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South32

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FY2023 Annual Report · South32
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ANNUAL  
REPORT 
2023

ABOUT THIS REPORT

Annual Report 2023

This report is a summary of our operations, activities, performance and financial position as at 30 June 2023. 

Our 2023 Annual Reporting Suite

Sustainable 
Development Report

Sustainability Databook

Corporate Governance 
Statement

Modern Slavery 
Statement

Tax Transparency  
and Payments  
to Governments Report

+ You can view all the documents in our Annual Reporting Suite at www.south32.net

About this report
This Annual Report is a summary of the 
operations, activities and performance 
of South32 Limited (ABN 84 093 732 
597) and its controlled entities and joint 
arrangements(1) for the year ended 
30 June 2023 and its financial position as 
at 30 June 2023. South32 Limited is the 
ultimate holding company of the South32 
group of companies. In this report, unless 
otherwise stated:

(a) References to South32, the South32 
Group, the Group, we, us, our and 
similar expressions(2) refer to South32 
Limited and its controlled entities and 
joint arrangements;

(b) Financial information is presented 
on the basis described in note 2 to 
the financial statements (Basis of 
preparation) on page 110, except for 
non-IFRS measures (see below for 
further details); and

(c)  Metrics describing health, safety, 

environment, people and community 
related performance in this report are 
presented on the basis described in 
the “Reporting Boundaries” tab in our 
Sustainability Databook available at 
www.south32.net.

Unless specified otherwise, the text of this 
report does not distinguish between the 
activities of the ultimate holding company 
and those of its controlled entities and 
joint arrangements. Monetary amounts 
in this report are expressed in US dollars 
unless otherwise stated. 

Forward-looking statements
While the forward-looking statements in 
this report reflect South32’s expectations 
at the date of this report (including 
with respect to its strategies and plans 
regarding climate change), they may 
be affected by a range of variables 
which could cause actual outcomes and 
developments to differ materially from 
those expressed in such statements. 
These variables include but are not limited 
to: financial and economic conditions in 
various countries; fluctuations in demand, 
price, or currency; operating results; 
development progress including approvals; 
risks, including physical, technology 
and carbon emissions reductions risks; 
industry competition; loss of market for 
South32’s products; legislative, fiscal, and 
regulatory developments; the conduct of 
joint venture participants and contractual 
counterparties, and estimates relating to 
cost, engineering, reserves and resources. 
For further information regarding 
South32’s approach to risk, see page 28.

South32 makes no representation, 
assurance or guarantee as to the 
accuracy, completeness or likelihood 
of fulfilment of any forward-looking 
statement, any outcomes expressed or 
implied in any forward-looking statement 
or any assumptions on which a forward-
looking statement is based. Except as 
required by applicable laws or regulations, 
South32 does not undertake to publicly 
update or review any forward-looking 
statements. Past performance cannot be 
relied on as a guide to future performance. 
South32 cautions against reliance on any 
forward-looking statements or guidance, 
including any disruption arising in 
connection with COVID-19. 

Non-IFRS
This report includes non-IFRS financial 
measures, including underlying measures 
of earnings, effective tax rate, returns on 
invested capital, cash flow and net cash/
(debt).

Non-IFRS measures should not be 
considered as alternatives to an IFRS 
measure of profitability, financial 
performance or liquidity. For an explanation 
of how South32 uses non-IFRS measures, 
see page 38. The definitions of individual 
non-IFRS measures used in this report are 
set out in the glossary on page 181.

(1)  In this report, references to ‘joint arrangements’ mean operations that are not controlled by South32, such as joint ventures and joint operations. Joint arrangements are 

classified in accordance with IFRS 11 Joint Arrangements.

(2)  This report also refers to commodities ‘we produce’ and commodities in ‘our portfolio’, which include commodities such as bauxite, alumina, aluminium and copper that may 
form part of, or be produced by, joint arrangements that are not operated by South32. References in this report to ‘our operations’, or commodities ‘we produce’ or in ‘our 
portfolio’, should be read in this context.

Cover: An operator at Groote Eylandt Mining Company in Australia.

Right: Local farmers from Maputo province in Mozambique.

OPERATING AND FINANCIAL REVIEW

SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT  REPORT 2023MODERN SLAVERY STATEMENT 2023TAX TRANSPARENCY AND PAYMENTS  TO GOVERNMENTS REPORT  2023CORPORATE GOVERNANCE STATEMENT 2023SUSTAINABILITY  DATABOOK 2023CONTENTS

OPERATING AND FINANCIAL REVIEW

Acknowledgement

We acknowledge and pay our respects to the 
Indigenous, Traditional and Tribal Peoples of the 
lands, waters and territories on which South32 is 
located and where we conduct our business 
around the world. 

We respect and acknowledge the unique cultural 
and spiritual relationships that Indigenous, 
Traditional and Tribal Peoples have to the lands, 
waters and territories, and their rich contribution  
to society.

In the spirit of respect and reconciliation, we will 
continue to support initiatives that strengthen 
culture and ways of life so that their legacy 
continues and extends to future generations.

About this report 

From the Chair 

Our purpose-led approach 

Our business explained 

About us 

Performance highlights 

Where we operate 

Our business model 

Our stakeholders and impact 

Our commodities 

From the CEO 

Our strategy 

Our strategy in action 

Key performance indicators 

Risk management 

Financial and operational performance summary 

GOVERNANCE 

Governance at a glance 

Board of Directors 

Directors’ report 

Lead Team 

Remuneration report 

FINANCIAL REPORT

Consolidated income statement 

Consolidated statement  
of comprehensive income 

Consolidated balance sheet 

Consolidated cash flow statement  

Consolidated statement of changes in equity 

Notes to the financial statements 

Directors' declaration 

Lead auditor’s independence declaration 

Independent auditor’s report  

RESOURCES AND RESERVES 

Information 

Competent persons 

Accompanying tables 

INFORMATION

Shareholder information 

Glossary of terms and abbreviations 

Corporate directory 

IFC

2

4

6

6

7

8

10

12

14

16

18

20

26

28

38

64

66

71

76

78

105

106

107

108

109

110

162

163

164

169

170

171

178

181

188

SOUTH32 ANNUAL REPORT 2023

1

FROM THE CHAIR

FULFILLING 
OUR PURPOSE

South32 has undergone a major transformation over the past eight years 
to become a truly global, diversified producer of commodities critical  
to a low-carbon future.

We were profoundly shocked and 
saddened by the deaths of two of our 
colleagues, Mr Cristovão Alberto Tonela 
and Mr Alfredo Francisco Domingos João, 
at Mozal Aluminium in November 2022. On 
behalf of the Board, I express my sincere 
and deepest sympathies to their families, 
friends and colleagues.

This incident was devastating for everyone 
at South32 and has challenged each of us 
to ask ourselves every day whether our 
decisions and actions guarantee our own 
safety and that of our colleagues.

We had already commenced our journey 
to fundamentally shift our safety 
performance and deliver the cultural 
transformation required for sustained 
improvement. The tragic loss of our 
colleagues at Mozal Aluminium has 
demonstrated why this work is of utmost 
importance and strengthened our resolve 
to eliminate fatalities and serious injuries 
from our business.

We believe that supporting all our people 
to feel safe, included and respected at 
work can enhance individual and collective 
performance. The Board, working with the 
Lead Team, sets the direction and tone 
for our workplace culture and our focus is 
on building a culture that aligns with our 
purpose, reflects our values and supports 
the delivery of our strategy.

Our Board represents a broad cultural, 
ethnic, background and geographic mix. 
In May we welcomed Mr Carlos Mesquita 
and Ms Jane Nelson as independent 
Non-Executive Directors, based in the 
Americas. The appointments of Carlos 
and Jane further enhance the Board’s 
broad range of skills and experience, 
particularly in major projects, operations 
and sustainability. We also farewelled 
Mr Guy Lansdown who resigned from our 
Board in May. I would like to thank Guy 

for his valuable contribution during his 
tenure as we expanded our presence in 
the Americas. 

As part of the Board’s program of regular 
meetings, Directors visited Hillside 
Aluminium, Hotazel Manganese Mines and 
Mozal Aluminium, as well as the Hermosa 
project in FY23. These site visits presented 
an opportunity to better understand the 
local operating context, consider the 
challenges and opportunities at each 
site, connect with our employees and 
contractors, and experience our culture 
first-hand. It has been inspiring to see 
how our people are making a difference at 
each of these locations as we all work to 
fulfil our purpose.

Against this volatile and uncertain 
backdrop, we set annual production 
records at three of our operations and 
delivered one of our largest underlying 
profit results to date, with Underlying 
earnings before interest, tax, depreciation 
and amortisation of US$2.5 billion. This 
was achieved despite lower commodity 
prices and industry-wide inflationary 
pressures.

We recorded a statutory loss after tax of 
US$173 million following the recognition 
of a non-cash impairment expense in 
relation to the Taylor Deposit at our 
Hermosa project, and ended the financial 
year with net debt of US$483 million as we 
made record returns to shareholders and 
invested in our business.

“We published our first Climate Change Action Plan  

in September 2022 and received strong shareholder 
support for the Plan."

The global economy has seen two 
successive major shocks in a short span 
of three years. While the world has re-
opened since the COVID-19 pandemic, 
geopolitical tensions remained heightened 
throughout FY23, including the ongoing 
tragic war in Ukraine and strained ties 
between the major economic centres. This 
has contributed to market fragmentation 
and volatility in a landscape where 
policymakers and companies are already 
grappling with structural risks including 
climate change, higher sovereign debt 
levels, ageing demographics and rising 
income inequalities.

We returned US$1.2 billion to shareholders 
during FY23, including US$1,007 million 
in fully-franked ordinary and special 
dividends, and US$218 million via our 
on-market share buy-back. Reflecting 
our disciplined approach to capital 
management, the Board has resolved to 
further expand our capital management 
program to US$2.4 billion, leaving  
US$133 million to be returned by  
1 March 2024.

One of the central aims of the United 
States Inflation Reduction Act is to 
increase investment in clean energy, 
offering tax incentives for domestic 
electric battery vehicle production and 
supply chains. The Hermosa project 

2

OPERATING AND FINANCIAL REVIEW

With a referendum on an Indigenous Voice 
to Parliament taking place in Australia in 
October 2023, our hope is that everyone 
takes the time to inform themselves 
on what this means to the First Nations 
Peoples of Australia and the broader 
community.

The Board is pleased with the progress 
that has been made in FY23, while 
acknowledging that we must continue 
our critical work to improve our safety 
performance. We have much to look 
forward to in FY24, as we continue 
to transform our portfolio to provide 
commodities critical to a low-carbon 
future.

On behalf of the Board, I would like to 
thank our shareholders, communities 
and other key stakeholders for their 
ongoing support and reiterate our thanks 
to our people for their hard work and 
commitment throughout the year.

Karen Wood 
Chair

supports this anticipated growth and is 
currently the only advanced project in 
the United States that could supply two 
federally designated critical minerals, zinc 
and manganese.

The development of Hermosa is an 
important step in our long-term strategy 
to reshape our portfolio by increasing 
our exposure to commodities critical to 
a low-carbon future. Our ambition is for 
Hermosa to be our first next generation 
mine with the potential to deliver improved 
safety and productivity while minimising 
our environmental impact and making 
a significant contribution to our host 
communities and the local economy. 
We are progressing the Taylor and Clark 
Deposits towards development, with a final 
investment decision on Taylor expected by 
the end of calendar year 2023.

Taking action to address the risks and 
opportunities which climate change 
presents is also a long-term focus for our 
business. We support the goals of the 
Paris Agreement and have a long-term 
goal to achieve net zero greenhouse 
gas (GHG) emissions by 2050, inclusive 
of Scope 1, 2 and 3 emissions. We also 
have a medium-term target to halve our 
operational GHG emissions (Scope 1 and 
2) by 2035 from our FY21 baseline.

We published our first Climate Change 
Action Plan in September 2022, which 
was the subject of a non-binding advisory 
resolution at our 2022 Annual General 
Meeting. The Plan received strong 
shareholder support, with 89.6 per cent 
of votes cast in favour of the resolution. 
Subsequent to the meeting, we engaged 
with material shareholders that voted 
against the Plan to understand areas 
they would like to see improved and this 
feedback is taken into consideration by 
our Board in determining our approach to 
climate change going forward.

We have made progress against key 
elements of the Plan in FY23, including 
updating our 1.5°C scenario to stress-test 
the potential impacts of climate change 
on our business. We have also progressed 
our decarbonisation initiatives with a focus 
on the operations which account for the 
majority of our GHG emissions profile.

The Board oversees climate change as a 
strategic risk and material governance 
issue, and we will continue to provide 
annual updates on our progress against 
our Climate Change Action Plan in our 
Sustainable Development Report.

Just as we continue to share our approach 
and performance on climate change, 
the same is also true for other material 
sustainability topics, with the publication 
of new or updated approaches for 
Indigenous, Traditional and Tribal Peoples 
Engagement, Cultural Heritage, Human 
Rights, Water Stewardship, and Tailings 
Management.

In 2020 we announced our support for 
the Uluru Statement from the Heart 
as the pathway towards reconciliation 
put forward by Australia’s First Nations 
Peoples, which includes enshrining a 
First Nations Voice to Parliament into the 
Australian Constitution. 

We are aware that there are many 
different views on how to address the 
considerable disadvantage of Australia’s 
First Nations Peoples. As a Board we have 
a duty to act in the best interests of our 
company. Those interests include the 
way in which we operate on the lands of 
First Nations Peoples. It is in our interests 
that the communities that support our 
operations are thriving and, in our view, 
this will be supported by First Nations 
Peoples having a say on matters relating 
to them.

3

SOUTH32 ANNUAL REPORT 2023OUR PURPOSE-LED APPROACH

MAKING 
A DIFFERENCE...

Our purpose
Our purpose is to make a difference by developing natural resources, improving people’s lives now and  
for generations to come. We are trusted by our owners and partners to realise the potential of their resources.

Our strategy
Our purpose is underpinned by a simple yet powerful strategy which is focused on optimising the performance 
of our operations, unlocking their potential and identifying new opportunities to create value for  
our stakeholders.

OPTIMISE

UNLOCK

IDENTIFY

+

Learn more in Our strategy  
in action on pages 20 to 21.

+

Learn more in Our strategy in 
action on pages 22 to 23.

+

Learn more in Our strategy in 
action on pages 24 to 25

Sustainability is at the heart of our purpose and underpins the delivery of our strategy.

+ Learn more about our approach to sustainability in our Sustainable Development Report at www.south32.net.

Our values
While our strategy outlines what we do to achieve our purpose, our values guide how we do it.  
Every day, our values shape the way we behave and the standards we set for ourselves and others.

Care 
We care about people,  
the communities we’re  
a part of and the world  
we depend on. 

Trust 
We deliver on our 
commitments and rely  
on each other to do 
the right thing. 

Togetherness 
We value difference and 
we openly listen and share, 
knowing that together  
we are better. 

Excellence 
We are courageous  
and challenge ourselves  
to be the best in  
what matters. 

+ Learn more about our values at www.south32.net.

Our performance 
Our key performance indicators provide a balanced approach to measuring our performance against the 
delivery of our strategy, in support of our purpose and aligned with our values.

+ Learn more about our key performance indicators on pages 26 to 27.

4

OPERATING AND FINANCIAL REVIEW

...AND IMPROVING 
PEOPLE’S LIVES

Our stakeholders
We are committed to creating value 
for our stakeholders. We believe 
that, when done sustainably, the 
development of natural resources 
can change people’s lives for the 
better. In delivering our strategy, we 
seek to create enduring social, 
environmental and economic value, 
in a way that aligns with our purpose 
and values.

+

+

Learn more about how we are 
helping to improve people’s 
lives on pages 12 to 13.

Learn more about our stakeholders 
in our Sustainable Development 
Report at www.south32.net.

Our people

Nothing is more important than the health, safety and wellbeing of our people. We are committed to working together 
safely, creating a values-based culture and an inclusive and diverse workforce.

+ Learn more about our approach to health and safety, and people and culture, in our Sustainable Development Report  

at www.south32.net.

Our people are fundamental to our success. We seek to attract, develop and retain talented people who have a shared 
belief in our purpose and values. Our reward framework aims to reward business and individual performance, as well 
as drive ownership behaviours.

+ Learn more about executive reward in our Remuneration report on pages 78 to 103.

5

SOUTH32 ANNUAL REPORT 2023OUR BUSINESS EXPLAINED > ABOUT US

SOUTH32 IS A GLOBALLY 
DIVERSIFIED MINING 
AND METALS COMPANY

We produce commodities including bauxite, 
alumina, aluminium, copper, silver, lead, zinc, nickel, 
metallurgical coal and manganese from our 
operations in Australia, Southern Africa and South 
America. With a focus on growing our base metals 
exposure, we also have two development options 
in North America and several partnerships with 
junior explorers around the world.

With more than 9,000 employees and a 
presence in six continents, we are proud to be 
creating opportunities for our people and the 
communities in which we operate to benefit 
from the development of natural resources. 
We are transforming our business to increase 
our exposure to commodities critical to a 
low-carbon(1) future and are committed to 
continuously improving our sustainability 
performance, optimising our positive 
contributions and minimising adverse impacts.

1,461

Copper equivalent production  
(kilotonnes)(2)

(FY22 1,375)

1,616

Underlying EBIT 
(US$ million)(3)

(FY22 3,967)

1,225

Shareholder returns 
(US$ million)(4)

(FY22 788)

(1)  In this report we use particular terminology in relation to climate change. Definitions of the terms 'goal', 'target' and 'low-carbon' when used in the context of climate change 

are set out in the Glossary of terms and abbreviations on pages 181 to 187 of this report.

(2)  Copper equivalent production was calculated using FY22 realised prices, and includes operated and non-operated operations.
(3)  This is a non-IFRS measure. For an explanation of how South32 uses non-IFRS measures, see page 38.
(4)  Fully-franked ordinary and special dividends paid in respect of H2 FY22 (US$784M), fully-franked ordinary dividends paid in respect of H1 FY23 (US$223M) and on-market share 

buy-back (US$218M).

6

OPERATING AND FINANCIAL REVIEW

OUR BUSINESS EXPLAINED > PERFORMANCE HIGHLIGHTS

OUR PERFORMANCE 
AT A GLANCE

 〉 Recorded strong production growth in aluminium  

(14 per cent), base metals (17 per cent)(5) and 
manganese (four per cent), as we realised the benefit  
of recent portfolio improvements.

 〉 Achieved annual production records at Hillside 

Aluminium, Australia Manganese and South Africa 
Manganese.

 〉 This production growth, coupled with our continued 
focus on cost efficiencies, underpinned one of our 
largest underlying financial results.

 〉 A record US$1.2 billion was returned to shareholders 

during FY23(4).

 〉 Achieved significant milestones at our Hermosa 

project.

 〉 Progressed near-term decarbonisation initiatives to 
support of delivery of our medium-term target(1)(6).

1.4

Lost Time Injury Frequency 
(per million hours worked)(7)

(FY22 2.0)

27.7

Social Investment 
(US$ million)(8)

(FY22 31.1)

21.0

Operational greenhouse gas emissions  
(Million tonnes CO2-e)(9) 
(FY22 21.0)

+

Learn more about our key performance indicators, including historical data, on pages 26 to 27

(5)  FY23 growth in copper equivalent production at our base metals operations (Sierra Gorda, Cannington and Cerro Matoso), compared to FY22. Copper equivalent production 

was calculated using FY22 realised prices.

(6)  Our medium-term target is to reduce our operational greenhouse gas emissions by 50 per cent from FY21 levels by 2035. The FY21 baseline has been adjusted to exclude 

emissions from SAEC and TEMCO, which were divested in FY21.

(7)  Incidents are included where South32 controls the work location or controls the work activity. Lost time injuries include injuries that result in one or more lost work days after 

the day of the event.

(8)  Our total social investment comprised US$24.6M in direct investment (including Enterprise Development), US$2.5M in administrative costs, and US$0.6M of in-kind support.
(9)  Includes Scope 1 and Scope 2 greenhouse gas emissions.

7

SOUTH32 ANNUAL REPORT 2023OUR BUSINESS EXPLAINED > WHERE WE OPERATE

A DIVERSIFIED 
PORTFOLIO WITH A BIAS 
TO BASE METALS

AMBLER METALS

Copper, Lead, Gold, Silver and Zinc

VANCOUVER

South32-operated operation

Non-operated operation

Development option

Exploration program

Office

FY23 Key Commodity Underlying EBIT

US$1.7b(1)

8%

19%

41%

13%

17%

13%

8%

11%

70%

By Commodity

Aluminium value chain

Copper

Silver, Lead, Zinc

Nickel

Metallurgical coal

Manganese

By Geography

Australia

Southern Africa

Americas

HERMOSA

Zinc, Lead, Silver and Manganese

CERRO MATOSO

Nickel

BRAZIL ALUMINA

Bauxite

BRAZIL ALUMINA

Alumina

SIERRA GORDA

Copper, Molybdenum and Gold

BRAZIL ALUMINIUM

Aluminium

+ Read more on Segment Reporting in Note 4 to the financial statements on page 113.

(1)  Presented on a proportional consolidation basis and excludes manganese alloys (-US$6 million), Hermosa (-US$19 million), and Group and unallocated costs (-US$50 million).

8

OPERATING AND FINANCIAL REVIEW

Our commodities

Aluminium value chain

Our integrated aluminium value chain consists of high-quality 
bauxite resources, large alumina refineries and the two largest 
aluminium smelters in Africa.

Copper

We have an interest in a conventional open-cut copper mine in the 
prolific Antofagasta region in Chile, producing a commodity critical 
to a low-carbon world.

Silver, Lead, Zinc

We are one of the world’s largest producers of silver and lead from 
one of our Australian operations that also produces zinc.

Nickel

We are one of the world’s largest ferronickel producers with the 
potential to produce intermediary nickel products for electric 
vehicle markets.

Metallurgical coal

We produce premium-quality, hard coking coal for domestic and 
export steel markets.

Manganese

We are the world’s largest producer of manganese with access  
to global markets. We also have the potential to produce battery-
grade manganese at our Hermosa project.

+

Learn more about our commodities in a low-carbon world  
on pages 14 to 15.

LONDON

JOHANNESBURG

SOUTH AFRICA
MANGANESE

Manganese ore

MOZAL
ALUMINIUM

Aluminium

HILLSIDE ALUMINIUM

Aluminium

SINGAPORE

CANNINGTON

Silver, Lead and Zinc

AUSTRALIA MANGANESE

Manganese ore

PERTH HEAD OFFICE

WORSLEY ALUMINA

Alumina

ILLAWARRA
METALLURGICAL COAL

Metallurgical coal

9

SOUTH32 ANNUAL REPORT 2023OUR BUSINESS EXPLAINED > OUR BUSINESS MODEL

CREATING 
LONG-TERM VALUE

As a global mining and metals company, we create value by producing commodities that are used in 
many aspects of modern life and many of these commodities will play a critical role in a low-carbon 
future. Our operations, development options and exploration programs are diversified by commodity 
and geography. We work to minimise the impact of our activities and aim to create enduring value for 
our stakeholders, at each stage of the mining lifecycle.

The resources  
we rely on

What we do

Explore

Develop

Refine/Smelt

Mine/Process

Market

Rehabilitate 
and Close

People and expertise
Our global workforce is made up of both 
employees and contractors and is our 
most important resource, providing 
the skills, experience and technical 
expertise required to run our business.

Natural resources
The resources and reserves we access 
are the primary inputs for our business. 
Other natural resources such as water 
and energy are also important for 
the operation of our facilities, and we 
require access to land to conduct our 
business activities.

Physical assets
We have a suite of operations including 
open-cut and underground mines, 
refineries, smelters and associated 
infrastructure. We procure equipment 
from suppliers globally to support our 
operations, development options and 
exploration programs.

Finance
Our shareholders and lenders provide 
access to financial capital, which we 
put to work by operating our existing 
facilities and funding our pipeline of 
development options and exploration 
programs.

Relationships
Trust and transparency are essential to 
the way we operate. We seek to build 
trust in the communities where we 
operate to help realise the potential 
of their resources, and we work 
with our suppliers and customers to 
apply responsible business practices 
throughout our value chain.

10

OPERATING AND FINANCIAL REVIEW

Explore
We have a portfolio of more than 25 greenfield exploration options across the world to discover deposits to underpin our next 
generation of mines, with a focus on commodities critical to a low-carbon future. Wherever we explore, we work to minimise the 
footprint of our activities through the use of technology and well-designed programs. 

Develop
Our development options have the potential to provide commodities which support the transition to a low-carbon world and  
we have a pipeline of options in feasibility, pre-feasibility and other study phases. As we advance these options we are looking  
to reshape the way we would mine at future projects including the Hermosa project to deliver transformational safety, productivity 
and emissions outcomes.

Mine/Process
We mine and process bauxite, copper, silver, lead, zinc, nickel, metallurgical coal and manganese. Our most important commitment 
at all of our sites is the health, safety and wellbeing of our employees, contractors, visitors and communities. We listen to our 
stakeholders and work together with the aim of creating shared value.

Refine/Smelt
We refine bauxite to produce alumina, we smelt alumina to produce aluminium, and we smelt nickel ore to produce ferronickel. We 
are also executing decarbonisation initiatives to support delivery of our operational decarbonisation target, focusing on our highest 
emitting refineries and smelters.

Market
We generate revenue from the sale of our commodities to a global customer base and purchase raw materials from global markets. 
We also analyse commodities and their markets to inform our strategic business planning and investment decisions. We are 
building meaningful partnerships with key customers and suppliers to support and co-design emissions reduction programs in the 
value chain.

Rehabilitate and Close
From exploration through to closure and beyond, we seek to minimise our adverse impacts on the surrounding communities and 
environments. We undertake progressive rehabilitation where possible, our closure plans are informed by the aspirations and 
expectations of our host communities and countries, and we aspire to leave a positive legacy.

The outcomes we create

We are committed to creating value for our stakeholders, including our people, communities, suppliers, customers, governments 
and the financial community including our shareholders.

+ Learn more about our stakeholders and impact on pages 12 to 13.

11

SOUTH32 ANNUAL REPORT 2023OUR BUSINESS EXPLAINED > OUR STAKEHOLDERS AND IMPACT

HELPING IMPROVE 
PEOPLE’S LIVES

We are committed to creating value for our stakeholders. We believe that, when 
done sustainably, the development of natural resources can change people’s lives 
for the better. Here are some of the ways we are doing this.

People

9,616
employees globally(1)

US$805M in wages, salaries and other payments(2)

430 graduates, apprentices, trainees and learners  
in our talent pipeline

We invest in our people through training and 
development to help them realise their career aspirations

Our annual Your Voice employee survey allows us to 
understand and continuously improve the employee 
experience

+

Learn more about our people and culture in our Sustainable 
Development Report at www.south32.net

Communities

US$27.7M
invested in community programs(3) 

Our direct social investment spend was across our  
four key focus areas - education and leadership  
(24 per cent), economic participation (14 per cent), good 
health and social wellbeing (50 per cent), and natural 
resource resilience (12 per cent)

We work closely with Indigenous, Traditional and Tribal 
Peoples to preserve cultural heritage

+

Learn more about how we deliver value to society in our 
Sustainable Development Report at www.south32.net

(1)  Includes direct employees at Brazil Alumina, Brazil Aluminium and Sierra Gorda.
(2)  Includes operations at their respective percentage shareholding, including South32's ownership proportion of our manganese equity accounted investments.
(3)  Our total social investment comprised US$24.6M in direct investment (including Enterprise Development), US$2.5M in administrative costs, and US$0.6M of in-kind support.

12

OPERATING AND FINANCIAL REVIEW

Environment and 
Climate Change

We have set a medium-term target to halve our 
operational greenhouse gas emissions (Scope 1 and 2) by 
2035 from an FY21 baseline, and we have set a goal of net 
zero operational greenhouse gas emissions by 2050 

We have set a goal of net zero Scope 3 greenhouse gas 
emissions by 2050

Water use efficiency, which measures water recycled  
and reused as a percentage of total water use, was  
61.5 per cent in FY23

333 hectares of land rehabilitated in FY23

+

Learn more about our approach to climate change and our 
approach to managing our environmental impact in our 
Sustainable Development Report at www.south32.net

Financial Community

Our capital management framework prioritises 
maintaining safe and reliable operations and an 
investment grade credit rating through the cycle, before 
distributing a minimum of 40 per cent of underlying 
earnings as ordinary dividends

US$1,007M in dividends returned to shareholders during 
FY23

US$218M allocated to our on-market share buy-back 
during FY23

+

Learn more about our capital management framework in  
Our strategy on page 19.

Suppliers and Customers

Governments

US$1,017M
spent on local procurement 

US$1,470M
in total taxes and royalties paid(5)

A$30M procured from Aboriginal and Torres Strait 
Islander businesses in Australia

US$15M spent on Enterprise and Supplier Development in 
South Africa(4)

Underlying effective tax rate of 36.1 per cent

Wherever we operate, we seek to work cooperatively 
with governments to help them realise value from natural 
resources and transition towards low-carbon economies

We aim to source responsibly and enhance product 
stewardship across our value chain, working with  
5,623 direct suppliers in 57 countries and 195 customers 
in 32 countries

We work with a range of stakeholders and seek to 
influence public policy to create an environment that 
supports the sustainable development of natural 
resources

+

Learn more about our approach to responsible value chains 
in our Sustainable Development Report  
at www.south32.net

+

Learn more about our approach to tax in our Tax 
Transparency and Payments to Government Report, and  
our approach to industry associations at www.south32.net

(4)  Enterprise and Supplier Development (ESD) consists of two activities, Enterprise Development and Supplier Development. The Enterprise Development component, which was 

US$5.2 million in FY23, is captured in both the ESD total and the social investment total.

(5)  Includes South32's ownership proportion for equity accounted investments.

13

SOUTH32 ANNUAL REPORT 2023OUR BUSINESS EXPLAINED > OUR COMMODITIES

HELPING CREATE  
A LOW-CARBON FUTURE

Our commodities are used in many aspects of modern life and we are actively 
reshaping our portfolio to increase our exposure to the commodities critical  
to a low-carbon future. Key market sectors where our commodities have  
an important role to play include construction, energy and renewables,  
the automotive industry and consumer goods.

Aluminium

Copper

Silver, Lead, Zinc

Aluminium is often referred to as the metal 
of the future. It is lightweight, durable, 
strong, resistant to corrosion, recyclable 
and it can conduct electricity, meaning 
it has a wide range of applications 
including construction, electrical wiring, 
transportation, packaging and consumer 
goods such as electronics and household 
items. We have doubled our low-carbon 
aluminium(1) capacity and operate the 
largest aluminium smelter in the southern 
hemisphere.

