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Silex Systems Limited
Annual Report 2019

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FY2019 Annual Report · Silex Systems Limited
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ANNUAL REPORT

2019

 
 
 
IMPORTANT  
NOTICE

FORWARD LOOKING STATEMENTS AND BUSINESS RISKS:

Silex Systems (Silex) is a research and development 
company whose primary asset is the SILEX laser uranium 
enrichment technology, originally developed at the 
Company’s technology facility in Sydney, Australia. The 
SILEX technology was licensed exclusively in 2006 to 
GE-Hitachi Global Laser Enrichment LLC (GLE) in the USA. 
GLE has been undergoing a restructure for a number of 
years after GE-Hitachi disclosed it was seeking to exit the 
venture.  In view of the continuing uncertainty surrounding 
the GLE restructure and the continuing depressed nuclear 
fuel market conditions, plans for commercial deployment of 
the SILEX technology have been significantly delayed, and 
remain at risk. 

The future of the SILEX technology is therefore  
highly uncertain and any plans for commercial  
deployment are speculative.

Silex also has an interest in a unique semiconductor 
technology known as ‘cREO™’ through its ownership 
of subsidiary Translucent Inc. The cREO™ technology 
developed by Translucent has been acquired by IQE 
Plc based in the UK. IQE is progressing the cREO™ 
technology towards commercial deployment in various 
advanced semiconductor products. The outcome of IQE’s 
commercialisation program is also highly uncertain and 
remains subject to various technology and market risks.

The commercial potential of these two technologies is 
currently unknown. Accordingly, the statements in this report 
regarding the future of the SILEX technology, the cREO™ 
technology and any associated commercial prospects 
are forward looking and actual results could be materially 
different from those expressed or implied by such forward 
looking statements as a result of various risk factors.

Risk factors that could affect future results and commercial 
prospects include, but are not limited to: the outcome 
of the GLE restructure; the results of the SILEX uranium 
enrichment engineering development program; the market 
demand for natural uranium and enriched uranium; the 
potential development of competing technologies; the 
potential for third party claims against the Company’s 
ownership of Intellectual Property; the potential impact 
of prevailing laws or government regulations or policies 
in the USA, Australia or elsewhere; results from IQE’s 
commercialisation program and the market demand for 
cREO™ products; and the outcomes of various strategies 
undertaken by the Company.

SILEX SYSTEMS LIMITED

ABN 69 003 372 067

CONTENTS

CHAIR’S REPORT 

CEO’S REPORT 

TECHNOLOGY OVERVIEW 

DIRECTORS’ REPORT 

CORPORATE GOVERNANCE STATEMENT 

CONCISE FINANCIAL REPORT 

INDEPENDENT AUDITOR’S REPORT TO THE MEMBERS 

SHAREHOLDERS’ INFORMATION 

COMPANY DIRECTORY 

2

4

6

12

36

37

49

51

53

SILEX ANNUAL REPORT 2019

1

CHAIR’S  
REPORT

2

“We continue to  
believe that the third-
generation SILEX uranium 
enrichment technology  
has significant potential  
as a key component of  
the nuclear fuel cycle”

Dear Fellow Shareholders,

It was a privilege and honour to join the Silex Board in 
January this year and to be appointed as Chair of the 
Board. During my first eight months as Chair, I have 
rapidly gained a solid understanding of the Company’s 
operations and associated challenges. I am very excited 
with the opportunities that lie ahead, and in particular I am 
highly impressed by our talented and dedicated team who 
continue to work unwaveringly on our core SILEX laser 
enrichment technology, as we strive to secure the pathway to 
commercialise this unique technology. 

The year ended 30 June 2019 was both challenging and 
exciting for Silex – challenging with respect to the continuing 
difficulties in the nuclear fuel markets, and exciting with 
respect to the potential commercial opportunities that 
continue to underpin the Company’s value proposition. 

The Board and management are focused on seeking to build 
commercially viable opportunities for the Company whilst 
taking a very prudent approach to cash expenditure.

With respect to our uranium enrichment project, in February 
we announced the signing of a new Term Sheet between 
Silex, GE-Hitachi Nuclear Energy (GEH) and Canadian 

SILEX ANNUAL REPORT 2019uranium miner Cameco Corporation which detailed the key 
terms for the joint purchase by Silex and Cameco of GEH’s 
majority interest in SILEX technology Licensee GE-Hitachi 
Global Laser Enrichment LLC (GLE). Since then, great 
effort has been invested in the transaction documentation 
for the restructure of GLE, which will, subject to finalisation 
of binding transaction documentation and obtaining US 
Government (USG) approvals, result in Silex owning 51% of 
GLE and Cameco moving from 24% to 49% ownership in 
GLE. In addition, Silex and Cameco are negotiating an option 
for Cameco to purchase from Silex at fair market value, an 
additional 26% interest in GLE, potentially increasing their 
interest to 75% (subject to USG approvals).

Also, during the year, the Company conducted an 
assessment of alternative uses of the core SILEX laser 
enrichment technology and after detailed evaluation, 
identified some emerging and potentially attractive 
applications for stable isotope enrichment. The evaluation of 
a number of opportunities continues.

Whilst we remain cautious with regard to timing of a 
recovery in the markets for uranium and nuclear fuel, we 
remain highly committed to the view that nuclear power 
remains a proven and extremely reliable source of zero-
emissions base-load power generation. Accordingly, we 
continue to believe that the third-generation SILEX uranium 
enrichment technology has significant potential as a key 
component of the nuclear fuel cycle and will be well placed 
to participate in meeting the demands of fuelling the world’s 
nuclear power industry in the future, including the emerging 
Small Modular Reactor technologies. 

We were also very pleased with IQE’s decision in early 
2018 to purchase Silex subsidiary Translucent Inc’s 
cREO™ semiconductor material technology, resulting in 
the receipt of a payment of US$5 million (in IQE shares) in 
September 2018. Minimum royalty payments are expected 
to commence being received in FY2020. With IQE’s business 
case appearing to strengthen in several key semiconductor 

markets, we remain excited that the cREO™ technology 
could be utilised in a number of emerging and fast-growing 
semiconductor device markets. 

CORPORATE GOVERNANCE

The Silex Board underwent a restructure during the year 
that resulted in the appointment of Melissa Holzberger 
and myself as Non-executive directors. I am delighted with 
Melissa’s appointment and would like to acknowledge the 
important contributions made by the previous Chair Lisa 
McIntyre and Director Robert Lee. I am pleased to lead a 
diverse and high-quality Board with significant experience 
in technology commercialisation, depth of knowledge in the 
nuclear industry and a keen focus on governance. This mix 
of skills, experience and industry knowledge is key to enable 
the Company to take full advantage of current and future 
opportunities as they present, and to address the various 
challenges we face with due attention to risk management 
and governance oversight. 

My fellow Board members and Silex management thank you 
for your continued support. I look forward to updating you 
again at our Annual General Meeting in November.

Craig Roy 
Chair 
29 August 2019

3

SILEX ANNUAL REPORT 2019CEO’S  
REPORT

4

“The Paducah opportunity 
provides an ideal path to 
market for our potentially 
disruptive SILEX laser 
enrichment technology”

Dear Shareholders, 

During the year in review, we have continued to execute our 
ongoing strategy to preserve value and optionality for the 
future commercialisation of the SILEX laser-based uranium 
enrichment technology in a market still suffering various 
challenges. Most notably, our efforts have continued to 
focus on the restructure of the exclusive Licensee of the 
SILEX technology, GE-Hitachi Global Laser Enrichment LLC 
(GLE). Our key objective in this restructure is to enable Silex 
to gain greater leverage in the future of our core technology 
by becoming more directly involved in the SILEX technology 
commercialisation program and in GLE’s business 
development path in the US. 

In February we were pleased to announce the signing of a 
new Term Sheet between Silex, GE-Hitachi Nuclear Energy 
(GEH) and Canadian uranium miner Cameco Corporation 
(Cameco) which detailed the key terms for the joint purchase 
by Silex and Cameco of GEH’s majority interest in GLE. We 
continue to work diligently on the transaction documentation 
for this restructure and look forward to bringing this to a 
timely conclusion. Subject to successful execution of binding 

SILEX ANNUAL REPORT 2019transaction documentation and obtaining US government 
approvals, the restructure would result in Silex acquiring 
a 51% majority interest in GLE and Cameco increasing its 
ownership in GLE from 24% to 49%. 

The commercial prospects for our technology are essentially 
underpinned by the Paducah commercial plant opportunity 
which resulted from the agreement signed in 2016 between 
the US Department of Energy (DOE) and GLE for the re-
enrichment of a very large stockpile of DOE’s tails inventories 
using the SILEX technology. The Paducah commercial 
opportunity provides an ideal path to market for our potentially 
disruptive SILEX laser enrichment technology and efforts 
have been focused to ensure that the agreement with the 
DOE remains in full force and effect through to the anticipated 
recovery in the nuclear fuel markets.

A focused effort continued on the technology 
commercialisation program at both the Silex, Sydney and 
GLE, Wilmington, North Carolina project sites during the 
year. Activities at both sites remain dedicated to the future 
deployment of prototype plant-scale equipment required for 
pre-commercial testing. 

Today, the SILEX laser enrichment technology is the only third 
generation uranium enrichment technology under commercial 
development, which if successful, could enable the 
technology to become a major contributor to the production 
of both natural grade uranium from the re-enrichment of the 
DOE tails inventories; and of enriched uranium for today’s 
nuclear reactor fleet and also for the emerging Small Modular 
Reactor technologies. Despite the current overcapacity in 
the markets for nuclear fuel, we take a long-term view and 
we anticipate that with the restructure of GLE, we will be 
well positioned to participate in the expected recovery of the 
global markets for natural and enriched uranium. 

In parallel, we continue to assess alternative uses of the 
SILEX technology and in particular the assessment of 
potentially attractive applications for stable isotope separation 
which may enable us to leverage nearer term opportunities. 

Evaluation of a number of opportunities is being completed 
and we look forward to providing an update on our progress 
in due course. 

As reported in September 2018, following UK-based 
IQE Plc’s (AIM: IQE) election to purchase our subsidiary 
Translucent’s semiconductor material technology known 
as ‘crystalline Rare Earth Oxides’ (cREO™), a payment of 
US$5m (via the issue of IQE shares) was received. We 
continue to be encouraged by IQE’s commitment to the 
cREO™ commercialisation program and the plan to utilise the 
technology in several of their key semiconductor markets. 
In addition to the US$5 million purchase price, a perpetual 
royalty of between 3% and 6% will be payable to Translucent 
on the sale of any IQE products that utilise the cREO™ 
technology, with minimum annual royalties due to commence 
being paid in FY2020. IQE is the global leader in the 
design and manufacture of advanced semiconductor wafer 
products and is well positioned to commercialise this unique 
technology and take it to market. 

We thank you for your ongoing support and look forward to 
providing a further update on our technologies at the Annual 
General Meeting in November.

Dr Michael Goldsworthy 
CEO/Managing Director 
29 August 2019

5

SILEX ANNUAL REPORT 2019TECHNOLOGY 
OVERVIEW

THE SILEX LASER URANIUM 
ENRICHMENT TECHNOLOGY

Background to the SILEX technology

The SILEX technology was invented by Silex Systems 
scientists Dr Michael Goldsworthy and Dr Horst Struve in the 
mid 1990’s at Lucas Heights, Sydney. In order to facilitate 
the potential commercial deployment of the technology in the 
United States, an Agreement for Cooperation between the 
governments of the United States and Australia was signed 
in May 2000. 

In June 2001, the technology was officially Classified by 
the United States and Australian governments, bringing the 
SILEX technology commercialisation project formally under 
strict safeguards security and nuclear regulatory protocols of 
each country. 

In 2006 the Company signed a Technology 
Commercialisation and License Agreement with General 
Electric Company (GE) to develop and commercialise the 
technology to enrich uranium for use in nuclear power 
reactors around the world. Since 2008, the project has 
been managed by GE subsidiary GE-Hitachi Global Laser 
Enrichment LLC (GLE) – a joint venture business between 

GE (51% interest), Hitachi (25%) and Canadian uranium 
company Cameco Corporation (24%). GLE has been 
undergoing a restructure for a number of years in response to 
the adverse nuclear fuel market conditions resulting from the 
Fukushima accident. In February 2019, Silex announced the 
signing of a Term Sheet between Silex, GE-Hitachi Nuclear 
Energy (GEH) and Cameco for the joint purchase of GEH’s 
76% interest in GLE. Further detail on the restructure of GLE 
is provided below.

Uranium Enrichment

Naturally occurring uranium is dominated by two isotopes, 
U235 and U238. Nuclear energy is produced by the splitting (or 
‘fission’) of the U235 atoms. Natural uranium is made up of 
~0.7% of the ‘active’ U235 isotope with the balance (~99.3%) 
made up of the U238 isotope. Uranium enrichment is the 
process of concentrating or enriching the U235 isotope up to 
~5% for use as fuel in a nuclear power reactor. Enrichment 
is a technically difficult process and constitutes a major 
component of nuclear fuel costs accounting for around one 
third of the cost of nuclear fuel and approximately 5% of the 
total cost of the electricity generated at current prices.

