE
Level 2
38-42 Pirrama Road
Pyrmont NSW 2009
Ph: (02) 8777 7777
Fax: (02) 8777 7778

WESTRAC WA
128-136 Great Eastern Highway
South Guildford WA 6055
Ph: (08) 9377 9444

WESTRAC NSW
1 WesTrac Drive
Tomago NSW 2322
Ph: (02) 4964 5000

WESTRAC ACT
78 Sheppard Street
Hume ACT 2620
Ph: (02) 6290 4500

COMPANY  
INFORMATION

LIST OF DIRECTORS
Kerry Stokes AC (Executive Chairman) 
Ryan Stokes (Managing Director &  
Chief Executive Officer)
Annabelle Chaplain
Terry Davis
Christopher Mackay
David McEvoy
Bruce McWilliam (Commercial Director) 
Warwick Smith AM
Richard Uechtritz
Prof. Murray Wells

COMPANY SECRETARY
Warren Coatsworth

REGISTERED OFFICE
Company Secretariat
Level 2
38-42 Pirrama Road
Pyrmont NSW 2009

WESTRAC CHINA
Sky Centre Tower A
No 22 Wanyuan Street
Beijing China 100176
Ph: (86) (10) 5902 1666

ALLIGHTSYKES WA
12 Hoskins Road
Landsdale WA 6065
Ph: (08) 9302 7000

ALLIGHTSYKES NSW
42 Munibung Road
Cardiff NSW 2285
Ph: (02) 4954 1400

SGH ENERGY
Level 5
160 Harbour Esplanade
Docklands VIC 3008
Ph: (03) 8628 7277

SHARE REGISTRY
Boardroom Pty Limited 
Level 12
Grosvenor Place
225 George Street
Sydney NSW 2000 

AUDITOR
KPMG
Tower Three
International Towers Sydney
300 Barangaroo Avenue
Sydney NSW 2000

LEGAL ADVISERS
Herbert Smith Freehills
ANZ Tower
161 Castlereagh Street
Sydney NSW 2000

Clayton Utz
Level 15
1 Bligh Street
Sydney NSW 2000

ANNUAL REPORT 2016