Copper is a key metal used in electric 
vehicles and charging infrastructure. 
It is also an excellent conductor of 
electricity. As the world moves towards 
electrification, copper will increasingly 
be used in power-related infrastructure, 
including renewable energy. Copper is also 
used in kitchen cookware and plumbing as 
it conducts heat well and has antimicrobial 
properties. In FY22 we acquired an 
interest in our first operating copper 
mine, which transitioned to 100 per cent 
renewable electricity supply in FY23.

Silver is used in solar panels due to its 
superior electrical conductivity, and is 
also used to make medical appliances 
and consumer electronics. Lead is used in 
renewable energy storage systems. Zinc 
protects metals against corrosion and 
will play a key role in green infrastructure 
development as a protective coating for 
wind turbines and solar panels. In solar 
panels zinc oxide coatings help achieve 
higher energy conversion. We are a large 
producer of silver-rich lead concentrate 
and zinc concentrate.

(1)  A definition of the term 'low-carbon aluminium' when used in the context of climate change is set out in the Glossary of terms and abbreviations on page 185 of this report.

14

OPERATING AND FINANCIAL REVIEW

FY23 production at a glance

Aluminium (kt)

1,133

Zinc (kt)

59.2

Copper (kt)

70.7

Nickel (kt)

40.8

Silver (koz)

11,813

Lead (kt)

101.7

Metallurgical coal (kt)

Manganese (kwmt)

5,497

5,653

+ Learn more about our portfolio in a low-carbon world in our Sustainable Development Report at www.south32.net

Nickel

Metallurgical coal

Manganese

Nickel is used in stainless steel, which is 
used in transportation, manufacturing, 
household items and surgical instruments. 
Nickel has an important role to play as the 
world transitions to a more sustainable 
future as it is used as an alloy in wind and 
solar power infrastructure. Nickel-rich 
batteries are also critical for the rapid 
adoption of electric vehicles. We are one of 
the world’s largest ferronickel producers 
with the potential to produce intermediary 
products for electric vehicles.

Currently there is no commercial scale 
alternative to metallurgical coal in the 
steelmaking process. The use of high-
quality metallurgical coal that we produce 
supports greenhouse gas emissions 
reduction targets in the steel industry 
through improved blast furnace efficiency, 
when compared with lower-quality 
metallurgical coal. Growth in steel demand 
is anticipated for green infrastructure 
development and vehicle electrification, as 
well as for the establishment of new steel 
capacity in emerging markets.

Manganese is used to improve the quality 
and strength of steel in major infrastructure 
such as hospitals, office towers and 
bridges. Manganese also has the potential 
to displace cobalt in lithium-ion batteries, 
with demand for manganese-rich cathode 
chemistries expected to grow. We are 
well positioned to meet future demand 
as we are the world’s largest producer of 
manganese and our Hermosa project has 
the potential to produce battery-grade 
manganese.

15

SOUTH32 ANNUAL REPORT 2023FROM THE CEO

DELIVERING NOW 
AND FOR THE FUTURE

Our strategy continues to serve us well and we delivered strong growth  
in commodities critical to a low-carbon future. We are investing to grow our business, 
have made substantial progress at our Hermosa project and are maturing  
our decarbonisation efforts. 

Nothing is more important than the 
health, safety and wellbeing of our people. 
Unfortunately, we did not deliver on our 
most important commitment in FY23.

In November 2022, we were devastated 
by the loss of two of our colleagues, 
Mr Cristovão Alberto Tonela and 
Mr Alfredo Francisco Domingos João, 
who were fatally injured in an incident 
while undertaking maintenance work on 
a raising girder at Mozal Aluminium. Our 
deepest sympathies remain with their 
families and colleagues.

I visited Mozal Aluminium following the 
incident and its impact caused great 
sadness for all of us. Our initial priorities 
were to care for those involved, and 
respond to the immediate potential 
risk for the remaining raising girders by 
implementing additional controls at both 
Mozal Aluminium and Hillside Aluminium.

We owe it to everyone who has been 
affected by the deaths of Mr Tonela and 
Mr Domingos to learn from this terrible 
event. We worked with the original 
equipment manufacturer to identify 
further safety improvements, and once 
the investigation was completed, key 
learnings were shared across our business 
and our industry.

Our Lost Time Injury Frequency (LTIF) 
decreased by 30 per cent compared to the 
FY22 baseline and our Total Recordable 
Injury Frequency (TRIF) increased by  
11 per cent compared to the FY22 
baseline. LTIF is a measure of serious 
injuries whereas TRIF is a measure of all 
recordable injuries, so although we saw an 
increase in recordable injury events, the 
frequency of severe events decreased.

Despite this, we recognise that we must 
continue to improve our health and safety 
performance and everyone, across all 
levels of our organisation, are focused  
on this.

We continue to implement our multi-
year Safety Improvement Program that 
commenced in FY22, which aims to deliver 
the cultural transformation required for 
sustained improvement. We have also 
made changes to the structure of our 
health and safety teams to continue to 
drive the integration between culture and 
health and safety.

Every day, we ask our people to reflect on 
whether they can guarantee both their 
safety and that of their colleagues when 
executing their role. If the answer is no, 
then the challenge is to stop work and ask 
what would need to be done differently to 
provide that guarantee. This is articulated 
as our ‘safety guarantee’ and it is used to 
create a sense of chronic unease, reduce 
complacency, and assist to reduce risk 
tolerance. We are working to further embed 
our 'safety guarantee' across our business.

We made some changes to our Lead Team 
in FY23, with Katie Tovich moving from the 
Chief Financial Officer role to become our 
Chief Human Resources and Commercial 
Officer, and we appointed Sandy Sibenaler 
as our new Chief Financial Officer following 
an internal promotion. With these 
changes, we have 50 per cent female 
representation on our Lead Team and 
while we continue to focus on increasing 
gender balance across the business, 
ultimately inclusion and diversity is about 
our workforce reflecting the communities 
in which we operate.

Inclusiveness extends beyond the 
workplace and in Australia, we support an 
Indigenous Voice to Parliament as a key 
element of the Uluru Statement from the 
Heart. We mine on Indigenous lands, and 
as part of determining our own position 
on the Statement we consulted the 

“Recent portfolio improvements have helped us deliver 

strong production growth in aluminium, base metals  
and manganese.”

In the same way that we are working to 
create workplaces that are physically safe, 
we are also focused on creating workplaces 
that are psychologically safe. We manage 
sexual harassment as a material health and 
safety risk and have implemented additional 
controls and safety measures which aim 
to mitigate against the potential for sexual 
harassment to occur in our workplaces, 
focusing on our highest exposure areas 
such as accommodation facilities.

We know that an inclusive and diverse 
workforce produces better outcomes 
and we are working to instil a culture that 
supports a positive employee experience 
and a safe and productive workplace.

Traditional Owner Groups and Registered 
Indigenous Groups where we operate to 
confirm their support of the Statement. 
This year we have created opportunities 
for discussion and learning, including 
panel discussions with Indigenous 
Australians from where we operate, so 
that when our people decide whether to 
support a Voice to Parliament, they do so 
in an informed way.

The macroeconomic environment 
remained volatile throughout FY23. 
Inflationary pressures persisted in 
many jurisdictions which lead to an 
unprecedented pace of interest rate rises 

16

OPERATING AND FINANCIAL REVIEW

by major central banks which impacted 
demand, particularly industrial activity. 
Although China reopened from its zero-
COVID policy in the second half of the 
year, economic growth did not meet initial 
expectations.

Despite the challenging operating 
environment, we achieved record annual 
production at Hillside Aluminium, Australia 
Manganese and South Africa Manganese, 
and had a strong finish to the year with 
Brazil Alumina, Cannington and Illawarra 
Metallurgical Coal returning to stable 
operations following adverse weather and 
other temporary impacts.

Underlying earnings decreased as the 
combination of a decline in commodity 
prices from record levels in many markets 
in the prior period, and higher inflation 
and uncontrollable costs, more than offset 
higher production volumes.

We continue to prioritise a strong balance 
sheet and investment grade credit rating 
through all cycles, finishing the period with 
net debt of US$483 million as we made 
record returns to shareholders during 
FY23 and invested to grow our future 
production of commodities critical to a 
low-carbon future.

Our strategy of optimising the 
performance of our operations, unlocking 
their potential and identifying new 
opportunities to create value for our 
stakeholders has helped us navigate 
economic cycles over the last eight years.

Recent portfolio improvements have helped 
us deliver strong production growth, with 
aluminium production increasing by  
14 per cent, base metals by 17 per cent  
and manganese by 4 per cent in FY23.

We have made substantial progress at 
our Hermosa project in the United States. 
Hermosa is currently the only advanced 
project in the United States that could 
supply two federally designated critical 

minerals, zinc and manganese, which are 
important for a low-carbon future. In May 
2023, Hermosa was confirmed as the first 
mining project to be added to the FAST-41 
process, enabling a more efficient and 
transparent federal permitting process for 
the project.

We have recognised a non-cash 
impairment expense for the Taylor Deposit 
at Hermosa with our FY23 financial results, 
due to delays from the impact of COVID-19, 
the significant dewatering requirements 
and current inflationary market 
conditions. We continue to see substantial 
opportunity to unlock additional value 
across the Taylor and Clark Deposits and 
our highly prospective regional exploration 
package.

In July 2023, we released an updated 
Mineral Resource estimate for Taylor, 
including a 41 per cent increase in the 
Measured Mineral Resource, providing 
a compelling base to underpin future 
production. In the second half of calendar 
year 2023 we expect to complete 
the feasibility study and make a final 
investment decision for Taylor.

Separately, study work for the Clark 
Deposit at Hermosa has confirmed 
its potential to supply battery-grade 
manganese to the rapidly forming North 
American electric vehicle supply chain. 
Study work is continuing, pilot plant 
production has commenced and decline 
construction is expected to commence in 
the first half of FY24.

We are encouraged by the exploration 
options across our regional land package 
at Hermosa, including our high priority 
Peake and Flux Prospects, with recent 
drilling at Peake delivering our best copper 
exploration results to date.

We continue to invest to discover deposits 
to underpin our next generation of mines 
and during the period we exercised our 

earn-in right to acquire a controlling stake 
in the Chita Valley copper exploration 
project in the highly prospective San Juan 
province of Argentina.

Our development options and exploration 
activities form part of our approach 
to climate change. We published our 
first Climate Change Action Plan in 
September 2022 and have continued 
to mature our decarbonisation efforts, 
including commencing the conversion of 
Worsley Alumina’s first coal-fired boiler 
to natural gas and deploying the AP3XLE 
energy efficiency technology at Hillside 
Aluminium. In addition, we progressed 
decarbonisation studies at Hillside 
Aluminium, Worsley Alumina and Illawarra 
Metallurgical Coal.

For Hillside Aluminium, while our studies 
have confirmed the challenges associated 
with developing renewable and low-
carbon energy sources in South Africa, 
we continue to investigate a range of 
potential solutions including acquiring 
energy attributes to reduce the emissions 
intensity of its product in the near-term. 
At Mozal Aluminium, we are working to 
extend the supply of hydro-electric power 
beyond 2026.

Despite the headwinds experienced in 
FY23, and the expectation of continued 
macroeconomic challenges in FY24, we 
are continuing to deliver results now and 
create value for the future. I would like to 
thank all our teams around the world for 
their contribution to our performance and 
progress as we solidify our position as a 
global, diversified producer of commodities 
critical to a low-carbon future.

Graham Kerr 
Chief Executive Officer

17

SOUTH32 ANNUAL REPORT 2023OUR STRATEGY

A STRATEGY 
TO ACHIEVE 
OUR PURPOSE

Our purpose is at the heart of who we are. Every day, in support of our purpose  
and underpinned by our approach to sustainability, our people work  
to deliver our strategy for the benefit of our stakeholders.

Our purpose is to make a difference by developing natural resources, improving people's lives now and for 
generations to come. We are trusted by our owners and partners to realise the potential of their resources.

Our purpose is underpinned by a simple yet powerful strategy.

We optimise our business 
by working safely, minimising 
our impact, consistently 
delivering stable and 
predictable performance, 
and continually improving 
our competitiveness. 

We unlock the full value 
of our business through 
our people, innovation, 
projects and technology. 

We identify and 
pursue opportunities to 
sustainably reshape our 
business for the future, 
and create enduring 
social, environmental 
and economic value. 

Sustainability is at the heart of our purpose and underpins the delivery of our strategy. 
Our approach to sustainability comprises five interconnected pillars which focus on areas 
that are material to our business and stakeholders.

Protecting 
and respecting 
our people

Delivering  
value to  
society

Operating 
ethically and 
responsibly 

Managing our 
environmental 
impact

Addressing  
climate change

While our business has many positive impacts, we also recognise that our business activities have the 
potential to cause adverse impacts. We are committed to continuously improving our sustainability 
performance, optimising our positive contributions and minimising adverse impacts.

+ Learn more about our approach to sustainability in our Sustainable Development Report at www.south32.net.

18

OPERATING AND FINANCIAL REVIEW

Delivering our strategy

We deliver on our purpose and our 
strategy by aligning our workforce behind 
seven ‘breakthroughs’ – commitments 
which shape our annual business planning 
process at corporate, operational and 
functional levels, enabling us to focus on 
what’s important.

Our first breakthrough is ‘we all guarantee 
everyone goes home safe and well’, which 
asks each person in our workforce to take 
responsibility for their own safety and 
wellbeing, and that of their colleagues. Our 
'safety guarantee' is an internal approach 
that is used to create a sense of chronic 
unease, reduce complacency, and assist 
to reduce risk tolerance.

Risk framework and corporate 
governance

We are governed by robust risk 
management and corporate governance 
frameworks. Learn more in our Risk 
management section on pages 28 to 
37, and in our Corporate Governance 
Statement at www.south32.net.

Climate-related financial 
disclosures

Our climate-related financial disclosures, 
which we consider to be consistent with 
the four recommendations and the 11 
recommended disclosures of the Task 
Force on Climate-related Financial 
Disclosures (TCFD) are set out in the 
Addressing Climate Change section of 
our Sustainable Development Report and 
the Emissions Methodology tab in our 
Sustainability Databook, both of which are 
available at www.south32.net. In addition, 
certain disclosures in connection with the 
governance-related recommendations 
and recommended disclosures can be 
found in our Corporate Governance 
Statement which is also available  
at www.south32.net. 

We have included our TCFD-aligned 
disclosures in the separate Sustainable 
Development Report and Sustainability 
Databook to enable us to provide them 
alongside detailed information on our 
Climate Change Action Plan and the 
progress we have been making, in the 
context of our sustainability activities 
more widely, and in our Corporate 
Governance Statement so that they are 
discussed in the context of our corporate 
governance arrangements more generally. 
This Annual Report should therefore be 
read in conjunction with the Sustainable 
Development Report, the Sustainability 
Databook and the Corporate Governance 
Statement. 

You can find a table setting out each of 
the TCFD's 11 recommended disclosures, 
and where information relating to each 
recommended disclosure can be found, in 
our Sustainability Databook (see the TCFD 
Index tab) which is available at  
www.south32.net.

Capital management framework

Our simple strategy is underpinned 
by a disciplined approach to capital 
management.

Our capital management framework 
remains unchanged, supporting 
investment in our business and rewarding 
shareholders as our financial performance 
improves.

Our capital allocation priorities are to 
maintain safe and reliable operations 
and an investment grade credit rating 
through the cycle. We intend to distribute 
a minimum of 40 per cent of Underlying 
earnings as ordinary dividends to our 
shareholders following each six-month 
reporting period. We encourage internal 
competition for excess capital, which can 
include further investment in new projects, 
acquisitions, greenfield exploration, share 
buy-backs or special dividends.

We returned US$1,225 million to 
shareholders during FY23 via ordinary 
dividends, special dividends and our 
on-market share buy-back. The Board 
further expanded our capital management 
program to US$2.4 billion in August 2023, 
leaving US$133 million to be returned by 
1 March 2024.

Capital allocation since FY16

2%

22%

38%

US$14.7b
allocated

16%

22%

Capital expenditure  
(including equity accounted investments)
Ordinary dividends

Capital management program

Acquisitions

Greenfield exploration

SOUTH32 ANNUAL REPORT 2023

19

OUR STRATEGY IN ACTION

Working safely

Our FY23 commitments:

 〉 At least 80 per cent senior leader attendance at LEAD Safely Every Day workshops and coaching sessions;

 〉 A reported significant hazard frequency of 55;

 〉 A 20 per cent reduction in Lost Time Injury Frequency (LTIF)(1) against the FY22 baseline, and a 10 per cent reduction 

in Total Recordable Injury Frequency (TRIF)(2) against the FY22 baseline; and

 〉 A 20 per cent reduction in potential material health exposures against the baseline.

Progress during the year:

In November 2022, we were devastated by the loss of two of 
our colleagues, Mr Cristovão Alberto Tonela and Mr Alfredo 
Francisco Domingos João, who were fatally injured in an incident 
while undertaking maintenance work on a raising girder at Mozal 
Aluminium. Our deepest sympathies remain with the families and 
colleagues of the deceased to whom we provided our support 
and counselling. An investigation into the incident was completed 
and key learnings were shared across our business and our 
industry.

Every day, we ask our people to reflect on whether they can 
guarantee both their safety and that of their colleagues when 
executing their role. If the answer is no, then the challenge is 
to stop work and ask what would need to be done differently 
to provide that guarantee. This is articulated as our ‘safety 
guarantee’ and it is used to create a sense of chronic unease, 
reduce complacency, and assist to reduce risk tolerance. We 
are working to further embed our 'safety guarantee' across our 
business.

We also disclose fatalities for contractor activities that are 
associated with our operations, but that take place in locations 
where we do not have control. In FY23, an employee from a 
company contracted by South Africa Manganese lost their life in 
an off-site road trucking accident.

We recognise that we must continue to improve our health 
and safety performance. We are focused on building a culture 
of safety and continuously improving our safety leadership, 
behaviours, processes, and systems to eliminate fatalities, serious 
injuries and illnesses.

We continue to implement our Group-wide Safety Improvement 
Program, a multi-year global program of work launched in FY22 
and designed with the aim of enhancing our safety culture and by 
changing mindsets and behaviours, achieving a step change in 
our safety performance.

One of the key focus areas of the Safety Improvement Program 
is shifting mindsets through leadership. To help achieve this, 
in FY23 we rolled out a program called LEAD Safely Every Day, 
which comprises workshops and coaching for senior leaders, 
managers, superintendents and supervisors across all operations 
and functions. With 99 per cent of our senior leaders completing 
the workshops and coaching sessions in FY23, in FY24 we plan 
to extend the roll out of the LEAD Safely Every Day program 
to frontline employees and frontline contractors. Learn more 
about the LEAD Safely Every Day program in our Sustainable 
Development Report at www.south32.net.

Proactive hazard reporting is an important part of our approach 
to safety, and we exceeded our target with a reported significant 
hazard frequency of 92, indicating a positive reporting culture and 
increased hazard awareness and identification.

Our LTIF decreased by 30 per cent compared to the FY22 
baseline, exceeding our target, and our TRIF increased by  
11 per cent compared to the FY22 baseline, falling short of our 
target. This outcome is primarily attributed to an increase in 
recordable injuries reported during the financial year. Although 
we saw an increase in recordable injury events, the number of lost 
time injury events decreased, resulting in our lowest ever LTIF.

The number of people potentially exposed to material health 
exposures against the baseline increased by one per cent, 
falling short of our target. While we saw a significant reduction 
in potential material exposures at some operations, an increase 
in employee numbers in certain exposed job groups, as well 
as production factors, led to an increase in potential material 
exposures at others.

(1)  Per million hours worked. Incidents are included where South32 controls the work location or controls the work activity. Lost time injuries include injuries that result in one or 

more lost work days after the day of the event.

(2)  Per million hours worked. Incidents are included where South32 controls the work location or controls the work activity.

20

OPERATING AND FINANCIAL REVIEW

OPTIMISE OUR BUSINESS

Stable and predictable performance while minimising impact

Our FY23 commitments:

 〉 Revenue equivalent production within 97 to 102 per cent of budget(3); 

 〉 Controllable costs within US$50 million of budget (adjusted for foreign exchange, price-linked costs and other 

adjustments)(3); 

 〉 Capital expenditure (excluding growth projects) within five per cent of budget (adjusted for foreign exchange) and fewer 

than 20 per cent break-in capital projects(3);

 〉 Capital expenditure on growth projects within 10 per cent of budget (adjusted for foreign exchange) and schedule(3); and 

 〉 Achieve budget adjusted return on invested capital (ROIC)(4). 

Progress during the year:

We achieved 95 per cent of budgeted revenue equivalent 
production. We achieved record annual production volumes 
at Hillside Aluminium, Australia Manganese and South Africa 
Manganese, and we had a strong finish to the year with other 
operations including Cannington and Illawarra Metallurgical Coal 
returning to stable operations following adverse weather and 
other temporary impacts. For more information on our operating 
performance, see pages 48 to 58.

Controllable costs were US$28 million above budget, 
predominantly due to higher contractor and maintenance costs.

Capital expenditure excluding growth projects was  
94 per cent of budget, as we invested in the Appin mine at 
Illawarra Metallurgical Coal and progressed productivity and 
decarbonisation initiatives at Worsley Alumina and other 
operations; and there were 70, or 14 per cent, break-in capital 
projects.

Capital expenditure on growth projects, which was focused on 
the Hermosa project, was 88 per cent of budget and delivered 
on schedule, as we progressed studies for the Taylor and Clark 
Deposits and developed essential infrastructure. The adjusted 
ROIC was 26.4 per cent against the budget of 28.1 per cent.

+

Learn more about how we seek to minimise our impact in 
Create social, environmental and economic value on page 24.

Robot Dog to Help Improve Safety and Productivity 

At Cannington we are working with a technology provider to develop 
and test light detection and ranging (LiDAR) scanning and automation 
technology.

‘Spot’ the Robot Dog was put through its paces at Cannington in FY23 
to trial its capabilities in a real underground mining environment.

The technology has the potential to improve safety and productivity by 
deploying the autonomous capabilities of Spot in various scenarios, with 
different data capture tools including scanning, video recording and 
heat sensing.

The focus of the trial was to test Spot's capabilities in post blast re-
entry scenarios and emergency response. With an integrated LiDAR 
scanner, Spot autonomously navigated sections of the mine, travelling 
through uneven and wet ground, exploring unlit areas and producing a 
three dimensional point cloud map of the area.

Since the initial trial, Spot has returned to Cannington for further 
scenario testing, including gas detection and additional post blast  
re-entry.

(3)  Excludes non-operated entities.
(4)  This is a non-IFRS measure. For an explanation of how South32 uses non-IFRS measures, see page 38.

21

SOUTH32 ANNUAL REPORT 2023OUR STRATEGY IN ACTION CONTINUED

Our people are connected  
and engaged

Technology and innovation  
unlock value

Our FY23 commitments:

Our FY23 commitments:

 〉 Meet the targets for our eight inclusion and diversity 

 〉 At least 75 per cent of agreed initiative milestones met 

measurable objectives;

for the Next Generation Mine Mission.

Progress during the year:

Technology and innovation are key enablers of our transition 
towards a low-carbon future and to realising our objective of safer, 
cleaner and more productive operations. To focus our innovation 
investment in the areas that matter most, in FY21 we established 
Innovate32, our strategy-aligned, value-creating approach to 
better enable innovation at South32.

One of Innovate32’s strategic focus areas is the Next Generation 
Mine Mission, which seeks to reshape the way we mine and 
operate, with a specific focus on future projects including the 
Hermosa project, to strive to deliver transformational safety, 
productivity and emissions outcomes.

In FY23, eight priority initiatives were progressed across 
automation, electrification, sensing, advanced analytics, orebody 
knowledge, and high impurity processing technologies, with six, 
or 75 per cent, fully delivered and two partially delivered.

Another area of focus for Innovate32 is the Low Footprint Mission 
which aims to actively reduce our footprint with respect to energy 
and water use, waste generation and biodiversity impact. In 
FY23 we refreshed our competitive ambition and roadmap of 
opportunities, and doubled our portfolio of funded initiatives.

We actively collaborate with other companies, industry groups 
and research organisations to complement our innovation and 
technology programs through initiatives such as the Electric 
Mine Consortium, BluVein, Amira, the Heavy Industry Low-Carbon 
Transition Cooperative Research Centre, the Long Duration 
Energy Storage Council, the Think and Act Differently industry 
joint venture, and a partnership with Unearthed to source ideas 
and solutions to unsolved problems. Learn more about these 
partnerships in our Sustainable Development Report at  
www.south32.net.

 〉 Deliver the annual Inclusion and Diversity Action Plan;

 〉 Maintain or improve our inclusion index score; and

 〉 Maintain or improve our employee engagement score.

Progress during the year:

Our inclusion and diversity measurable objectives provide a series 
of targets and actions aimed at improving inclusion and diversity 
in our workplace. In FY23, we met the target for four of our eight 
measurable objectives.

There are five measurable objectives for representation 
of employees and senior leaders who are women. The 
representation of women in our overall workforce improved, 
increasing to 20 per cent from 19 per cent in FY22, but falling 
short of our FY23 target of 22 per cent. The representation of 
women on our Lead Team increased to 50 per cent from  
37.5 per cent in FY22 and exceeded our FY23 target of  
38 per cent, the representation of women in our Senior  
Leadership Team decreased to 30 per cent from 32 per cent in 
FY22 and fell short of our FY23 target of 34 per cent, and the 
representation of women in our Operational Leadership Team(1) 
improved to 29 per cent from 20 per cent in FY22 and met our 
FY23 target of 28 per cent. The representation of women on 
our Board increased to 44 per cent from 37.5 per cent in FY22, 
meeting our FY23 target of at least 40 per cent.

We maintained the representation of Black People in our 
workforce in South Africa, reaching 87 per cent and meeting our 
target of 85 per cent or more, however the representation of Black 
People in management roles in South Africa decreased to 55 per 
cent, below our target of 60 per cent or more. We continue to 
target pay equity for our employees with respect to gender and 
ethnicity and completed our annual equity pay review, investing 
US$338,000 to improve pay equity and narrowly missing our 
target of reducing spend year-on-year to close the pay gap.

Our FY23 Inclusion and Diversity Action Plan consisted of four 
priority areas – managing sexual harassment as a material health 
and safety risk, providing safe and respectful workplaces for our 
people, establishing inclusion and diversity networks at all our 
locations, and delivering the 'Living our Code' discussion series, 
with substantial progress made in each area.

In FY23, 7,358 individuals, or 78 per cent of employees, completed 
our annual Your Voice employee survey, the highest participation 
rate since South32 was formed in 2015. The survey tested 
five dimensions – safety, leadership, employee engagement, 
employee experience and workplace conduct, with respondents 
reporting an improvement in performance against all five 
dimensions. Based on the survey responses, our inclusion index 
score improved from 80 per cent in FY22 to 81.5 per cent in FY23 
and our employee engagement score improved from 78 per cent 
in FY22 to 79 per cent in FY23.

(1)  In FY23 we have revised the Operational Leadership Team definition and calculation methodology to better reflect our organisational structure. FY22 data displayed is based 

on previous methodology as disclosed in the 2022 Sustainability Databook.

22

OPERATING AND FINANCIAL REVIEW

UNLOCK THE FULL VALUE OF OUR BUSINESS

Project execution

Our FY23 commitments:

 〉 Complete the Taylor Deposit feasibility study;

 〉 Complete the construction of Hermosa Water Treatment Plant 2 and commence commissioning;

 〉 Complete the Clark Deposit pre-feasibility selection study; and

 〉

Identify battery partner options and advance discussions.

Progress during the year:

We have made substantial progress at our Hermosa project, 
which is currently the only advanced project in the United States 
that could supply two federally designated critical minerals, 
zinc and manganese, which are important commodities for a 
low-carbon future. In May, Hermosa was confirmed as the first 
mining project to be added to the FAST-41 process, enabling a 
more efficient and transparent federal permitting process for 
the project. In July 2023, we announced an update to the Mineral 
Resource estimate for the Taylor Deposit at Hermosa, including a  
41 per cent increase in the Measured Mineral Resource(2).

We have recently completed study work that confirmed that 
the Taylor Deposit and the Clark Deposit can be developed 
independently and have since recognised a non-cash impairment 
expense for the Taylor Deposit within our FY23 financial results, 
driven by delayed first production as a result of COVID-19 related 
restrictions and significant dewatering requirements, as well as 
capital cost escalation in line with industry-wide inflation. We 
continue to see substantial opportunity to unlock additional value 
across the Hermosa land package.

We now expect to complete the feasibility study for the Taylor 
Deposit in the second half of calendar year 2023, as we undertake 
additional engineering studies to align the mine development 
schedule for a federal permitting process under FAST-41 and 
incorporate current market cost estimates, followed by a final 
investment decision expected by the end of calendar year 2023.

Dewatering activity is progressing, enabling access to both 
the Taylor and Clark Deposits. The construction of Hermosa 
Water Treatment Plant 2 was completed in early June and 
commissioning is well advanced.

Study work for the Clark Deposit has confirmed its potential 
to supply battery-grade manganese to the rapidly forming 
North American electric vehicle supply chain. The pre-feasibility 
selection study was completed in FY23 and has defined the 
potential for an underground mining operation and a separate 
plant to produce high-purity manganese sulphate monohydrate. 
Further study work is underway, pilot plant production has 
commenced and construction of an exploration decline is 
expected to commence in the first half of FY24. We continue to 
engage with potential customers, supported by multiple non-
binding, non-exclusive memorandums of understanding for the 
future potential supply of battery-grade manganese.

Hermosa also offers a highly prospective regional land package 
with the potential for future discoveries. Recent drilling results at 
the Peake Prospect include our best intercept to date(2). Further 
exploration drilling at Peake, along with drilling at the Flux 
Prospect, is planned in the first half of FY24.

We have unlocked value at our existing operations in FY23 
with the commissioning of the Ore Sorting and Mechanical Ore 
Concentration project at Cerro Matoso, which underpinned a 
15-year extension to Cerro Matoso’s mining contract to 2044, 
and with the approval of the Eastern Lease South life extension 
project at Groote Eylandt Mining Company. At Cerro Matoso we 
are studying the potential to produce incremental volume in the 
form of intermediary nickel products for battery markets. We also 
announced our decision not to proceed the Dendrobium Next 
Domain project at Illawarra Metallurgical Coal.

Rig Simulator Facility Helps Build New Skills 

Hotazel Manganese Mines (HMM) is unlocking value with the 
implementation of several growth projects at the Wessels 
underground mine. 

The projects include the implementation of new generation rigs, 
which aim to increase drilling depths to achieve a better advance per 
blast, and a fleet automation journey to help improve the safety and 
productivity of drilling and underground support processes.