Uranium Production

Refinining & Conversion

Enrichment

SILEX/GLE

Other

Fuel 
Fabrication

Electricity

Power Distribution

Power Plant

6

SILEX ANNUAL REPORT 2019The Separation of Isotopes by Laser EXcitation (SILEX) process is the only third generation laser enrichment technology at 
an advanced stage of development today. It is able to effectively enrich uranium through highly selective laser excitation of the 
235UF6 isotopic molecule. 

The two methods of uranium enrichment used to date have been the now obsolete Gas Diffusion (first generation) and Gas 
Centrifuge (second generation). Silex’s third generation laser-based process provides much higher enrichment process efficiency 
compared to these earlier methods, potentially offering significantly lower overall costs.

Uranium Enrichment Technology

1ST GENERATION TECHNOLOGY

2ND GENERATION TECHNOLOGY

3RD GENERATION TECHNOLOGY

GASEOUS DIFFUSION

CENTRIFUGE

LASER EXCITATION

ß = 1.004

High cost

Obsolete

ß ~ 1.25

Lower cost

ß ~ 2 - 201

Most cost effective

Current technology

In commercialisation phase

1. ß is the process efficiency (Classified number)

SILEX Uranium Enrichment

The Nuclear Fuel Production

The SILEX technology is a unique laser-based process 
that has the potential to economically separate uranium 
isotopes. It has a number of advantages over other uranium 
enrichment processes including:

• 

Inherently higher efficiency resulting in lower  
enrichment costs; 

•  Smaller environmental footprint than centrifuge and 

diffusion plants; 

•  Greater flexibility in producing advanced fuels for next 

generation small modular reactors (SMRs); and

•  Anticipated to have the lowest capital costs of all 

enrichment technologies.

The SILEX technology can be utilised in 2 steps of the 
Nuclear Fuel Cycle to produce: 

1.  natural grade uranium via re-enrichment of tails 

inventories; and

2.  enriched uranium for use as fuel in nuclear  

power reactors.

At current prices, uranium production and enrichment 
account for approximately 70% of the cost of nuclear fuel. 

7

SILEX ANNUAL REPORT 2019TECHNOLOGY OVERVIEW (CONTINUED)

The SILEX Technology License Agreement with GLE

Silex’s existing license agreement with GLE (the Amended 
and Restated Technology Commercialisation and License 
Agreement) signed in 2013, is an exclusive worldwide license 
for exploitation of the SILEX technology. Silex’s potential 
acquisition of a 51% interest in GLE does not affect the 
license agreement between Silex and GLE, under which Silex 
will be potentially entitled to a perpetual royalty of between 
7 – 12% on revenues generated by GLE from any future use 
of the SILEX technology, including the Paducah commercial 
plant opportunity. Further milestone payments totalling 
US$20m may also be payable to Silex in the event the SILEX 
technology is commercialised by GLE.

The tails re-enrichment at the PLEF would occur over several 
decades, resulting in the production of natural grade uranium 
which could then be sold into the expanding global uranium 
market. At a nominal production rate of around 2,000 metric 
tons of natural uranium hexafluoride (UF6) per year (subject 
to applicable regulations), preliminary economic analysis 
indicates this would rank as a large ‘Tier 1’ uranium mine by 
today’s standards. 

Subject to a recovery in uranium market pricing and receipt 
of required regulatory approvals and securing project 
financing, the Paducah commercial plant opportunity 
represents an ideal path to full commercial deployment of our 
unique laser enrichment technology.

GLE Restructure

Nuclear Power Outlook

Global markets for nuclear fuel are expected to grow on 
a long-term basis as the deployment of nuclear power for 
electricity generation increases around the world. With the 
UN (Department of Economic and Social Affairs) forecasting 
the world’s population to increase from 7.7 billion currently 
to around 9.7 billion in 2050, the demand for reliable 
and affordable base-load power will increase strongly. 
Furthermore, with growing concerns regarding the impacts 
of climate change and continued uncertainty over efforts to 
curb global carbon emissions, there is renewed focus on the 
importance of nuclear power as a zero-emissions source of 
electricity generation. 

In terms of population growth and climate change mitigation, 
the long-term value proposition for nuclear energy therefore 
remains positive. There are currently 444 operable nuclear 
reactors today, and 54 nuclear reactors under construction. 
The US is the world’s largest producer of nuclear power, 
with 97 operable reactors accounting for more than 30% 
of worldwide nuclear generation of electricity. China is the 
fastest growing nuclear energy market, with 47 reactors 
in operation, 11 under construction and a pipeline of over 
200 proposed reactors for construction. In addition, there 
is the potential for commercialisation of next-generation 
small modular reactors (SMRs) – which may offer significant 
advantages over large conventional nuclear power reactors. 
SMRs have the potential to be cheaper and simpler to 
construct, and to compete favourably with intermittent 
distributed generation such as solar and wind. There are 
currently numerous SMR development programs advancing 
around the world.

In February 2019 Silex and Cameco signed a Term Sheet 
with GE-Hitachi Nuclear Energy detailing key terms for the 
joint purchase of its 76% interest in GLE. If successfully 
completed, the proposed restructure of GLE would result in 
Silex acquiring a 51% interest, and Cameco increasing its 
interest in GLE from 24% to 49%.

The transaction remains subject to finalising mutually 
satisfactory binding transaction documentation and 
obtaining US Government approvals. Additionally, closing 
of the transaction is conditional on the 2016 GLE-DOE 
Sales Agreement (for GLE’s purchase of DOE depleted tails 
inventories for the Paducah opportunity) remaining in full 
force and effect (refer next section). 

A key objective of Silex’s participation in the GLE restructure 
is to allow the Company to create new opportunities by 
becoming more directly involved in the SILEX technology 
commercialisation program and in GLE’s business 
development path. In particular, the Company places 
considerable value in the Paducah, Kentucky commercial 
plant opportunity, for the re-enrichment of a large stock-pile 
of DOE tails inventories over a 30 to 40-year period using the 
SILEX technology. 

The Paducah Project Opportunity 

The Paducah commercial plant opportunity continues to be 
viewed as an ideal path to market for the SILEX technology. 
The opportunity would allow for the initial commercial 
deployment of the technology on a smaller scale and at 
a lower cost, representing a lower risk path to market for 
investors and other stakeholders. 

The opportunity would involve construction of GLE’s 
proposed ‘Paducah Laser Enrichment Facility’ (PLEF) 
utilising the SILEX technology to re-enrich large stockpiles of 
depleted tails inventories owned by the DOE. An agreement 
between GLE and the DOE providing for the sale of the tails 
inventories to GLE was signed in November 2016. 

8

SILEX ANNUAL REPORT 2019World Nuclear Reactor Population

444

330 (74%)

111 (25%)

54 (12%)

Operable Reactors

Reactors Under
Construction

Planned Reactors

Proposed Reactors*

USA

France

Japan

China

Russia

South Korea

India

Other

* Other Proposed Reactors include 16 proposed in Saudi Arabia, 8 in Turkey and 8 in South Africa

Source: World Nuclear Association August 2019

Nuclear Fuel Markets Outlook

Market conditions in the nuclear fuel industry will continue 
to be challenging for some time. The ongoing delays to the 
restart of the Japanese nuclear fleet, premature retirement 
of plants in the US, Japan and Europe and ongoing energy 
policy debates in numerous countries continue to have an 
impact on the nuclear fuel markets. 

In terms of the prospects for the SILEX technology, the 
markets for natural and enriched uranium are likely to remain 
over supplied with depressed pricing over the next few 
years. With this in mind, delays to the potential start-up 
of the Paducah tails re-enrichment project are inevitable. 
Accordingly, GLE and the DOE have been discussing 
extensions to the tails sales agreement signed in 2016 to 
ensure that this agreement remains in full force and effect 
through the period when a market recovery can be expected. 

Whilst challenges remain in the short to medium-term for the 
nuclear power industry and its fuel markets, a more positive 
outlook remains for the longer-term. There are many countries 
where government policy and commitment to climate change 
initiatives state that nuclear power should form a meaningful 
part of their energy mix in the future. We therefore believe the 
supply and demand fundamentals of the nuclear fuel markets 
are set to recover in the coming years, and that this recovery 
will support the implementation of the Paducah commercial 
plant opportunity over the coming decade.

9

SILEX ANNUAL REPORT 2019TECHNOLOGY OVERVIEW (CONTINUED)

THE cREO™ SEMICONDUCTOR 
TECHNOLOGY

Background to the cREO™ Technology 

Silex subsidiary Translucent Inc developed a novel set of 
semiconductor materials known as ‘crystalline Rare Earth 
Oxides’ (cREO™) for application to the manufacturing of 
next generation semiconductor devices used in wireless 
communications, power electronics and other advanced 
semiconductor industries. The cREO™ technology was 
purchased by UK-based IQE (AIM: IQE) in early 2018 
in accordance with the 2015 License and Assignment 
Agreement between Translucent and IQE. As a result, 
payment of US$5 million was received in September 2018 
(in IQE stock). In addition, a perpetual royalty of between 
3% and 6% will be payable to Translucent on the sale of 
any IQE products that utilise the cREO™ technology, with 
minimum annual royalties expected to commence being paid 
in FY2020.

IQE is the global leader in the design and manufacture of 
advanced semiconductor wafer products used in many of 
today’s advanced semiconductor devices, such as smart 
phones and wireless technologies. 

IQE’s Development of cREO™

The cREO™ technology was successfully transferred in late 
2015 to IQE’s Greensboro, North Carolina manufacturing 
facility for the completion of product development and 
commercialisation activities. IQE have reported good 
progress with the development and demonstration of the 
cREO™ technology for the potential integration of advanced 
high-performance compound semiconductor materials 
on silicon wafers across IQE’s portfolio. In particular, IQE 
reported continued strong progress in the development 
of their 5G RF Filter Materials Portfolio based on the 
cREO™ technology, and are actively engaged with several 
semiconductor customers to bring this product to market. 

IQE regards the cREO™ technology as an enabling technology 
that would allow it to make a step change for the integration 
of various compound semiconductor devices with large scale 
silicon wafer-based production techniques. This has the 
potential to significantly lower the cost of production of next 
generation devices such as chips for wireless communications 
devices (principally targeting next generation smart phones) 
and power electronics devices (for example, as commonly 
found in today’s solar inverters and electric vehicles). 

10

SILEX ANNUAL REPORT 2019CONCISE FINANCIAL REPORT

for the year ended 30 June 2019

SILEX SYSTEMS LIMITED  
& ITS SUBSIDIARIES

ABN 69 003 372 067

DIRECTORS’ REPORT

Your directors present their report on the consolidated entity consisting of Silex Systems Limited (Silex or the Company) and the 
entities it controlled at the end of, or during the year ended 30 June 2019.

1.  DIRECTORS
The following persons were directors of Silex Systems Limited during the whole of the financial year and up to the date of this report:

Dr M P Goldsworthy 
Mr C D Wilks 

Dr L M McIntyre and Mr R A R Lee were directors from the beginning of the year until their respective resignations on  
31 December 2018.

Mr C A Roy and Ms M K Holzberger were appointed as directors on 1 January 2019 and continue in office at the date of  
this report.

2.  PRINCIPAL ACTIVITIES
Silex is primarily focused on the development of the SILEX laser uranium enrichment technology as the next generation 
technology for the global uranium enrichment industry. The development and commercialisation program has been undertaken 
jointly by Silex at its Lucas Heights, Sydney facility and in Wilmington, North Carolina by GE-Hitachi Global Laser Enrichment 
LLC (GLE), the exclusive Licensee of the SILEX technology since 2006.

3.  DIVIDEND
No dividend payments were made during the year. No dividend has been recommended or declared by the Board.

12

SILEX ANNUAL REPORT 2019DIRECTORS’ REPORT

4.  REVIEW OF OPERATIONS AND ACTIVITIES
Information on the operations and financial position of the consolidated entity and its business strategies and prospects is set 
out below and in section 8 ‘Likely developments and expected results of operations’. 

Trading Results

A summary of consolidated revenue and results is set out below: 

Revenue from continuing operations 

Other income

(Loss) before tax

Income tax expense

Net (loss) from continuing operations

Net (loss) for the year

Net (loss) is attributable to:

Owners of Silex Systems Limited

2019 
$

744,560

1,582,190 

2018 
$

1,060,295

7,552,662

(5,153,108)

(4,579,381)

– 

– 

(5,153,108)

(5,153,108)

(4,579,381)

(4,579,381)

(5,153,108)

(4,579,381)

Key information about the consolidated operations, results and financial position

Comments on the operations and the results of those operations are set out below.

During FY2019, we continued with the execution of our strategy to preserve value and optionality for the future 
commercialisation of the SILEX laser-based uranium enrichment technology, including our intention to participate in the 
restructure of the exclusive Licensee of the SILEX technology, GE-Hitachi Global Laser Enrichment LLC (GLE).

In February 2019, we were pleased to announce the signing of a new Term Sheet between Silex, GE-Hitachi Nuclear Energy 
(GEH) and Canadian uranium miner Cameco Corporation which detailed the key terms for the joint purchase by Silex and 
Cameco of GEH’s majority interest in SILEX technology Licensee GLE. We continue to progress towards the execution of 
binding transaction documentation for the restructure of GLE and preparation of the additional documentation seeking the 
requisite approval of the transaction from the US government (USG). Subject to gaining USG approvals and closing of the 
transaction, Silex will own 51% of GLE and Cameco will increase their ownership interest from 24% to 49%. 

In parallel with the GLE restructure activities, a focused effort continued on the technology commercialisation program at both 
the Silex, Sydney and GLE, Wilmington, North Carolina project sites. Laser system development activities in Sydney included 
design optimisation for the prototype commercial-scale plant laser system. Activities in Wilmington included the preparation of 
the Test Loop facility for future deployment of prototype plant-scale equipment required for pre-commercial testing. 

Today, the SILEX technology is the only third-generation uranium enrichment technology that can be a major contributor to two 
key steps of the nuclear fuel cycle for the world’s nuclear reactor fleet. That is the production of natural grade uranium from the 
re-enrichment of tails inventories and as a supplier of enriched uranium. Whilst we remain cautious with regard to the timing of 
a recovery in the markets for nuclear fuel, we remain highly committed to the view that nuclear power remains a proven and 
extremely reliable source of zero-emissions base-load power generation. Accordingly, we continue to believe that the third-
generation SILEX uranium enrichment technology has significant potential as a key component of the nuclear fuel cycle and will 
be well placed to participate in meeting the demands of fuelling the world’s nuclear power industry in the future, including the 
emerging Small Modular Reactor technologies. 

13

SILEX ANNUAL REPORT 2019DIRECTORS’ REPORT

We were also very pleased with IQE Plc’s decision in early 2018 to purchase Silex subsidiary Translucent Inc’s cREO™ 
semiconductor material technology, resulting in the receipt of a payment of US$5 million (in IQE shares) in September 2018. In 
addition, a perpetual royalty of between 3% and 6% will be payable to Translucent on the sale of any IQE products that utilise 
the cREO™ technology. Minimum annual royalties are due for the 6 years ending 31 December 2024, with the initial minimum 
annual royalty of US$400,000 expected to be paid in FY2020.

The cREO™ technology is regarded by IQE as an enabling technology that would allow IQE to make a step change for the 
integration of various compound semiconductor devices with large-scale silicon wafer-based production techniques. This has 
the potential to significantly lower the cost of production of next generation devices such as chips for wireless communications 
devices (principally targeting next generation smart phones) and power electronics devices.

Financial review 

A summary of our consolidated income statement is set out below: 

Revenue from continuing operations

Other income

Research and development materials

Development expenditure

Employee benefits expense

Consultants and professional fees

Rent, utilities and property outgoings

Other expenses

Income tax expense

Net (loss) from continuing operations

Net (loss) for the year

2019 
$

744,560

1,582,190

(240,153)

(1,984,328)

(3,614,476)

(680,867)

(394,392)

(565,642)

2018 
$

1,060,295

7,552,662

(382,999)

(5,799,314)

(3,866,174)

(2,066,401)

(419,164)

(658,286)

 – 

 – 

(5,153,108)

(5,153,108)

(4,579,381)

(4,579,381)

The net loss from ordinary activities was $5.2m compared to $4.6m in the prior year. The increase in net loss from ordinary 
activities is mainly due to a $6.3m reduction in revenue and other income which was partly offset by a $5.7m reduction in 
expenses. The prior year included $6.4m income from the sale of Translucent’s cREO™ technology assets compared to $0.6m in 
the current year. Interest revenue also reduced from $1.0m to $0.7m in the current period as cash reserves decreased.

The $5.7m reduction in expenses included a decrease of $3.8m in Development expenditure in the current period as a result of 
the new Term Sheet signed in February 2019 for the joint purchase of GEH’s 76% interest in GLE by Silex and existing 24% GLE 
shareholder, Cameco. The new Term Sheet resulted in a lower level of funding by Silex reflecting the lower expenditure budget 
for GLE in the current year and the sharing of the funding obligation with Cameco. Consultants and professional fees expenses 
also decreased by $1.4m in the current year as a result of reduced expenditure with respect to the GLE restructure. Employee 
benefits expense also reduced by $0.3m in the current period as the Company’s headcount was declined during the year. 

Further commentary on the results from our operations and the factors contributing to the increased net loss from ordinary 
activities (after tax) attributable to members is provided below. 

Silex Systems and Silex USA 

Silex USA LLC was incorporated for the purpose of acquiring an interest in GLE and has incurred the Development expenditure 
for the continuing GLE activities following the signing of the new Term Sheet in February 2019. Silex has an obligation to fund 
US$0.2m per month and this obligation was retrospective to 1 September 2018. The combined loss of Silex Systems and 

14

SILEX ANNUAL REPORT 2019DIRECTORS’ REPORT

Silex USA decreased from $10.6m in the prior year to $5.7m. The decrease in net loss was largely attributable to a reduction in 
Development expenditure and Consultants and professional fees as outlined above. 

Translucent

The Translucent segment result was a $0.5m profit in the current year compared to a $6.1m profit in the prior year. The prior 
year result included $6.4m profit on sale of assets to IQE following IQE’s exercise of the option to acquire Translucent’s cREO™ 
technology in March 2018. The current year result included $0.6m of income which related to the accrual of royalties in 
accordance with the sale of the technology.

Balance sheet

A summary of our balance sheet is set out below: 

Assets

Total current assets 

Total non-current assets

Total assets

Liabilities

Total current liabilities

Total non-current liabilities

Total liabilities

Net assets

Equity

Total equity

30 June 2019 
$

30 June 2018 
$

37,403,440

49,668,457

113,924

119,178

37,517,364

49,787,635

1,464,376

18,802

1,483,178

36,034,186

2,588,070

118,501

2,706,571

47,081,064

36,034,186

47,081,064

As at 30 June 2019, total assets were $37.5m. Significant assets are cash holdings of $24.9m (cash and term deposits), and 
Financial assets at fair value through other comprehensive income of $10.2m (shares in IQE). Total liabilities were $1.5m. The 
reduction in net assets was due to the net loss for the year and the decline in the IQE Plc share price.

5.  EARNINGS PER SHARE

Earnings per share for (loss) from continuing operations attributable to the  
ordinary equity holders of the Company

Basic earnings per share 

Diluted earnings per share

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

Basic earnings per share

Diluted earnings per share

2019 
Cents

2018  
Cents

(3.0)

(3.0)

(3.0)

(3.0)

(2.7)

(2.7)

(2.7)

(2.7)

15

SILEX ANNUAL REPORT 2019DIRECTORS’ REPORT

6.  SIGNIFICANT CHANGES IN STATE OF AFFAIRS
In February 2019, Silex, Cameco and GE-Hitachi Nuclear Energy (GEH) executed a new Term Sheet outlining key terms for 
the purchase of GEH’s 76% interest in GE-Hitachi Global Laser Enrichment LLC (GLE), the exclusive Licensee of the SILEX 
technology. The new Term Sheet contemplates GEH selling all of its 76% interest in GLE (i.e. selling 51% of its GLE interest to 
Silex and its remaining 25% interest to Cameco, increasing its interest in GLE from 24% to 49%). The transaction is subject to 
the satisfactory finalisation of binding transaction documentation and obtaining US Government approvals. While the new Term 
Sheet is primarily Non-binding, there are certain binding provisions including a financial obligation to reimburse GEH an amount 
of US$153,000 per month until completion of the transaction or until termination of negotiations. This monthly funding obligation 
was retrospective to 1 September 2018. This monthly funding commitment has been incurred by Silex USA LLC.

7.  MATTERS SUBSEQUENT TO THE END OF THE FINANCIAL YEAR
Between 30 June 2019 and the date of this report, the IQE Plc share price (AIM: IQE) has decreased significantly. Combined 
with movements in exchange rates, the value of the shares held at 30 June 2019 (disclosed as Financial assets at fair value 
through other comprehensive income) has decreased by approximately $1,380,000 since 30 June 2019. Gains or losses 
arising from changes in the fair value of shares classified as financial assets at fair value through other comprehensive income 
are recognised in other comprehensive income. The financial effects of the movements in fair value since 30 June 2019 will be 
recognised in the financial statements for the year ended 30 June 2020.

The consolidated entity is not aware of any other matters or circumstances which are not otherwise dealt with in the financial 
statements that have significantly, or may significantly, affect the operations of the consolidated entity, the results of its 
operations or the state of the consolidated entity in subsequent years other than those referred to in this Directors’ Report.

16

SILEX ANNUAL REPORT 2019DIRECTORS’ REPORT

8.  LIKELY DEVELOPMENTS AND EXPECTED RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

Overview

Silex is primarily focused on the development of the SILEX laser uranium enrichment technology as the next generation technology 
for the global uranium enrichment industry. The development and commercialisation program has been undertaken jointly by Silex 
at its Lucas Heights facility and in Wilmington, North Carolina by GLE, the exclusive Licensee of the SILEX technology since 2006. 
GLE has been undergoing a restructure due to GEH's stated intention to exit GLE, due to changes in business priorities and the 
continuing adverse market conditions driven by the Fukushima disaster in 2011. 

In February 2019, Silex announced the signing of a new Term Sheet between Silex and Canadian uranium miner Cameco 
Corporation (Cameco) and GEH to provide a framework for the parties to arrive at a mutually acceptable restructure of GLE. 
The new Term Sheet outlined the proposed transaction the parties would enter into for the purchase of GEH’s 76% interest in 
GLE, which upon closing would result in Silex acquiring a 51% interest in GLE and Cameco increasing its interest in GLE from 
24% to 49%. Silex has pursued the restructure of GLE to enable the Company to have greater involvement in the technology 
commercialisation program in the future. 

The parties continue to work diligently on the binding transaction documentation for the restructure of GLE. Silex and Cameco 
are also negotiating several ancillary documents which will support the restructure of GLE under the proposed transaction, 
including a new shareholders’ agreement for the governance of GLE after closing of the transaction. In the event transaction 
documentation is executed, transaction closing will be conditional, among other things, on obtaining US Government approvals 
and on the 2016 GLE-DOE Sales Agreement (for GLE’s purchase of DOE depleted tails inventories) remaining in full force and 
effect. Silex and Cameco have also negotiated several other key terms that will take effect from transaction closing, including 
an option for Cameco to purchase from Silex at fair market value, an additional 26% interest in GLE, potentially increasing their 
interest to 75% (subject to US Government approvals).

Silex’s potential acquisition of an interest in GLE does not affect the Amended and Restated Technology Commercialisation and 
License Agreement (ARTCLA) signed between Silex and GLE in 2013. In accordance with the ARTCLA, Silex will be entitled to 
a perpetual royalty between 7 – 12% on revenues generated by GLE from any future use of the SILEX technology, including the 
Paducah commercial plant opportunity. In addition, further milestone payments of US$20m will also be payable to Silex in the 
event the SILEX technology is commercialised by GLE. However, in light of the current market conditions and the slowdown of 
GLE’s commercialisation program, the receipt of potential milestone payments and royalties remains uncertain. 

The Company continues to take a cautious approach to the SILEX technology commercialisation program in line with current 
market conditions. 

UK-based IQE Plc elected to purchase Silex subsidiary Translucent’s cREO™ semiconductor material technology in early 
2018, resulting in the receipt of a payment of US$5m (in IQE shares) in September 2018. IQE’s business case appears to be 
strengthening in several key semiconductor markets of which the cREO™ technology could be utilised in a number of emerging 
and fast-growing semiconductor device markets. In addition to the US$5m payment received for the sale of the technology, 
a perpetual royalty between 3% and 6% will be payable to Translucent on the sale of any IQE products that utilise the cREO™ 
technology. Minimum annual royalties are due for the 6 years ending 31 December 2024, with the initial minimum annual royalty 
of US$400,000 expected to be paid in FY2020. 

The Company continues to assess alternative uses of the core SILEX laser enrichment technology and has identified  
some emerging and potentially attractive applications for stable isotope enrichment. The evaluation of a number of  
opportunities continues. 

The Company’s future prospects and results remain largely dependent on the outcomes of the commercialisation programs 
for the SILEX and cREO™ technologies, the GLE restructure and funding for the remaining commercialisation program, and a 
recovery in the markets for both uranium and enrichment services.

17

SILEX ANNUAL REPORT 2019DIRECTORS’ REPORT

Business strategies and future prospects 

The SILEX Technology 

The Company’s strategic focus is on the commercialisation of our core asset, the SILEX laser-based uranium enrichment 
technology in collaboration with exclusive Licensee GLE. Whilst we remain cautious with regard to the timing of a recovery in the 
markets for nuclear fuel, we continue to believe that the third-generation SILEX uranium enrichment technology has significant 
potential as a key component of the nuclear fuel cycle and will be well placed to participate in meeting the demands of fuelling 
the world’s nuclear power industry in the future. This includes fuel for the existing fleet of conventional nuclear power reactors 
and the emerging Small Modular Reactor (SMR) technologies. Fundamental to the execution of our strategy, are the following:

•  increasing Silex’s involvement in the SILEX technology commercialisation program through the GLE restructure;

•  continuing to build our relationship with Cameco, one of the world’s largest uranium and nuclear fuel suppliers;

•  strengthening our presence in the US, the primary target market for deployment of the SILEX technology;

•  preserving the 2016 GLE-DOE Sales Agreement which underpins the proposed Paducah commercial plant project;

•  retaining our talent and maintaining our Sydney facility as a centre of innovation; and

•  focusing on effective cost management to ensure the most efficient use of cash reserves.

The SILEX technology represents a unique third-generation laser-based solution for production of two key components of 
nuclear power reactor fuel: 

•  natural grade uranium via the re-enrichment of tails inventories (i.e. the Paducah commercial plant project); and

•  enriched uranium for use as fuel in today’s conventional nuclear power reactors - in the form of low enriched uranium (LEU), as 

well as customised fuel for the next generation fleet of SMRs - in the form of high assay LEU.