To support the introduction of the new rigs, a virtual production 
machine and rig simulators have been installed to train employees 
to operate them. As well as increasing advance per blast, the new rig 
technology offers improved data gathering and analysis.

The establishment of these facilities in the Wessels training centre 
is helping equip our workforce with new skills which will benefit both 
them, and the operation, as the new technology is deployed.

(2)  Refer to market release dated 24 July 2023 at www.south32.net.

23

SOUTH32 ANNUAL REPORT 2023OUR STRATEGY IN ACTION CONTINUED

Create social, environmental and economic value

Our FY23 commitments:

 〉

Implement social investment plans for each operation and increase the proportion of social investment allocated to 
strategic investments;

 〉 Develop economic development plans which include local employment and procurement targets at each operation; and

 〉 Deliver contextual water target milestones and achieve water use efficiency target.

Progress during the year:

Social investment plans were implemented for each operation and 
we invested US$27.7 million in community initiatives(1). Our direct 
social investment spend was across our four key focus areas - 
education and leadership (24 per cent), economic participation 
(14 per cent), good health and social wellbeing (50 per cent), 
and natural resource resilience (12 per cent). We increased the 
proportion of social investment allocated to strategic investments 
with long-term objectives from 82 per cent in FY22 to 90 per cent 
in FY23.

The economic value of our presence in communities is an 
important part of our societal contribution and we develop 
economic development plans as outlined in our internal social 
performance standard. These are complementary to our social 
investment plans and identify opportunities to contribute to 
local communities through employment, procurement, business 
development, and regional economic development. In FY23, 
economic development plans were developed for all operations.

We believe that growing and developing small, medium, and 
micro enterprises (SMMEs) is fundamental to the transformation 
of the South African economy. We collaborate with SMMEs  
on Enterprise and Supplier Development (ESD) and in FY23  
we exceeded our target for ESD with a total spend of  
US$15 million(2). In Australia, we remain committed to providing 
genuine access and support to build the capability and capacity 
of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander businesses where we have 
a presence, and our direct spend increased by 18 per cent to 
A$30 million. Learn more about how we are creating value for our 
stakeholders on pages 12 to 13.

We continue to look for opportunities to improve water use. We 
have identified water-related material risks at five operations 
and have set contextual water targets for each, with two targets 
achieved and the others remaining on track. Currently, we have 
four operations in areas defined as having baseline water stress 
and for these a target was set in FY22 to achieve at least a  
10 per cent improvement in water use efficiency by FY27, from 
an FY21 baseline. Cumulatively across these four operations, 
we achieved more than two per cent improvement in FY23, 
exceeding the target of more than one per cent improvement 
during the year.

Around the world we have land holdings of 602,057 hectares. 
Cumulatively, we have disturbed approximately three per cent of 
our landholdings for operational reasons, of which approximately 
33 per cent has been rehabilitated(3). We aim to achieve no net 
loss outcomes for all new projects and major expansions to 
existing projects, and in FY23 worked in partnership with others 
to pilot the adoption of the Taskforce on Nature-related Financial 
Disclosures, an emerging disclosure framework.

We are also committed to implementing the Global Industry 
Standard on Tailings Management (GISTM) at all South32-
operated tailings storage facilities and recently published our first 
GISTM report for our ‘very high’ consequence facilities, which are 
only at Worsley Alumina.

Our approach to climate change is focused on reshaping our 
portfolio, decarbonising our operations (with a focus on the four 
operations which account for the majority of our operational 
emissions profile), responding to the potential physical impacts 
of climate change, and working with others to address shared 
challenges and decarbonise the value chain.

Our reported Scope 1 and Scope 2 greenhouse gas (GHG) 
emissions for FY23 were 21.0 Mt CO2-e, a 0.2 per cent increase 
from FY22. Direct emissions from activities at our operations 
(Scope 1) increased by 0.5 Mt CO2-e, while there was a decrease of 
0.4 Mt CO2-e in emissions from electricity used by our operations 
(Scope 2).

We published our first Climate Change Action Plan in September 
2022 and have made progress against key elements of the Plan 
in FY23, including updating our 1.5°C scenario to stress-test the 
potential impacts of climate change on our business.

We commenced the conversion of Worsley Alumina’s first coal-
fired boiler to natural gas and progressed decarbonisation 
studies including mud washing and waste heat to digestion.  
At Illawarra Metallurgical Coal we progressed a feasibility study 
into the commercial scale pilot of CSIRO ventilation air methane 
technology.

For Hillside Aluminium, while our studies have confirmed the 
challenges associated with developing renewable and low-carbon 
energy sources in South Africa, we continue to investigate a 
range of potential solutions. We are studying options to acquire 
energy attributes to reduce the GHG intensity of its product in the 
near-term, while we pursue other low-carbon energy solutions 
for the longer term. At Mozal Aluminium, we are working with 
key stakeholders to extend the supply of hydro-electric power 
beyond 2026 and continue to investigate additional emissions 
reduction projects and technologies. 

Learn more about how we seek to deliver value to society, operate 
ethically and responsibly, manage our environmental impact and 
address climate change in our Sustainable Development Report 
at www.south32.net.

(1)  Our total social investment comprised US$24.6M in direct investment (including Enterprise Development), US$2.5M in administrative costs, and US$0.6M of in-kind support.
(2)  Enterprise and Supplier Development (ESD) consists of two activities, Enterprise Development and Supplier Development. The Enterprise Development component, which was 

US$5.2 million in FY23, is captured in both the ESD total and the social investment total.
(3)  Represents the proportion of land disturbed by South32 which has since been rehabilitated.

24

OPERATING AND FINANCIAL REVIEW

Sustainably reshape our business for the future

IDENTIFY OPPORTUNITIES

Our FY23 commitments:

 〉 Develop and pursue opportunities to optimise our portfolio.

Progress during the year:

The substantial changes we made to our portfolio in FY22 to 
increase our exposure to the commodities critical to a low-
carbon future have more than doubled our low-carbon aluminium 
capacity and introduced copper to the portfolio.

While we remain open to opportunities around the world, our 
next phase of growth is expected to come from our development 
options in North America. In addition to the Hermosa project, our 
portfolio in Alaska includes our 50 per cent interest in the Ambler 
Metals Joint Venture which holds two sizeable base metals 
deposits including copper, silver, lead, zinc and gold in the highly 
prospective Ambler mining district. The Ambler Metals Joint 
Venture is focused on consolidating geological knowledge and 
advancing engineering studies for the Arctic Deposit.

We continue to invest to discover deposits to underpin our 
next generation of mines with over 25 base metals exploration 
prospects around the world(4). Consistent with this approach, 
during the period we exercised our earn-in right to acquire a 
controlling stake in the Chita Valley copper exploration project in 
the San Juan province of Argentina, a region which hosts several 
copper deposits along a highly prospective mineral belt. At our 
wholly owned Roosevelt Project in Alaska, which is located in the 
same mineral belt as the Ambler mining district, an expansive 
drilling program was commenced in 2023 targeting potential 
copper and zinc mineralisation.

In July 2022 we completed the sale of a package of non-core 
development-stage base metals royalties for a sale price of up to 
US$200 million, a further step forward in unlocking latent value 
from our portfolio.

Exploring Opportunities  
to Support Host Communities 

At the Roosevelt Project in northern Alaska, we are engaging 
with the Doyon Native Corporation and five tribal villages 
that live in relative proximity to our early-stage exploration 
activities.

As part of this engagement, we sponsored the Koyukuk 
River Spring Carnival, held at the village of Allaket, in April 
2023. A logistical challenge given the remote location, the 
sponsorship included funding a fixed wing charter flight to 
transport a dog sled team to compete in the main event.

The carnival was an opportunity for people to come together, 
particularly after restrictions imposed by the COVID-19 
pandemic. In addition to the fiercely competitive dog sled 
and snowshoe races, younger generations were exposed 
to the traditions and cultural heritage of their elders and 
ancestors, a key aspect for the long-term sustainability of 
these communities.

(4)  Please refer to page 170 for Our exploration, research and development.

25

SOUTH32 ANNUAL REPORT 2023OUR STRATEGY IN ACTION > KEY PERFORMANCE INDICATORS

A BALANCED APPROACH 
TO MEASURING 
OUR PERFORMANCE

FINANCIAL

Production
Copper equivalent production (kt)(1)

1,461

FY22: 1,375
FY21: 1,370

Capital expenditure
Investment (US$M)(2)

1,177

FY22: 723
FY21: 637

Earnings
Underlying EBIT (US$M)(3)

1,616

FY22: 3,967
FY21: 1,039

Cash flow
Free cash flow from operations 
(US$M)

57

FY22: 2,240
FY21: 639

Shareholders
Shareholder returns (US$M)(4)

1,225

FY22: 788
FY21: 460

Why it matters

Performance in FY23

Provides a baseline to easily benchmark our 
production performance against other mining 
and metals companies.

Strong production growth in aluminium, base 
metals and manganese reflecting recent 
portfolio improvements and three annual 
production records.

Measures our approach to investing in safe 
and reliable operations, improvements and life 
extensions, and growth options.

We increased our investment in productivity, 
improvement and growth activities across our 
portfolio, including at the Hermosa project and 
reflecting the inclusion of Sierra Gorda.

Underlying measures of earnings are 
important when assessing underlying financial 
and operating performance.

Production growth, coupled with our continued 
focus on cost efficiencies, supported one of our 
largest underlying financial results despite lower 
commodity prices and inflationary pressures.

Cash flow measures are important when 
assessing underlying financial and operating 
performance.

Lower free cash flow reflects higher capital 
expenditure and one-off tax payments in 
relation to our Sierra Gorda acquisition and 
non-core royalty sale.

Provides an indicator for shareholders of how 
well their investment is performing.

We delivered record returns to shareholders 
during FY23 via ordinary and special dividends 
and our on-market share buy-back.

(1)  Copper equivalent production was calculated using FY22 realised prices, and includes operated and non-operated operations.
(2)  Includes intangibles and capitalised exploration expenditure, and material equity accounted investments on a proportional consolidation basis.
(3)  This is a non-IFRS measure. For an explanation of how South32 uses non-IFRS measures, see page 38.
(4)  Fully-franked ordinary and special dividends paid in respect of H2 FY22 (US$784M), fully-franked ordinary dividends paid in respect of H1 FY23 (US$223M) and on-market share 

buy-back (US$218M).

26

OPERATING AND FINANCIAL REVIEW

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
KEY

Strategy pillar

Sustainability pillar

Strategic risks

Remuneration

SUSTAINABILITY

Health and safety
Lost Time Injury Frequency 
(per million hours worked)(5)

1.4

FY22: 2.0
FY21: 1.7

People
Employee engagement (per cent)

79

FY22: 78
FY21: - (survey did not take place  
due to the impact of COVID-19)

Community
Social investment (US$M)(6)

27.7

FY22: 31.1
FY21: 22.2

Environment
Water use efficiency (per cent)(7)

61.5

FY22: 66
FY21: 56

Climate change
Operational greenhouse gas 
emissions (Mt CO2-e)(8)

21.0

FY22: 21.0
FY21: 20.7(9)

Why it matters

Performance in FY23

Nothing is more important than the health, 
safety and wellbeing of our people.

LTIF reduced by 30 per cent compared to the 
FY22 baseline, reflecting a reduction in the 
frequency of severe events.

Engaging directly with our people allows us to 
understand how they experience all aspects of 
South32 and identify areas for improvement.

Our employee engagement score, as measured 
in our Your Voice employee survey, improved by 
one per cent year-on-year.

We invest in local communities with the aim  
of contributing to their social, economic, and 
institutional development.

Social investment decreased by 11 per cent 
year-on-year, primarily due to social investment 
at Hillside Aluminium which is price-linked 
under South African legislation.

Water is a valuable resource that we all share 
and a critical input for our operations.

Water use efficiency decreased by  
four per cent due to challenges faced at 
operations such as above average rainfall  
and management of excess water.

Human activity is causing climate change 
and the impacts are affecting ecosystems, 
biodiversity, and communities around the world.

Our reported Scope 1 and Scope 2 greenhouse 
gas emissions increased by 0.2 per cent year-
on-year, with Scope 1 emissions increasing by 
0.5 Mt CO2-e and Scope 2 emissions decreasing 
by 0.4 Mt CO2-e.

(5)  Incidents are included where South32 controls the work location or controls the work activity. Lost time injuries include injuries that result in one or more lost work days after 

the day of the event.

(6)  Our total social investment comprised US$24.6M in direct investment (including Enterprise Development), US$2.5M in administrative costs, and US$0.6M of in-kind support.
(7)  Water use efficiency is calculated as the total recycling and reuse divided by the sum of total recycling and reuse and total operational inputs/withdrawal.
(8)  Includes Scope 1 and Scope 2 greenhouse gas emissions.
(9)  The FY21 baseline has been adjusted to exclude emissions from SAEC and TEMCO, which were divested in FY21.

27

SOUTH32 ANNUAL REPORT 2023 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
RISK MANAGEMENT

MANAGING OUR RISKS 
TO PROTECT AND  
UNLOCK VALUE

Risk management is fundamental to maximising the value of our business and informing  
its strategic direction. Effective risk management enables us to identify priorities, allocate resources, 
demonstrate due diligence in discharging legal and regulatory obligations, and meet the standards 
and expectations of our stakeholders.

Our approach to risk management is 
governed by our risk management 
framework. Our internal risk management 
standard outlines the minimum mandatory 
requirements for the management of 
risks that can materially impact our 
ability to achieve our purpose, strategy 
and business plans. The framework and 
standard are delivered through our system 
of risk management which is aligned to the 
principles of the International Standard for 
Risk Management AS/NZS ISO 31000:2018. 

Our approach to risk management 
applies to all employees, directors and 
contractors of South32. Our risks are 
regularly assessed and managed at both 
a company-wide strategic level and at a 
tactical level for operation, project and 
function risks.

Risk appetite 

Risk appetite is the level of residual risk 
that we are willing to take in pursuit of our 
strategic objectives, which is established 
in relation to our operating environment. 
Our Board considers and approves the risk 
appetite developed by management. Our 
internal Risk Appetite Statements outline 
the extent to which we are or are not 
willing to engage with higher levels of risk 
(both threats and opportunities) in order 
to realise greater benefit in the pursuit of 
our purpose and strategy and in alignment 
with our values and Code of Business 
Conduct. Key risk indicators (KRIs) are 
set by management and used to monitor 
performance against our set risk appetite. 
Understanding our risk appetite across 
our strategic risks assists in decision-
making across the Group.

Material risks 

Strategic risks 

Our strategic risks are risks which can 
affect our ability to achieve our strategic 
objectives. They have the capacity to 
affect all, or a significant part, of our 
organisation and therefore tend to have 
significant impacts, both negative and 
positive. With that in mind, our strategic 
risks, associated KRIs and management 
responses are monitored and evaluated 
twice per year. The review process is 
informed by external and internal events 
that could have a potential impact on our 
organisation, as well as emerging themes 
across our material risks. In FY23, we 
identified 13 strategic risks which could 
influence our plans and the sustainability 
of our business, each of which is explained 
further in subsequent pages.  

Strategic risk key

The inherent risk impact or 
likelihood has increased over 
the past 12 months (i.e. without 
considering internal controls or 
management responses). 

The inherent risk impact or 
likelihood has remained constant 
over the past 12 months (i.e. 
without considering internal 
controls or management 
responses). 

The inherent risk impact or 
likelihood has decreased over 
the past 12 months (i.e. without 
considering internal controls or 
management responses). 

We apply the three lines operating model 
to our system of risk management, which 
determines how our structures, processes, 
and organisational roles work together 
to facilitate strong risk management 
and assurance. This approach is used to 
manage our material risks and enables us 
to: 

 – Provide stable and consistent 

processes, tools and routines to 
identify and regularly assess the most 
impactful threats and opportunities; 

 – Deliver predictable outcomes and 
prevent unforeseen events with 
material impacts; 

 – Understand our risks and manage these 
at all levels of the organisation; and 

 – Reduce or seek to eliminate risks where 
appropriate or improve our processes 
using a risk-based approach. 

Our material risks are those which can 
materially impact our ability to achieve 
our purpose, strategy and business 
plans. The effective management of our 
material risks is routinely assessed by 
our Lead Team. An overview of these 
risks are reviewed by our Risk and Audit 
Committee and Sustainability Committee, 
which assist our Board to carry out its role 
of overseeing our risk management and 
assurance practices. 

We report transparent real-time risk 
data through our risk management tool, 
Global360. This software connects data 
relating to the management of our risks, 
events, hazards and assurance actions. 
Aside from helping us manage our 
business, reliable data on material risks 
contributes towards the monitoring and 
management of our strategic risks. This 
provides insight into trends and emerging 
themes that can trigger a review of our 
business plans or inform a change in 
strategic direction.

28

OPERATING AND FINANCIAL REVIEW

Keeping our people safe and well

Portfolio reshaping

A safe and healthy working environment is fundamental  
to living our values. 

Risk exposure trend 2023

Risk appetite
Aligned to our purpose and values, we will not take actions 
that compromise the health, safety or wellbeing of our people, 
contractors and communities.

Opportunities
Keeping our people safe and well underpins the culture we aspire 
to and sets our expectations of each other.

Threats 
The impact of not having a safe working environment can be 
devastating for our employees, contractors and communities. 
It can alter lives and impact shareholder returns, stakeholder 
confidence and ultimately our licence to operate.

Our response includes:
 – In everything we do, we focus on the health, safety and 
wellbeing of our people, contractors and communities;

 – We have a system of risk management and comprehensive 

internal health and safety policies, standards and systems with 
associated performance requirements designed to prevent 
and mitigate potential exposure to health and safety risks;

 – We value and strive to build inclusion and diversity in our 

workplace where everyone is valued and can participate to 
achieve their full potential. We do not tolerate any form of 
inappropriate conduct which includes bullying, harassment, 
discrimination or victimisation;

 – We engage, develop and train our people so that our work is 

well designed and executed;

 – We investigate actual and potential significant events 

that could have led to severe injury or higher outcomes, 
put controls in place and share the learnings across our 
organisation;

 – We continuously improve our work environment with the aim of 
making it safer, healthier and more productive for our people. 
We are implementing our multi-year Group-wide Safety 
Improvement Program designed with the aim of enhancing 
our safety culture and by changing mindsets and behaviours, 
achieving a step change in our safety performance; and

 – In line with the three lines operating model, we have assurance 
functions independent of our operating activities that provide 
assurance against our own comprehensive internal standards.

+

Learn more about our approach to health and safety in our 
Sustainable Development Report at www.south32.net.

Our objective is to improve our return on invested capital and 
create shareholder value by increasing our exposure to 
high-quality operations in commodities with a strong and 
sustainable outlook, in jurisdictions where we believe we can 
operate in line with our values and Code of Business Conduct.

Risk exposure trend 2023

Risk appetite
We accept that in actively transforming our portfolio, we need 
to take risk to capture opportunities. We will seek to do so in 
jurisdictions and commodities where we believe we can operate 
or invest in line with our values and Code of Business Conduct.

Opportunities
Increasing our exposure to the commodities critical to a low-
carbon future will position our business for a low-carbon world, 
in alignment with our strategy. Acquisitions of operations 
or development options (including non-operating and non-
controlling shares in these operations and development options) 
present us with opportunities to create shareholder value through 
increasing our exposure to these commodities. Partnering with 
junior explorers also creates opportunities for us in early-stage 
exploration in more challenging jurisdictions.

Threats 
Changing global sentiment presents a threat to the sustainability 
of our current portfolio mix if we do not act to reshape our 
portfolio. In responding to stakeholder expectations, we could 
make decisions to dispose of climate or carbon exposed 
operations, development options and investments at less than 
market value. Increasing demand for the commodities critical to 
a low-carbon future may drive higher valuations of operations 
and development options that we want to acquire, making 
acquisitions challenging and potentially value destructive. A 
scarcity of attractive opportunities or a reliance on exploration to 
fill our pipeline of opportunities may impact the pace of transition. 
Geopolitical developments may also limit those jurisdictions in 
which we can operate or those counterparties with which we can 
partner or transact.

Our response includes:
 – We are actively reshaping our portfolio towards commodities 

critical to a low-carbon future;

 – We take more risk on early-stage exploration projects, 

including jurisdictional risk as well as through joint ventures 
and earn-ins, but commensurate with the commercial 
exposure; 

 – We will be flexible on opportunistic acquisitions including non-

controlling and non-operating shareholdings in incorporated or 
unincorporated joint ventures; and

 – We carry out an annual review of commodity prices and 

exchange rates, to develop long-term views for our portfolio 
commodities and foreign exchange rates for the jurisdictions 
where we operate. This process is supplemented by tri-annual 
updates.

+

Learn more about how we are reshaping our portfolio in Our 
strategy in action on page 25.

29

SOUTH32 ANNUAL REPORT 2023RISK MANAGEMENT CONTINUED

Climate change and environment

Climate change poses physical risks to our business, our people and the infrastructure, communities and environment on which 
we rely. The political, social and economic responses to the challenges posed by climate change and the transition to a low-
carbon economy also pose risks to our business performance (i.e. demand for some of our commodities, cost and profit margins, 
social licence, regulatory exposure). Learn more about our approach to climate change, including our detailed assessment of the 
risks climate change poses to our business, in the Addressing Climate Change section of our Sustainable Development Report 
and our Climate Change Action Plan (CCAP), both of which available at www.south32.net. 

Our operations also have the potential to impact biodiversity, air, land and water resources. This may result in increased costs to 
mitigate or address such impacts, prevent or delay project approvals, and result in reputational damage. 

Water is critical to our operations and water scarcity, increased competition for supply or costs to access can impact our 
operations, supply chains and communities. 

Risk exposure trend 2023

Risk appetite
We recognise the impact our operations have on the environment 
due to the extractive nature of our activities and that the 
greenhouse gas emissions associated with our activities 
contribute to climate change. We also recognise the role our 
industry plays in providing the materials that are essential in 
the transition to a net zero global economy and we want to be 
part of that solution. We acknowledge that we have potential 
vulnerabilities to the physical impacts of climate change and 
exposure to climate-related transition risk and nature-related 
risk. We accept that we need to take risks in order to minimise 
our environmental impact and reduce our exposure to physical 
and transition climate change risk and nature-related risk. We 
seek to take risks that may arise as we transform our portfolio to 
maintain competitiveness in a low-carbon world and pursue our 
greenhouse gas emissions reduction target and goals.

Opportunities
Aligning our business strategy, including how we operate 
and what we produce, with stakeholder expectations, future 
technologies and evolving climate and environmental policies 
and regulations, contributes to a resilient and high performing 
portfolio. We aim to increase the efficiency of our operations and 
support business continuity through responsibly assessing and 
addressing our climate change and environment-related risks, 
dependencies and impacts, and increasing the resilience of our 
business, the value chain and communities in which we operate.

Threats 
The complex and pervasive nature of climate change means that 
climate-related risks and opportunities are reflected across our 
risk profile. For further details on the potential impacts of climate 
change on our strategic risks, refer to the Addressing Climate 
Change section of our Sustainable Development Report and 
pages 99 to 101 of our CCAP. 

Failure to manage environmental and climate-related risks may 
impact our ability to secure development approvals, permits 
or licences and increase our legal exposures. It may also limit 
our ability to access capital and insurances, develop strategic 
partnerships with Indigenous, Traditional and Tribal Peoples 
or environmental organisations, attract and retain employees, 
deliver our project portfolio, and grow our business in existing and 
new jurisdictions.

Our response includes:
 – Our approach to managing the transition and physical risks of 
climate change is outlined in the Addressing Climate Change 
section of our Sustainable Development Report and our CCAP;

 – Our sustainability approach, inclusive of our environmental 
performance requirements, is guided by the ICMM Mining 
Principles, United Nations Global Compact (UNGC) Ten 
Principles and United Nations Sustainable Development Goals 
and is outlined in our Sustainability Policy and Sustainable 
Development Report at www.south32.net;

 – We seek to manage water resources using a holistic 

approach to promote better water use, effective catchment 
management and to contribute to improved water security and 
sanitation;

 – We establish contextual water targets for operations exposed 
to water-related material risks with consideration for broader 
stakeholder and catchment needs;

 – Our operations address biodiversity impacts with a focus on 
minimising our operational impacts through application of 
the biodiversity mitigation hierarchy and collaborating with 
others to contribute towards biodiversity conservation and 
restoration;   

 – We aim to achieve no net loss outcomes for all new projects 

and major expansions to existing projects through a balanced 
application of the biodiversity mitigation hierarchy of 
avoidance, minimisation, rehabilitation and offsetting;

 – We integrate land management and rehabilitation processes 

into our business planning and give consideration to 
cumulative impacts when developing management controls to 
minimise impacts on surrounding ecosystems;

 – We manage our waste streams to minimise environmental 

impact and realise value through a balanced application of the 
waste mitigation hierarchy of prevention, minimisation, reuse, 
recycle, recovery and disposal;

 – We engage regularly with investors, governments, industry 
partners, membership-based sustainability organisations, 
environmental, social, and governance (ESG) proxy advisers 
and ESG activist groups to identify and monitor emerging 
environmental and climate change risks, opportunities and 
trends; and

 – We are transparent in our disclosure of environment and 
climate-related opportunities and threats in our annual 
reporting, in accordance with the Global Reporting Initiative 
(GRI) Sustainability Reporting Standards and recommendations 
of the Task Force on Climate-related Financial Disclosures.

+

Learn more about how we are addressing climate change and 
managing our environmental impact in our Sustainable 
Development Report at www.south32.net.

30

OPERATING AND FINANCIAL REVIEW

Maintain, realise or enhance the value of our Mineral 
Resources and Ore Reserves

We intend to realise the potential of the resources and 
reserves we are entrusted to develop. We work to continually 
optimise our operations through sound technical and 
economic understanding of our resources and reserves.

Major external events or natural catastrophes

Our operations and logistics networks can be disrupted by 
events such as pandemics, natural disasters and extreme 
weather events that could impact people’s safety, wellbeing, 
security, the integrity of tailings storage facilities and key 
operating infrastructure.

Risk exposure trend 2023

Risk exposure trend 2023

Risk appetite
We are not willing to take risks that inhibit our ability to realise 
the potential of the resources and reserves we are entrusted to 
develop.

Opportunities
We continue to enhance our understanding of our resources and 
reserves. We leverage this enhanced understanding through 
the annual planning cycle to define and assess additional 
opportunities to add value to our business.

Threats 
If we fail to continually optimise our operations and projects, 
it will have a significant impact on future shareholder returns, 
the benefits our stakeholders receive and ultimately, the 
sustainability of the company

Our response includes: 
 – We have capital prioritisation, capital allocation and planning 

processes which prioritise the highest-value options across our 
portfolio;

 – We apply an annual planning process that considers the 

impact of climate change on our Ore Reserves, with plans 
structured to maximise value throughout the life of our 
operations;

 – Drill plans and budgets are approved as part of our annual 
planning cycle and compliance to those plans is reported 
monthly. Where there is material deviation to plan, actions are 
taken to reduce deviation;

 – We apply a rigorous project development process that 

includes independent peer review of project risks and approval 
tollgates;

 – We report Mineral Resources and Ore Reserves (including Coal 
Resources and Coal Reserves) in accordance with the JORC 
Code as required in the ASX Listing Rules (Chapter 5); and

 – We have an internal closure standard which requires that 
the full life of operation value incorporates closure and 
rehabilitation liabilities.

+

Learn more about resources and reserves (including 
governance processes) on pages 169 to 176.

Risk appetite
We are not willing to take risks that compromise our ability to 
manage natural catastrophes. However, we accept we operate 
in a diverse range of geographic locations, which are exposed to 
natural events and other external events.

Opportunities
Achieving stable and predictable performance enhances the 
value proposition to our shareholders, stakeholders and the 
communities in which we operate. The better we prepare for 
and learn from events, the better we are placed to respond and 
aim to reduce the impact of future events – strengthening our 
organisational resilience.

Threats 
Failure to manage major events or natural catastrophes could 
result in a significant event or other long-term damage that could 
harm the company’s access to logistics chains and critical goods 
and services, financial performance, and licence to operate. The 
role of climate change in increasing the frequency and severity 
of natural catastrophes is addressed under ‘Climate change and 
environment’ on page 30.

Our response includes: 
 – When facing potential catastrophes, we put safety and 

wellbeing at the heart of everything we do;

 – We use our system of risk management in design, construction 

and operation phases to analyse risks, and design and 
implement actions that aim to prevent or limit business 
impacts;

 – We utilise climate modelling data to inform our long-term plans 
and project pipelines, and conduct physical risk assessments 
of our assets every two years;

 – We have business continuity and disaster response plans in 

place with trigger action response scenarios. We have tested 
these to make sure we can respond rapidly to major events 
and safely restore our operations, aiming to protect the health 
and safety of our people and the communities in which we 
operate;

 – Consistent with the three lines operating model, we have 

assurance functions independent of our operating activities 
that provide assurance against our own comprehensive 
internal standards including equipment integrity, tailings 
management and technical stewardship. Where relevant, 
we work with external experts, relevant industry bodies and 
technology suppliers, to provide additional assurance and 
input; and

 – We purchase insurance coverage against many, but not all, 
potential losses or liabilities arising from major events or 
natural catastrophes. This coverage has a deductible cost 
to the company and limits that mean full financial coverage 
cannot be achieved.

31

SOUTH32 ANNUAL REPORT 2023 
RISK MANAGEMENT CONTINUED

Maintain competitiveness through technology and innovation

Technology and innovation are advancing at a rapid pace. Companies which are unable to effectively leverage technology and 
innovation may find themselves failing to deliver against shareholder expectations on returns, unable to attract and retain talent 
or, in the example of decarbonisation, failing to maintain licence to operate. The use of ransomware is becoming more prevalent in 
cybersecurity incidents across the mining industry.

Our response includes:
 – We have a clearly defined approach to innovation, 

improvement and technology;

 – We deliver specific programs focused on adoption and 

improvement of critical technology capabilities across multiple 
time horizons;

 – We have a value-based ‘portfolio’ approach to testing and 

scaling up innovation across the company;

 – We have rigorous internal technology standards and processes 

(technology ‘ways of working’);

 – We benchmark our digital technology performance against 

industry best practice and coordinate and integrate 
technology advances into our growth portfolio;

 – We actively manage cybersecurity and loss of critical systems 

risks through our system of risk management; and

 – We monitor internal customer satisfaction and manage 

customer support.

+

Learn more about how technology and innovation are 
unlocking value in Our strategy in action on page 22.

Risk exposure trend 2023

Risk appetite
We are not willing to take risks that will result in a loss of data 
or disruptions to our operations and projects due to the theft, 
disclosure or corruption of information. Aligned to our strategy, 
we will pursue technology and innovation that may have a lower 
certainty of success where there is commensurate potential for 
high return on investment.

Opportunities
To stay competitive, we position our organisation to effectively 
identify, develop and adopt sustainable business models for 
technology and innovation in our operations and projects. Priority 
innovation opportunities are identified and delivered through 
Innovate32, our strategy-aligned, value-focused, innovation 
portfolio. This approach will assist us to deliver on shareholder 
return expectations and position us for future business 
opportunities.

Threats 
Failure to keep pace with, and leverage advances in, technology 
and innovation could result in reduced shareholder returns and 
impact our licence to operate. Failure to adopt automation, 
electrification and digital systems could result in deteriorating 
performance across safety, productivity, returns and greenhouse 
gas emissions. Cybersecurity incidents could pose multiple 
risks including disruption to new projects and operations, theft, 
disclosure or corruption of information.

32

OPERATING AND FINANCIAL REVIEW

Predictable operational performance

Delivery of our project portfolio

Loss of predictable operational performance will prevent us 
from reliably delivering on our strategic objectives. We build 
resilience and predictability into our business by sustaining 
our ability to keep our people safe and well, meeting our 
regulatory and social obligations, managing cost inflation and 
consistently providing quality products to our customers.

Risk exposure trend 2023

Delivery of our project portfolio, both brownfield and 
greenfield, forms a critical component of our strategy. Delivery 
of projects safely, on schedule and within budget allows us to 
optimise and unlock the value of our business.

Risk exposure trend 2023

Risk appetite
We are not willing to take risks that compromise the stable and 
predictable performance of our operations.   

Opportunities
We mature our Operating System to control and continuously 
improve our operations and processes, so that we can deliver 
stable and predictable performance and unlock the full value of 
our business. We invest in our operations to sustain and improve 
production capacity that generates reliable cash flow to deliver on 
our strategic objectives.

Threats 
External volatility and challenges can impact predictable 
performance. These include labour and supply chain tightness 
as well as regulatory and geopolitical change. If we are unable 
to safely and consistently achieve our production, cash flow 
or profitability targets, it could negatively impact our ability 
to deliver on our strategic objectives and negatively impact 
shareholder returns.

Our response includes:
 – We have embedded, and continuously verify and improve our 
safety and risk management systems across our business;

 – We have an effective asset management system in place at 

each operation and review our asset health, asset integrity and 
capital investments on a regular basis;

 – We actively verify and improve the effectiveness of our 

Operating System by embedding our operating practices 
including operational planning, work design and standards, 
process control and improvement;

 – We actively manage risks to our resources and reserves, 

mine and operational planning including reconciliation of Ore 
Reserves to production, plan and spatial compliance and 
management of geotechnical risks;

 – We manage an integrated system of long to short-term 

planning and scheduling processes that considers ESG themes 
and optimises the value from our resources;

 – We actively manage product delivery and supply chain risks 

including effective sales and operational planning processes, 
monitoring of raw material supply and management of target 
inventory operating windows; and

 – We carry out quality assurance programs over our products 

and operations.

Risk appetite
Aligned to our strategy of unlocking value in our business, we will 
not take actions that compromise the planning and execution of 
our major projects. However, we may accept greater levels of risk 
to pursue opportunities to extend the life of existing operations 
through brownfield projects and in executing decarbonisation 
projects for our assets.

Opportunities
Delivery of our project portfolio on time and within budget allows 
us to improve reliability, complement our existing assets, extend 
the life of our operations, realise our external commitments and 
grow volumes into structurally attractive markets.

Threats  
Inability to deliver the project pipeline may impact on our 
future cash flows, reputation and return on investments. 
Known and emerging uncertainties that may challenge the 
timely and successful execution of our projects can include 
satisfying conditions for regulatory approvals, permitting delays, 
supply chain disruptions, high inflation, joint venture partner 
misalignment, and activism.

Our response includes:
 – A comprehensive and adaptable project management 

framework supports disciplined project development and 
execution to realise the value of opportunities while mitigating 
the risk of suboptimal outcomes;

 – We continue to develop our Operating System for major 

projects, and mature our performance in delivering projects on 
cost and on schedule;

 – Our joint venture agreements include mechanisms such 

as technical committees and independent peer reviews to 
influence project, schedule, and cost outcomes;

 – We apply a standardised valuation methodology with 

consistent key macroeconomic assumptions;

 – We maintain a life of operation annual planning process. By 

evaluating the embedded project options in our operations, we 
look to optimise value throughout the life of our operations;

 – We conduct an annual review of commodity prices and 
exchange rates which informs our project budgets. This 
process is supplemented by tri-annual updates; and

 – Our internal investment framework defines a disciplined 
tollgate process with a mature and independent peer 
review mechanism which we rigorously follow to inform key 
investment decisions.

+

Learn more about our operational performance in Our strategy 
in action on page 21.

+

Learn more about our project execution in Our strategy in 
action on page 23.

33

SOUTH32 ANNUAL REPORT 2023RISK MANAGEMENT CONTINUED

Security of supply of logistics chains, and critical goods and services

The inability to secure supply of critical goods and services, such as raw materials, energy, water, gas, equipment and spare 
parts, consumables, technology, corporate services, labour and logistics (which includes road, rail and shipping), has the potential 
to impact business performance and our strategic objectives. 

The procurement of critical goods and services must be undertaken in a manner that aligns to our purpose and values, meets 
stakeholder expectations and adheres to the policies and regulations where we operate. This includes sustainable sourcing and 
supporting local communities. 

The security of our supply chain is heavily impacted by pandemics, jurisdictional unrest, geopolitical tensions and a shift from 
globalism towards protectionism.

Risk exposure trend 2023

Risk appetite
Aligned to our strategy of optimising our business, we are not 
willing to take undue risks that compromise the security of our 
supply chain logistics and critical services. However, we accept 
that we have a strong reliance on certain critical suppliers, 
particularly to provide energy, logistics, and raw materials to our 
operations and we have limited ability to reduce this reliance.

Opportunities
Optimal and sustainable management of supply chain risk 
positions our business to operate safely and reliably, at the 
lowest possible cost and in a manner that meets or exceeds the 
expectations of our stakeholders. 

It also provides us with the ability to influence how others in our 
industry approach sustainable sourcing and to position us to 
benefit as trade flows respond to rising protectionism, social 
consciousness and general trends to de-risk value chains. 

Threats 
Disruption of our supply chain could materially impact our ability 
to deliver on our commitments and meet the expectations 
of our stakeholders. Failure to meet minimum ethical supply 
chain standards has the potential to damage our social licence 
to operate (this is further addressed under ‘Evolving societal 
expectations’ on page 36). Climate change has the potential to 
increase the frequency and severity of extreme weather events 
which may threaten our supply chains, particularly logistics and 
the availability of critical goods and services (this is addressed 
under ‘Climate change and environment’ on page 30, and in 
the Addressing Climate Change section of our Sustainable 
Development Report).

Our response includes:
 – We understand, assess and continually monitor the risks in our 
supply chains through an integrated system that considers 
the supply of critical goods and services. This includes 
risks relating to potential shortages, critical suppliers and 
categories, vendor liquidity, logistics, climate change and 
decarbonisation, and modern slavery; 

 – Internal and external data is integrated so we have a good 
understanding of existing and emerging risks and can take 
action to mitigate;

 – We use this understanding of risk to deploy controls to support 
predictable operations. This includes working closely with our 
vendors and operations to match availability with demand; 
understanding options for alternative sources of supply and 
implementing multi-source supply where required; optimising 
inventory levels; flexing commercial terms and maintaining 
up-to-date business continuity plans. We continually optimise 
our approach between ‘just in case’ and ‘just in time’ as supply 
chain risk ebbs and flows; 

 – We build strong strategic partnerships with key suppliers on a 

long-term, mutually beneficial basis;

 – We have a clearly defined transformation strategy and 

Enterprise Supplier Development program in South Africa 
aimed at building and growing small, medium and micro 
enterprises;

 – We have Reconciliation Action Plan targets to develop and 
support Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander enterprises in 
Australia;

 – We have local procurement initiatives designed to increase 

opportunities for local suppliers;

 – We actively review and manage payment terms to support 
small and local businesses in all jurisdictions in which we 
operate; and

 – We have an established process to assess and mitigate 

potential modern slavery risks.

+

Learn more about our responsible value chain activities in our 
Sustainable Development Report at www.south32.net.

34

OPERATING AND FINANCIAL REVIEW

Shaping our culture and managing diverse talent

We must actively shape and embed our culture to attract, develop, support, and retain our talented people to deliver safe, 
predictable performance and continuously improve. 

To align with the evolving needs of our people, business and broader stakeholders, we continuously monitor our culture and seek 
feedback to enhance the employee experience.

Risk exposure trend 2023

Risk appetite
People underpin everything we do and we are not willing to 
take risks that could negatively impact our culture and the way 
our people connect to our purpose. However, we recognise 
our size and the competitive labour market in which we 
operate and therefore must be willing to take risk to build our 
talent and succession pipeline.  

Opportunities
By shaping and embedding our aspired culture through our 
systems, symbols and behaviours, we will create an employee 
experience that engages all our people to better deliver our 
strategic objectives, together. 

Threats 
If we are unable to embed our preferred culture, we will likely 
have lower levels of engagement, disconnected teams that 
lack diversity and operate in silos, and relationship rather than 
performance-based decision making. Over time, this may 
constrain innovative thinking and impact our ability to attract 
and retain talent, which may lead to significant shareholder value 
erosion and reputational damage. 

Our response includes:
 – Our Code of Business Conduct sets out our expected 

standards of conduct, with formal training and assessment 
routines in place. Anyone can report a business conduct 
concern, anonymously if preferred, or by using our confidential 
and independently administered reporting hotline;

 – We measure and discuss culture using a Culture Tensions 

framing model. This process acts as a health check and allows 
us to assess positive or negative change and test whether 
we are making progress towards our preferred culture that 
better balances relationships with performance, systems and 
processes with innovation and empowerment;

 – We measure our employee experience, including at 

onboarding, annually through our ‘Your Voice’ employee 
survey, and at exit. The Your Voice survey responses are 
shared with line leaders to enable team-based conversations 
that directly empower improvements to the local employee 
experience;

 – We have an internal Inclusion and Diversity Policy, standard 
and framework which sets out our commitments, strategy, 
requirements, measurable objectives and approach to 
performance reporting;

 – We have a Leadership Model which strengthens alignment to 
our preferred culture and behaviours, and is integrated across 
our people systems and processes;

 – We have a performance and goals process which supports 
our reward philosophy, and recognises and rewards aligned 
leadership behaviours and performance;

 – We design our reward elements in accordance with our global 

reward framework taking into consideration local labour 
market practices, which enables us to attract appropriate skills 
and experience, engage employees and improve performance;

 – We routinely review our key talent and critical role successors 

globally, creating individualised plans to further their 
development and address talent pipeline risks as appropriate. 
This includes targeted retention programs for key talent and/or 
team members occupying critical roles;

 – We support employees who undertake further education and 
training related to their current or future career with South32; 
and

 – We have an internal flexible work procedure which empowers 
our leaders to engage with their teams to determine the 
ways of working that balance individual, team and business 
requirements.

+

Learn more about our people and culture in our Sustainable 
Development Report at www.south32.net.

35

SOUTH32 ANNUAL REPORT 2023RISK MANAGEMENT CONTINUED

Evolving societal expectations

The expectations of resource companies by employees, governments, investors, lenders, host communities, customers, non-
governmental organisations and broader society continue to evolve. 

In order to keep pace with these rapidly evolving expectations and understand the potential impact to our business performance, 
reputation and delivery of our strategic objectives, we maintain an active stakeholder engagement program and undertake 
external monitoring on a wide range of financial and ESG issues, including climate change. 

We regularly engage with our stakeholders to understand and respond to their views, which may be divergent, and aim to identify 
ways we can create enduring social, environmental and economic value, in a way that aligns with our purpose and values.

Risk exposure trend 2023

Risk appetite
We are not willing to take risks that will result in a failure to meet 
societal expectations, in human rights, cultural heritage, modern 
slavery and community safety. However, we accept that we will 
be required to take some risks in areas such as impacts of mining 
(e.g. on the environment) and commodity selection that may not 
completely align with societal expectations.

Opportunities
Proactive, collaborative and transparent engagement with our 
stakeholders builds relationships based on trust and shared 
understanding. Our ongoing licence to operate is built on our 
contribution to our stakeholders and broader society.

Threats 
Failure to meet evolving societal expectations for ESG 
performance could damage our reputation and negatively impact 
our licence to operate, limiting our ability to access capital or 
markets, retain and attract employees and grow our business in 
existing and new jurisdictions.

Our response includes:
 – Our purpose and strategy expressly balance economic 

outcomes with social and environmental outcomes, now 
and into the future. In the decisions we take, we look to 
minimise impact, respect human rights and aim to create 
enduring social, environmental and economic value for all our 
stakeholders, in a way that aligns with our purpose and values;

 – We undertake internal and external stakeholder analysis and 
engagement on a wide range of financial and ESG issues, 
including an annual materiality process to understand 
our material ESG issues. Our approach is aligned with the 
ICMM Mining Principles, The UNGC Ten Principles and GRI 
Sustainability Reporting Standards;

 – We engage with our customers to understand their 

requirements and drivers for responsible production, sourcing 
and stewardship in the supply chain. We work with certification 
bodies such as the Aluminium Stewardship Initiative to seek 
certification against their performance standards to help 
facilitate continued access to markets; 

 – We work to build strong, positive and meaningful relationships 
with local communities. We regularly complete and review 
community perception surveys, human rights impact 
assessments, social baseline studies and social impact and 
opportunity assessments to improve our understanding of the 
communities in which we operate;

 – We review and amend our social investment program annually 

to align with community and stakeholder priorities. We 
measure the outputs and outcomes of our social investments 
as it informs future investment decisions and improves social 
investment project design;

 – We develop economic development plans at all our 

operations which contribute to local and regional economic 
development through employment, procurement and 
business development. These plans include targets informed 
by local context, including women and people with diverse 
backgrounds;

 – We engage with Indigenous, Traditional and Tribal Peoples 
across our operations to build mutual understanding and 
strengthen cultural heritage management. Our engagement 
with Indigenous, Traditional and Tribal Peoples throughout 
the life of our operations is sensitive to and respects cultural 
protocols; and

 – We participate in sustainability reporting transparency 

initiatives and ESG rating agency reviews that assess and 
score our performance.

+

Learn more about how we are delivering value to society in our 
Sustainable Development Report at www.south32.net.

36

OPERATING AND FINANCIAL REVIEW

Political risks, actions by governments  
and/or authorities

Changes in legislation, regulation, policy and geopolitical 
activity have the potential to impact our strategic objectives 
and the way we work. This includes broader policy decisions and 
regulatory changes, related but not limited to, changes to 
royalty and taxation policy, nationalisation of mineral 
resources, supply chains, renegotiation or nullification of 
contracts, leases, permits or agreements, climate change and 
emissions reduction requirements and environmental and 
social performance requirements. 

We aim to effectively manage this uncertainty through 
engagement with key stakeholders and industry associations, 
monitoring of political activity, policy, legislative and 
regulatory changes, and by having access to specialised 
knowledge.

Risk exposure trend 2023

Risk appetite
We have a low appetite for activities that are likely to result in 
non-compliance with applicable legal or regulatory requirements. 
We maintain programs that seek to comply with those 
requirements. However, there can be no guarantee that such 
programs will always be effective to identify or prevent breaches 
of the law. Further, we operate in certain complex environments 
and jurisdictions, which are subject to legislative, regulatory 
or government policy changes that may adversely impact our 
business. Therefore, there will always be residual risk in relation to 
compliance with legal and regulatory requirements and changes 
to those requirements that may adversely impact our business.

Opportunities
Proactive engagement leading to strong relationships with 
governments and authorities provides a mutual understanding of 
drivers for decision making. This increases clarity around policy 
and regulatory environments, enables appropriate and tailored 
responses to issues and provides investment certainty.

Threats 
Legislation adverse to our business and regulatory or policy 
decisions taken by governments or authorities, particularly relating 
to societal expectations, can result in operational disruption, 
permitting uncertainty, affect future planning or lead to cessation 
of operations or non-investment in operations or projects.

Our response includes:
 – We have specialised knowledge through in-house expertise 
or the use of external experts, including tax management 
capability, tax advice and external affairs advice;

 – We monitor political activity, policy, and legislative and 

regulatory changes in the jurisdictions where we operate, and 
we also engage with relevant authorities, to understand and 
mitigate potential impacts on our business performance;

 – We engage with key stakeholders in all jurisdictions where 

we operate, in accordance with our stakeholder engagement 
plans;

 – We work through selected industry associations to influence 

how the industry is positioned; and

 – We produce an annual Tax Transparency and Payments 
to Governments Report, which shows how we meet our 
regulatory tax obligations.

+

Learn more about our approach to tax in our Tax Transparency 
and Payments to Government Report at www.south32.net.

Global economic uncertainty and liquidity

We prioritise an investment grade credit rating and a 
disciplined approach to allocating capital which aims to keeps 
our balance sheet strong, providing us with financial flexibility 
regardless of market conditions. By creating competition for 
capital and investing selectively in our existing operations, 
growth options and external opportunities, or by making 
returns to shareholders, we aim to maximise total shareholder 
returns over time.

Risk exposure trend 2023

Risk appetite
We are not willing to take risks that may limit our ability to 
maintain a minimum liquidity balance and/or access to funding on 
acceptable terms. We recognise our preferred commodity basket 
and our operating costs have the potential for price and exchange 
rate volatility outside of our control, and while we accept that as a 
resource company we are exposed to this inherent risk, we will act 
to reduce its impact by understanding its effect on our business. 

Opportunities
By investing selectively in our existing operations and growth 
options, external opportunities, or by making returns to 
shareholders, we aim to maximise total shareholder returns over 
time.

Threats 
A significant or sharp deterioration in economic conditions can 
adversely impact market demand, commodity prices, and/or 
exchange rates which has the potential to significantly reduce 
profitability, cash flow and returns to shareholders. An increase 
in volatility, especially when it has an impact on in-bound and 
out-bound supply chains, has the potential to increase working 
capital requirements, affecting our liquidity. A reduction in 
liquidity available in capital markets has the potential to impact 
our balance sheet and ability to pursue our strategy.

Our response includes:
 – We have a diverse portfolio of operations, commodities and 

end markets which strengthens our resilience to the disruption 
of any one commodity, geography or operation;

 – We prioritise a strong balance sheet and an investment grade 

credit rating, with the aim of remaining resilient through 
economic cycles;

 – We test our financial strength across a range of scenarios, 
including a depressed demand and pricing environment. 
We also maintain a minimum liquidity buffer and access to a 
diverse range of funding sources;

 – We adjust our capital allocation plans according to market 

conditions;

 – We maintain strong relationships with high-quality financial 

institutions, customers and suppliers from all around the world;

 – We mostly sell our products with reference to floating, market-
based prices, which are broadly correlated with floating global 
currency markets and the input costs we are exposed to; and

 – We carry out an annual review of commodity prices and 

exchange rates, which informs our operational plans. This 
process is supplemented by tri-annual updates.

+

Learn more about our capital management framework in Our 
strategy on page 19.

37

SOUTH32 ANNUAL REPORT 2023FINANCIAL AND OPERATIONAL PERFORMANCE SUMMARY

STRONG GROWTH 
IN COMMODITIES 
CRITICAL FOR 
A LOW-CARBON FUTURE

We increased our supply of commodities critical for a low-carbon future, recording strong production 
growth as we realised the benefit of recent portfolio improvements.

In discussing the operating results of the 
Group, the focus is on Underlying earnings 
and ROIC. Underlying earnings is the key 
measure that is used by the Group to 
assess our performance, make decisions 
on the allocation of resources and assess 
senior management’s performance.

In addition, the performance of each of 
the Group’s operations and operational 
management is assessed based on 
Underlying EBIT. Management uses this 
measure because financing structures 
and tax regimes differ across the Group’s 
operations and substantial components 
of tax and interest charges are levied at 
a Group level rather than an operational 
level. 

The Group uses both International 
Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) 
and non-IFRS financial measures such 
as underlying measures of earnings, 
effective tax rate (ETR), return on invested 
capital (ROIC), cash flow and net cash/
(debt), to assess the Group’s performance. 
The Directors believe that the non-IFRS 
measures are important when assessing 
the underlying financial and operating 
performance of the Group and its 
operations. The meanings of individual 
non-IFRS measures used in this report are 
set out in the Glossary on page 181. 

The basis of the Group’s underlying 
financial results is included on page 113 
in note 4 to the financial statements, 
which reflect the Group’s interest in 
material equity accounted joint ventures 
on a proportional consolidation basis. 
We believe that Underlying earnings 
before interest, tax, depreciation and 
amortisation (EBITDA), Underlying 
earnings before interest and tax (EBIT) 
and Underlying earnings provide useful 
information, but should not be considered 
as an indication of, or an alternative to, 
profit/(loss) after tax as an indicator of 
actual operating performance or as an 
alternative to cash flow as a measure of 
liquidity.

In order to calculate Underlying EBITDA, 
Underlying EBIT and Underlying earnings, 
the following items are adjusted as 
applicable each period, irrespective of 
materiality:

 – Exchange rate (gains)/losses on 
restatement of monetary items;

 – Impairment losses/(reversals);

 – (Gains)/losses on disposal and 

consolidation of interests in operations;

 – (Gains)/losses on non-trading derivative 
instruments, contingent consideration 
and other investments measured at fair 
value through profit or loss;

 – Major corporate restructures;

 – Joint venture adjustments for material 

equity accounted investments;

 – Exchange rate variations on net cash/

(debt);

 – Tax effect of earnings adjustments; and

 – Exchange rate variations on tax 

balances. 

In addition, items that do not reflect the 
underlying operations of the Group, and 
are individually, or in combination with 
other related earnings adjustments, 
significant to the financial statements, 
are excluded to determine Underlying 
earnings.

38

OPERATING AND FINANCIAL REVIEW

Financial key performance indicators for FY23

Financial highlights

US$M

Revenue
Profit before tax and net finance income/(costs)
Profit/(loss) after tax
Basic earnings per share (US cents)(1)
Ordinary dividends per share (US cents)(2)
Special dividends per share (US cents)
Other financial measures
Underlying revenue(3)
Underlying EBITDA
Underlying EBITDA margin
Underlying EBIT
Underlying EBIT margin
Underlying earnings
Basic Underlying earnings per share (US cents)(1)
ROIC
Ordinary shares on issue (million) at the end of the reporting period

FY23

7,429
198 
 (173) 
(3.8) 
8.1
-

 9,050 
 2,534 
29.4%
 1,616 
18.7%
 916 
 20.0 
10.0%
 4,545 

FY22

9,269
3,724
2,669
57.4
22.7
3.0

10,630
4,755
47.1%
3,967
39.4%
2,602
56.0
33.0%
4,628

Change

(20%)
(95%)
N/A
N/A
(64%)
N/A

(15%)
(47%)
(17.7%)
(59%)
(20.7%)
(65%)
(64%)
(23.0%)
(2%)

(1)  FY23 basic earnings per share is calculated as Profit/(loss) after tax divided by the weighted average number of shares for FY23 (4,572 million). FY23 basic Underlying earnings 
per share is calculated as Underlying earnings divided by the weighted average number of shares for FY23. FY22 basic earnings per share is calculated as Profit after tax 
divided by the weighted average number of shares for FY22 (4,647 million). FY22 basic Underlying earnings per share is calculated as Underlying earnings divided by the 
weighted average number of shares for FY22.

(2)  FY23 ordinary dividends per share is calculated as H1 FY23 ordinary dividend announced (US$224M) divided by the number of shares on issue at 31 December 2022  

(4,572 million) plus H2 FY23 ordinary dividend announced (US$145M) divided by the number of shares on issue at 30 June 2023 (4,545 million).

(3)  Underlying revenue includes revenue from third party products and services.

External factors and trends 
affecting the Group’s result

The following describes the main external 
factors and trends that have had a 
material impact on the Group’s financial 
position and results of operations during 
the financial year. Details of the Group’s 
most significant risk factors (including 
environmental, social and governance 
risks), and how they are mitigated can be 
found in the Risk management section on 
pages 28 to 37.

The Board and management monitor 
particular trends arising from external 
factors with a view to managing the 
potential impact on the Group’s future 
financial position and results of operations.

Commodity prices and changes in 
product demand and supply
South32 produces metals, concentrates 
and ores, for which prices are driven by 
global demand and supply for each of 
these commodities. Commodity prices 
were generally lower in FY23 compared to 
FY22 as most physical markets weakened 
on the back of global monetary tightening 
following the rise in inflation. The prices 
that the Group obtains for its products 
are a key driver of business performance, 
and fluctuations in these markets affect 
our results, including cash flows and 
shareholder returns. 

Estimated impact on Underlying EBIT  
of a +/- 10% change in commodity price

US$M

Aluminium(1)
Alumina
Metallurgical coal(2)
Manganese ore
Copper(3)
Nickel
Silver
Lead
Zinc

FY23

287
180
154
88
65
60
22
18
12

(1)  Aluminium sensitivity shown without any associated 

increase in alumina pricing.

(2)  Includes metallurgical and energy coal at Illawarra 

Metallurgical Coal.

(3)  Includes molybdenum, gold, and silver at Sierra 

Gorda.

39

SOUTH32 ANNUAL REPORT 2023FINANCIAL AND OPERATIONAL PERFORMANCE SUMMARY CONTINUED

The following table shows the quoted market prices of the Group’s most significant commodities in FY23 and FY22. These prices differ 
from the realised prices on the sale of production due to contracts to which the Group is a party, differences in quotational periods, 
quality of products, delivery terms and the range of quoted prices that are used for contracting sales in different markets.

Quoted commodity prices

Year ended 30 June

Alumina(1) (US$/t)
Aluminium (LME Cash)(2) (US$/t)
Copper (LME Cash)(2) (US$/t)
Silver(3) (US$/toz)
Lead (LME Cash)(2) (US$/t)
Zinc (LME Cash)(2) (US$/t)
Nickel (LME Cash)(2) (US$/t)
Metallurgical coal(4) (US$/t)
Manganese ore(5) (US$/dmtu)

Average Value

Closing Value

FY23

340
2,334
8,280
21.7
2,082
2,989
23,924
279
5.19

FY22

Change

382
2,889
9,645
23.6
2,304
3,509
23,547
390
6.16

(11%)
(19%)
(14%)
(8%)
(10%)
(15%)
2%
(28%)
(16%)

FY23

330
2,097
8,210
22.5
2,105
2,363
20,125
233
4.54

FY22

367
2,397
8,245
20.4
1,907
3,252
23,100
302
7.27

Change

(10%)
(13%)
(0%)
10%
10%
(27%)
(13%)
(23%)
(38%)

(1)  Platts Alumina Index (PAX) Free on Board (FOB) Australia – market price assessment of calcined metallurgical/smelter grade alumina.
(2)  London Metal Exchange (LME) Cash represents the Official Seller price for nickel, copper, lead, zinc, and aluminium.
(3)  Daily London Bullion Market Association (LBMA) Silver Fix.
(4)  Platts Low-Vol Hard Coking Coal Index FOB Australia – representative of high-quality hard coking coals.
(5)  FastMarkets Manganese Ore 44 per cent Mn Cost, Insurance, and Freight (CIF) Tianjin China. 

The following summarises the pricing trends of our most significant commodities for FY23. The price change reflects the average  
of FY23 over FY22.

Alumina: The average FOB Australia price for FY23 was  
11 per cent lower than FY22 driven by the combination of weak 
aluminium demand, and supply capacity being added from 
alumina refinery expansions within China.

Aluminium: The average LME cash settlement price for FY23 was 
19 per cent lower than FY22. The price decrease was driven by 
subdued global demand, and lower cost of aluminium production 
stemming from falling energy costs, in some regions. 

Copper: The FY23 average LME cash settlement price was  
14 per cent lower than FY22. The price decrease was underpinned 
by weak global demand and expected strong supply growth in 
the next few years.  

Silver: The FY23 average LBMA silver price was eight per cent 
lower than FY22. The price fall was underpinned by the rising 
interest rates which tempered investment appetite for silver. 
Weaker industrial activity globally, including in China, also 
impacted demand for silver as an industrial metal.

Lead: The FY23 average LME cash settlement price was  
10 per cent lower than FY22. Despite improved global 
automotive output, price declines were driven by an uncertain 
macroeconomic outlook and rising interest rates which impacted 
market sentiment and smelter restarts in the world ex-China, 
leading to higher refined lead availability. 

Zinc: The FY23 average LME cash settlement price was  
15 per cent lower than FY22. Weaker global demand, including 
softer industrial activity in China and Europe led to a decline 
in prices amidst expectation of higher refined production as 
smelters restart in Europe.

Nickel: The FY23 average LME cash settlement price was two 
per cent higher than FY22. Prices strengthened in the first half 
of FY23 due to trading activity and strong demand for nickel-
in-batteries. In the second half of FY23, prices declined due to 
growing supply in Class I nickel (which contains a minimum of  
99.8 per cent nickel), slower than expected demand recovery 
in Chinese stainless steel, and concerns over rapid new supply 
growth over the next few years.

Metallurgical coal: The FY23 average Platts Premium Low-Vol 
Hard Coking Coal price was 28 per cent lower than FY22. Price 
declined as the market rebalanced due to improved seaborne 
supply, particularly from Australia in Q4 FY23 after the end of 
the La Niña weather impacts, while demand outlook weakened 
with Chinese steel demand recovery underperforming market 
expectations.

Manganese ore: The FY23 average Manganese Ore Metal Bulletin 
44 per cent Mn CIF China price was 16 per cent lower than FY22. 
Despite supply disruptions, weak global demand resulted in 
oversupply of ore and high Chinese port inventories, contributing 
to the price decline.

40

OPERATING AND FINANCIAL REVIEW

Exchange rates
Global risk sentiment, central bank monetary policy and commodity prices continue to be key drivers of currency markets. In FY23, 
producer currencies saw mixed results against the United States (US) dollar. The US dollar started to weaken in the second half of FY23 
as various central banks were pushed into raising interest rates, reducing the rate differentials between the US and major economies. 
On average, the Brazilian real strengthened two per cent over FY23 on a record trade surplus and better economic outlook after the 
government published a new fiscal framework. The Australian dollar, South African rand, Colombian peso, and Chilean peso weakened 
against the US dollar over FY23 mainly driven by lower commodity prices which negatively impacted the countries’ export earnings and 
terms of trade. 