Ultimately, the future of the technology and likelihood of success in the remaining commercialisation program is intrinsically tied 
to a recovery in the global markets for natural and enriched uranium and to successfully completing the GLE restructure. 

Status of Nuclear Fuel Markets

Market conditions in the nuclear fuel industry are expected to remain challenging for some time. The ongoing delays to the 
restart of the Japanese nuclear fleet, the premature retirement of plants in the US, Japan and Europe and ongoing energy policy 
debates in numerous countries continue to have an impact on the nuclear fuel markets. As a result, the short to medium-term 
demand for uranium and enrichment remains low and prices continue to remain depressed. However, the long-term value 
proposition for nuclear energy and its fuel markets remains positive. There are many countries which have prioritised government 
policy initiatives relating to climate change and energy security stating that nuclear should form a meaningful part of their energy 
mix in the future. 

According to the World Nuclear Association, there are currently 444 operable nuclear reactors today, and 54 nuclear reactors 
under construction. The US is the world’s largest producer of nuclear power, with 97 operable reactors accounting for more 
than 30% of worldwide nuclear generation of electricity. China is the fastest growing nuclear energy market, with 47 reactors 
in operation, 11 reactors under construction and a pipeline of over 200 proposed reactors for construction. In addition, there is 
the potential for commercialisation of next-generation SMRs – which may offer significant advantages over large conventional 
nuclear power reactors. SMRs have the potential to be cheaper and simpler to construct, and as a producer of base load 
generation to compete favourably with intermittent distributed generation such as solar and wind. There are currently numerous 
SMR development programs advancing around the world. 

Whilst challenges remain in the short to medium-term for the nuclear power industry and its fuel markets, a more positive 
outlook remains for the long-term. Accordingly we believe the supply and demand fundamentals in nuclear fuel markets will 
recover in the coming years.

18

SILEX ANNUAL REPORT 2019DIRECTORS’ REPORT

The cREO™ Technology

In March 2018, IQE Plc (AIM: IQE) elected to purchase the cREO™ technology, in accordance with the 2015 License and 
Assignment Agreement signed between Translucent and IQE. A payment of US$5m was received in September 2018 (in IQE 
shares). In addition, minimum annual royalties are due for the 6 years ending 31 December 2024, with the initial minimum 
annual royalty of US$400,000 expected to be paid in FY2020. IQE remains committed to the cREO™ commercialisation 
program and the plan to utilise the technology in several key global advanced semiconductor wafer product markets.

Stable Isotopes 

We view a potential stable isotope program as a way of utilising our significant laser isotope separation expertise in nearer term 
commercial opportunities. The Company continues to assess alternative uses of the SILEX technology and in particular the 
assessment of potentially attractive applications for stable isotope production. The evaluation of a number of opportunities is 
being conducted after which the Company will consider the merits of supporting a focused program to enhance the value of the 
Company's IP portfolio. 

Outlook

The Company’s future prospects and results will remain largely dependent on the outcomes of the commercialisation programs 
for the SILEX and cREO™ technologies; the future of GLE and the Paducah opportunity; the availability of funding for the 
remaining commercialisation programs; and a recovery in the markets for both uranium and enrichment services.

19

SILEX ANNUAL REPORT 2019DIRECTORS’ REPORT

9. 

INFORMATION ON DIRECTORS

a)  Directors’ profiles

The following information is current as at the date of this report:

Mr Craig Roy MBA, MSc, FAICD.  
Chair – Independent non-executive director

Experience and expertise

Independent non-executive director and Chair since January 
2019. Former Deputy CEO of the CSIRO. Extensive experience as 
a company director and is currently a Non-executive Director of 
Sydney Water and Chair of the Australian Research Data Commons.

Other current listed company directorships

Former listed company directorships in last 3 years

None

None

Special responsibilities

Chair of the Board 
Member of Audit Committee 
Chair of People & Remuneration Committee

Interests in shares and options

Ordinary shares – Silex Systems Limited

Options over ordinary shares –  
Silex Systems Limited

150,000

Nil

Dr Michael Goldsworthy BSc (Hons), MSc, PhD, FAIP, GAICD.  
Chief Executive Officer/Managing Director 

Experience and expertise

CEO/MD for twenty-seven years. Founder of the Company and co-
inventor of the SILEX uranium enrichment technology.

Other current listed company directorships

Former listed company directorships in last 3 years

None

None

Special responsibilities

Interests in shares and options

 Chief Executive Officer / Managing Director

Ordinary shares – Silex Systems Limited

Options over ordinary shares –  
Silex Systems Limited

5,979,055

Nil

Ms Melissa Holzberger LLM, Dip Intl Nuclear Law, LLB, BA, GDLP, FGIA, GAICD.  
Independent non-executive director

Experience and expertise

Independent non-executive director since January 2019. 
Experienced company director, commercial lawyer and international 
nuclear law specialist. Founder and principal of the firm Sloan 
Holzberger Lawyers and is a member of the Federal Government’s 
Australian Radiation Protection and Nuclear Safety Agency’s 
(ARPANSA) Radiation Health and Safety Advisory Council.

Other current listed company directorships

Former listed company directorships in last 3 years

None

None

Special responsibilities

Chair of Audit Committee
Member of People & Remuneration Committee 

Interests in shares and options

Ordinary shares – Silex Systems Limited

Options over ordinary shares –  
Silex Systems Limited

27,777

Nil

20

SILEX ANNUAL REPORT 2019DIRECTORS’ REPORT

Mr Christopher Wilks BComm, FAICD. 
Non-executive director

Experience and expertise

Other current listed company directorships

Non-executive director for thirty-one years. Finance director and 
CFO of Sonic Healthcare Limited. Various directorships of public 
companies held over the years.

Executive director of Sonic Healthcare Limited since 1989 (Finance 
director since 1993)

Former listed company directorships in last 3 years

None

Special responsibilities

Member of Audit Committee  
Member of People & Remuneration Committee

Interests in shares and options

Ordinary shares – Silex Systems Limited

Options over ordinary shares –  
Silex Systems Limited

2,814,021

Nil

The following directors are former directors of the Silex Board:

Dr Lisa McIntyre BSc (Hons), PhD, GAICD.  
Chair – Independent non-executive director. Resigned 31 December 2018.

Experience and expertise

Independent non-executive director for 6.5 years and Chair for 4.5 
years. Extensive experience as a Company Director. Executive career 
in strategy, commercialisation and performance support as a senior 
partner of global strategy firm L.E.K. Consulting for 20 years.

Other current listed company directorships

None

Former listed company directorships in last 3 years

Special responsibilities

Interests in shares and options

Non-executive director of Cover-More Group Limited from November 
2013 to April 2017

Chair of the Board (until 31 December 2018)
Member of Audit Committee (until 31 December 2018)
Chair of People & Remuneration Committee (until 31 December 2018)

Ordinary shares – Silex Systems Limited 
(as at 31 December 2018)

Options over ordinary shares –  
Silex Systems Limited

48,230

Nil

Mr Robert Lee BSc MBA, GAICD. 
Independent non-executive director. Resigned 31 December 2018.

Experience and expertise

Independent non-executive director for 3.5 years. Experienced 
company director, corporate adviser and former Executive Director of 
Macquarie Group Limited.

Other current listed company directorships

Former listed company directorships in last 3 years

None

None

Special responsibilities

Interests in shares and options

Chair of Audit Committee (until 31 December 2018)
Member of People & Remuneration Committee  
(until 31 December 2018)

Ordinary shares – Silex Systems Limited 
(as at 31 December 2018)

Options over ordinary shares –  
Silex Systems Limited

Nil

Nil

21

SILEX ANNUAL REPORT 2019DIRECTORS’ REPORT

10.  MEETINGS
The number of directors’ meetings held during the financial year and the number of meetings attended by each director are set 
out in the following table:

Director’s name

Mr C A Roy* 

Dr M P Goldsworthy

Ms M K Holzberger* 

Mr C D Wilks

Former Directors

Dr L M McIntyre**

Mr R A R Lee** 

Directors’  
Meetings

Audit Committee 
Meetings

People & Renumeration 
Committee Meetings

Number 
Held1

Number 
Attended

Number 
Held1

Number 
Attended

Number 
Held1

Number 
Attended

7

14

7

14

7

7

7

14

7

14

7

7

2

▲

2

4

2

2

2

▲ 

2

4

2

2

1

▲

1

1

–

–

1

▲

1

1

–

–

1.  Number of meetings held during the time the director held office or was a member of the committee during the year 
▲  Not a member of the relevant committee at the time the scheduled meetings were held 
* 
From appointment on 1 January 2019 
**  Until retirement on 31 December 2018

22

SILEX ANNUAL REPORT 2019DIRECTORS’ REPORT

11.  REMUNERATION REPORT 
We are pleased to present to you the FY2019 Silex Systems Limited Remuneration Report, for which we seek your support at 
our Annual General Meeting in November 2019. The details of the remuneration received by the Company’s Key Management 
Personnel (KMP) are prepared in accordance with accounting standards, legislative requirements and best practice corporate 
governance guidance.

As a result of the restructure of the Silex Board and People & Remuneration Committee in January 2019, we took the 
opportunity to conduct a review of the Company’s remuneration strategy, policy and framework, and executive KMP 
remuneration. The Committee is responsible for making remuneration recommendations to the Silex Board for approval. 

Our remuneration strategy has the following objectives:

•  attract, motivate and retain highly qualified and specialised personnel;

•  alignment of remuneration outcomes with the successful delivery of the Company’s strategy; and

•  align the interests of our directors and executive KMP with Silex’s shareholders. 

As detailed in this report, we are pleased that all members of the Silex Board and KMP now hold shares in the Company. 
The Committee and the Board also believe equity-based compensation is important to reduce pressure on our cashflow 
and to motivate employees to align their interests with those of our shareholders to drive outcomes in the longer term. We 
were therefore pleased to reintroduce an Employee Incentive Plan (EIP) for all employees in May 2019. All staff are entitled 
to participate in employee share and option arrangements and the EIP provides the opportunity to receive equity-based 
compensation to drive performance and to incentivise retention. The new EIP allows us to use a variety of equity awards, vesting 
criteria, eligibility and key performance indicators as may be appropriate from time to time. 

We invite you to review the full remuneration report and we look forward to answering any questions you may have at our Annual 
General Meeting in November 2019.

Craig Roy 
Chair, People & Remuneration Committee

23

SILEX ANNUAL REPORT 2019 
DIRECTORS’ REPORT

The Directors present the Remuneration Report for the year ended 30 June 2019, outlining key aspects of our remuneration 
policy and framework, and remuneration awarded for the Company’s non-executive directors, executive directors and other 
executive Key Management Personnel (KMP).

The report contains the following sections:

a)  Directors and KMP disclosed in this report 
b)  Remuneration governance 
c)  Linking remuneration structure to Company performance 
d)  Voting at the Company’s 2018 Annual General Meeting 
e)  Executive KMP remuneration structure 
f) 
g)  Contractual arrangements with executive KMPs 
h)  Non-executive directors’ remuneration arrangements 
i)  Directors’ and KMP remuneration 
j)  Performance based remuneration granted and forfeited during the year

Link between FY2019 remuneration and performance 

a)  Directors and KMP disclosed in this report

The 2019 Remuneration Report has been prepared in accordance with the requirements of section 300A of the Corporations 
Act 2001 and accounting standard requirements and applies to KMP of the Company. KMP are defined as those persons who 
have authority and responsibility for planning, directing and controlling the activities of the Company. 

Name

Position

Non-executive and executive directors

Mr C A Roy (from 1 January 2019)

Chair and Non-executive director

Dr M P Goldsworthy

CEO/Managing Director – Executive director

Ms M K Holzberger (from 1 January 2019)

Mr C D Wilks

Former Non-executive directors

Non-executive director

Non-executive director 

Dr L M McIntyre (until 31 December 2018)

Chair and Non-executive director 

Mr R A R Lee (until 31 December 2018)

Non-executive director 

Other executive KMP 

Ms J E Ducie

CFO/Company Secretary

b)  Remuneration governance

Board oversight

The Silex Board is ultimately responsible for ensuring that the Company’s remuneration structure is equitable and aligned with 
the long-term interests of shareholders. The Board and its advisors are independent of Management when making decisions 
affecting employee remuneration. 

24

SILEX ANNUAL REPORT 2019DIRECTORS’ REPORT

People & Remuneration Committee structure

The People & Remuneration Committee is a committee of the Board comprised of a majority of independent non-executive 
directors. The Chair of the committee is also an independent non-executive director. Its role is to make recommendations to the 
Board regarding the Company’s remuneration policies and practices, including those applicable to the Company’s KMP.

Members of the People & Remuneration Committee as at the 30 June 2019 were as follows:

Committee members

Committee secretary

Number of meetings in FY2019

Mr C A Roy – Chair
Ms M K Holzberger
Mr C D Wilks

Ms J E Ducie

1

Other individuals who regularly attended meetings

Dr M P Goldsworthy – CEO/MD

The role of the People & Remuneration Committee is to: 

•  Review and recommend to the Board the appropriate remuneration policies and practices that are competitive and reasonable 

for the Company and its specific application to KMP, as well as the general application to all employees;

•  Determine and recommend remuneration levels of the CEO/MD and CFO/Company Secretary for Board approval; 

•  Manage the incentive plans which apply to executive directors and senior executives (the executive team), including key 

performance indicators and performance hurdles; and

•  Review and make recommendations to the Board regarding the remuneration of non-executive directors.

The role and responsibilities of the People & Remuneration Committee are set out in the People & Remuneration Committee 
Charter, which is available on the Company’s website at www.silex.com.au/Corporate-Governance. 

The Company did not engage remuneration consultants during FY2019. The Company accesses market data and industry 
remuneration surveys and reports on a regular basis.

c)  Linking remuneration structure to Company performance

Remuneration strategy, policy and framework

In determining executive KMP remuneration, the Board’s policy is based on the principle of aligning remuneration outcomes 
with the successful delivery of strategy whilst ensuring our remuneration practices are designed to attract, motivate and retain 
highly qualified and specialised personnel. High regard for contemporary market practice, good governance and alignment to 
changing business circumstances is maintained at all times. The Company aims to reward executive KMP with a level and mix of 
remuneration commensurate with their position and responsibilities within the Company that is competitive within the market. 

Remuneration for executive KMP is reviewed annually and considers market data, insights into remuneration trends, the 
performance of the Company and the individual, and the broader economic and operating environment. This review may be 
conducted in consultation with independent remuneration consultants where appropriate.

Following a detailed review of executive KMP remuneration during the second half of FY2019, the Board resolved to reinstate 
at-risk Long-term incentives (LTIs) for the CEO/MD and CFO/Company Secretary. Given our executive KMP’s ability to influence 
outcomes, a transition will be made over the coming years to set a greater portion of their overall remuneration packages ‘at 
risk’ and using equity-based incentives. The Board was conscious of the need to effectively manage cashflow, and the LTI was 
structured to utilise equity to ensure this outcome.

25

SILEX ANNUAL REPORT 2019DIRECTORS’ REPORT

The STI for the CFO/Company Secretary was also restructured as part of the review. With respect to FY2019, a $60,000 
time-based retainer that expired on 31 December 2018 was awarded and paid in May 2019. An additional $45,000 maximum 
STI opportunity was put in place in May, and is tied to specific business and performance outcomes with the performance 
period expiring in December 2019. In addition, it was agreed that a reduced maximum STI of $20,000 will be offered to the 
CFO/Company Secretary for FY2020. Given the long-term strategic contribution of our CEO/MD and the decision to proceed 
with an equity-based LTI (subject to shareholder approval), the Board deemed it not appropriate for him to be offered a STI.

The executive KMP remuneration framework will comprise two components:

•  Total fixed remuneration; and 

•  At-risk incentives.

Element

Purpose

Performance Metrics

Potential Value

Total Fixed Remuneration 
(TFR)

STI*

LTI*

Provide competitive 
market salary, including 
superannuation and non-
monetary benefits.

Reward for in-year 
performance

Alignment to long-term 
shareholder value

Reference to role, market and 
experience.

Positioned at median  
market rate.

Performance may be linked to 
financial metrics such as cash 
flow management and to non-
financial measures, such as 
commercial deliverables, and 
other specific operational and 
strategic deliverables for the 
Company.

Performance linked to 
contribution to the creation 
of shareholder value over the 
longer term.

CEO: N/A
CFO: $105,000 for the 
18-month period 1 July 2018 
to 31 December 2019
CFO: $20,000 for FY2020

CEO: Potential award of 
100,000 options subject to 
shareholder approval at the 
2019 AGM
CFO: 100,000 options issued 
in May 2019. Potential value 
of options issued to CFO: 
$16,350

* At all times the Board has the discretion to make a final determination based on share price performance or other factors. Incentive awards 
may be clawed back if the relevant executive acts fraudulently or dishonestly or breaches their obligations to the Company.

Assessing performance and claw-back of remuneration

The People & Remuneration Committee is responsible for assessing performance against KPIs and determining the incentive 
awards to be paid to all senior management. To assist in this assessment, the Committee receives detailed reports on 
performance from Management which are based on independently verifiable data such as financial measures, market 
information and data from independently run surveys. At all times, the Board has the discretion to make a final determination. 

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

d)  Voting at the Company’s 2018 Annual General Meeting

Silex Systems Limited received more than 98% of “yes” votes on its Remuneration Report for the 2018 financial year.

26

SILEX ANNUAL REPORT 2019DIRECTORS’ REPORT

e)  Executive KMP remuneration structure

A detailed review of the structure of executive KMP remuneration was completed in 2H FY2019. The resulting remuneration 
structure is as follows: 

CEO/MD

CFO/Company Secretary

Total Fixed Remuneration (TFR)

Composition 

Assessment 

Base salary, superannuation and packaged motor 
vehicle benefits

Base salary and superannuation 

Based on responsibilities, performance and  
market data

Based on responsibilities, performance and  
market data

At risk

No

No

Maximum Short-Term Incentive Plan Opportunity

Composition 

Nil

Assessment 

N/A 

Board 
discretion

N/A

Other Long-Term Incentives

STI restructured in FY2019 and maximum value of 
STI set at $105,000 for an 18-month performance 
period expiring in December 2019. Awards may 
be paid in cash or by the issue of restricted Silex 
Systems Limited ordinary shares.
For FY2020, the maximum STI opportunity has been 
decreased to $20,000.

The KPIs comprises a retention objective and 
the achievement of strategic and commercial 
performance measures.

The Board has discretion to adjust remuneration 
outcomes up or down to prevent any inappropriate 
reward outcomes, including reducing (down to zero, 
if appropriate) any STI award.

Composition 

An equity-based LTI may be granted annually at the 
discretion of the Board. At the present time, the LTI 
is intended to comprise an annual grant of options. 

An equity-based LTI may be granted annually at the 
discretion of the Board. At the present time, the LTI 
is intended to comprise an annual grant of options.

Opportunity

Issue of 100,000 options.

Issue of 100,000 options.

Assessment 

Exercise price

The annual equity-based LTI will have a 3-year 
vesting period and may have performance criteria in 
accordance with current strategic objectives of the 
Company. The FY2019 equity-based LTI grant is 
subject to shareholder approval at the AGM. In the 
event shareholder approval is received for the LTI 
grant, and the options are eligible to be exercised, any 
resulting allotment of Silex Systems Limited shares will 
be subject to a further escrow period of 2 years. 

Should shareholder approval be received for the 
FY2019 grant, the options’ exercise price will be 
$0.35. This exercise price was determined based 
on the volume weighted average price at which the 
Company’s shares were traded on the Australian 
Stock Exchange for the 10-trading days preceding 
the issue of options to staff in accordance with the 
EIP in May 2019.

The annual equity-based LTI will have a 3-year 
vesting period and may have performance criteria in 
accordance with current strategic objectives of the 
Company. Any resulting allotment of Silex Systems 
Limited shares will be subject to a further escrow 
period of 2 years. 

The options’ exercise price is determined based 
on the volume weighted average price at which 
the Company’s shares are traded on the Australian 
Stock Exchange for the 10-trading days preceding 
the grant date. For the May 2019 issue of options, 
the exercise price is $0.35.

Forfeiture and 
termination

Options will lapse if performance conditions are 
not met. Options will be forfeited on cessation of 
employment unless the Board determines otherwise.

Options will lapse if performance conditions are 
not met. Options will be forfeited on cessation of 
employment unless the Board determines otherwise.

27

SILEX ANNUAL REPORT 2019DIRECTORS’ REPORT

TFR is comprised of base salary, superannuation and packaged benefits. TFR is reviewed annually, or on promotion. It is 
benchmarked against market data for comparable roles in companies in a similar industry and with similar market capitalisation. 
The Committee aims to position executives at or near the median, with flexibility to take into account capability, experience, and 
value to the organisation and performance of the individual. For FY2019, the TFR for our CEO/MD and CFO/Company Secretary 
remained unchanged. 

f)  Link between FY2019 remuneration and performance

FY2019 performance and impact on remuneration

The Company restructured executive KMP remuneration during FY2019 with the reinstatement of incentives. The changes will 
not be fully implemented until FY2020.

Statutory performance indicators

We aim to align executive KMP remuneration to our strategic and business objectives and the creation of shareholder 
wealth. The below table shows measures of the Company’s financial performance over the last five years as required by the 
Corporations Act 2001. However, as a pre-revenue company, the below measures are generally not the measures used in 
determining the variable amounts of remuneration to be awarded to KMPs. As a consequence, there is only a partial correlation 
between the statutory key performance measures and the variable remuneration awarded.

Year ended 30 June

2015

2016

2017

2018

2019

EPS 
Cents

(21.1)

(2.0)

(5.9)

(2.7)

(3.0)

Total STI awards to KMP 
$

Share price at 30 June 
$

322,400

 211,000 

 12,500 

 N/A 

60,000

0.46

0.31

0.37

0.20

0.40 

g)  Contractual arrangements with executive KMPs

Component

Total Fixed Remuneration

CEO/MD

$550,000

CFO/Company Secretary

$325,000

Contract duration

Ongoing Common Law Contract

Ongoing Common Law Contract

Notice by the individual  
or Company

Termination of employment 
(without cause)

6 months

6 months

Partial payment for pro-rata STI, if applicable, 
may be at Board discretion
Unvested LTI may remain on foot subject to 
achievement of the performance criteria at 
the original date of testing
Payment of Long Service Leave accrued 
prior to 31 December 2014 at pre-1 January 
2015 TFR of $800,000. Long Service Leave 
accrued after 1 January 2015 will be payable 
as per statutory requirements

Partial payment for pro-rata STI, if applicable, 
may be at Board discretion
Unvested LTI may remain on foot subject to 
achievement of the performance criteria at 
the original date of testing

Termination of employment (with 
cause) or by the individual

STI is not awarded and all unvested LTI  
will lapse
Vested and unexercised LTI may be exercised 
following termination at Board discretion 

STI is not awarded, and all unvested LTI  
will lapse
Vested and unexercised LTI may be exercised 
following termination at Board discretion

28

SILEX ANNUAL REPORT 2019DIRECTORS’ REPORT

h)  Non-executive directors’ remuneration arrangements

Non-executive directors receive a directors' fee. They do not receive performance-based pay or retirement allowances. The fees 
are exclusive of superannuation. 

The aggregate non-executive directors’ fees are reviewed periodically by the Board taking into account comparable roles and 
market data. The non-executive directors’ fees remain well within the limits of the shareholder approved aggregate directors' fee 
pool maximum of $750,000, as approved by shareholders at the 2011 AGM. The Silex Board currently comprises three non-
executive directors and an executive director. Given the current circumstances of the Company, the Board has decided not to 
award non-executive directors committee fees at this time. This situation is periodically reviewed. Additional fees may be payable 
to non-executive directors should they undertake specific consulting projects for the Company in the areas of their expertise. No 
additional fees were paid for additional services and consulting rendered during FY2019.

The current fee structure is outlined below:

Board

Committee

Chair

100,000

–

Member

80,000

–

29

SILEX ANNUAL REPORT 2019DIRECTORS’ REPORT

i)  Directors’ and KMP remuneration

The table below has been prepared in accordance with the requirements of the Corporations Act 2001 and relevant accounting 
regulations in Australia. This table details the remuneration for the Company’s KMP for the current and previous financial year.

 Fixed remuneration

Variable 
remuneration 

Cash salary 
and fees* 
$

Non-
monetary 
benefits* 
$

Annual 
and Long 
service 
leave** 
$

Post- 
employment 
benefits 
– super-
annuation 
$

Cash 
bonus* 
$

Options***
$

Total 
$

Name

Year

Executive directors

Dr M P  
Goldsworthy

2019

2018

522,275

521,206

6,737

7,222

4,195

55,829

23,731

21,249

Non–executive directors (NED)

Mr C A Roy
(from 1/1/2019)

Ms M K 
Holzberger
(from 1/1/2019)

Mr C D Wilks 

Former Directors

Dr L M McIntyre 
(until 31/12/2018)

Mr R A R Lee
(until 31/12/2018)

2019

2018

2019

2018

2019

2018

2019

2018

2019

2018

Other Executive KMP

Ms J E Ducie 

Total executive 
directors and  
other KMP

Total NED 
remuneration 

Total KMP 
remuneration 

2019

2018

2019

2018

2019

2018

2019

2018

50,000

– 

40,000

– 

80,000

80,000

50,000

100,000

40,000

80,000

300,569

302,551

822,844

823,757

260,000

260,000

1,082,844

1,083,757

– 

 – 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

 – 

 – 

 – 

6,737

7,222

– 

– 

6,737

7,222

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

 – 

12,002

(1,067)

16,197

54,762

– 

– 

16,197

54,762

4,750

– 

3,800

– 

7,600

7,600

4,750

9,500

3,800

7,600

24,431

22,449

48,162

43,698

24,700

24,700

72,862

68,398

– 

–

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

 – 

741 

 557,679 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

 – 

605,506 

54,750

 – 

43,800

 – 

87,600 

87,600 

54,750 

109,500 

43,800 

87,600 

60,000 

 – 

581 

– 

 397,583 

 323,933 

60,000 

1,322 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

955,262 

929,439 

284,700

284,700

60,000 

1,322 

1,239,962 

– 

– 

1,214,139 

* Short-term benefits as per Corporations Regulations 2M 3.03(1) Item 6.