The Group is exposed to exchange rate risk on foreign currency sales, purchases and expenses, as no active currency hedging is 
undertaken. As the majority of sales are denominated in US dollars, and the US dollar plays a dominant role in the Group’s business, 
funds borrowed and held in US dollars provide a natural hedge to currency fluctuations. Operating costs and costs of locally-sourced 
equipment are influenced by fluctuations in local currencies, primarily the Australian dollar, South African rand, Brazilian real, Colombian 
peso, and Chilean peso. 

The Group is also exposed to exchange rate translation risk in relation to net monetary liabilities, being foreign currency denominated 
monetary assets and liabilities, including debt, tax and other long-term liabilities. Details of the exposure to foreign currency 
fluctuations are set out in note 19 to the financial statements on pages 142 to 149.

The following table indicates the estimated impact on FY23 Underlying EBIT of a change in the significant currencies to which the Group 
is exposed against the US dollar. The sensitivities give the estimated impact on Underlying EBIT based on the exchange rate movement 
in isolation. The sensitivities assume all variables except for exchange rates remain constant. There is an inter-relationship between 
currencies and commodity prices where movements in exchange rates can cause movements in commodity prices and vice versa. This 
is not reflected in the sensitivities below. These sensitivities should therefore be used with care.

Estimated impact on Underlying EBIT of a +/-10% change in producer currencies relative to the US dollar

US$M

Australian dollar
South African rand
Brazilian real
Colombian peso
Chilean peso

FY23

212
112
39
28
17

The following table shows the average and period end closing exchange rates of the most significant currencies that affect the Group’s 
results.

Exchange rates(1)

Year ended 30 June

Australian dollar(2)
South African rand(3)
Colombian peso(3)
Brazilian real(3)
Chilean peso(3)

Average Value

Closing Value

FY23

0.67
17.76
4,593
5.16
863

FY22

0.73
15.22
3,903
5.24
812

Change

(8%)
(17%)
(18%)
2%
(6%)

FY23

0.66
18.75
4,191
4.82
803

FY22

0.69
16.26
4,127
5.24
924

Change

(4%)
(15%)
(2%)
8%
13%

(1)  Positive per cent change in foreign exchange indicates strengthening currency relative to US$.
(2)  Displayed as US$ per A$ based on common convention.
(3)  Displayed as local currency per US$.

41

SOUTH32 ANNUAL REPORT 2023FINANCIAL AND OPERATIONAL PERFORMANCE SUMMARY CONTINUED

2023 Financial year summary

Performance summary

The Group reported a statutory loss of 
US$173 million in FY23, following the 
recognition of a non-cash impairment 
expense of US$1,300 million in relation to 
the Taylor Deposit at our Hermosa project, 
a decrease of US$2,842 million from FY22.

We increased our supply of commodities 
critical for a low-carbon future, recording 
strong production growth in aluminium  
(14 per cent), base metals (17 per cent), 
and manganese (four per cent), as we 
realised the benefit of recent portfolio 
improvements and achieved annual 
production records at Hillside Aluminium, 
Australia Manganese and South Africa 
Manganese.

Underlying earnings were US$916 million, 
a decrease of US$1,686 million from FY22, 
as lower commodity prices, higher inflation 
and uncontrollable costs, more than offset 
higher production volumes at some of our 
operations.

Underlying EBITDA decreased by  
US$2,221 million to US$2,534 million in 
FY23, for a Group operating margin of 
29 per cent. This represented one of 
our largest Underlying EBITDA results, 
despite lower commodity prices and 
uncontrollable cost impacts. Our 
investments in Sierra Gorda and increased 
ownership in Mozal Aluminium contributed 
Underlying EBITDA of US$240 million. 

Free cash flow from operations, including 
equity accounted investment distributions, 
was US$244 million, impacted by a build in 
inventories and one-off cash tax payments 
in relation to our Sierra Gorda acquisition 
and non-core royalty sale. 

We returned a record US$1,225 million to 
shareholders during FY23, with  
US$1,007 million in fully-franked ordinary 
and special dividends, and US$218 million 
via our on-market share buy-back. We 
have announced a fully-franked final 
ordinary dividend of US$145 million  
(US 3.2 cents per share) in respect of 
H2 FY23, and expanded our capital 
management program by US$50 million 
leaving US$133 million to be returned by 
1 March 2024, reflective of our disciplined 
approach to capital management.

We continue to prioritise a strong balance 
sheet and investment grade credit 
rating through all cycles. We finished the 
period with net debt of US$483 million, 
following the return of record amounts 
to shareholders and our investments to 
grow production volumes of commodities 
critical for a low-carbon future. This strong 
platform and our disciplined approach 
to capital management provides us with 
the flexibility to continue to return capital 
to shareholders in the most efficient and 
value accretive manner, while investing in 
our growth options.

Specific highlights for FY23 included:

 – Record annual production at three 

operations;

 – Embedded portfolio improvements in 
copper and low-carbon aluminium;

 – Fifteen per cent production growth in 

aluminium and base metals; 

 – Record US$1.2 billion returned to 

shareholders, equivalent to 11 per cent 
of our current market capitalisation;

 – Advanced our portfolio of high-quality 
growth options, progressing work to 
support planned investment decisions 
for the development of Hermosa’s 
Taylor zinc-lead-silver Deposit and the 
Sierra Gorda copper expansion in FY24; 

 – Confirmed the opportunity to produce 

battery-grade manganese from 
Hermosa’s Clark Deposit and signed 
multiple non-binding, non-exclusive 
memorandums of understanding for 
future potential supply into North 
American markets;

 – Consolidated our position in San Juan, 
Argentina, exercised our earn-in right 
for a 50.1 per cent interest in the Chita 
Valley copper prospect and acquired 
a strategic interest in Aldebaran 
Resources Inc;

 – Advanced near-term decarbonisation 
programs to support our target to 
halve operational greenhouse gas 
(GHG) emissions by 2035 from an FY21 
baseline(1), with Worsley Alumina on-
track to convert its first onsite boiler 
from coal to natural gas in Q1 FY24;

 – Transitioned Sierra Gorda to cost 
efficient, 100 per cent renewable 
electricity supply from January 2023; 
and 

 – Progressed partnerships to address 
value chain emissions and expanded 
our climate change goals to include net 
zero Scope 3 GHG emissions by 2050.

(1)  FY21 baseline adjusted to exclude GHG emissions from SAEC and TEMCO, which were divested in FY21.

42

OPERATING AND FINANCIAL REVIEW

Earnings

US$M

Profit/(loss) after tax
Total adjustments to derive Underlying EBIT 
Total adjustments to derive Underlying net finance costs
Total adjustments to derive Underlying income and royalty related tax expense
Underlying earnings

FY23

(173)
1,418
(203)
(126)
916

FY22

2,669
243
(124)
(186)
2,602

The Group’s statutory profit after tax decreased by US$2,842 million to a loss of US$173 million in FY23, including the US$1,300 million 
non-cash impairment of Hermosa’s Taylor Deposit, while Underlying earnings decreased by US$1,686 million to US$916 million.

Consistent with our accounting policies, various items are excluded from the Group’s statutory profit/(loss) to derive Underlying 
earnings. Total adjustments to derive Underlying EBIT (US$1,418 million), include: 

 – Net impairment loss of non-financial assets (+US$1,300 million): non-cash impairment expense of Hermosa’s Taylor Deposit, as 

announced on 24 July 2023. The impairment reflected the impact of delays due to COVID-19, significant dewatering requirements, 
and current inflationary pressures; 

 – Significant items (-US$186 million): gain on disposal of non-core base metal royalties to Ecora Resources PLC (-US$189 million pre-

tax) and recognition of other income in relation to the indemnity for Chilean mining tax changes negotiated as part of our acquisition 
of Sierra Gorda (-US$48 million pre-tax), partially offset by a non-cash asset write-off following our decision not to proceed with the 
Dendrobium Next Domain (DND) project at Illawarra Metallurgical Coal (+US$51 million pre-tax); 

 – Sierra Gorda (+US$144 million) and Manganese (+US$147 million) joint venture adjustments: adjustments to reconcile the statutory 

equity accounting position to a proportional consolidation basis; and

 – Net impairment loss of financial assets (+US$71 million): periodic revaluation of the shareholder loan receivable from Sierra Gorda 
reflecting copper price and other macroeconomic assumptions. An offsetting amount is recorded in the Sierra Gorda joint venture 
adjustments noted above. 

Further information on these earnings adjustments is included on page 118.

The Group’s Underlying EBIT decreased by US$2,351 million (or 59 per cent) to US$1,616 million, as Underlying depreciation and 
amortisation increased by US$130 million to US$918 million primarily due to the inclusion of Sierra Gorda in our portfolio.

The following key factors influenced Underlying EBIT in FY23, relative to FY22. 

Reconciliation of movements in Underlying EBIT (US$M)(1)(2)(3)

Uncontrollable

Net finance
costs and tax

(1,781)

5,000

4,000

3,000

2,000

3,967 

1,000

(174)

369

(271)

(539)

(28)

113

(40)

(188)

(512)

1,616 

916 

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(1)  Sales price variance reflects the revenue impact of changes in commodity prices, based on the FY23 sales volume. Price-linked costs variance reflects the change in 

royalties together with the change in input costs driven by changes in commodity prices or market traded consumables. Foreign exchange reflects the impact of exchange 
rate movements on local currency denominated costs and sales. Sales volume variance reflects the revenue impact of sales volume changes, based on the comparative 
period’s sales prices. Controllable costs variance represents the impact from changes in the Group’s controllable local currency cost base, including the variable cost impact 
of production volume changes on expenditure, and period-on-period movements in inventories. The controllable cost variance excludes earnings adjustments including 
significant items.

(2)  Underlying net finance costs and Underlying income tax expense are actual FY23 results, not year-on-year variances.
(3)  South32’s ownership shares of operations are presented as follows: Worsley Alumina (86 per cent share), Brazil Alumina (36 per cent share), Brazil Aluminium (40 per cent 

share), Hillside Aluminium (100 per cent), Mozal Aluminium (63.7 per cent share, noting that the FY22 Income statement reflects only one month of our increased ownership  
at 63.7 per cent following the completion of the acquisition for an additional 16.6 per cent shareholding on 31 May 2022), Sierra Gorda (45 per cent share), Cannington  
(100 per cent), Hermosa (100 per cent), Cerro Matoso (99.9 per cent share), Illawarra Metallurgical Coal (100 per cent), Australia Manganese (60 per cent share), South Africa 
Manganese ore (54.6 per cent share) and South Africa Manganese alloy (60 per cent share).

43

SOUTH32 ANNUAL REPORT 2023 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
FINANCIAL AND OPERATIONAL PERFORMANCE SUMMARY CONTINUED

Earnings continued

Earnings analysis

US$M

Commentary

FY22 Underlying EBIT
Change in sales price

3,967
(1,781)

Lower average realised prices for our commodities, including:

Aluminium (-US$631 million) and alumina (-US$124 million)

Metallurgical coal (-US$550 million) and energy coal (-US$11 million)

Nickel (-US$209 million)

Manganese ore (-US$181 million)

Zinc (-US$63 million), lead (-US$13 million) and silver (+US$1 million)

Net impact of price-linked 
costs

(174)

Higher aluminium smelter raw material input prices (-US$115 million), including pitch and 
coke 

Change in exchange rates

Change in inflation

Change in sales volume

Controllable costs

Portfolio changes

Other

Higher coal, fuel oil and diesel prices (-US$76 million)

Higher caustic soda prices at Brazil Alumina (-US$36 million) and Worsley Alumina  
(-US$33 million)

Higher electricity prices (-US$33 million) at Cerro Matoso and Illawarra Metallurgical Coal 

Partially offset by lower freight and distribution costs (+US$93 million) and lower price-linked 
royalties (+US$16 million)
Weaker South African rand (+US$166 million), Australian dollar (+US$157 million) and 
Colombian peso (+US$48 million)
Inflation-linked indexation of our Southern African aluminium smelter electricity prices 
(-US$82 million)

General inflation across Australia (-US$120 million), Southern Africa (-US$36 million) and 
Colombia (-US$24 million)
Lower volumes, including Illawarra Metallurgical Coal (-US$133 million), Cannington  
(-US$119 million), Worsley Alumina (-US$96 million), Brazil Alumina (-US$83 million) and Mozal 
Aluminium (-US$48 million)
Inventory and volume related movements (+US$137 million) including a build in stocks at 
Australia Manganese, and higher inventory levels at Illawarra Metallurgical Coal 

Higher contractor and maintenance costs (-US$112 million) to support planned maintenance 
at Worsley Alumina, at Australia Manganese to support higher volumes, and at Cerro Matoso 
to deliver the Ore Sorting and Mechanical Ore Concentration (OSMOC) project 

Higher labour costs (-US$48 million) to support increased activity
Improved profitability following our first full year of ownership of Sierra Gorda  
(+US$142 million), partially offset by Brazil Aluminium (-US$38 million) as the smelter 
continued to ramp-up following the restart of all three potlines
Higher profit from our equity interest in Mineração Rio do Norte (MRN), and non-core 
royalties received, more than offset by higher depreciation and amortisation primarily at 
Illawarra Metallurgical Coal and Australia Manganese

369

(271)

(539)

(28)

113

(40)

FY23 Underlying EBIT

1,616

Further analysis of operations performance is outlined on pages 48 to 58.

Net finance income/(costs)
The Group’s FY23 Underlying net finance costs of US$188 million primarily comprise the unwinding of the discount applied to our closure 
and rehabilitation provisions (US$113 million), interest on lease liabilities (US$56 million) largely for our multi-fuel co-generation facility 
at Worsley Alumina, and interest on our US$700 million of senior unsecured notes (US$31 million) issued in FY22 to partly fund the Sierra 
Gorda acquisition. 

Tax expense
The Group’s Underlying income tax expense, which includes our material equity accounted investments, was US$512 million in FY23, 
for an Underlying ETR of 36.1 per cent. Our Group Underlying ETR reflects our geographical earnings mix and the corporate tax rates 
of the jurisdictions in which we operate. The impact of the recent changes in Colombian tax legislation, with dividend withholding tax 
increasing from 10 per cent to 20 per cent and income tax deductions no longer available for royalty payments, has increased Cerro 
Matoso’s effective tax rate. 

The Underlying ETR for our manganese business was 43.7 per cent in FY23, including the royalty related tax at Australia Manganese. 

The Underlying ETR for our Sierra Gorda equity accounted investment was 46.0 per cent in FY23, including royalty related tax. As 
anticipated, reforms to the Chilean Mining Tax were enacted in August 2023 and will be effective from 1 January 2024, resulting in higher 
royalty related tax in future periods. Sierra Gorda has a tax stability agreement to December 2028 which defers the effective start date 
of the mining tax reforms until 1 January 2029. In addition, we have an indemnity from the vendors of our Sierra Gorda acquisition for 
mining tax changes enacted prior to December 2025, to mitigate the impact of these reforms. We have recorded a receivable of US$48 
million (pre-tax) in relation to the indemnity and expect to recover this amount from the vendors in FY24. 

The Group’s cash tax paid in FY23, excluding equity accounted investments, was US$818 million. This reflected the lagged effect of 
higher profitability in the prior period, as well as one-off cash taxes paid in relation to our Sierra Gorda acquisition (US$115 million) and 
non-core royalty sale (US$32 million).

44

OPERATING AND FINANCIAL REVIEW

Third party product sales
The Group differentiates the sale of its production from the sale of third party products due to a significant difference in profit margin 
earned on these sales. The table below shows the breakdown between the Group’s production and third party products: 

US$M

Group Production
Underlying revenue
Related operating costs (net of other income)
Group Production Underlying EBIT
Underlying EBIT margin on Group production
Third party products
Underlying revenue
Related operating costs (net of other income)(1)
Third party Underlying EBIT
Underlying EBIT margin on third party products
Group underlying results
Underlying revenue
Related operating costs (net of other income)
Underlying EBIT

(1)  Includes depreciation and amortisation.

FY23

FY22

8,511
(6,918)
1,593
18.7%

539
(516)
23
4.3%

9,050
(7,434)
1,616

10,030
(6,083)
3,947
39.4%

600
(580)
20
3.3%

10,630
(6,663)
3,967

The Group engages in third party trading for the following reasons:

 – To seek to provide a consistent supply of materials to its customers;

 – As a result of production variability and occasional shortfalls from the Group’s operations; and

 – To enhance value through product blending and supply chain optimisation.

Capital expenditure

We allocate capital in line with our strategy and capital management framework to optimise our business, unlock the full value of 
operations and identify and pursue opportunities which aim to create value. In FY23 the Group continued to prioritise capital for the 
safety and reliability of our operations, to progress life extension, innovation and improvement projects, and to fund our current and 
future growth projects.

US$M

Safe and reliable capital expenditure
Improvement and life extension capital expenditure
Growth capital expenditure
Intangibles and the capitalisation of exploration expenditure
Total capital expenditure (excluding equity accounted investments)
Equity accounted investments capital expenditure(1)
Total capital expenditure (including equity accounted investments)

FY23

(470)
(64)
(256)
(104)
(894)
(283)
(1,177)

FY22

(367)
(58)
(97)
(37)
(559)
(164)
(723)

(1)  Equity accounted investments capital expenditure reflects the Group’s interest in material equity accounted joint ventures and is presented on a proportional consolidation 

basis.

Total capital expenditure, excluding equity accounted investments, increased by US$335 million to US$894 million in FY23 as we 
increased our investment in productivity, improvement and growth activities across our portfolio:

 – Safe and reliable capital expenditure increased by US$103 million to US$470 million as we invested in Illawarra Metallurgical Coal’s 

transition to a more efficient single longwall configuration at Appin from FY25, and additional ventilation capacity to enable mining in 
Appin’s Area 7 until at least 2039;

 – Improvement and life extension capital expenditure increased by US$6 million to US$64 million as we progressed productivity and 

decarbonisation projects primarily at Worsley Alumina and Brazil Alumina;

 – Growth capital expenditure increased by US$159 million to US$256 million at Hermosa as we installed critical path dewatering 

infrastructure and advanced studies for both Taylor and Clark Deposits; and

 – Intangibles and capitalised exploration increased by US$67 million to US$104 million, as we extended Cerro Matoso’s mining contract 

to 2044, and completed multiple exploration programs across our portfolio focused on base metals. 

Our share of capital expenditure for our material equity accounted investments increased by US$119 million to US$283 million in FY23, 
reflecting the inclusion of Sierra Gorda in our portfolio. Capital expenditure for our Sierra Gorda equity accounted investment was 
US$199 million, as the operation invested in deferred stripping and additional tailings storage infrastructure. It also invested to grow 
future potential copper volumes, executing the plant de-bottlenecking project and progressing study work for the fourth grinding line 
expansion.

Capital expenditure for our manganese equity accounted investments was US$84 million as we invested in additional mining equipment 
and completed the feasibility study for Australia Manganese’s Eastern Lease South life extension project.

45

SOUTH32 ANNUAL REPORT 2023FINANCIAL AND OPERATIONAL PERFORMANCE SUMMARY CONTINUED

Cash flow

The Group generated free cash flow from operations of US$57 million and received net distributions of US$187 million from our equity 
accounted investments in FY23. Group free cash flow reflected higher expenditure on productivity, improvement and growth projects 
(+US$335 million) and one-off tax payments in relation to our Sierra Gorda acquisition and non-core royalty sale (+US$147 million). 

Working capital was largely unchanged over the financial year. The increase in inventories of US$126 million in FY23 reflected a 
permanent increase related to the restart of Brazil Aluminium, as well as temporary impacts at Mozal Aluminium.

Net distributions from our equity accounted investments comprised US$173 million from our manganese equity accounted investments 
and US$14 million from our Sierra Gorda equity accounted investment. At Sierra Gorda we invested in projects to increase potential 
copper production, implementing the plant de-bottlenecking project, and progressed studies for the fourth grinding line expansion to 
support a planned final investment decision in H2 FY24.

Free cash flow from operations

US$M

Profit from operations 
Non-cash or non-operating items
Share of (profit)/loss from equity accounted investments
Working capital movement
Cash generated from operations
Total capital expenditure, excluding equity accounted investments, including intangibles and capitalised 
exploration
Operating cash flows generated from operations after capital expenditure
Net interest paid(1)
Income tax paid
Free cash flow from operations

(1)  Net interest paid excludes distributions from material equity accounted investments.

Working capital movement

US$M 

Trade and other receivables
Inventories
Trade and other payables
Provisions and other liabilities
Working capital movement

FY23

198
1,852
(246)
10
1,814

(894)
920
(45)
(818)
57

FY23

178
(126)
(45)
3
10

FY22

3,724 
694 
(272)
(428)
3,718 

(559)
3,159 
(51)
(868)
2,240 

FY22

(300)
(206)
160
(82)
(428)

Balance sheet and capital management

The Group finished the period with a net debt balance of US$483 million as we delivered a record US$1,225 million to shareholders 
during FY23, paying fully-franked ordinary and special dividends of US$1,007 million, and a further US$218 million via our on-market 
share buy-back.

Consistent with our commitment to maintain an investment grade credit rating, during the year our current BBB+/Baa1 credit ratings 
were re-affirmed by S&P Global Ratings and Moody’s, respectively. 

Our capital management framework remains unchanged, and is designed to promote competition for capital through investment 
in high returning options or to protect portfolio value, as well as to reward shareholders as our financial performance improves. 
Demonstrating this, the Board has resolved to pay a fully-franked final ordinary dividend of US 3.2 cents per share (US$145 million) in 
respect of H2 FY23, representing 41 per cent of Underlying earnings. The Board has also further expanded our capital management 
program by US$50 million, leaving US$133 million to be returned by 1 March 2024.

46

OPERATING AND FINANCIAL REVIEW

Net debt and sources of liquidity

Our policies on debt and treasury management are as follows:

 – Commitment to maintain an investment grade credit rating;

 – Diversification of funding sources; and

 – Generally maintain borrowings and holdings of excess cash in US dollars.

Gearing and net (debt)/cash
The table below presents net (debt)/cash and net assets of the Group, based on the balance sheet as at 30 June 2023:

US$M

Cash and cash equivalents
Current external debt
Non-current external debt
Net (debt)/cash
Net assets
Gearing(1)

FY23

1,258
(365)
(1,376)
(483)
9,375
4.9%

FY22

2,365
(402)
(1,425)
538
10,779
(5.3%)

(1)  Gearing is the ratio of (Net debt/(cash)) to (Net debt/(cash)) plus Net assets.

Funding sources
In addition to cash flow from operations as a primary source of funding, the Group has US$700 million of senior unsecured notes 
outstanding, which are due in 2032 and accrue interest at a rate of 4.35 per cent per annum. We also retain access to significant liquidity, 
through an undrawn, sustainability-linked revolving credit facility, to have available capacity of US$1.4 billion to December 2026, and 
US$1.2 billion to December 2027. This facility is a standby arrangement to the Group’s US dollar commercial paper program and is not 
subject to financial covenants at the Group’s current credit rating. Certain financing facilities in relation to specific operations are the 
subject of covenants that vary from facility to facility; however, these are considered normal for such facilities.

Additional information regarding the maturity profile of the Group’s debt obligations and details of our major standby agreement is 
included in note 19 to the financial statements on pages 142 to 149.

Operations analysis

A summary of the underlying performance of the Group’s operations is presented below and more detailed analysis is presented on 
pages 48 to 58.

Operations table (South32 share)(1)

US$M

Worsley Alumina
Brazil Alumina
Brazil Aluminium
Hillside Aluminium
Mozal Aluminium
Sierra Gorda
Cannington 
Hermosa
Cerro Matoso
Illawarra Metallurgical Coal 
Australia Manganese 
South Africa Manganese
Third party products and services(2)
Inter-segment / Group and unallocated
South32 Group

Underlying Revenue

Underlying EBIT

FY23

1,363
456
166
1,823
886
684
542
–
698
1,643
688
344
539
(782)
9,050

FY22

1,625
524
–
2,254
924
241
736
–
929
2,338
848
419
600
(808)
10,630

FY23

68
(45)
(136)
191
56
217
142
(19)
189
692
266
45
23
(73)
1,616

FY22

386
89
(44)
666
271
75
315
(14)
463
1,388
402
58
20
(108)
3,967

(1)  South32’s ownership share of operations is as per footnote (3) on page 43.
(2)  FY23 Third party products and services sold comprise US$86 million for aluminium, US$25 million for alumina, US$140 million for coal, US$106 million for freight services, 

US$149 million for raw materials and US$33 million for manganese. Underlying EBIT on third party products and services comprise (US$1 million) for aluminium, US$13 million 
for alumina, US$11 million for coal, (US$1 million) for freight services, US$1 million for raw materials and nil for manganese. FY22 Third party products and services sold 
comprise US$110 million for aluminium, US$25 million for alumina, US$115 million for coal, US$145 million for freight services, US$165 million for raw materials and  
US$40 million for manganese. Underlying EBIT on third party products and services comprise US$8 million for aluminium, US$8 million for alumina, US$7 million for coal,  
(US$3 million) for freight services, nil for raw materials and nil for manganese.

47

SOUTH32 ANNUAL REPORT 2023 
FINANCIAL AND OPERATIONAL PERFORMANCE SUMMARY CONTINUED

WORSLEY ALUMINA

Location: Western Australia, Australia 
South32 share: 86 per cent

South32 holds an 86 per cent share in Worsley 
Alumina, while Japan Alumina Associates (Australia) 
Pty Ltd owns 10 per cent and Sojitz Alumina Pty Ltd 
owns four per cent.

Bauxite is mined near the town of Boddington, 130 kilometres 
south-east of Perth. It is transported by overland conveyor to 
the alumina refinery near Collie and turned into alumina powder, 
before being transported by rail to Bunbury port. It is then 
shipped to smelters around the world, including our Hillside 
Aluminium and Mozal Aluminium smelters in southern Africa.

We are executing decarbonisation and energy security initiatives 
at Worsley Alumina, including commencing the conversion of the 
first coal-fired boiler to natural gas.

South32 share

Alumina production (kt) 
Alumina sales (kt) 
Realised sales price (US$/t)
Operating unit cost (US$/t)

South32 share (US$M)

Underlying revenue
Underlying EBITDA
Underlying EBIT
Net operating assets
Capital expenditure
Safe and reliable
Improvement and life extension

Social investment

FY23

 3,839 
 3,817 
 357 
 291 

FY23

 1,363 
 251 
 68 
 2,457 
 82 
 49 
 33 
1.1

FY22

3,991 
3,974 
409 
265 

FY22

1,625 
571 
386 
2,571 
55 
47 
8 
1.6

Safety

Lost Time Injury Frequency (LTIF) at Worsley Alumina was 0.6 
in FY23, a 63 per cent decrease year-on-year. Total Recordable 
Injury Frequency (TRIF) was 8.6 in FY23, a 32 per cent increase 
year-on-year. 

Volumes

Worsley Alumina saleable production decreased by four per 
cent (or 152kt), from record levels in FY22, to 3,839kt in FY23. 
The refinery successfully managed short-term energy supply 
challenges and completed planned calciner maintenance in Q1 
and Q3 FY23, finishing the year with production rates above 
nameplate capacity in Q4 FY23.

Operating costs

Operating unit costs increased by 10 per cent to US$291/t in FY23, 
as the benefit of a weaker Australian dollar was more than offset 
by higher uncontrollable costs including an increase in caustic 
soda (FY23: US$659/t, FY22: US$581/t) and coal prices.

Financial performance

Underlying EBIT decreased by 82 per cent (or US$318 million), 
to US$68 million in FY23, as a 13 per cent decrease in the 
average realised price of alumina (-US$198 million), lower sales 
volumes (-US$64 million) and higher inflation and uncontrollable 
costs (-US$74 million), more than offset the benefit of a weaker 
Australian dollar (+US$50 million). The operation also incurred 
additional contractor costs (-US$18 million) to deliver planned 
maintenance activity.

Capital expenditure

Safe and reliable capital expenditure was US$49 million in FY23 
as we invested in infrastructure to enable access to new mining 
areas and continued to invest in additional bauxite residue 
disposal capacity.

Improvement and life extension capital expenditure was  
US$33 million in FY23 as we advanced decarbonisation projects at 
the refinery.

Social investment

We invested US$1.1 million in communities around Worsley 
Alumina in FY23, with a focus on natural resource resilience, 
economic development, good health and social wellbeing, and 
education and leadership programs.

+

Learn more about Worsley Alumina at www.south32.net.

48

OPERATING AND FINANCIAL REVIEW

BRAZIL ALUMINA 

Location: Pará and Maranhão, Brazil 
South32 investment: Bauxite - 33 per cent 
South32 share: Alumina - 36 per cent

South32 holds a 33 per cent interest in the non-
operated Mineração Rio do Norte (MRN) bauxite mine. 
Vale holds 40 per cent, Rio Tinto Alcan holds 12 per 
cent, Companhia Brasileira de Aluminio S.A. holds  
10 per cent and Hydro holds five per cent.

The MRN mine is an open-cut strip mining operation. Mined ore is 
hauled to primary crushers and then transported by conveyor belt 
to the beneficiation plant. A feasibility study is underway for the 
West Zone project at MRN, with the potential to extend the mine 
life by more than 20 years.

The bauxite produced from the MRN mine is sold to its 
shareholders. Our share of bauxite produced from MRN is 
supplied to the Alumar alumina refinery.

We govern our share of MRN through participation in MRN’s 
Board, the main governance forum responsible for the strategic 
direction and oversight of MRN. 

We also hold a 36 per cent share of the non-operated Alumar 
alumina refinery. Alcoa holds 54 per cent and Rio Tinto Alcan 
holds 10 per cent. A de-bottlenecking project at the refinery is 
expected to lift capacity from FY26.

The alumina produced from the refinery is exported through the 
Alumar port and supplied to the co-located Alumar aluminium 
smelter.

We govern our share of Alumar through participation in the 
Supervisory Committee, the main governance forum responsible 
for the strategic direction and oversight of Alumar.

South32 share

Alumina production (kt) 
Alumina sales (kt)
Realised sales price (US$/t)
Operating unit cost (US$/t)(1)

South32 share (US$M)

Underlying revenue
Underlying EBITDA
Underlying EBIT
Net operating assets
Capital expenditure
Safe and reliable
Improvement and life extension

FY23

 1,262 
 1,237 
 369 
 368 

FY23

456
7
(45)
738
58
45
13

FY22

1,297 
1,299 
403 
288 

FY22

524
150
89
696
51
51
–

Volumes

Brazil Alumina saleable production decreased by three per cent 
(or 35kt) to 1,262kt in FY23 as the refinery reduced output in Q4 
FY23 to manage temporary port infrastructure outages. 

Operating costs

Operating unit costs increased by 28 per cent to US$368/t in 
FY23, with a significant rise in uncontrollable costs accounting 
for more than 70 per cent of this increase, together with one-off 
costs associated with the port infrastructure outages.