** Other long-term benefits as per Corporations Regulations 2M 3.03(1) Item 8; Amount for Dr M P Goldsworthy for 2018 includes a correction to 
the Long Service Leave accrual to reflect the preservation of his pre-1 January 2015 Long Service Leave entitlement at his pre-1 January 2015 TFR 
of $800,000. In the event Long Service Leave is taken in the ordinary course of business, payment for leave will be as per statutory requirements.

*** Equity-settled share-based payments as per Corporations Regulations 2M.3.03(1) Item 11. 

30

SILEX ANNUAL REPORT 2019DIRECTORS’ REPORT

The relative proportions of remuneration that are linked to performance and those that are fixed are as follows:

Name

Directors

Mr C A Roy

Dr M P Goldsworthy 

Ms M K Holzberger

Mr C D Wilks

Former Directors

Dr L M McIntyre

Mr R A R Lee

Other Executive KMP

Ms J E Ducie

 Fixed remuneration

 At risk – STI

 At risk – LTI

2019

2018

2019

2018

2019*

2018

100.0%

99.9%

100.0%

100.0%

N/A

100.0%

N/A

100.0%

100.0%

100.0%

100.0%

100.0%

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

84.8%

100.0%

15.1%

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

0.1%

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

0.1%

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

* Equity-settled share-based payments as per Corporations Regulations 2M.3.03(1) Item 11; At risk LTI for Dr M P Goldsworthy is subject to 
shareholder approval at the 2019 AGM.

j)  Performance-based remuneration granted and forfeited during the year 

Name

Dr M P Goldsworthy

Ms J E Ducie*

Total opportunity
$

–

105,000

Total STI

Awarded 
%

– 

57.1%

LTI (Options)

Forfeited 
%

Value granted**
$

Value exercised 
$

– 

– 

– 

16,350

–

–

* Performance criteria for $45,000 of Total opportunity expires 31 December 2019.

**The value at grant date calculated in accordance with AASB 2 Share-based Payment of options granted during the year as part of remuneration.

The FY2019 STI for the CFO/Company Secretary was restructured to include a $60,000 time-based retainer that expired on 
31 December 2018 and was subsequently awarded and paid in May 2019. An additional $45,000 maximum STI opportunity 
was put in place in May 2019 with a performance period expiring in December 2019. In addition, it was agreed that a reduced 
maximum STI of $20,000 will be offered to the CFO/Company Secretary for FY2020. Given the long-term strategic contribution 
of our CEO/MD and the proposed offer of an equity-based LTI – the Board deemed it not appropriate for him to be offered a STI.

LTI – Options

The terms and conditions the grant of options affecting remuneration in the current reporting period are as follows:

Grant Date

Vesting and 
exercise date

Expiry date

Exercise price 
$

Value per 
option at  
grant date 
$

Performance 
achieved

21/05/19

20/05/22

20/05/24

0.35

0.1635  To be determined

Vested 
%

N/A

The number of options over ordinary shares in the Company provided as remuneration to executive KMP is shown below. The 
options carry no dividend or voting rights.

31

SILEX ANNUAL REPORT 2019 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
DIRECTORS’ REPORT

When exercisable, each option is convertible into one ordinary share of Silex Systems Limited. The exercise price is determined 
based on the volume weighted average price at which the Company’s shares are traded on the Australian Stock Exchange for 
the 10-trading days preceding the grant date. There were no options exercised by any individual during FY2019 (or FY2018).

The potential grant of options to our CEO/MD is subject to shareholder approval at the 2019 AGM. If granted, details will be 
provided to the ASX and included in the Remuneration Report for the year ending 30 June 2020. 

Options held by KMP

Name and 
grant date

Balance at the 
start of the year

Granted as 

compensation Number

% Exercised

Other 
changes

Vested and 
exercisable

Unvested

Vested

Balance at end of year

Ms J E Ducie - 
21 May 2019

Shares held by KMP

–

100,000

–

–

–

–

–

100,000

The below table shows the number of ordinary shares in the Company that were held during the financial year by KMP of the 
Company, including by entities related to them:

Name

Directors

Mr C A Roy 

Dr M P Goldsworthy

Ms M K Holzberger 

Mr C D Wilks

Former Directors

Dr L M McIntyre*

Mr R A R Lee*

Other Executive KMP

Ms J E Ducie

Balance at the 
start of the year

Received during 
the year on  
the exercise  
of options

Received on 
vesting of rights 
to shares

Other changes 
during the year

Balance at the 
end of the year

 N/A

 5,979,055 

 N/A 

 2,814,021 

 48,230 

–

 3,759 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

–

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

 – 

–

–

 150,000

– 

 27,777 

– 

 – 

–

150,000

5,979,055

 27,777 

 2,814,021 

N/A

N/A

 16,241 

 20,000 

* This information relates to the period these individuals were Directors.

Securities Trading Policy

The Silex Securities Trading Policy applies to all staff including KMP. It prohibits staff from buying or selling Silex securities at times 
when they are in possession of inside information. In addition, staff are only permitted to trade in Silex securities during certain open 
periods. The Silex Securities Trading Policy is available on the Company’s website at www.silex.com.au/Corporate-Governance.

32

SILEX ANNUAL REPORT 2019DIRECTORS’ REPORT

12.  SHARES UNDER OPTION 
Unissued ordinary shares of Silex Systems Limited under option at the date of this report are as follows:

Date options granted

21/05/2019*

Expiry date

20/05/2024

Issue price of shares

Number under option

$0.35

500,000

* Included in these options granted were options granted as remuneration to KMP.

No option holder has any right under the options to participate in any other share issue of the Company or any other entity. No 
options were granted since the end of the financial year. No options were exercised during the year.

13. COMPANY SECRETARY
Ms J E Ducie BBus, CA, GAICD was appointed to the position of Company secretary in 2010. Before joining Silex, Ms Ducie 
held a senior finance position in the Construction industry in the Middle East and prior to that worked as a Senior Associate with 
a Chartered Accounting Practice.

14. INDEMNIFICATION AND INSURANCE OF DIRECTORS
The Company has entered into agreements to indemnify the directors of the Company against all liabilities to persons (other 
than the Company or related body corporate) which arise out of the performance of their normal duties as directors or executive 
officers unless the liability relates to conduct involving lack of good faith. The Company has agreed to indemnify the directors 
and executive officers against all costs and expenses incurred in defending an action that falls within the scope of the indemnity. 

The Directors' & Officers' Liability Insurance provides cover against all costs and expenses involved in defending legal actions 
and any resulting payments arising from a liability to persons (other than the Company) incurred in their position as a director or 
executive officer unless the conduct involves a wilful breach of duty or an improper use of inside information or position to gain 
advantage. The insurance policy does not allow specific disclosure of the nature of the liabilities insured against or the premium 
paid under the policy.

15. ENVIRONMENTAL REGULATION
The parent entity is subject to the environmental and health and safety regulations applicable to tenants of the Lucas Heights 
Science and Technology Centre. The parent entity is also bound by the rules and regulations set out in the Australian Radiation 
Protection and Nuclear Safety Act, 1998, and is a licensee under the Act.

To the best of the Directors' knowledge, all environmental and health and safety regulatory requirements have been met and 
there have been no claims made during the financial year.

16. NON-AUDIT SERVICES
The Company may decide to employ the auditor on assignments additional to their statutory audit duties where the auditor’s 
expertise and experience with the Company and/or the consolidated entity are important.

Details of the amounts paid or payable to the auditor (PricewaterhouseCoopers) for non-audit services provided during the year 
are set out below.

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

33

SILEX ANNUAL REPORT 2019DIRECTORS’ REPORT

out below, did not compromise the auditor independence requirements of the Corporations Act 2001 for the following reasons:

•  all non-audit services have been reviewed by the Audit Committee to ensure they do not impact the impartiality and objectivity 

of the auditor

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

for Professional Accountants. 

During the year the following fees were paid or payable for non-audit services provided by the auditor of the parent entity, its 
related practices and non-related audit firms:

Other assurance services

PricewaterhouseCoopers Australian firm

Total remuneration for other assurance services

Other services 

Seminars and training courses

Total remuneration for other services

Total remuneration for non-audit services

2019  
$

2018  
$

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

450

450

450

17. AUDITOR’S INDEPENDENCE DECLARATION
A copy of the auditors’ independence declaration as required under section 307C of the Corporations Act 2001 is set out on 
page 35.

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

Dr M P Goldsworthy  
CEO/MD 

Sydney, 29 August 2019

Mr C A Roy 
Chair

34

SILEX ANNUAL REPORT 2019 
DIRECTORS’ REPORT

AUDITOR’S INDEPENDENCE DECLARATION
As lead auditor for the audit of Silex Systems Limited for the year ended 30 June 2019, I declare that, to the best of my 
knowledge and belief, there have been:

(a)  no contraventions of the auditor independence requirements of the Corporations Act 2001 in relation to the audit; and 
(b)  no contraventions of any applicable code of professional conduct in relation to the audit.

This declaration is in respect of Silex Systems Limited and the entities it controlled during the period.

David Ronald 
Partner 
PricewaterhouseCoopers 

Sydney
29 August 2019

PricewaterhouseCoopers, ABN 52 780 433 757
One International Towers Sydney, Watermans Quay, Barangaroo, GPO BOX 2650, SYDNEY NSW 2001 
T +61 2 8266 0000, F +61 2 8266 9999, www.pwc.com.au

Level 11, 1PSQ, 169 Macquarie Street, Parramatta NSW 2150, PO Box 1155 Parramatta NSW 2124 
T +61 2 9659 2476, F +61 2 8266 9999, www.pwc.com.au

Liability limited by a scheme approved under Professional Standards Legislation

35

SILEX ANNUAL REPORT 2019CORPORATE GOVERNANCE STATEMENT

Silex Systems Limited (the Company) and the Board are committed to achieving and demonstrating the highest standards of 
corporate governance. The Company has reviewed its corporate governance practices against the Corporate Governance 
Principles and Recommendations (3rd edition) published by the ASX Corporate Governance Council. The 4th Edition of the ASX 
Corporate Governance Council's Corporate Governance Principles and Recommendations were released in February 2019 
and the Company intends implementing the recommendations during the year ending 30 June 2020. The Company is already 
compliant with a number of the new principles and recommendations contained in the 4th Edition.

The 2019 Corporate Governance Statement is dated as at 30 June 2019 and reflects the corporate governance practices in 
place throughout the 2019 financial year. The 2019 Corporate Governance Statement was approved by the Board and lodged 
with the ASX Appendix 4G, on 29 August 2019. A description of the Company’s current corporate governance practices is set 
out in the Company’s Corporate Governance Statement which can be viewed at  
www.silex.com.au/Corporate-Governance.

36

SILEX ANNUAL REPORT 2019CONCISE FINANCIAL REPORT

for the year ended 30 June 2019

CONTENTS

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Consolidated income statement 

Consolidated statement of comprehensive income 

Consolidated balance sheet 

Consolidated statement of changes in equity 

Consolidated statement of cash flows 

Notes to the financial statements 

Directors’ declaration 

Independent auditor’s report to the members 

Shareholders’ information 

38

39

40

41

42

43

48

49

51

Relationship of the concise financial report to the full financial report

The concise financial report is an extract from the full financial report for the year ended 30 June 2019. The financial statements 
and specific disclosures included in the concise financial report have been derived from the full financial report. 

The concise financial report cannot be expected to provide as full an understanding of the financial performance, financial 
position and financing and investing activities of Silex Systems Limited and its subsidiaries as the full financial report. Further 
financial information can be obtained from the full financial report. 

The full financial report and auditor’s report will be sent to members on request, free of charge. Please call +61 2 9704 8888 and 
request a copy of the full financial report (or email enquiries@silex.com.au). Alternatively, you can access both the full financial 
report and the concise report via the internet on our website: www.silex.com.au. 

SILEX SYSTEMS LIMITED  
& ITS SUBSIDIARIES

ABN 69 003 372 067

CONSOLIDATED INCOME STATEMENT
for the year ended 30 June 2019

Interest revenue

Other revenue

Revenue from continuing operations

Other income 

Research and development materials

Development expenditure

Finance costs

Depreciation and amortisation expense

Employee benefits expense

Consultants and professional fees

Printing, postage, freight, stationery and communications

Rent, utilities and property outgoings

Net impairment losses

Other expenses from continuing activities

(Loss) before income tax expense

Income tax expense

Net (loss) from continuing operations

Net (loss) for the year

Net (loss) is attributable to:

Owners of Silex Systems Limited

Earnings per share for (loss) from continuing operations attributable  
to the ordinary equity holders of the Company

Basic earnings per share

Diluted earnings per share

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

Basic earnings per share

Diluted earnings per share

Note

3

3

4

2019 
$

744,560

 – 

2018 
$

971,452

88,843

744,560

1,060,295

 1,582,190 

(240,153)

(1,984,328)

(7)

(52,746)

(3,614,476)

(680,867)

(63,131)

(394,392)

(8,553)

(441,205)

(5,153,108)

 – 

(5,153,108)

(5,153,108)

 7,552,662 

(382,999)

(5,799,314)

(8)

(40,650)

(3,866,174)

(2,066,401)

(80,977)

(419,164)

 – 

(536,651)

(4,579,381)

 – 

(4,579,381)

(4,579,381)

(5,153,108)

(4,579,381)

Cents

Cents

(3.0)

(3.0)

(3.0)

(3.0)

(2.7)

(2.7)

(2.7)

(2.7)

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

38

SILEX ANNUAL REPORT 2019CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF  
COMPREHENSIVE INCOME
for the year ended 30 June 2019

Net (loss) for the year

Other comprehensive income

Items that may be reclassified to profit or loss:

 Changes in the fair value of available-for-sale financial assets

 Exchange differences on translation of foreign operations

Items that will not be reclassified to profit or loss:

  Changes in the fair value of equity investments at fair value through other 
comprehensive income

Other comprehensive income for the year, net of tax

Total comprehensive income for the year

Attributable to:

 Owners of Silex Systems Limited

Total comprehensive income for the year

2019 
$

2018 
$

(5,153,108)

(4,579,381)

 – 

868,845

1,799,643

583,591

(6,766,261)

(5,897,416)

(11,050,524)

– 

2,383,234

(2,196,147)

(11,050,524)

(11,050,524)

(2,196,147)

(2,196,147)

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

39

SILEX ANNUAL REPORT 2019 
 
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEET
as at 30 June 2019

Assets

Current assets

Cash and cash equivalents

Held to maturity investments – term deposits

Other financial assets at amortised cost – term deposits

Trade and other receivables

Other current assets

Available-for-sale financial assets

Financial assets at fair value through other comprehensive income

Total current assets

Non-current assets

Property, plant and equipment

Total non-current assets

Total assets

Liabilities

Current liabilities

Trade and other payables

Provisions

Total current liabilities

Non-current liabilities

Provisions

Total non-current liabilities

Total liabilities

Net assets

Equity

Contributed equity

Reserves

Accumulated losses

Total equity

30 June 2019 
$

30 June 2018 
$

2,653,590

– 

22,200,000

1,900,118

409,144

2,002,145

29,851,837

– 

8,452,352

– 

–

9,362,123

10,240,588

37,403,440

–

49,668,457

113,924

113,924

119,178

119,178

37,517,364

49,787,635

719,337

745,039

1,464,376

18,802

18,802

1,483,178

36,034,186

1,892,751

695,319

2,588,070

118,501

118,501

2,706,571

47,081,064

231,750,374

231,750,374

12,127,493

18,021,263

(207,843,681)

(202,690,573)

36,034,186

47,081,064

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

40

SILEX ANNUAL REPORT 2019CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT  
OF CHANGES IN EQUITY
for the year ended 30 June 2019

Attributable to owners of Silex Systems Limited

Contributed equity 
$

Reserves 
$

Accumulated losses 
$

Total 
$

Balance at 30 June 2017

231,750,374

15,653,086

(198,111,192)

49,292,268

Net (loss) for the year

Other comprehensive income

Total comprehensive 
income for the year

–

–

– 

–

(4,579,381)

2,383,234

–

(4,579,381)

2,383,234

2,383,234

(4,579,381)

(2,196,147)

Transactions with owners in their capacity as owners 

Transactions with non-
controlling interests

–

–

(15,057)

(15,057)

–

–

(15,057)

(15,057)

Balance at 30 June 2018

231,750,374

18,021,263

(202,690,573)

47,081,064

Net (loss) for the year

Other comprehensive income

Total comprehensive 
income for the year

–

–

–

–

(5,153,108)

(5,897,416)

–

(5,153,108)

(5,897,416)

(5,897,416)

(5,153,108)

(11,050,524)

Transactions with owners in their capacity as owners

Employee share options – 
value of employee services

–

–

3,646

3,646

–

–

3,646

3,646

Balance at 30 June 2019

231,750,374

12,127,493

(207,843,681)

36,034,186

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

41

SILEX ANNUAL REPORT 2019 
 
 
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT  
OF CASH FLOWS
for the year ended 30 June 2019

Cash flows from operating activities

Receipts from customers and government grants (inclusive of GST)

Payments to suppliers and employees (inclusive of GST)

Interest received

Interest paid

2019 
$

2018 
$

1,076,195

(8,873,680)

810,178

(7)

997,280

(12,960,108)

1,225,488

(8)

Net cash (outflows) from operating activities

(6,987,314)

(10,737,348)

Cash flows from investing activities

Payment for additional interest in subsidiary

Proceeds from held to maturity investments – term deposits

Proceeds from other financial assets at amortised cost – term deposits

Payments for property, plant and equipment

Proceeds from sale of property, plant and equipment

Net cash inflows from investing activities

Cash flows from financing activities

Net cash (outflows) from financing activities

–

–

7,651,837 

(46,381)

27,273 

7,632,729

(15,057)

10,950,000

–

(76,036)

–

10,858,907

 – 

–

Net increase in cash and cash equivalents

645,415

121,559

Cash and cash equivalents at the beginning of the financial year

Effects of exchange rate changes on cash

Cash and cash equivalents at end of the financial year*

2,002,145

6,030

2,653,590

1,876,319

4,267

2,002,145

*Term deposits excluded from Cash and cash equivalents 

22,200,000 

29,851,837

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

42

SILEX ANNUAL REPORT 2019 
 
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
30 June 2019

NOTE 1 SIGNIFICANT CHANGES IN THE CURRENT ACCOUNTING PERIOD
In February 2019, Silex, Cameco and GE-Hitachi Nuclear Energy (GEH) executed a new Term Sheet outlining key terms for 
the purchase of GEH’s 76% interest in GE-Hitachi Global Laser Enrichment LLC (GLE), the exclusive Licensee of the SILEX 
technology. The new Term Sheet contemplates GEH selling all of its 76% interest in GLE (i.e. selling 51% of its GLE interest to 
Silex and its remaining 25% interest to Cameco, increasing its interest in GLE from 24% to 49%). The transaction is subject 
to the satisfactory finalisation of binding transaction documentation and obtaining US Government approvals. While the new 
Term Sheet is primarily Non-binding, there are certain binding provisions including a financial obligation to reimburse GEH an 
amount of US$153,000 per month until completion of the transaction or until termination of negotiations. This monthly funding 
obligation was retrospective to 1 September 2018. This monthly funding commitment has been incurred by Silex USA LLC.

NOTE 2 SEGMENT INFORMATION  

2019

Total segment revenue

Inter-segment revenue

Revenue from external customers

Interest revenue

Segment result

Silex Systems 
$

Translucent 
$

Silex USA 
$

Total 
$

790,191

(45,631)

744,560

744,560

959,186

(959,186)

–

–

–

–

–

–

1,749,377

(1,004,817)

744,560

744,560

(3,545,576)

549,688

(2,157,220)

(5,153,108)

Total segment assets

26,416,466

10,882,803

218,095

37,517,364

Total segment liabilities

1,471,464

11,714

2018

Total segment revenue

Inter-segment revenue

Revenue from external customers

Interest revenue

Recoverable project costs from IQE

1,055,452

(84,000)

971,452

971,452

–

971,452

960,976

(872,133)

88,843

–

88,843

88,843

Segment result

(10,630,713)

6,051,332

Total segment assets

33,552,475

16,235,160

Total segment liabilities

2,351,235

 355,336 

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

1,483,178

2,016,428

(956,133)

1,060,295

971,452

88,843

1,060,295

(4,579,381)

49,787,635

2,706,571

43

SILEX ANNUAL REPORT 2019 
 
 
 
 
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
30 June 2019

Segment result

The Board of Directors assess the performance of the operating segments based on results that excludes exchange gains and 
losses on intercompany loans which eliminate on consolidation. A reconciliation of the segment result to Net (loss) from continuing 
operations is provided as follows:

Segment result

Net (loss) before income tax from continuing operations

NOTE 3 REVENUE FROM CONTINUING OPERATIONS  

Interest revenue

Other revenue

Recoverable project costs from IQE

NOTE 4 OTHER INCOME

Research and development tax incentive

Profit on sale of intellectual property – sale of cREO™ technology

Profit on sale of property, plant and equipment 

Foreign currency exchange gains (net)

2019 
$

(5,153,108)

(5,153,108)

2018 
$

(4,579,381)

(4,579,381)

2019 
$

2018 
$

 744,560 

 971,452 

–

–

88,843 

 88,843 

2019 
$

 958,879 

 570,184 

27,273

 25,854 

2018 
$

1,060,878 

 6,301,408 

128,600 

61,776 

 1,582,190 

7,552,662 

. 

44

SILEX ANNUAL REPORT 2019 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
30 June 2019

NOTE 5 DIVIDENDS
No dividends were declared or paid during the year or in the prior year.

NOTE 6 CONTINGENT LIABILITIES
As announced on 6 February 2019, Silex, Cameco and GE-Hitachi Nuclear Energy (GEH) executed a new Term Sheet outlining 
key terms for the purchase of GEH’s 76% interest in GE-Hitachi Global Laser Enrichment LLC (GLE), the exclusive Licensee of 
the SILEX technology. The new Term Sheet contemplates GEH selling all of its 76% interest in GLE (i.e. selling 51% of its GLE 
interest to Silex and its remaining 25% interest to Cameco, increasing its interest in GLE from 24% to 49%). The transaction is 
subject to the satisfactory finalisation of binding transaction documentation and obtaining US Government approvals. 

In the event Silex terminates the new Term Sheet (without cause), a termination fee of US$500,000 will be payable to GEH. 
In the event binding transaction documentation is signed, then Silex is required to make a payment to GEH of US$1.125 
million in lieu of a holdback to the reimbursements paid to GEH under the original Term Sheet. At the current point in time, the 
amount and timing of any outflow of funds is uncertain and subject to Silex either terminating the new Term Sheet or signing 
binding transaction documentation. Therefore, these two amounts are considered to be contingent liabilities of the Company.

NOTE 7 EVENTS OCCURRING AFTER REPORTING DATE
Between 30 June 2019 and the date of this report, the IQE Plc share price (AIM: IQE) has decreased significantly. Combined 
with movements in exchange rates, the value of the shares held at 30 June 2019 (disclosed as Financial assets at fair value 
through other comprehensive income) has decreased by approximately $1,380,000 since 30 June 2019. Gains or losses 
arising from changes in the fair value of shares classified as financial assets at fair value through other comprehensive income 
are recognised in other comprehensive income. The financial effects of the movements in fair value since 30 June 2019 will be 
recognised in the financial statements for the year ended 30 June 2020.

The consolidated entity is not aware of any other matters or circumstances which are not otherwise dealt with in the financial 
statements that have significantly or may significantly, affect the operations of the consolidated entity, the results of its operations 
or the state of the consolidated entity in subsequent years other than those referred to in this report.

NOTE 8 BASIS OF PREPARATION
This concise financial report relates to the consolidated entity consisting of Silex Systems Limited and the entities it controlled 
at the end of, or during, the year ended 30 June 2019. The accounting policies have been consistently applied to all years 
presented, unless otherwise stated below. The financial statements in this report are presented in Australian dollars.

(a)  New and amended standards adopted by the Company

Silex has applied the following standards for the first time for the annual reporting period commencing 1 July 2018:

•  AASB 9 Financial Instruments

•  AASB 15 Revenue from Contracts with Customers

Silex had to change its accounting policies following the adoption of AASB 9 and AASB 15.

45

SILEX ANNUAL REPORT 2019NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
30 June 2019

(b)  Impact of changes in accounting policies on financial statements

AASB 9 and AASB 15 were adopted without restating comparative information. The table below shows the adjustments 
recognised for each individual balance sheet line item. Line items that were not affected by the changes have not been included. 
All of the changes related to Current assets. 

30 June 2018 
as originally 
presented 
$

Impact of  
AASB 9 
$

Impact of  
AASB 15 
$

1 July 2018 
Restated 
$

Balance sheet (extract)

Current assets

Held to maturity investments – term deposits

29,851,837

(29,851,837)

Other financial assets at amortised costs – term deposits

– 

29,851,837

– 

– 

–

29,851,837 

Trade and other receivables

Other current assets

8,452,352 

– 

–

– 

(152,848) 

8,299,504 

152,848

152,848 

Available-for-sale financial assets

9,362,123

(9,362,123)

Financial assets at fair value through other 
comprehensive income

– 

9,362,123

– 

– 

– 

9,362,123 

(c) AASB 9 Financial Instruments – Impact of adoption 

AASB 9 replaces the provisions of AASB 139 that relate to the recognition, classification and measurement of financial assets 
and financial liabilities, derecognition of financial instruments, impairment of financial assets and hedge accounting.

The adoption of AASB 9 from 1 July 2018 resulted in changes in accounting policies and adjustments to the amounts 
recognised in the financial statements. In accordance with the transitional provisions in AASB 9 paragraphs 7.2.15 and 7.2.26, 
comparative figures have not been restated. 

Reclassification from Held to maturity investments to Other financial assets at amortised cost

Term deposits that would previously have been classified as Held to maturity investments are now classified as Other financial 
assets at amortised cost. The Company intends to hold the term deposits to maturity to collect contractual cash flows and 
these cash flows consist solely of payments of principal and interest on the principal amount outstanding. There was no 
difference between the previous carrying amount and the revised carrying amount at 1 July 2018 to be recognized in opening 
accumulated losses.

Reclassification from Available-for-sale financial assets to Financial assets through other comprehensive income

The Company elected to present in other comprehensive income changes in the fair value of all its equity investments previously 
classified as available-for sale. As a result, assets with a fair value of $9,362,123 were reclassified from Available-for-sale financial 
assets to Financial assets at fair value through other comprehensive income on 1 July 2018. Fair value gains of $7,233,124 
were reclassified from Revaluation – Available-for-sale financial assets reserve to the Revaluation - Fair value through other 
comprehensive income reserve on 1 July 2018.