Uncontrollable cost inflation, including higher caustic soda prices 
(FY23: US$722/t, FY22: US$425/t), coal-linked energy prices, and 
bauxite costs linked to alumina and aluminium prices on a trailing 
basis, was most acute in H1 FY23, with these input prices all 
trending lower in H2 FY23.

Financial performance

Underlying EBIT decreased by US$134 million, to a loss of  
US$45 million in FY23, as an eight per cent decrease in the 
average realised price of alumina (-US$38 million), lower sales 
volumes (-US$30 million) and higher uncontrollable costs  
(-US$72 million), more than offset higher profit from our equity 
accounted interest in MRN (+US$10 million). 

Capital expenditure

Safe and reliable capital expenditure decreased by US$6 million to 
US$45 million in FY23 as we continued our investment in bauxite 
residue disposal capacity.

Improvement and life extension capital expenditure was  
US$13 million in FY23 as the refinery progressed work on the  
de-bottlenecking project.

+

Learn more about Brazil Alumina at www.south32.net.

(1)  Excludes the profit from our equity accounted interest in MRN.

49

SOUTH32 ANNUAL REPORT 2023FINANCIAL AND OPERATIONAL PERFORMANCE SUMMARY CONTINUED

BRAZIL ALUMINIUM

Location: Maranhão, Brazil 
South32 share: 40 per cent

Volumes

Brazil Aluminium saleable production was 68.9kt in FY23 following 
the restart of all three potlines at the smelter. Lower overhead 
crane availability in Q4 FY23 delayed pot restart activities and 
metal production.

Operating costs

Brazil Aluminium recorded gross operating costs of  
US$295 million in FY23 as the smelter continued to ramp-up  
and raw material input prices remained elevated across the 
industry.

Financial performance

Underlying EBIT was a loss of US$136 million in FY23, as sales 
revenue (+US$166 million) was more than offset by costs to 
support the smelter’s restart and ramp-up of all three potlines 
(-US$258 million). 

Capital expenditure

Safe and reliable capital expenditure was US$9 million in FY23 as 
the restart of the Aluminium smelter progressed.

+

Learn more about Brazil Aluminium at www.south32.net.

South32 holds a 40 per cent share in the non-
operated Alumar aluminium smelter, which was 
restarted during FY22 after being on care and 
maintenance since 2015. Alcoa Corporation holds a 
60 per cent share.

Following the restart, first production was achieved in the June 
2022 quarter, with nameplate capacity from the smelter’s three 
potlines expected to be achieved in FY26. It has a solid metal 
production capacity of 447kt per year (on a 100 per cent basis) 
and produces standard aluminium ingots for the domestic and 
export markets.

Our share of Brazil Aluminium is powered by 100 per cent cost 
efficient renewable power.

We govern our share of Alumar through participation in the 
Supervisory Committee, the main governance forum responsible 
for the strategic direction and oversight of Alumar.

South32 share

Aluminium production (kt) 
Aluminium sales (kt)
Realised sales price (US$/t)
Operating unit cost (US$/t)

South32 share (US$M)

Underlying revenue
Underlying EBITDA
Underlying EBIT
Net operating assets
Capital expenditure
Safe and reliable

FY23

FY22

 68.9 
 67.7 
 2,452 
 4,357 

FY23

166
(129)
(136)
28
9
9

0.3 
–
–
–

FY22

–
(43)
(44)
46
1
1

50

OPERATING AND FINANCIAL REVIEW

HILLSIDE ALUMINIUM 

Location: KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa 
South32 share: 100 per cent

The Hillside Aluminium smelter is located in Richards 
Bay in the South African province of KwaZulu-Natal 
and is 100 per cent owned and operated by South32 
with a solid metal production capacity of 720kt per 
year.

Hillside Aluminium is the largest aluminium smelter in the 
southern hemisphere. The smelter produces high-quality, primary 
aluminium for the domestic and export markets.

To support the development of the downstream aluminium 
industry in South Africa a portion of liquid metal is supplied to 
Hulamin and other local companies that sell products in the 
domestic and export markets.

Following the completion of a trial of the AP3XLE energy 
efficiency technology in FY22, Hillside Aluminium commenced 
deploying the technology, converting 18 per cent of pots in FY23.

South32 share

Aluminium production (kt) 
Aluminium sales (kt) 
Realised sales price (US$/t)
Operating unit cost (US$/t)

South32 share (US$M)

Underlying revenue
Underlying EBITDA
Underlying EBIT
Net operating assets
Capital expenditure
Safe and reliable
Improvement and life extension

Social investment

FY23

719
719
2,535
2,178

FY23

1,823
257
191
845
18
16
2
9.1

FY22

714
713
3,161
2,137

FY22

2,254
730
666
927
24
20
4
13.1

Safety

LTIF at Hillside Aluminium was 1.7 in FY23, a 55 per cent increase 
year-on-year. TRIF was 3.0 in FY23, a 131 per cent increase year-
on-year. 

Volumes

Hillside Aluminium saleable production increased by one per cent 
(or 5kt) to a record 719kt in FY23 as the smelter continued to test 
its maximum technical capacity, despite the impact of elevated 
load-shedding.

Operating costs

Operating unit costs increased by two per cent to US$2,178/t in 
FY23, as the benefit of a weaker South African rand and lower 
alumina prices, was more than offset by elevated smelter raw 
material input prices (including coke, pitch and aluminium tri-
fluoride), and inflation-linked indexation of energy costs.

Financial performance

Underlying EBIT decreased by 71 per cent (or US$475 million), to 
US$191 million in FY23, as the benefit of a weaker South African 
rand (+US$106 million) and higher sales volumes (+US$18 million), 
was more than offset by a 20 per cent reduction in the average 
realised price of aluminium (-US$449 million) and higher raw 
material input prices (-US$56 million) and energy costs  
(-US$66 million).

Ninety-six pots were relined at a cost of US$281,000 per pot 
in FY23 (FY22: 162 pots at US$274,000 per pot). The smelter is 
deploying AP3XLE technology in its pot relining program, which is 
expected to enhance the smelter’s energy efficiency and reduce 
GHG emissions.

Capital expenditure

Capital expenditure was US$18M in FY23 as the smelter invested 
in plant upgrades and continued to roll-out the AP3XLE energy 
efficiency technology in its pot relining program.

Social investment

We invested US$9.1 million in communities around Hillside 
Aluminium in FY23, with a focus on enterprise development, 
education, and development of sustainable agricultural practices.

+

Learn more about Hillside Aluminium at www.south32.net.

51

SOUTH32 ANNUAL REPORT 2023FINANCIAL AND OPERATIONAL PERFORMANCE SUMMARY CONTINUED

MOZAL ALUMINIUM

Location: Maputo, Mozambique 
South32 share: 63.7 per cent

South32 holds a 63.7 per cent share of Mozal 
Aluminium. The Industrial Development Corporation 
of South Africa Limited holds 32.4 per cent and the 
Government of the Republic of Mozambique holds  
3.9 per cent (through preference shares).

Safety

Tragically, two of our colleagues, Mr Cristovão Alberto Tonela 
and Mr Alfredo Francisco Domingos João, lost their lives in a fatal 
incident at Mozal Aluminium in November 2022. Our deepest 
sympathies remain with their families and colleagues to whom we 
have provided support and counselling. 

Mozal Aluminium is located 20 kilometres west of Mozambique’s 
capital city Maputo and has a solid metal production capacity of 
580kt per year (on a 100 per cent basis).

LTIF at Mozal Aluminium was 0.4 in FY23, a 100 per cent increase 
year-on-year. TRIF was 1.5 in FY23, a 67 per cent increase year-on-
year. 

Mozal Aluminium is the only aluminium smelter in Mozambique 
and the second largest aluminium smelter in Africa (behind our 
Hillside Aluminium smelter in South Africa). It produces standard 
aluminium ingots for the domestic and export markets. 

To support the development of the downstream aluminium 
industry in Mozambique a portion of liquid metal is supplied to 
Midal Cables, a local company that sells products in the domestic 
and export markets.

Deployment of the AP3XLE energy efficiency technology is well 
advanced at Mozal Aluminium and expected to conclude in FY24.

South32 share

Aluminium production (kt)
Aluminium sales (kt)
Realised sales price (US$/t)
Operating unit cost (US$/t)

South32 share (US$M)

Underlying revenue
Underlying EBITDA
Underlying EBIT
Net operating assets
Capital expenditure
Safe and reliable
Improvement and life extension

Social investment

FY23

345
334
2,653
2,329

FY23

886
108
56
578
17
16
1
1.8

FY22(1)

278
276
3,348
2,243

FY22(1)

924
305
271
615
11
10
1
1.6

Volumes

Mozal Aluminium saleable production increased by 24 per cent (or 
67kt) to 345kt in FY23, following our acquisition of an additional 
16.6 per cent interest in May 2022. During FY23, production 
volumes were impacted by the safe recovery plan in response 
to the fatal incident in November 2022, as well as wet weather 
impacts experienced in Q3 FY23.

Operating costs

Operating unit costs increased by four per cent to US$2,329/t in 
FY23, as the benefit of a weaker South African rand and lower 
alumina prices, was more than offset by elevated smelter raw 
material input prices (including coke, pitch and aluminium tri-
fluoride), and inflation-linked indexation of energy costs.

Financial performance

Underlying EBIT decreased by 79 per cent (or US$215 million),  
to US$56 million in FY23, as the benefit of our additional interest  
in Mozal Aluminium and a weaker South African rand  
(+US$26 million), was more than offset by a 21 per cent decrease 
in the average realised price of aluminium (-US$182 million), lower 
sales volumes (-US$48 million) and higher raw material input 
prices (-US$8 million) and energy costs (-US$17 million). 

Eighty-two pots were relined in FY23 at a cost of US$318,000 per 
pot as the pot relining schedule was modified with the smelter’s 
recovery plan (FY22: 127 pots at US$266,000 per pot). The smelter 
is deploying AP3XLE technology in its pot relining program, which 
is expected to deliver incremental production benefits, with no 
associated increase in power consumption.

Capital expenditure

Capital expenditure was US$17 million in FY23 as the smelter 
invested in plant upgrades and continued to roll-out the AP3XLE 
energy efficiency technology in its pot relining program.

Social investment

We invested US$1.8 million in communities around Mozal 
Aluminium in FY23, with a focus on education and skills 
development, health, sanitation, community wellbeing, and 
development of sustainable agricultural practices.

+

Learn more about Mozal Aluminium at www.south32.net.

(1)  The results reflect the completion of our acquisition of an additional 16.6 per cent shareholding in the smelter on 31 May 2022, taking our ownership to 63.7 per cent. Prior 

period numbers have not been restated for this change in ownership (presented on a 47.1 per cent basis). 

52

OPERATING AND FINANCIAL REVIEW

SIERRA GORDA 

Location: Antofagasta, Chile 
South32 share: 45 per cent

South32 holds a 45 per cent share in the Sierra Gorda 
copper mine in Chile via the Sierra Gorda S.C.M. 
incorporated Joint Venture, alongside 55 per cent 
joint venture partner KGHM Polska Miedz.

Sierra Gorda is a large scale, open-pit mine in the prolific 
Antofagasta copper mining region and produces copper, 
molybdenum, gold and silver. Ore processing includes crushing, 
grinding, flotation, thickening and filtering to produce 
concentrates. The mine is serviced by established infrastructure, 
including renewable power and a seawater pipeline, with freight 
rail and a national highway connecting the operation to the ports 
of Antofagasta and Angamos.

A de-bottlenecking project is expected to be completed in FY24 
and a fourth grinding line expansion study is underway, with the 
potential to increase plant throughput and lower operating unit 
costs.

South32 has joint control and governance rights alongside KGHM 
Polska Miedz under a Joint Venture Agreement. This joint control 
is exercised through the Owners Council, the main governance 
forum responsible for the strategic direction and oversight of 
Sierra Gorda S.C.M., which has an independent management 
team.

South32 share

Ore mined (Mt)
Ore processed (Mt)
Ore grade processed (%, Cu)
Payable copper equivalent production (kt)(2)
Payable copper production (kt)
Payable molybdenum production (kt)
Payable gold production (koz)
Payable silver production (koz)
Payable copper sales (kt)
Payable molybdenum sales (kt)
Payable gold sales (koz)
Payable silver sales (koz)
Realised copper sales price (US$/lb)
Realised molybdenum sales price (US$/lb)
Realised gold sales price (US$/oz)
Realised silver sales price (US$/oz)
Operating unit cost (US$/t ore processed)(3) 

FY23

26.0
21.2
0.42
86.2
70.7
1.2
28.8
630
71.8
1.3
29.1
639
3.51
21.3
1,821
21.9
15.4

FY22(1)

13.7
7.5
0.42
30.6
25.3
0.4
9.6
253
27.7
0.6
9.9
282
3.50
18.5
1,934
23.5
14.6

South32 share (US$M)

Underlying revenue
Underlying EBITDA
Underlying EBIT
Net operating assets
Capital expenditure
Safe and reliable
Improvement and life extension

Exploration expenditure
Exploration expensed

Volumes

FY23

684
358
217
1,588
196
151
45
7
4

FY22(1)

241
133
75
1,402
81
36
45
2
1

Sierra Gorda payable copper equivalent production was 86.2kt in 
FY23, in our first full year of ownership, with plant throughput of 
47.1Mt (100 per cent basis) and an average realised copper grade 
of 0.42 per cent.

Operating costs

Operating unit costs were US$15.4/t ore processed in FY23, 
following the transition to cost efficient, 100 per cent renewable 
electricity from January 2023.

Financial performance

Underlying EBIT was US$217 million in FY23 at a margin of  
52 per cent, which improved the Group margin and increased  
our exposure to commodities critical for a low-carbon future.

Capital expenditure

Safe and reliable capital expenditure was US$151 million in FY23 
as the operation invested in deferred stripping and additional 
tailings infrastructure. 

Improvement and life extension capital expenditure was  
US$45 million in FY23 as the operation progressed the plant  
de-bottlenecking project, including the installation of a third 
tailings thickener.

+

Learn more about Sierra Gorda at www.south32.net.

(1)  Realised sales prices and Operating unit costs presented in the table above reflect the period 1 March 2022 to 30 June 2022, whereas production and sales numbers, and 
all Income Statement items reflect the period from first ownership (22 February 2022). Operating unit costs of US$1.42/lb CuEq and realised prices (copper of US$3.18/lb, 
molybdenum of US$18.73/lb, gold of US$1,776/oz and silver of US$20.65/oz) reflect the period from first ownership (22 February 2022).

(2)  Payable copper equivalent production (kt) was calculated by aggregating revenues from copper, molybdenum, gold and silver, and dividing the total Revenue by the price of 

copper. FY22 realised prices for copper (US$3.50/lb), molybdenum (US$18.48/lb), gold (US$1,934/oz) and silver (US$23.5/oz) have been used for FY22 and FY23. 

(3)  Sierra Gorda Operating unit cost is Underlying revenue less Underlying EBITDA divided by ore processed. Periodic movements in finished product inventory may impact 

Operating unit costs.

53

SOUTH32 ANNUAL REPORT 2023FINANCIAL AND OPERATIONAL PERFORMANCE SUMMARY CONTINUED

CANNINGTON

Location: Queensland, Australia 
South32 share: 100 per cent

Located in north-west Queensland, Cannington is 100 
per cent owned by South32 and is one of the world’s 
largest producers of silver and lead.

Safety

LTIF at Cannington was 4.3 in FY23, a 187 per cent increase year-
on-year. TRIF was 11.0 in FY23, a 21 per cent increase year-on-
year. 

Volumes

Cannington payable zinc equivalent production decreased by 
13 per cent to 195.6kt in FY23, as the operation successfully 
recovered from severe weather impacts in Q3 FY23.

Operating costs

Operating unit costs increased by 15 per cent to US$153/t in FY23, 
as the benefit of a weaker Australian dollar and lower price-linked 
royalties was more than offset by lower mill throughput.

Financial performance

Underlying EBIT decreased by 55 per cent (or US$173 million),  
to US$142 million in FY23, as lower zinc and lead prices  
(-US$75 million) and reduced sales volumes (-US$119 million), 
more than offset the benefit of a weaker Australian dollar  
(+US$21 million) and lower price-linked royalties (+US$10 million).

Capital expenditure

Capital expenditure increased by US$16 million to US$61 million 
in FY23 as we invested in additional tailings storage capacity and 
upgrades to water and ventilation infrastructure. 

Social investment

We invested US$0.5 million in communities around Cannington 
in FY23, with a focus on education, local economic participation, 
natural resource resilience, and community wellbeing.

+

Learn more about Cannington at www.south32.net.

Cannington consists of an underground hard rock mine and 
surface processing facility, a road-to-rail transfer facility and 
a concentrate handling and ship loading facility at the Port of 
Townsville.

Silver, lead and zinc are extracted from the ore using grinding, 
sequential flotation and leaching techniques that produce high-
grade, marketable lead and zinc concentrates with a high silver 
content.

The transition to 100 per cent truck haulage to bring product 
to the surface was completed in FY23, bringing forward higher-
grade material. We are studying tailings reprocessing and open 
pit options to potentially extend the operation’s life.

South32 share

FY23

FY22

Ore mined (kwmt)
Ore processed (kdmt)
Ore grade processed (g/t, Ag)
Ore grade processed (%, Pb)
Ore grade processed (%, Zn)
Payable zinc equivalent production (kt)(1)
Payable silver production (koz)
Payable lead production (kt) 
Payable zinc production (kt)
Payable silver sales (koz)
Payable lead sales (kt)
Payable zinc sales (kt)
Realised silver sales price (US$/oz)
Realised lead sales price (US$/t)
Realised zinc sales price (US$/t)
Operating unit cost (US$/t ore processed)(2) 

South32 share (US$M)

Underlying revenue
Underlying EBITDA
Underlying EBIT
Net operating assets
Capital expenditure
Safe and reliable
Improvement and life extension

Exploration expenditure
Exploration expensed
Social investment

2,223
2,156
187
5.6
3.8
195.6
11,183
101.7
59.2
10,739
99.0
58.1
21.1
1,919
2,151
153

FY23

542
213
142
172
61
60
1
8
6
0.5

2,753
2,618
180
5.4
3.5
224.2 
12,946
120.6
64.5
12,898
122.2
66.2
21.0
2,046
3,248
133

FY22

736
388
315
141
45
43
2
3
2
0.3

(1)  Payable zinc equivalent (kt) was calculated by aggregating revenues from payable silver, lead and zinc, and dividing the total Revenue by the price of zinc. FY22 realised prices 

for zinc (US$3,248/t), lead (US$2,046/t) and silver (US$21.0/oz) have been used for FY22 and FY23.

(2)  Cannington Operating unit cost is Underlying revenue less Underlying EBITDA divided by ore processed. Periodic movements in finished product inventory may impact 

Operating unit costs.

54

OPERATING AND FINANCIAL REVIEW

CERRO MATOSO 

Location: Córdoba, Colombia 
South32 share: 99.9 per cent

Cerro Matoso is an integrated nickel laterite mine and 
smelter located in the Córdoba area of northern 
Colombia, consisting of a truck and shovel open-cut 
mine and a processing plant. South32 owns 99.9 per 
cent of Cerro Matoso. Current and former employees 
own 0.02 per cent, with the balance of shares held in 
a reserve account following a buy-back.

Cerro Matoso is a major producer of nickel contained in ferronickel 
which is used to make stainless steel. Ore mined is blended with 
ore from stockpiles, which is then dried in rotary kilns and smelted 
in two electric arc furnaces where ferronickel is produced.

We commissioned the Ore Sorting and Mechanical Ore 
Concentration (OSMOC) project in FY23, which will partly offset 
natural nickel grade decline and underpinned a 15-year extension 
to Cerro Matoso’s mining contract from 2029 to 2044.

South32 share

Ore mined (kwmt)
Ore processed (kdmt)
Ore grade processed (%, Ni)
Payable nickel production (kt) 
Payable nickel sales (kt) 
Realised sales price (US$/lb)
Operating unit cost (US$/lb)

South32 share (US$M)

Underlying revenue
Underlying EBITDA
Underlying EBIT
Net operating assets
Capital expenditure
Safe and reliable
Improvement and life extension

Exploration expenditure
Exploration expensed
Social investment

FY23

5,560
2,807
1.62
40.8
40.8
7.76
5.03

FY23

698
246
189
363
38
33
5
2
2
4.8

FY22

4,867
2,703
1.73
41.7
41.8
10.08
4.34

FY22

929
529
463
349
37
18
19
–
–
3.9

Safety

LTIF at Cerro Matoso was 1.3 in FY23, a 19 per cent decrease 
year-on-year. TRIF was 1.6 in FY23, a 43 per cent decrease year-
on-year. 

Volumes

Cerro Matoso payable nickel production decreased by two per 
cent to 40.8kt in FY23, as the benefits of the OSMOC project were 
offset by a temporary access restriction to the higher-grade 
Queresas and Porvenir (Q&P) pit. The OSMOC project is expected 
to partially offset natural grade decline.

Operating costs 

Operating unit costs increased by 16 per cent to US$5.03/lb 
in FY23, as the benefit of a weaker Colombian peso was more 
than offset by higher labour and contractor costs, including the 
delivery of the OSMOC project. 

Financial performance

Underlying EBIT decreased by 59 per cent (or US$274 million), to 
US$189 million in FY23, as a 23 per cent decline in the average 
realised nickel price (-US$209 million), reduced sales volumes  
(-US$22 million) and increased labour and contractor costs  
(-US$20 million), was partially offset by a weaker Colombian peso 
(+US$48 million).

Capital expenditure 

Safe and reliable capital expenditure increased by US$15 million 
to US$33 million in FY23 as we progressed planned furnace 
upgrades and invested in a new mobile fleet. 

Improvement and life extension capital expenditure decreased 
by US$14 million to US$5 million in FY23 following the successful 
commissioning of the OSMOC project in H1 FY23. 

The extended mining contract underpinned by the OSMOC 
project is expected to unlock existing resources and creates an 
opportunity to analyse options to optimise our product mix in 
the battery supply chain. As part of this, we progressed concept 
studies to assess the potential to produce intermediary nickel 
products for electric vehicle markets.

Social investment

We invested US$4.8 million in communities around Cerro Matoso 
in FY23, with a focus on cultural programs, education, agriculture 
projects and community housing.

+

Learn more about Cerro Matoso at www.south32.net.

55

SOUTH32 ANNUAL REPORT 2023FINANCIAL AND OPERATIONAL PERFORMANCE SUMMARY CONTINUED

ILLAWARRA METALLURGICAL COAL

Location: New South Wales, Australia 
South32 share: 100 per cent

Located in the southern coalfields of New South 
Wales, Illawarra Metallurgical Coal is 100 per cent 
owned by South32 and operates two underground 
metallurgical coal mines, Appin mine and 
Dendrobium mine, and West Cliff and Dendrobium 
coal preparation plants. Illawarra Metallurgical Coal 
also manages the Port Kembla Coal Terminal on 
behalf of a consortium of partners.

Illawarra Metallurgical Coal produces premium-quality, hard 
coking coal for steelmaking, and energy coal. The operation 
supports the domestic steelmaking industry by supplying 
product to BlueScope Steel’s Port Kembla Steelworks, the largest 
steel production facility in Australia.

We are investing to improve productivity and extend the life of 
Appin mine, and focusing on optimising the Dendrobium mine 
within approved domains.

South32 share

Metallurgical coal production (kt)
Energy coal production (kt)
Metallurgical coal sales (kt)(1)
Energy coal sales (kt)(1)
Realised metallurgical coal sales price 
(US$/t)
Realised energy coal sales price (US$/t)
Operating unit cost (US$/t)

South32 share (US$M)

Underlying revenue
Underlying EBITDA
Underlying EBIT
Net operating assets
Capital expenditure
Safe and reliable
Improvement and life extension

Exploration expenditure
Exploration expensed
Social investment

FY23

5,497
1,023
5,402
957

279
144
127

FY23

1,643
833
692
769
248
242
6
17
9
0.9

FY22

5,712
797
5,823
783

381
156
126

FY22

2,338
1,507
1,388
786
189
177
12
11
9
1.2

Safety

LTIF at Illawarra Metallurgical Coal was 3.2 in FY23, a 40 per cent 
decrease year-on-year. TRIF was 20.8 in FY23, a 26 per cent 
increase year-on-year. 

Volumes

Illawarra Metallurgical Coal saleable production was largely 
unchanged at 6.5Mt in FY23 (Appin ~3.2Mt, Dendrobium ~3.3Mt). 
The operation completed two longwall moves during the year and 
overcame challenging mining conditions encountered at Appin in 
FY23.

Operating costs

Operating unit costs were largely unchanged at US$127/t in FY23, 
as the benefit of a weaker Australian dollar and lower price-linked 
royalties was offset by higher local energy costs.

Financial performance

Underlying EBIT decreased by 50 per cent (or US$696 million), to 
US$692 million in FY23, with a 27 per cent decline in the average 
realised price for metallurgical coal (-US$550 million), lower 
volumes (-US$133 million) and higher contractor and labour costs  
(-US$23 million). This more than offset the benefit of a weaker 
Australian dollar (+US$52 million) and lower price-linked royalties 
(+US$43 million).

Depreciation and amortisation increased by US$22 million, to  
US$141 million, reflecting higher development rates in FY23.

Capital expenditure 

Safe and reliable capital expenditure increased by US$65 
million to US$242 million in FY23. We continued our investment 
to support the transition to a more efficient single longwall 
configuration at Appin and commenced work to install additional 
ventilation capacity to enable mining in Area 7. 

Improvement and life extension capital expenditure decreased to 
US$6 million in FY23 as we ceased activity on the DND project.

Social investment

We invested US$0.9 million in communities around Illawarra 
Metallurgical Coal in FY23, with a focus on the local environment, 
education, health, community support and services, and 
initiatives for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples.

+

Learn more about Illawarra Metallurgical Coal at 
www.south32.net.

(1)  Volumes and prices do not include any third party trading that may be undertaken independently of equity production.

56

OPERATING AND FINANCIAL REVIEW

AUSTRALIA MANGANESE

Location: Northern Territory, Australia 
South32 share: 60 per cent

Australia Manganese consists of Groote Eylandt 
Mining Company Pty Ltd (GEMCO) in the Northern 
Territory. South32 holds a 60 per cent share in 
GEMCO and Anglo American Plc holds the remaining 
40 per cent.

GEMCO is an open-cut strip mining operation, producing high-
grade manganese ore and is located in close proximity to Asian 
export markets. It is one of the largest manganese ore producers 
in the world.

In FY23 we approved the Eastern Lease South life extension 
project, which is expected to extend the mine life at GEMCO, with 
first ore expected in FY25.

South32 share

Manganese ore production (kwmt) 
Manganese ore sales (kwmt)
Realised external manganese ore sales 
price (US$/dmtu, FOB)(1)(2)
Ore operating unit cost (US$/dmtu)(2)(3)

South32 share (US$M)

Underlying revenue
Underlying EBITDA
Underlying EBIT
Net operating assets
Capital expenditure
Safe and reliable
Improvement and life extension

Exploration expenditure
Exploration expensed
Social investment

FY23

3,545
3,261

4.59
1.88

FY23

688
369
266
239
58
41
17
1
–
0.8

FY22

3,363
3,372

5.29
1.86

FY22

848
488
402
258
62
56
6
1
–
1.1

Safety

LTIF at Australia Manganese was 1.5 in FY23, a 66 per cent 
decrease year-on-year. TRIF was 6.3 in FY23, an 11 per cent 
decrease year-on-year. 

Volumes

Australia Manganese saleable ore production increased by  
five per cent (or 182kwmt) to a record 3,545kwmt in FY23, as 
improved yields supported higher primary concentrator output, 
and our low-cost PC02 circuit continued to operate above its 
design capacity. 

Operating costs

Operating unit costs were largely unchanged at US$1.88/dmtu in 
FY23, as the operation delivered strong production volumes and 
benefitted from a weaker Australian dollar. 

Financial performance

Underlying EBIT decreased by 34 per cent (or US$136 million), to 
US$266 million in FY23, as the benefit of lower freight rates  
(+US$36 million) and a weaker Australian dollar (+US$21 million), 
was more than offset by a 13 per cent decline in average realised 
manganese ore prices (-US$128 million), higher diesel prices 
(-US$14 million) and contractor costs (-US$12 million). 

Sales volumes declined (-US$32 million) due to in-land 
logistics constraints. We have optimised our road haulage and 
implemented alternative shipping solutions to improve our 
logistics chain.

Capital expenditure 

Safe and reliable capital expenditure decreased by US$15 million 
to US$41 million in FY23 as we invested in access infrastructure. 

Improvement and life extension capital expenditure increased 
by US$11 million to US$17 million in FY23 as we completed the 
feasibility study for the Eastern Lease South life extension project.

Social investment

We invested US$0.8 million in communities around Australia 
Manganese in FY23, with a focus on education and leadership, 
economic development, and health and wellbeing programs for 
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples.

+

Learn more about Australia Manganese at www.south32.net.

(1)  Volumes and prices do not include any third party trading that may be undertaken independently of equity production. Realised ore prices are calculated as underlying 

revenue less freight and marketing costs, divided by external sales volume.

(2)  Australia Manganese FY23 average manganese content of external ore sales was 43.8 per cent on a dry basis (FY22: 44.2 per cent). 96 per cent of FY23 external manganese 
ore sales (FY22: 96 per cent) were completed on a CIF basis. FY23 realised FOB ore prices and Operating unit costs have been adjusted for freight and marketing costs of 
US$62 million (FY22: US$96 million).

(3)  FOB ore operating unit cost is Underlying revenue less Underlying EBITDA, freight and marketing costs, divided by ore sales volume.

57

SOUTH32 ANNUAL REPORT 2023FINANCIAL AND OPERATIONAL PERFORMANCE SUMMARY CONTINUED

SOUTH AFRICA MANGANESE

Location: Northern Cape and Gauteng, South Africa 
South32 share: Ore - 44.4 per cent, Alloy - 60 per cent

South Africa Manganese consists of two manganese 
mines and the Metalloys manganese alloy smelter 
which was placed on care and maintenance in FY20.

Hotazel Manganese Mines (HMM) is located in the Kalahari Basin. 
South32 holds a 60 per cent interest in Samancor Holdings (Pty) 
Ltd (Samancor Holdings) and Anglo American Plc holds the 
remaining 40 per cent. Samancor Holdings indirectly owns  
74 per cent of HMM, which gives South32 its ownership interest 
of 44.4 per cent. The remaining 26 per cent of HMM is owned by 
Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment entities.

South32 holds an effective 60 per cent interest in Samancor 
Manganese (Pty) Ltd (Metalloys manganese alloy smelter). The 
site remains on care and maintenance as we assess future 
options for the smelter.

We are studying options to unlock logistics capacity in our South 
Africa manganese business and expand our high-grade Wessels 
mine.