Impairment of financial assets

The Company has applied the new expected credit loss model to its financial assets however, no additional impairment was 
required at 30 June 2018. 

46

SILEX ANNUAL REPORT 2019NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
30 June 2019

(d) AASB 9 Financial Instruments - Accounting policies applied from 1 July 2018

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

•  those to be measured subsequently at fair value, either through Other comprehensive income (OCI), or through profit or loss; and 

•  those to be measured at amortised cost.

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

For assets measured at fair value, gains and losses will either be recorded in profit or loss or OCI. For investments in equity 
instruments, this will depend on whether the Company has made an irrevocable election at the time of initial recognition to 
account for the equity investment at fair value through other comprehensive income (FVOCI).

At initial recognition, the Company measures a financial asset at its fair value plus, in the case of a financial asset not at fair value 
through profit or loss, transactions costs that are directly attributable to the acquisition of the financial asset. Transaction costs of 
financial assets at fair value through profit or loss are expensed in profit or loss.

The Company subsequently measures all equity investments at fair value. Where the Company’s Management has elected to 
present fair value gains and losses on equity investments in OCI, there is no subsequent reclassification of fair value gains and 
losses to profit or loss following the derecognition of the investment. Dividends from such investments continue to be recognised 
in profit or loss as other income when the Company’s right to receive payments is established.

If applicable, the Company reclassifies debt investments when and only when its business model for managing those assets changes.

Subsequent measurement of debt instruments depends on the Company’s business model for managing the asset and the 
cash flow characteristics of the asset. Assets that are held for collection of contractual cash flows where those cash flows 
represent solely payments of principal and interest are measured at amortised cost. Interest revenue from these financial assets 
is included in revenue using the effective interest rate method. Any gain or loss arising on derecognition is recognised directly 
in profit or loss and presented in other gains/(losses), together with foreign exchange gains and losses. Impairment losses are 
presented as a separate line item in the statement of profit or loss. 

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

(e) AASB 15 Revenue from Contracts with Customers – Impact of adoption

The Company has adopted AASB 15 from 1 July 2018. 

The Company has voluntarily changed the presentation of certain amounts in the balance sheet to reflect the terminology 
of AASB 15 (and AASB 9). Prepayments were previously presented together with trade receivables however they are now 
presented as Other current assets in the balance sheet to reflect their different nature. The value of prepayments at 30 June 
2018 was $152,848. 

(f) AASB 15 Revenue from Contracts with Customers – Accounting policies applied from 1 July 2018

The Company has adopted AASB 15 from 1 July 2018 which resulted in changes in accounting policy with respect to potential 
Royalty income from IQE Plc. Under the 2015 Option, License and Assignment Agreement between Translucent and IQE, a 
perpetual royalty of between 3% and 6% will be payable to Translucent on the sale of any IQE products that utilise the cREO™ 
technology. Minimum annual royalties are due for the 6 years ending 31 December 2024, with the initial minimum annual royalty 
payment of US$400,000 expected to be paid in FY2020. In accordance with AASB 15, the royalties are accounted for as 
additional variable consideration for the sale of the technology. Revenue is required to be estimated for the royalties if it is highly 
probable that a significant reversal would not subsequently occur. The Company has elected to use the most likely method to 
value the amount of variable consideration. At the end of each reporting period, the Company will update its assessment of the 
variable consideration based on the most likely method. 

47

SILEX ANNUAL REPORT 2019DIRECTORS’ DECLARATION
30 June 2019

The directors declare that in their opinion, the concise financial report of the consolidated entity for the year ended 30 June 2019 
as set out on pages 37 to 47 complies with Accounting Standard AASB 1039: Concise Financial Reports.

The concise financial report is an extract from the full financial report for the year ended 30 June 2019. The financial statements 
and specific disclosures included in the concise financial report have been derived from the full financial report.

The concise financial report cannot be expected to provide as full an understanding of the financial performance, financial 
position and financing and investing activities of the consolidated entity as the full financial report, which is available on request.

This declaration is made in accordance with a resolution of the directors.

Dr M P Goldsworthy  
CEO/MD 

Sydney, 29 August 2019

Mr C A Roy 
Chair

48

SILEX ANNUAL REPORT 2019 
INDEPENDENT AUDITOR’S REPORT 
to the members of Silex Systems Limited

REPORT ON THE CONCISE FINANCIAL REPORT

Our opinion

In our opinion, the accompanying concise financial report of Silex Systems Limited (the Company) and its controlled entities 
(together the Group) for the year ended 30 June 2019 complies with Australian Accounting Standard AASB 1039 Concise 
Financial Reports.

What we have audited

The Group concise financial report derived from the financial report of the Group for the year ended 30 June 2019 comprises:

•  the consolidated balance sheet as at 30 June 2019

•  the consolidated statement of comprehensive income for the year then ended

•  the consolidated income statement for the year then ended

•  the consolidated statement of changes in equity for the year then ended

•  the consolidated statement of cash flows for the year then ended

•  the related notes 

Basis for opinion

We conducted our audit in accordance with Australian Auditing Standards. Our responsibilities under those standards are further 
described in the Auditor’s responsibilities for the audit of the concise financial report section of our report.

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

Independence

We are independent of the Group in accordance with the auditor independence requirements of the Corporations Act 2001 and 
the ethical requirements of the Accounting Professional and Ethical Standards Board’s APES 110 Code of Ethics for Professional 
Accountants (the Code) that are relevant to our audit of the concise financial report in Australia. We have also fulfilled our other 
ethical responsibilities in accordance with the Code.

Concise financial report

The concise financial report does not contain all the disclosures required by the Australian Accounting Standards in the 
preparation of the financial report. Reading the concise financial report and the auditor’s report thereon, therefore, is not a 
substitute for reading the financial report and the auditor’s report thereon.

PricewaterhouseCoopers, ABN 52 780 433 757
One International Towers Sydney, Watermans Quay, Barangaroo NSW 2000, GPO BOX 2650, SYDNEY NSW 2001 
T +61 2 8266 0000, F +61 2 8266 9999, www.pwc.com.au

Level 11, 1PSQ, 169 Macquarie Street, Parramatta NSW 2150, PO Box 1155 Parramatta NSW 2124 
T +61 2 9659 2476, F +61 2 8266 9999, www.pwc.com.au

Liability limited by a scheme approved under Professional Standards Legislation

49

SILEX ANNUAL REPORT 2019INDEPENDENT AUDITOR’S REPORT 
to the members of Silex Systems Limited

The financial report and our report thereon

We expressed an unmodified audit opinion on the financial report in our report dated 29 August 2019. 

That report also includes: 

•  The communication of key audit matters. Key audit matters are those matters that, in our professional judgement, were of 

most significance in our audit of the financial report of the current period.

Responsibilities of the directors for the concise financial report 

The directors are responsible for the preparation of the concise financial report in accordance with Accounting Standard AASB 
1039 Concise Financial Reports, and the Corporations Act 2001, and for such internal control as the directors determine is 
necessary to enable the preparation of the concise financial report.

Auditor’s responsibilities for the audit of the concise financial report

Our responsibility is to express an opinion on whether the concise financial report, complies in all material respects, with AASB 
1039 Concise Financial Reports based on our procedures which were conducted in accordance with Auditing Standard ASA 
810 Engagements to Report on Summary Financial Statements.

REPORT ON THE REMUNERATION REPORT 
The following paragraphs are copies from our report on the remuneration report of Silex Systems Limited for the year ended 30 
June 2019.

Our opinion on the remuneration report

We have audited the remuneration report included in pages 23 to 32 of the directors’ report for the year ended 30 June 2019.

In our opinion, the remuneration report of Silex Systems Limited for the year ended 30 June 2019 complies with section 300A of 
the Corporations Act 2001.

Responsibilities 

The directors of the Company are responsible for the preparation and presentation of the remuneration report in accordance 
with section 300A of the Corporations Act 2001. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the remuneration report, based 
on our audit conducted in accordance with Australian Auditing Standards. 

PricewaterhouseCoopers

David Ronald 
Partner

50

Sydney 
29 August 2019

SILEX ANNUAL REPORT 2019SHAREHOLDERS’ INFORMATION
30 June 2019

1. INFORMATION RELATING TO SHAREHOLDERS AS AT 26 AUGUST 2019

(a) Distribution schedule

1–1,000

1,001–5,000

5,001–10,000

10,001–100,000

100,001 and over

Total number of holders of each class of security

Voting rights  

– on a show of hands

– on a poll

Percentage of total holding held by the largest 20 holders

Number of total holding less than a marketable parcel of shares

Substantial shareholders

Jardvan Pty Ltd

Mr Paul Cozzi

(b) Names of Twenty Largest Holders as at 26 August 2019

Name

Jardvan Pty Ltd

Mr Paul Cozzi

Majenta Holdings Pty Ltd

Hillboi Nominees Pty Ltd

Polly Pty Ltd

Throvena Pty Ltd

Hamlac Pty Ltd

Mr Christopher David Wilks

Morgan Stanley Australia Securities (Nominee) Pty Limited

Quintal Pty Ltd 

Felson Holdings Pty Ltd

HSBC Custody Nominees (Australia) Limited

Sporran Lean Pty Ltd

Deering Nominees Pty Ltd

J P Morgan Nominees Australia Pty Limited

BNP Paribas Nominees Pty Ltd

Mr Xiangyang Wu

Mr Nobuo Maeda

Eugob Nominees Pty Ltd

Mr Timothy Guy Lyons + Mrs Heather Mary Lyons

1,799

2,056

671

977

204

5,707

47.09%

2,267

Ordinary shares

29,801,030

10,000,000

Percentage  
held

17.48%

5.87%

3.35%

2.40%

2.39%

1.75%

1.48%

1.41%

1.20%

1.17%

1.10%

1.07%

1.06%

0.86%

0.86%

0.83%

0.77%

0.70%

0.69%

0.65%

Number of 
securities

29,801,030

10,000,000

5,703,923

4,094,500

4,073,863

2,978,203

2,525,937

2,405,070

2,041,553

2,002,952

1,881,000

1,818,998

1,809,999

1,460,000

1,458,675

1,416,627

1,314,562

1,200,000

1,168,592

1,112,500

80,267,984

47.09%

51

SILEX ANNUAL REPORT 2019  
SHAREHOLDERS’ INFORMATION
30 June 2019

2. INTEREST OF DIRECTORS IN SHARES AS AT 26 AUGUST 2019

Mr C A Roy

Dr M P Goldsworthy

Ms M K Holzberger

Mr C D Wilks

Ordinary shares

150,000

5,979,055

27,777 

2,814,021

Interest held

Personally

Personally/Beneficially

Personally

Personally/Beneficially

3. SECURITIES SUBJECT TO VOLUNTARY ESCROW AS AT 26 AUGUST 2019
As at 26 August 2019, no securities were subject to voluntary escrow.

4. UNQUOTED EQUITY SECURITIES AS AT 26 AUGUST 2019

Options issued under the Silex Systems Limited Employee Incentive Plan

500,000

12

Number on issue Number of holders

52

SILEX ANNUAL REPORT 2019COMPANY  
DIRECTORY

DIRECTORS

Mr C A Roy – Chair 
Dr M P Goldsworthy – CEO/MD 
Ms M K Holzberger 
Mr C D Wilks

AUDIT COMMITTEE

Ms M K Holzberger – Chair 
Mr C A Roy 
Mr C D Wilks  

PEOPLE & 
REMUNERATION 
COMMITTEE

Mr C A Roy – Chair 
Ms M K Holzberger 
Mr C D Wilks

COMPANY SECRETARY

Ms J E Ducie

REGISTERED OFFICE 
AND PRINCIPAL PLACE 
OF BUSINESS

STOCK EXCHANGE

Listed on the Australian Stock 
Exchange, Ticker: SLX

Building 64, Lucas Heights  
Science & Technology Centre 
New Illawarra Road 
Lucas Heights NSW 2234, Australia

Postal address: 
PO Box 75, Menai Central  
NSW 2234, Australia

📞  +61 2 9704 8888  
📠  +61 2 9704 8851 
✉ 
💻  www.silex.com.au

investor.relations@silex.com.au 

SHARE REGISTRY

Computershare Registry Services  
Pty Limited

Level 5, 115 Grenfell Street, Adelaide, 
South Australia 5000, Australia

GPO Box 1903 Adelaide  
South Australia 5001, Australia

📞  Enquiries:  
 Within Australia: 1300 556 161  
Outside Australia: +61 8 8236 2300 

✉  web.queries@computershare.com.au 
💻  www.computershare.com.au

Listed on the OTCQX International, 
Ticker: SILXY

AUDITORS

PricewaterhouseCoopers

SOLICITORS

Dentons Australia Limited

BANKERS

Australia and New Zealand Banking 
Group Limited

AMERICAN DEPOSITORY 
RECEIPTS (ADR) 
INFORMATION

Silex Systems Limited’s ADRs  
may be purchased on the  
US OTCQX market.

Details are as follows: 
Ratio: 1 ADR = 5 ordinary shares 
Symbol: SILXY 
CUSIP: 827046 10 3 9414F102 
Exchange: OTCQX 
Country: Australia 

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www.silex.com.au