South32 share(1)

Manganese ore production (kwmt) 
Manganese ore sales (kwmt)
Realised external manganese ore sales 
price (US$/dmtu, FOB)(2)(3)
Ore operating unit cost (US$/dmtu)(3)(4)

FY23

2,108
2,065

3.58
2.64

FY22

2,069
2,170

3.92
2.73

Safety

LTIF at South Africa Manganese was 0.7 in FY23, a 61 per cent 
decrease year-on-year. TRIF was 0.7 in FY23, a 77 per cent 
decrease year-on-year. 

Volumes

South Africa Manganese saleable production increased by 
two per cent (or 39kwmt) to a record 2,108kwmt in FY23, with 
increased volumes of premium material from our Mamatwan 
mine. 

Operating costs

Operating unit costs decreased by three per cent to  
US$2.64/dmtu in FY23, as the benefit of a weaker South African 
rand more than offset lower sales volumes due to a temporary 
reduction in third-party rail and port availability.

Financial performance

Ore Underlying EBIT decreased by 35 per cent (or US$28 million), 
to US$51 million in FY23, as the benefit of a weaker South African 
rand (+US$32 million) and lower freight rates (+US$25 million), was 
more than offset by a nine per cent decline in average realised 
manganese ore prices (-US$53 million) and lower sales volumes 
(-US$22 million) due to the timing of shipments.

The Metalloys manganese alloy smelter remains on care and 
maintenance.

South32 share (US$M)(1)

Underlying revenue
Manganese ore
Manganese alloy

Underlying EBITDA
Manganese ore
Manganese alloy

Underlying EBIT

Manganese ore
Manganese alloy

Net operating assets/(liabilities)

Manganese ore
Manganese alloy
Capital expenditure
Safe and reliable
Improvement and life extension

Exploration expenditure
Exploration expensed
Social investment

FY23

FY22

Capital expenditure

Safe and reliable capital expenditure was US$16 million in FY23  
as we invested in mining equipment. 

Improvement and life extension capital expenditure was  
US$9 million in FY23 as we advanced work to access new mining 
areas at our high-grade underground Wessels mine.

Social investment

We invested US$3.2 million in communities around South Africa 
Manganese in FY23, with a focus on education, economic 
participation, natural resources resilience, health and wellbeing.

+

Learn more about South Africa Manganese at www.south32.net.

344
344
–
66
72
(6)
45
51
(6)
143
195
(52)
25
16
9
1
1
3.2

419
419
–
78
99
(21)
58
79
(21)
135
211
(76)
19
14
5
1
1
3.7

(1)  South Africa Manganese ore has been reported as a 54.6 per cent interest reflecting our Metalloys manganese alloy smelter (60 per cent interest) having been placed on care 

and maintenance, and aligning with our interest in HMM. South32 has a 44.4 per cent ownership interest in HMM. Twenty-six per cent of HMM is owned by a B-BBEE consortium 
comprising Ntsimbintle Mining (nine per cent), NCAB Resources (seven per cent), Iziko Mining (five per cent) and HMM Education Trust (five per cent). The interests owned by 
NCAB Resources, Iziko Mining and HMM Education Trust were acquired using vendor finance with the loans repayable via distributions attributable to these parties, pro rata to 
their share in HMM. Until these loans are repaid, South32’s interest in HMM is accounted at 54.6 per cent. 

(2)  Volumes and prices do not include any third party trading that may be undertaken independently of equity production. Realised ore prices are calculated as underlying 

revenue less freight and marketing costs, divided by external sales volume. 

(3)  South Africa Manganese FY23 average manganese content of external ore sales was 39.1 per cent on a dry basis (FY22: 39.7 per cent). 88 per cent of FY23 external manganese 
ore sales (FY22: 75 per cent) were completed on a CIF basis. FY23 realised FOB ore prices and Operating unit costs have been adjusted for freight and marketing costs of 
US$61 million (FY22: US$88 million).

(4)  FOB operating unit cost is Underlying revenue less Underlying EBITDA, freight and marketing costs, divided by ore sales volume.

58

OPERATING AND FINANCIAL REVIEW

Outlook

Information on likely developments in the Group’s business strategies, prospects and operations for future financial years and the 
expected results of those operations that could or is likely to result in unreasonable prejudice to the Group (for example, information 
that is commercially sensitive, confidential or could give a third party a commercial advantage) has not been included in this report. 
The categories of information omitted include forward-looking estimates and projections prepared for internal management purposes, 
information regarding the Group’s operations and projects, which are developing and susceptible to change, and information relating to 
commercial contracts.

Production

Our recent portfolio improvements delivered strong growth in aluminium and base metals in FY23. Looking forward, these investments 
are expected to underpin production growth in aluminium and copper of four per cent in FY24 and a further three per cent in FY25.

Production guidance (South32’s share)(1)

FY23

FY24e(2)

FY25e(2)

Key guidance assumptions

Worsley Alumina
Alumina production (kt)
Brazil Alumina (non-operated)
Alumina production (kt)

Brazil Aluminium (non-operated)
Aluminium production (kt)

Hillside Aluminium
Aluminium production (kt)

Mozal Aluminium
Aluminium production (kt)

3,839

4,000 

4,000 Expected to sustain nameplate capacity in FY24 and FY25

1,262

1,400 

1,420 Expected to increase by 11 per cent in FY24 as the refinery 
returns to nameplate capacity, ahead of creeping volumes 
in FY25

68.9

100 

130 Expected to increase by 45 per cent in FY24 and  

30 per cent in FY25 as the smelter ramps-up to nameplate 
capacity (179ktpa, 40 per cent basis) in H2 FY26

719

720 

720 Expected to test its maximum technical capacity 

Guidance remains subject to load-shedding

345

365 

372 Expected to increase by six per cent in FY24, returning to 

nameplate capacity in Q2 FY24

Guidance remains subject to load-shedding

Sierra Gorda (non-operated)
Ore processed (Mt) 
Payable copper equivalent production (kt)(3)
Payable copper production (kt)
Payable molybdenum production (kt)
Payable gold production (koz)
Payable silver production (koz)
Cannington
Ore processed (kdmt)
Payable zinc equivalent production (kt)(4)
Payable silver production (koz)
Payable lead production (kt)
Payable zinc production (kt)
Cerro Matoso
Ore to kiln (kt)
Payable nickel production (kt)

21.2
86.5
70.7
1.2
28.8
630

2,156
259.6
11,183
101.7
59.2

2,807
40.8

21.8
89.0
67.0
2.5
22.5
550

2,300 
287.2
12,500 
115.0 
62.0 

2,700
40.5

de-bottlenecking project and planned copper grades of 
0.38 per cent and 0.42 per cent in FY24 and FY25, 
respectively

21.8 Higher expected throughput following the plant  
91.8
71.0
2.2
25.0
550

by 11 per cent in FY24 with improved plant throughput and 
higher planned silver and lead grades 

2,400 Payable zinc equivalent production expected to increase 
275.8
12,000
110.0
60.0

Further increase in plant throughput in FY25, offset by 
lower planned grades in accordance with the mine plan

35.0

2,750 OSMOC project expected to partially offset natural grade 
decline, with expected processed nickel grade of  
1.63 per cent and 1.48 per cent in FY24 and FY25, 
respectively 

Illawarra Metallurgical Coal
Total coal production (kt)
Metallurgical coal production (kt)
Energy coal production (kt)

Australia Manganese
Manganese ore production (kwmt)

South Africa Manganese
Manganese ore production (kwmt)

6,520
5,497
1,023

5,000 
4,400 
600 

5,500 FY24 production is expected to reduce to 5.0Mt, with the 
4,700
800

next longwall at Dendrobium to commence in Q2 FY24 

Production is expected to increase by 10 per cent to 5.5Mt 
in FY25, consistent with medium-term production 
guidance for the complex

3,545

3,400 

3,400 Expected to continue its strong performance, subject to 

wet season impacts

2,108

2,000  Subject to 
demand

We expect to continue to use higher cost trucking to 
optimise sales volumes 

FY25 guidance is subject to market demand

(1)  South32’s ownership share of operations is as per footnote (3) on page 43.
(2)  The denotation (e) refers to an estimate or forecast year.
(3)  Payable copper equivalent production (kt) was calculated by aggregating revenues from copper, molybdenum, gold and silver, and dividing the total Revenue by the price of 

copper. FY23 realised prices for copper (US$3.51/lb), molybdenum (US$21.28/lb), gold (US$1,821/oz) and silver (US$21.9/oz) have been used for FY23, FY24e and FY25e.

(4)  Payable zinc equivalent (kt) was calculated by aggregating revenues from payable silver, lead and zinc, and dividing the total Revenue by the price of zinc. FY23 realised prices 

for zinc (US$2,151/t), lead (US$1,919/t) and silver (US$21.1/oz) have been used for FY23, FY24e and FY25e.

59

SOUTH32 ANNUAL REPORT 2023 
 
 
FINANCIAL AND OPERATIONAL PERFORMANCE SUMMARY CONTINUED

Costs
Operating unit cost performance and guidance(1)(2)
FY23 Operating unit costs were in-line with our expectations, as our strong operating performance to finish the year and continued 
focus on cost efficiencies provided partial relief from industry-wide cost pressures.

A planned increase in production volumes across the majority of our operations in FY24 and our ongoing focus on controllable cost 
initiatives is expected to partly offset ongoing industry-wide inflationary pressures. 

While Operating unit cost guidance is not provided for our aluminium smelters, their cost profile will continue to be influenced by the 
price of raw material inputs, which have begun to moderate from elevated levels across the industry in FY23.

Worsley Alumina 
(US$/t)

265

291

290

FY22 versus FY23: Benefit of a weaker Australian dollar was more than offset by 
higher uncontrollable costs including an increase in caustic soda and coal prices

FY22

FY23

FY24e(3)(4)

Commentary

FY24 key guidance assumptions: Expected to be largely unchanged with lower 
caustic soda prices and consumption, to offset higher energy and labour costs
FY22 versus FY23: Significant rise in uncontrollable costs, together with one-off costs 
associated with the port infrastructure outages

FY24 key guidance assumptions: Not provided but expected to continue to be 
influenced by energy and the price of raw material inputs
FY24 key guidance assumptions: Not provided but expected to be influenced by the 
smelter’s ramp-up profile and the price of raw material inputs and energy

FY22 versus FY23: Benefit of a weaker South African rand and lower alumina prices 
was more than offset by elevated smelter raw material input prices and energy cost 
inflation

FY24 key guidance assumptions: Not provided but expected to continue to be 
influenced by the price of raw material inputs, the South African rand and inflation-
linked energy costs
FY22 versus FY23: Benefit of a weaker South African rand and lower alumina prices 
was more than offset by elevated smelter raw material input prices and energy cost 
inflation

FY24 key guidance assumptions: Not provided but expected to continue to be 
influenced by the price of raw material inputs, the South African rand and inflation-
linked energy costs
FY22 versus FY23: Transitioned to cost efficient, 100 per cent renewable electricity 
from January 2023

FY24 key guidance assumptions: Expected higher plant throughput and lower 
electricity prices, more than offset by higher labour costs
FY22 versus FY23: Benefit of a weaker Australian dollar and lower price-linked 
royalties was more than offset by lower mill throughput

FY24 key guidance assumptions: Expected to be largely unchanged with improved 
throughput, more than offset by higher labour costs
FY22 versus FY23: Benefit of a weaker Colombian peso was more than offset by 
higher labour and contractor costs, including the delivery of the OSMOC project

FY24 key guidance assumptions: Expected to be influenced by lower price-linked 
royalties, more than offset by a stronger Colombian peso and higher labour costs
FY22 versus FY23: Benefit of a weaker Australian dollar and lower price-linked 
royalties was offset by higher local energy costs 

FY24 key guidance assumptions: Expected lower volumes, with four planned 
longwall moves in FY24
FY22 versus FY23: Benefit of a weaker Australian dollar was more than offset by 
higher diesel prices and contractor costs

Brazil Alumina 
(non-operated)
(US$/t)

Brazil Aluminium 
(non-operated)
(US$/t)

Hillside Aluminium
(US$/t)

288

368

Not 
provided

N/A

4,357

2,137

2,178

Not 
provided

Not 
provided

Mozal Aluminium
(US$/t)

2,243 

2,329

Not 
provided

14.6

15.4

16.0

133

153

155

4.34

5.03

5.30

126

127

140

Sierra Gorda  
(non-operated)
(US$/t)(5)

Cannington 
(US$/t)(5)

Cerro Matoso
(US$/lb)

Illawarra  
Metallurgical Coal
(US$/t)

Australia  
Manganese ore (FOB)
(US$/dmtu)

South Africa 
Manganese ore (FOB) 
(US$/dmtu)

1.86

1.88

2.15

2.73

2.64

2.60

FY24 key guidance assumptions: Expected increased mining activity and contractor 
costs to deliver planned volumes
FY22 versus FY23: Benefit of a weaker South African rand was partially offset by lower 
sales volumes due to a temporary reduction in third-party rail and port availability 

FY24 key guidance assumptions: Expected weaker South African rand and lower 
price-linked royalties, to more than offset higher in-land logistics costs

(1)  South32’s ownership share of operations is as per footnote (3) on page 43.
(2)  Operating unit cost is Underlying revenue less Underlying EBITDA, excluding third party sales, divided by sales volumes. Operating cost is Underlying revenue less Underlying 

EBITDA excluding third party sales.

(3)  FY24 Operating unit cost guidance includes royalties (where appropriate) and the influence of exchange rates, and includes various assumptions for FY24, including: an 

alumina price of US$349/t; an average blended coal price of US$210/t for Illawarra Metallurgical Coal; a manganese ore price of US$4.85/dmtu for 44 per cent manganese 
product; a nickel price of US$8.90/lb; a silver price of US$24.5/troy oz; a lead price of US$2,131/t (gross of treatment and refining charges); a zinc price of US$2,446/t (gross of 
treatment and refining charges); a copper price of US$3.87/lb (gross of treatment and refining charges); a molybdenum price of US$22.51/lb (gross of treatment and refining 
charges); a gold price of US$1,984/troy oz; an AUD:USD exchange rate of 0.65; a USD:ZAR exchange rate of 18.98; a USD:COP exchange rate of 4,033; USD:CLP exchange rate of 
876; and a reference price for caustic soda; which reflect forward markets as at July 2023 or our internal expectations.

(4)  The denotation (e) refers to an estimate or forecast year.
(5)  US dollar per tonne of ore processed, calculated as Underlying revenue less Underlying EBITDA divided by ore processed. Periodic movements in finished product inventory 

may impact Operating unit costs.

60

OPERATING AND FINANCIAL REVIEW

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Capital expenditure

FY24 Group capital expenditure guidance, excluding equity accounted investments, is set at US$860 million as we prioritise safe and 
reliable operations and invest to improve productivity and grow future volumes: 

 – Safe and reliable capital expenditure is expected to increase by US$145 million to US$615 million in FY24, reflecting elevated capital 
expenditure at Illawarra Metallurgical Coal as we transition Appin to a more efficient single longwall from FY25, and install additional 
ventilation infrastructure to extend Appin’s mine life in Area 7 to at least 2039;

 – Improvement and life extension capital expenditure is expected to increase by US$11 million to US$75 million in FY24, as we advance 

decarbonisation projects at Worsley Alumina and the de-bottlenecking project at Brazil Alumina; and

 – Growth capital expenditure at our Hermosa project is expected to be US$170 million in H1 FY24 as we complete critical path 

dewatering activity, invest in early works, and progress studies for both Taylor and Clark Deposits. We expect to provide H2 FY24 
guidance following a final investment decision for the development of the Taylor Deposit, planned for H1 FY24. 

Our share of capital expenditure for our material equity accounted investments is expected to increase by US$61 million to  
US$340 million in FY24: 

 – Capital expenditure for our manganese equity accounted investments is expected to increase by US$47 million to US$130 million in 
FY24 as we continue Australia Manganese’s Eastern Lease South life extension project, with first production expected in FY25; and 

 – Capital expenditure for our Sierra Gorda equity accounted investment is expected to increase by US$14 million to US$210 million in 

FY24, with safe and reliable capital expenditure of US$180 million for deferred stripping and additional tailings capacity. Improvement 
and life extension capital expenditure is expected to be US$30 million, including the plant de-bottlenecking project and the feasibility 
study for the fourth grinding line expansion. We expect to update FY24 capital expenditure guidance following a final investment 
decision for the fourth grinding line expansion, planned for H2 FY24. 

Capital expenditure guidance (South32’s share)(1)(2)

US$M

FY22

FY23

FY24e(3)

Worsley Alumina 
Brazil Alumina
Brazil Aluminium
Hillside Aluminium 
Mozal Aluminium
Cannington 
Cerro Matoso
Illawarra Metallurgical Coal
Safe and reliable capital expenditure (excluding equity accounted investments)
Worsley Alumina 
Brazil Alumina
Cerro Matoso
Illawarra Metallurgical Coal
Other operations
Improvement and life extension capital expenditure (excluding equity accounted 
investments)
Hermosa
Growth capital expenditure
Total capital expenditure (excluding equity accounted investments)
Equity accounted investments capital expenditure
Sierra Gorda
Australia Manganese 
South Africa Manganese 
Safe and reliable capital expenditure (equity accounted investments)
Sierra Gorda
Australia Manganese 
South Africa Manganese 
Improvement and life extension capital expenditure (equity accounted investments)
Total capital expenditure (equity accounted investments)
Total capital expenditure (including equity accounted investments)

47
51
1
20
10
43
18
177
367
8
–
19
12
19

58
97
97
522

36
56
14
106
45
6
5
56
162
684

49
45
9
16
16
60
33
242
470
33
13
5
6
7

64
256
256
790

151
41
16
208
45
17
9
71
279
1,069

85
60
10
35
20
40
45
320
615
45
20
-
3
7

75
170(4)
170
860

180
55
30
265
30(4)
35
10
75
340
1,200

(1)  South32’s ownership share of operations is as per footnote (3) on page 43.
(2)  Total capital expenditure comprises safe and reliable, improvement and life extension (including decarbonisation), and growth capital expenditure, and excludes capitalised 

exploration and evaluation expenditure and the purchase of intangibles.

(3)  The denotation (e) refers to an estimate or forecast year.
(4)  Guidance for Hermosa reflects H1 FY24 estimated expenditure, subject to a planned final investment decision on Hermosa Taylor at the end of calendar year 2023. Guidance 

for our Sierra Gorda equity accounted investment is subject to a final investment decision for the fourth grinding line expansion.

61

SOUTH32 ANNUAL REPORT 2023FINANCIAL AND OPERATIONAL PERFORMANCE SUMMARY CONTINUED

Capitalised exploration guidance (South32’s share)(1)
Capitalised exploration, including equity accounted investments, is expected to be largely unchanged at US$40 million in FY24. This 
includes US$23 million at our Hermosa project as we continue to test high priority regional targets, including further drilling at the Peake 
copper-lead-zinc-silver Prospect, and a first time drilling program planned at the Flux Prospect.

US$M

Capitalised exploration (excluding equity accounted investments)
Equity accounted investments capitalised exploration
Capitalised exploration (including equity accounted investments)

(1)  South32’s ownership share of operations is as per footnote (3) on page 43.
(2)  The denotation (e) refers to an estimate or forecast year.

Other expenditure guidance

FY22

FY23

FY24e(2)

33
2
35

39
4
43

35
5
40

Other expenditure guidance items presented below are on a proportional consolidation basis including our manganese and Sierra 
Gorda equity accounted investments.

FY23

FY24e(1)

Commentary

Group and unallocated expense in Underlying EBIT  
(excluding greenfield exploration and  
third party products and services EBIT)
(US$M)

31

100

Underlying depreciation and amortisation 

(US$M)

Underlying net finance costs 

(US$M)
Greenfield exploration 

(US$M)

(1)  The denotation (e) refers to an estimate or forecast year.

918

188

42

930

200

30

FY23 includes one-off benefits received. FY24 guidance reflects 
a normalised run-rate, including the effect of recent portfolio 
changes 
FY24 guidance reflects higher depreciation and amortisation 
expected at Cannington and Australia Manganese, following 
recent investments
FY24 guidance reflects the balance sheet position as at FY23

FY24 guidance reflects targeted activity across our greenfield 
exploration programs focused on base metals in the Americas, 
Australia and Europe

62

OPERATING AND FINANCIAL REVIEW

 
GOVERNANCE

Governance at a glance 

Board of Directors 

Directors’ report  

Lead Team  

Remuneration report  

64

66

71

76

78

SOUTH32 ANNUAL REPORT 2023

63

GOVERNANCE AT A GLANCE

OUR BOARD 
IN ACTION

The role of our Board is to represent shareholders and to promote and 
protect the interests of the Group. In FY23 our Board met 11 times, hosted 
our Annual General Meeting, and engaged with shareholders and other 
stakeholders. Directors also conducted site visits to Hillside Aluminium, 
Hotazel Manganese Mines, Mozal Aluminium and the Hermosa project.

Board Composition as at 30 June 2023
Length of tenure 
(Non-Executive Directors) 

Gender diversity 

Location 
(Non-Executive Directors) 

Board ethnicity

2

2

4

0-3 years

3-6 years

6-9 years

5

4

Female

Male

2

2

Australia

Southern Africa

Americas

4

1

1

1

6

White British or other White 
(including minority-white groups)

Asian/Asian British

Black/African/Caribbean/Black 
British

Not specified/prefer not to say

Our Board visits the Hermosa project

As part of its regular program of meetings, in June 2023 our Board 
visited the Hermosa project in Arizona, United States. Spread 
over three days, the visit provided an opportunity for Directors 
to receive the latest updates on project progress, engage with 
employees and local communities, and discuss the broader 
political context associated with Hermosa’s development.

At the project site, the Board saw first-hand the progress that has 
been made on the ground including surface infrastructure and 
shafts for the Taylor Deposit, the recently constructed second 
water treatment plant and the recently upgraded core processing 
facility for geological samples.

At the nearby community of Nogales, which borders Mexico, 
Board members immersed themselves in local culture through 
food, music and dance, engaged with a cross-section of 
community leaders and reaffirmed our commitment to creating 
value for Santa Cruz County as the project progresses. 

In addition to conducting a full set of Board and Committee 
meetings, the Board also heard from a panel of experts that 
provided valuable insights into the political environment and 
drive for critical minerals in the United States as we advance the 
development of the Hermosa project.

64

GOVERNANCE

Board focus areas and activities in FY23

Safety and performance

Strategy

•  Maintained oversight of, and a focus on, our approach to 

•  Maintained oversight of strategy development and 

safety and our safety performance;

implementation;

•  Actively engaged with management on our response following 

the devastating loss of two of our colleagues at Mozal 
Aluminium and received regular updates regarding the detailed 
investigation and the support provided to those affected;

•  Maintained oversight of the findings of the investigation 

at Mozal Aluminium, including root causes as well as other 
contributing factors, and reviewed actions taken with 
management;

•  Following a visit by our Chief Executive Officer in November 

2022, two Non-Executive Directors visited Mozal Aluminium in 
December 2022;

•  Maintained oversight of our approach to serious injury risk 
reduction through routine significant incident investigation 
reviews with management and material safety risk deep-dives 
during visits to our operations and projects;

•  Monitored and assessed progress of our multi-year Safety 

Improvement Program, which aims to fundamentally shift our 
safety performance and deliver the culture transformation 
required for sustained improvement; and

•  Participated in our ‘Living our Code’ training, which is 
focused on our employees learning about acceptable 
and unacceptable workplace conduct, including sexual 
harassment as a material health and safety risk, and fostering 
inclusion, diversity and equality in the workplace.

•  Participated in a dedicated Strategy Day and engaged with 
management on strategic issues, including our health and 
safety culture and performance, and our response to the risks 
and opportunities of climate change and other environmental, 
social, and governance issues;

•  Approved our decision not to proceed with an investment in 

the Dendrobium Next Domain project at Illawarra Metallurgical 
Coal following consideration of study work and extensive 
analysis of alternatives;

•  Maintained oversight of the progress of the Hermosa project;

•  Approved the Eastern Lease South life extension project at 

Groote Eylandt Mining Company;

•  Approved our inaugural Climate Change Action Plan, including 
a review of our climate change positions, greenhouse gas 
emissions target and goals and oversaw our pipeline of 
decarbonisation initiatives;

•  Maintained oversight of the alignment of our remuneration 
and benefits framework with our purpose, strategy, values, 
and culture;

•  Approved increases in our capital management program of 

US$206 million to US$2.3 billion and the payment of US$1,007 
million in dividends in FY23; and

•  Engaged with shareholders and other stakeholders on 
financial, operational, remuneration and other matters.

Culture

Governance

•  Worked with our Lead Team to set the direction and tone for 
a workplace culture that aligns with our purpose, reflects our 
values, and supports the delivery of our strategy;

•  Governed the Group, having regard to our purpose, strategy, 
values and culture, our shareholders as a whole, and the 
interests of other stakeholders;

•  Monitored culture through visits to our operations and offices, 
operational deep-dives, and management presentations,  
applying a `Culture Health Check' tool to assess alignment of 
our culture with our purpose, strategy and values;

•  Discharged the responsibilities of the Board and its four 
standing Committees: the Nomination and Governance 
Committee, Remuneration Committee, Risk and Audit 
Committee and Sustainability Committee;

•  Received key observations from leaders on our annual 'Your 
Voice' employee survey and evaluated actions taken to 
address improvement areas;

•  Maintained oversight of our approach to inclusion and 

diversity and approved a new Inclusion and Diversity Policy in 
July 2023;

•  Monitored and assessed progress against our inclusion and 

•  Maintained oversight of the integration of environmental, 

social, and governance considerations, including our response 
to the risks and opportunities that climate change presents, 
into our strategy and capital allocation, budget, risk oversight 
and governance;

•  Maintained oversight of the development of a pipeline of 

talent for key roles;

diversity measurable objectives; and

•  Following an extensive global search, appointed two new 

•  Visited the Kotulong Community Centre and Rearata Primary 
School in South Africa, the Filipe Nyusi Secondary School 
in Mozambique and met with community leaders and 
representatives from the communities in Santa Cruz County in 
Arizona in the United States.

Non-Executive Directors, further enhancing the Board’s broad 
range of skills and experience, particularly in major projects, 
operations and sustainability; and

•  Reported on gender and ethnicity representation on the 

Board, confirming that our Board represents a broad cultural, 
ethnic, background and geographic mix, and achieves its 
gender diversity objectives.

+

Learn more about our key corporate governance policies and practices in our Corporate Governance Statement at www.south32.net

65

SOUTH32 ANNUAL REPORT 2023BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Committee membership key:

Chair appointment

N

R

Nomination and Governance Committee

Remuneration Committee

RA

Risk and Audit Committee

S

Sustainability Committee

66

GOVERNANCE

N

R

Ms Karen Wood BEd, LLB (Hons), 67
Chair and Independent Non-Executive Director 
Appointed: 1 November 2017; Chair: 12 April 2019 
Location: Australia

Career summary: Ms Wood has worked in legal practice and 
business.

In 2001, Ms Wood joined BHP and held several global executive 
leadership roles, including Group Company Secretary, Chief 
Governance Officer, Chief People Officer and President People 
and Public Affairs (Corporate Affairs). Before joining BHP, she 
worked at Bonlac Foods Limited, where she spent five years 
as General Counsel and Company Secretary. Following her 
retirement in 2014, she continued as an adviser to BHP’s Board 
and CEO until 2015. She also chaired the BHP Foundation until 
2019, overseeing grant provisions for not-for-profit organisations 
to deliver global programs in the areas of natural resource 
governance, human capability and social inclusion, and 
conserving and sustainably managing natural environments.

Other key positions Ms Wood has held include being a member of 
the Takeovers Panel (Australia) from 2000 to 2012, and roles with 
the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (Business 
Consultative Panel) and the Australian Government’s Business 
Regulatory Advisory Group. 

External appointments: ASX listed: Ms Wood is currently a  
Non-Executive Director of Djerriwarrh Investments Limited  
(since July 2016).

Ms Wood is also a Director of the Robert Salzer Foundation, 
serves as an ambassador for the Australian Indigenous Education 
Foundation and is a member of the Advisory Board of the Sir John 
Monash Leadership Academy.

Skills and experience: Ms Wood brings extensive corporate 
governance expertise to her roles as Chair of our Board and 
the Nomination and Governance Committee. In these roles, her 
experienced leadership promotes a cohesive environment of 
constructive challenge and oversight. Ms Wood’s substantial 
tenure as a global executive within the resources industry 
means that she brings a strong understanding of the regulatory 
landscape and the key strategic risks and opportunities for a 
global mining and metals company. Her expertise in shaping 
culture (including through organisational and remuneration 
design), public policy, social performance and stakeholder 
engagement enables her to bring valuable insights in these areas.

Mr Graham Kerr BBus, FCPA, 52
Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director
Appointed: October 2014 and as Managing Director 
on 21 January 2015
Location: Australia

Career summary: Mr Kerr joined BHP in 1994 and held a wide 
range of operational and commercial roles across the business, 
including Chief Financial Officer Stainless Steel Materials, Vice 
President Finance Diamonds and Finance Director for the BHP 
Canadian Diamonds Company.

In 2004, Mr Kerr joined Iluka Resources Limited as General 
Manager Commercial. He returned to BHP in 2006, leading to his 
appointment as President of Diamonds and Specialty Products 
where he was accountable for the Ekati Diamond Mine in Canada, 
the Richards Bay Minerals joint venture in South Africa, diamonds 
exploration in Angola, the Corridor Sands Project in Mozambique 
and the development of BHP’s potash portfolio in Canada.

Mr Kerr was appointed BHP’s Chief Financial Officer in 2011, a role 
which he held until 2015 when he left to lead South32 through its 
demerger from BHP and listing in three countries.

External appointments: Director, CEOs for Gender Equity.

Skills and experience: Mr Kerr’s strong track record in resources 
development, and global experience as a commercial and 
operational leader within the resources industry, means that 
he brings deep mining and metals expertise and exceptional 
financial acumen. His health and safety expertise, and passion 
for promoting diversity and inclusion, are valued contributions to 
our Board as it oversees our commitment to elevate our safety 
performance and instil a culture where everyone feels safe and 
respected at work. Mr Kerr’s strong focus on a purpose-driven 
and values-led future for South32 make him a trusted leader as 
we progress the next phase of our strategy.

RA

N

R

Mr Frank Cooper AO, BCom, FCA, FAICD, 67 
Independent Non-Executive Director 
Appointed: 7 May 2015
Location: Australia

Career summary: Mr Cooper qualified as a chartered accountant 
in Australia, leading to a 40-year career in the finance and 
accounting profession. He has held a number of senior tax 
and finance roles, including Partner at Ernst & Young, Partner / 
Business Unit Leader, Tax Practice at PricewaterhouseCoopers 
and Managing Partner for Arthur Andersen in Perth (for just over 
10 years), during which time he specialised in the mining, energy 
and utility sectors.

Other key positions Mr Cooper has held include Commissioner 
and Chairman of the Insurance Commission of Western Australia 
and Pro Chancellor of the University of Western Australia.

Throughout his career, Mr Cooper has had extensive involvement 
in community activities, including serving as Commissioner 
and Chair of the West Australian Football Commission and as a 
Member of the State Health Research Advisory Council (Western 
Australia).

In 2014 Mr Cooper was awarded an Officer of the Order of 
Australia. He was also named West Australian of the Year in the 
Professions category in 2015.

External appointments: ASX listed: Mr Cooper is currently a 
Non-Executive Director of Woodside Energy Group Limited (since 
February 2013) and Chair of its Audit and Risk Committee.

Mr Cooper is also a Director of St John of God Australia Limited 
and Wright Prospecting Pty Ltd.

Skills and experience: Mr Cooper brings exceptional financial 
acumen and accounting expertise, a strong understanding of 
legal and regulatory compliance and substantial experience in 
risk management oversight to our Board, all of which also make 
him a highly capable Risk and Audit Committee Chair. His listed 
company experience and expertise in capital management 
and corporate development are highly valued by our Board as 
it oversees the implementation of our strategy, as is his strong 
focus on organisational philosophy, values and standards.

67

SOUTH32 ANNUAL REPORT 2023BOARD OF DIRECTORS CONTINUED

N

RA

S

N

S

Dr Xiaoling Liu BEng (Extractive Metallurgy), PhD (Extractive 
Metallurgy), FAusIMM, FTSE, GAICD, 66
Independent Non-Executive Director 
Appointed: 1 November 2017 
Location: Australia

Mr Carlos Mesquita BEng (MetalEng), MBA, 65
Independent Non-Executive Director 
Appointed: 1 May 2023
Location: Chile

Career summary: Dr Liu completed her undergraduate study 
in Chongqing University in China and her PhD in Extractive 
Metallurgy at Imperial College in the United Kingdom, before 
joining the Rio Tinto Group as a senior research scientist in 1988.

Career summary: Mr Mesquita is a qualified Metallurgical 
Engineer. He has worked in the mining and metals industry for 
more than 40 years and has extensive experience in leading 
mining and processing operations and major capital projects. 

Over her 26-year career with Rio Tinto, Dr Liu held various roles 
in smelting operations, including General Manager Operations 
at Bell Bay (Tasmania), leading to other senior operational and 
management roles, including Managing Director Technical 
Services, where she led Rio Tinto’s global technical services unit. 
Prior to her retirement, Dr Liu was President and Chief Executive 
Officer of Rio Tinto Minerals, with responsibility for integrated 
operations of mining, processing, supply chain, marketing and 
sales for its Borates business in the United States, Europe and 
Asia.

Dr Liu has served as Vice President of the Board of the Australian 
Aluminium Council, a Board Member of the California Chamber 
of Commerce, a Director of Melbourne Business School and 
Chancellor of Queensland University of Technology. She has also 
served as a Non-Executive Director at Newcrest Mining Limited 
(September 2015 until November 2020) and Iluka Resources 
Limited.

External appointments: ASX listed: Dr Liu is currently a Non-
Executive Director of Incitec Pivot Limited (since November 2019) 
and Chair of its Health, Safety, Environment and Community 
Committee.

Skills and experience: With her accomplished career as a global 
executive in the resources industry, Dr Liu brings to our Board 
expertise in mining and processing operations, the execution of 
major capital projects and commodity value chain management. 
Her high financial acumen, expertise in health and safety and 
strong understanding of the key environmental impacts, risks 
and opportunities relevant to our operations, make her a valued 
contributor to the Committees on which she serves. Dr Liu’s 
knowledge and experience in technology and innovation, 
together with her technical background, is an asset to our Board 
as it oversees our advancement towards a low-carbon future.

Mr Mesquita spent 30 years with BHP where he held various 
positions in the company’s base metals and aluminium 
businesses, including Asset President of Mozal Aluminium and 
Asset President of Escondida – the world’s largest copper mine. 
During this time he also served as Vice President Major Projects 
where he led the base metals projects program, overseeing more 
than US$10 billion in mining investments in countries including 
Chile, Australia, and Peru. 

Mr Mesquita has also previously advised mining companies and 
private equity funds on acquisitions of mining assets in South 
America and from 2014 to 2015 he was a Non-Executive Director 
of Mineração Serra Verde, a mid-sized rare earth minerals mine in 
central Brazil.

In the first half of 2022, Mr Mesquita was a consultant for South32 
providing in-country support following our acquisition of a  
45 per cent interest in the Sierra Gorda copper mine. 

External appointments: None

Skills and experience: Mr Mesquita has extensive experience 
in the global mining and metals industry with a particular focus 
on base metals and aluminium in the Americas and Africa. His 
previous roles and first-hand experience of working at a projects 
in an operational capacity means he brings a unique and diverse 
perspective to our Board. This, together with his experience in 
leading complex operations with responsibility for safety, volume 
and costs, support our strategy of optimising our business by 
working safely, minimising our impact, consistently delivering 
stable and predictable performance, and continually improving 
our competitiveness.

68

GOVERNANCE

N

RA

N

S

Dr Ntombifuthi (Futhi) Mtoba CA(SA), DCom (Honoris Causa), 
BCompt (Hons), HDip Banking Law, BA (Econ)(Hons), BA (Arts), 68 
Independent Non-Executive Director
Appointed: 7 May 2015
Location: South Africa

Ms Jane Nelson BSc Agricultural Economics (Cum Laude), BA MA 
(Philosophy, Politics and Economics), 63 
Independent Non-Executive Director 
Appointed: 1 May 2023
Location: United States

Career summary: Dr Mtoba qualified as a chartered accountant 
in South Africa and joined Deloitte and Touche in 1988, 
specialising in financial services. She was one of the first African 
Black women to be appointed Partner by one of the Big Four 
accounting firms, and was later appointed Chairperson of Deloitte 
Southern Africa.

Career summary: Ms Nelson was born in Zimbabwe and has a 
Bachelor of Science in Agricultural Economics (Cum Laude) from 
the University of KwaZulu-Natal in South Africa. She also holds 
a Bachelor of Arts and Master of Arts in Philosophy, Politics and 
Economics from the University of Oxford in the United Kingdom, 
where she was a Rhodes Scholar.

Dr Mtoba is President and founder of TEACH South Africa, which 
recruits skilled teachers for underprivileged schools. She has held 
several board positions at organisations focused on economic 
development and community engagement, including the New 
Partnership for Africa’s Development Business Foundation and 
the African Union Foundation. Dr Mtoba has also been President 
of the Association for the Advancement of Black Accountants and 
Business Unity South Africa and chaired the University of Pretoria 
Council for over 10 years.

Other positions Dr Mtoba has held include being a member of 
the International Monetary Fund Advisory Group of Sub-Saharan 
Africa, the World Economic Forum Global Advisory Council, and 
the United Nations Global Compact Board as well as a Director of 
the International Women's Forum (South Africa). She has received 
several awards for contributions to business and society, including 
Most Outstanding Leadership Women of the Year (Africa Economy 
Builders, 2018).

External appointments: Dr Mtoba is currently a Non-Executive 
Director and Deputy Chair of the Public Investment Corporation 
Limited and Chair of its Audit Committee, a Director of Discovery 
Bank Holdings Limited and Lead Independent Director and Audit 
Committee Chair of Discovery Bank Limited, and a Director of 
Vumelana Advisory Fund, and a Director of Chapter Zero Southern 
Africa (from July 2023).

Skills and experience: Dr Mtoba’s tenure as partner and a leader 
at one of Africa’s predominant financial professional services 
firms, and the numerous roles she has held in local, regional and 
international organisations and forums, means that she provides 
our Board with considerable financial, economic and public policy 
expertise and leadership. Dr Mtoba brings a strong focus on 
culture and her expertise in social performance and community 
and stakeholder engagement are an asset to our Board as it 
supports our aspiration to contribute social and economic value 
where we operate.

Ms Nelson has a well-established 30-year career researching 
and advocating for sustainable business practices and is the 
founding Director of the Harvard Kennedy School’s Corporate 
Responsibility Initiative. She is a non-resident senior fellow in the 
Global Economy and Development program at Brookings and a 
former senior associate of Cambridge University’s Programme for 
Sustainability Leadership. 

Ms Nelson served on ExxonMobil's External Sustainability 
Advisory Panel from 2010 to 2023, the Independent Advisory 
Panel to the ICMM’s Resource Endowment Initiative and on 
advisory councils for other companies, the World Bank Group 
and the United Nations. She also worked for The Prince of Wales 
International Business Leaders Forum in the United Kingdom, the 
World Business Council for Sustainable Development in Africa, 
FUNDES in Latin America and as a Vice President at Citibank 
working in Asia, Europe and the Middle East. 

External appointments: NYSE listed: Ms Nelson is currently a 
Non-Executive Director of Newmont Mining Corporation (since 
2011) and Chair of its Safety and Sustainability Committee.

Ms Nelson is currently a member of the World Economic Forum’s 
(WEF) Global Future Council on Good Governance, WEF’s Climate 
Governance Community of Experts and WEF’s Stewardship 
Council for Food Systems. Ms Nelson is also a Member of the 
Business Commission to Tackle Inequality and an Emeritus 
Director of the World Environment Center.  

Skills and experience: Ms Nelson’s career comprises a portfolio 
of roles across academia as well as international policy, business 
leadership groups and not-for-profit organisations. She has 
expertise in sustainable development including in human 
rights, cultural heritage and Indigenous issues and a significant 
understanding of climate change and biodiversity issues. 
Ms Nelson’s strong focus on sustainable development, together 
with her passion for building partnerships between business, 
government and civil society, is an asset to our Board given this 
is at the heart of our purpose and underpins the delivery of our 
strategy.

69

SOUTH32 ANNUAL REPORT 2023BOARD OF DIRECTORS CONTINUED

R

N

RA

S

S

N

R

Mr Wayne Osborn Dip Elect Eng, MBA, FTSE, 71 
Independent Non-Executive Director 
Appointed: 7 May 2015
Location: Australia

Mr Keith Rumble BSc, MSc (Geology), 69 
Independent Non-Executive Director 
Appointed: 27 February 2015
Location: South Africa

Career summary: Mr Osborn worked as an engineer in the 
telecommunications and iron ore industries, before joining Alcoa 
(Australia) in 1979.

Mr Osborn held several senior management positions with Alcoa 
over the course of his career, including having accountability for 
its Asia-Pacific manufacturing operations in China, Japan, Korea 
and Australia. In 2001 he was appointed Managing Director, 
leading an integrated business comprised of bauxite mining, 
alumina refining, coal mining, power generation and aluminium 
smelting until his retirement in 2008.

Since 2008, Mr Osborn has served as a Non-Executive Director in 
the mining, energy and construction industries. Most recently, he 
was a Non-Executive Director of Wesfarmers Limited from March 
2010 to October 2021.

Other key roles Mr Osborn has held include Chairman of the 
Australian Institute of Marine Science, Chairman of the Western 
Australia Branch of the Australia Business Arts Foundation 
and Vice President of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry, 
Western Australia. He is also a recipient of the WA Business 
Leader Award (2007) and the Australian Institute of Company 
Directors Award for Excellence (2018).

External appointments: None.

Skills and experience: Mr Osborn brings expertise in mining 
and smelting operations, large-scale capital projects and 
commodity value chain management to our Board. His broad 
skills and experience in health and safety management and 
strong understanding of the key environmental issues, risks and 
opportunities relevant to our operations, are an asset to our 
Board as it oversees our commitments to improve our safety 
performance, our approach to sustainability-related risks and 
opportunities and how we manage our environmental impact. 
Mr Osborn’s experience leading large workforces, expertise in 
overseeing remuneration design and implementation and strong 
focus on sustainability, make him a highly capable Remuneration 
Committee Chair.

Career summary: Mr Rumble is a qualified geologist. He joined 
Richards Bay Minerals (at that time, a joint venture between 
BHP and the Rio Tinto Group) in 1980, working in smelting and 
metallurgy, and held various management positions before 
becoming CEO in 1996. Prior to that appointment, Mr Rumble 
spent just under three years with Rio Tinto’s iron and titanium 
business as Director of International Sales and Marketing. He was 
appointed President and CEO of Rio Tinto Iron and Titanium Inc. in 
Canada in 2000.

In 2001, Mr Rumble joined Impala Platinum, where he held the 
role of CEO until 2007 after which he moved to junior miner SUN 
Mining (part of the SUN Group), also as CEO.

Since his retirement as an executive in 2008, Mr Rumble has 
held Non-Executive Director positions at BHP and South African 
infrastructure and resources company, Aveng Limited.

External appointments: Mr Rumble is currently a Director of 
Enzyme Technologies (Pty) Limited and Elite Wealth (Pty) Limited.

Skills and experience: With his substantial tenure as an 
executive leader in the resources industry, Mr Rumble brings 
deep knowledge and experience in mining and smelting 
operations. His expertise in geological and geoscience matters 
and strong understanding of the key environmental impacts, 
risks and opportunities relevant to our business, enhance our 
Board’s capability to oversee our sustainability commitments, 
risks and impacts. These skills, together with his health and safety 
management expertise and proficiency in risk management, 
make him a highly capable Sustainability Committee Chair.

70

GOVERNANCE

DIRECTORS' REPORT

This report is presented by the Board of Directors of South32 
Limited, together with the Group’s Financial report, for the 
financial year ended 30 June 2023.

Mozal Aluminium in Mozambique, Hillside Aluminium and Hotazel 
Manganese Mines in South Africa and the Hermosa project in the 
United States.

This report is prepared in accordance with the requirements of 
the Corporations Act, with the following information forming part 
of this report:

 – Operating and Financial Review on the inside front cover to 

page 62;

 – Director biographical information on pages 66 to 70;

 – Remuneration report on pages 78 to 103;

 – Note 19(b) Financial risk management objectives and policies 

on pages 145 to 149;

 – Note 20 Share capital on page 149;

 – Note 21 Auditor’s remuneration on page 150;

 – Note 23 Employee share ownership plans on pages 151 to 155;

 – Directors’ declaration on page 162;

 – Auditor’s independence declaration on page 163;

 – Resources and Reserves on pages 168 to 176;

 – Shareholder information on pages 178 to 180; and

 – Corporate directory on page 188.

Directors and meetings

At the date of this report, the Directors in office were:

Ms Karen Wood 

Mr Graham Kerr 

Mr Frank Cooper AO 

Dr Xiaoling Liu 

Mr Carlos Mesquita 

Appointed 1 November 2017

Appointed 21 January 2015

Appointed 7 May 2015

Appointed 1 November 2017

Appointed 1 May 2023

Dr Ntombifuthi (Futhi) Mtoba 

Appointed 7 May 2015

Ms Jane Nelson 

Mr Wayne Osborn 

Mr Keith Rumble 

Appointed 1 May 2023

Appointed 7 May 2015

Appointed 27 February 2015

Mr Guy Lansdown was also a Director during FY23, having been 
appointed on 2 December 2019 and resigned with effect from 
31 May 2023.

You can find information about our Directors’ qualifications, 
experience, special responsibilities and other directorships on 
pages 66 to 70.

Board and Committee meetings and Director 
attendance
There are nine regularly scheduled meetings of our Board each 
year. Six of these are usually held face-to-face over three days and 
are held in one of our main geographic areas of operation to allow 
Directors to conduct site visits. Committee meetings are also held 
during this time.

A further three meetings are convened each year to consider 
annual disclosures, including half and full year results, and are 
usually held virtually. Additional meetings are convened as 
required to address business critical issues.

During FY23, there were a total of 11 Board meetings. The 
additional meetings were held to consider options in relation to 
the Dendrobium Next Domain project and Director succession 
planning and implementation. The FY23 Board program included 
a dedicated strategy day held in April 2023.

Following the easing of COVID-19 related travel and social 
distancing restrictions, our Board was able to meet physically five 
times throughout the year and Directors conducted site visits to 

In addition to the site visits, during FY23 our Board continued 
to stay connected with our operations by way of operational 
overviews and briefing sessions conducted as part of the Board 
program.

To help it carry out its responsibilities, our Board has four standing 
Board Committees. From time to time and on an “as needs 
basis”, the Board creates other committees to address important 
matters and areas of focus for the business. 

All Directors have a standing invitation to attend all Committee 
meetings, and in practice, all Directors generally attend all meetings.

The number of Board and Committee meetings held in FY23,  
as well as the Directors who attended them, can be found in  
Table 1.1.

Our Chair sets the agenda for each Board meeting, with the 
Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and the Company Secretary. The 
meetings typically include:

 – Minutes of the previous meeting and matters arising;

 – Report from our Chair;

 – Update on various governance matters;

 – CEO’s report;

 – Finance report;

 – Commercial report;

 – Reports on major projects and strategic matters;

 – Board Committee Chair reports;

 – Continuous disclosure checkpoint; and

 – Closed sessions with Directors and closed sessions with Non-

Executive Directors only.

In between meetings, our Board receives regular reports from 
senior management on matters, including (but not limited to):

 – Sustainability (including health and safety) performance;

 – Financial and production performance;

 – Government relations and political affairs; 

 – Investor relations hosted engagements (including 

environmental, social, and governance updates); and

 – Project updates (including pending investment decisions) and 

other significant business imperatives.

Further, our Board receives updates from management on 
relevant issues such as cybersecurity risks, climate change, 
greenhouse gas emissions reduction targets including 
information  on evolving regulation and policy developments, 
sexual harassment in the workplace, culture, inclusion and 
diversity, cultural heritage, community matters, business integrity 
and litigation. It also receives regular reports for discussion on 
operational, culture and leadership, corporate governance and 
other business matters, including market updates and market 
research.

As part of their ongoing education and training, during FY23 our 
Board received external briefings on various matters including 
cybersecurity risk, climate and biodiversity risk governance and 
disclosure matters, work health and safety including workplace 
sexual harassment, the political landscape and developments in 
North and South America, industrial relations reform in Australia 
and evolving regulation and policy developments and shifting 
societal expectations in relation to these areas.

71

SOUTH32 ANNUAL REPORT 2023DIRECTORS' REPORT CONTINUED

Table 1.1 Board and Committee Meeting Attendance in FY23

K Wood(3)
G Kerr (CEO)
F Cooper
X Liu
G Lansdown(4)
C Mesquita(3)(5)
N Mtoba
J Nelson(3)(5)
W Osborn(3)
K Rumble

Board

Nomination and  
Governance Committee

Remuneration 
Committee

Risk and Audit 
Committee

Sustainability 
Committee

Eligible(1)

Attended(2)

Eligible(1)

Attended(2)

Eligible(1)

Attended(2)

Eligible(1)

Attended(2)

Eligible(1)

Attended(2)

11
11
11
11
10
1
11
1
11
11

11
11
10
11
10
1
11
1
11
11

8
-
8
8
7
-
8
-
8
8

8
8
8
8
7
1
8
1
8
8

7
-
7
-
6
-
-
-
7
7

7
7
7
7
6
1
7
1
7
7

-
-
9
9
8
-
9
-
-
-

9
9
9
9
8
1
9
1
9
9

7
-
-
7
6
-
-
-
7
7

7
7
7
7
6
1
7
1
7
7

Member

Chair

(1)  Indicates the number of meetings held during FY23 while the Director was a member of the Board or Committee.
(2)  Indicates the number of meetings the Director attended during FY23. 
(3)  Effective 1 July 2023, J Nelson and C Mesquita were each appointed members of the Nomination and Governance Committee and the Sustainability Committee, W Osborn was 

appointed a member of the Risk and Audit Committee and K Wood ceased to be a member of the Sustainability Committee.

(4)  G Lansdown resigned as a Director effective 31 May 2023.
(5)  J Nelson and C Mesquita were appointed as Directors effective 1 May 2023. 

Diversity representation

Inclusion and diversity is a core element of our culture. We know an inclusive and diverse workforce is safer and allows for greater 
collaboration, innovation and performance. Our Inclusion and Diversity Policy was updated and approved by our Board in July 2023 and 
is available at www.south32.net. 

We are committed to building and maintaining an inclusive and diverse workforce that reflects the communities in which we operate. 
Diversity is a key attribute of high performance in a well-functioning Board and Lead Team, and offers benefits including varied thoughts 
and perspectives along with unique insights and healthy challenge, which lead to better decision-making as we execute our strategy.

We consider inclusion and diversity in tandem, grounded in mutual respect, where each person’s unique differences are recognised, 
valued, and celebrated.

Our vision for diversity considers the broadest definition of difference, including gender, ethnicity, nationality, cultural background, 
geographic location, language/accent, religious beliefs, socio-economic background, neurodiversity, disability, physical attributes, 
appearance, age, education, family responsibilities and sexuality.

Table 1.2 Gender and ethnicity representation on the Board and Executive Management as at 30 June 2023

Board and Executive Management diversity

Gender identity

Men

Women 

Not specified/prefer not to say

Ethnic background

White British or other White (including minority-white groups)

Mixed/Multiple Ethnic Groups

Asian/Asian British

Black/African/Caribbean/Black British

Other ethnic group, including Arab

Not specified/prefer not to say

Number of 
Board 
members

Percentage of 
the Board

Number of 
senior 
positions on 
the Board 
(CEO, CFO, SID 
and Chair)(1)

Number in 
executive 
management(2)

Percentage of 
executive 
management

 5 

4 

-

6 

- 

1 

1 

-

1 

55.6% 

44.4% 

- 

66.7% 

- 

11.1% 

11.1% 

- 

11.1% 

1 

1 

-

2 

- 

- 

- 

-

-

4 

5 

- 

5 

3 

1

- 

-

-

44.4% 

55.6% 

- 

55.6% 

33.3% 

11.1% 

- 

-

-

(1)  The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) prescribes that the senior positions on the Board are the Chair, CEO, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and Senior Independent Director (SID). 

For South32, the senior positions on the Board are only the Chair and the CEO. In line with market practice for Australian listed companies, the CFO does not sit on the Board 
and South32 does not have a SID as this role is not required under the corporate governance code South32 applies, being the ASX Principles and Recommendations.
(2)  In accordance with the UK Listing Rules, Executive Management includes the Lead Team (our most senior executive body below the Board) and the Company Secretary, 

excluding administrative and support staff.

72

GOVERNANCE

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
The FCA introduced new rules in 2022 that require listed 
companies to publish information on gender and ethnic 
representation of the Board and Executive Management. In 
addition, the FCA requires listed companies to disclose against 
diversity  targets, specifically that at least 40 per cent of the 
Board are women, at least one of the senior Board positions is a 
woman and at least one member of the Board is from a non-white 
ethnic minority background. South32 meets or exceeds all of 
these targets, as set out in Table 1.2.

The data presented in Table 1.2 was collected via self-reported 
questionnaires completed by all members of the Board and 
Executive Management that included the definitions prescribed 
by the UK Listing Rules. 

Principal activities, state of affairs and review of 
operations
Principal activities and significant changes during the 
financial year
In FY23, the principal activities of the Group were mining and 
metals production, from a portfolio of assets that included 
bauxite, alumina, aluminium, copper, silver, lead, zinc, nickel, 
metallurgical coal and manganese.

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

State of affairs
There were no significant changes in the Group’s state of affairs 
during the financial year, other than as set out in the Operating 
and Financial Review on the inside front cover to page 62.

Review of operations, likely developments and 
expected results
A review of the Group’s FY23 operations is set out in the 
Operating and Financial Review on the inside front cover to  
page 62.

The Operating and Financial Review also includes likely 
developments in the Group’s operations in future financial years 
and expected results of those operations.

Dividends
We paid the following dividends during FY23:

Final dividend of US 14.0 cents 
per share (fully-franked) for the 
year ended 30 June 2022
Special dividend of  
US 3.0 cents per share 
(fully-franked) for the year 
ended 30 June 2022
Interim dividend of US 4.9 cents 
per share (fully-franked) for  
the half-year ended 
31 December 2022

Total dividend

Payment date

US$646 million 13 October 2022

US$138 million 13 October 2022

US$223 million

6 April 2023

Matters since the end of the financial year

Capital management
On 24 August 2023, the Directors resolved to pay a fully-franked 
final dividend of US 3.2 cents per share (US$145 million) in 
respect of the 2023 financial year. The dividends will be paid on 
12 October 2023. The dividends have not been provided for in the 
consolidated financial statements and will be recognised in the 
2024 financial year.

On 24 August 2023, the Group also announced an increase to the 
existing capital management program, initially announced in  
March 2017, of US$50 million to a total of US$2.4 billion. This leaves  
US$133 million expected to be returned by 1 March 2024.

No other matters or circumstances have arisen since the end 
of the financial year that have significantly affected, or may 
significantly affect, the operations, results of operations or state 
of affairs of the Group in subsequent accounting periods.

Directors’ relevant interests in shares 

Table 1.3 Directors’ Relevant Interests in South32 Limited 
Shares

Director

K Wood
G Kerr (CEO)(1)
F Cooper
X Liu
C Mesquita
N Mtoba
J Nelson
W Osborn
K Rumble

Number of South32 Limited shares in which a relevant 
interest is held as at the date of this Directors’ Report

367,825
7,221,105
128,010
66,000
177,440
71,386
-
174,104
161,380

(1)  At the date of this Directors’ Report, G Kerr’s total interest includes 2,040,944 

South32 Limited ordinary shares and 5,180,161 rights over South32 Limited  shares 
held under the South32 Equity Incentive Plan.

Rights and options over South32 Limited shares
No rights or options over South32 Limited ordinary shares are 
held by any of our Non-Executive Directors.

Our CEO and Managing Director, Graham Kerr, holds rights over 
South32 Limited shares, granted under the South32 Equity 
Incentive Plan. You can find more details about this in the 
Remuneration report on page 101.

The total number of rights over South32 Limited shares on issue 
as at 30 June 2023 is set out in note 23 to the financial statements 
(Employee share ownership plans) on pages 151 to 155. No rights 
have been granted since the end of FY23. As of the date of this 
report, the total number of rights over South32 Limited shares on 
issue is 34,788,550. 

No shares have been issued on vesting of rights during or since the 
end of FY23. 

South32 Limited did not have any options on issue during or since 
the end of FY23.

73

SOUTH32 ANNUAL REPORT 2023DIRECTORS' REPORT CONTINUED

Company Secretary

Claire Tolcon  
LLB, BComm, FGIA, GAICD

Claire Tolcon is our Company Secretary and was appointed to 
this position on 30 October 2020. Claire joined South32 in 2017 
and was a corporate lawyer in our legal team before moving 
into Company Secretariat. Prior to South32, Claire held the role 
of General Counsel and Company Secretary for a number of 
Australian Securities Exchange (ASX) listed entities, prior to which 
she was a partner of a corporate law firm in Perth. She holds 
a Bachelor of Laws and Bachelor of Commerce from Murdoch 
University, a Graduate Diploma of Applied Finance and  
Investment from Kaplan and is a Fellow of the Governance 
Institute of Australia.

Indemnities and insurance

The South32 Limited Constitution requires that we indemnify 
each Director and Company Secretary (as well as employees 
appointed as directors and secretaries of a Group company) on 
a full indemnity basis and to the extent permitted by law against 
liability incurred by them in their capacity as an officer of any 
Group company. The Directors and the Company Secretary 
named in this report have the benefit of this indemnity (as do 
individuals who formerly held one of these positions).

As permitted by our Constitution, South32 Limited has entered 
into Deeds of Indemnity, Access and Insurance with each of the 
Company’s Directors, Company Secretary and the CFO under 
which we agree to indemnify those persons on a full indemnity 
basis and to the extent permitted by law.

We purchase directors and officers liability insurance which 
insures against certain liabilities (subject to exclusions) in 
respect of current and former directors and other officers of 
the Group. Due to confidentiality obligations and undertakings 
of the insurance, we can’t disclose any further details about the 
premium or insurance.

During FY23 and as at the date of this Directors’ report, no 
indemnity in favour of a current or former Director or Officer of 
the Group has been called on.

Corporate Governance

Under ASX Listing Rule 4.10.3, ASX listed entities are required 
to benchmark their corporate governance practices against 
the fourth edition of the ASX Corporate Governance Council’s 
Corporate Governance Principles and Recommendations (ASX 
Recommendations).

South32 is compliant with all relevant ASX Recommendations.

Our Corporate Governance Statement is available at  
www.south32.net. It also contains the information required under 
the United Kingdom FCA's Disclosure Guidance and Transparency 
Rules.

Auditor

Our External Auditor has provided an independence declaration  
in accordance with the Corporations Act, which is set out on  
page 163 and forms part of this report.

Non-audit services

No non-audit services were undertaken by, and no amounts in 
respect of such services were paid or are payable to, our External 
Auditor during FY23. Refer to note 21 to the financial statements 
(Auditor’s remuneration) on page 150.

Political donations and social investment

Our Code of Business Conduct sets out our approach to political 
donations and social investment.

In FY23, we made no political donations to any political party, 
politician, political party official, elected official or candidate for 
public office in any country. On occasion, our representatives 
attend political events that charge an attendance fee where 
attendance is approved beforehand in accordance with our 
internal approval requirements. We record the details of 
attendances and the relevant costs at a corporate level.

In FY23, we contributed US$27.7 million in social investment that 
comprised direct investment, administrative costs and in-kind 
support. For more information on our social investment, please  
visit our Sustainable Development Report, available at  
www.south32.net.

Proceedings on behalf of South32

No proceedings have been brought or intervened in on our behalf, 
nor any application made, under section 237 of the Corporations 
Act.

Environmental performance
Performance in relation to environmental regulation
We seek to be compliant with all applicable environmental laws 
and regulations relevant to our operations.

We classify environmental incidents based on actual and potential 
impact type as defined by our internal material risk management 
standard. In FY23, there were no environmental events that 
resulted in a major impact to the environment.

Fines and prosecutions
In FY23, while we recorded no fines or prosecutions relating 
to environmental performance, we did record one significant 
non-compliance related to environment laws and regulations. 
In June 2023, Illawarra Metallurgical Coal (IMC) entered into an 
enforceable undertaking with the New South Wales Natural 
Resources Access Regulator for an alleged breach of the Water 
Management Act 2000 associated with incidental surface water 
taken as a result of carrying out operations at the Dendrobium 
mine. IMC agreed to implement various environmental protection 
works and activities at the mine, worth approximately  
A$2.9 million, in order to regularise its surface water take.

Rounding of amounts

South32 Limited is an entity to which the Australian Securities 
and Investments Commission (ASIC) Corporations (Rounding 
in Financial/Directors’ Reports) Instrument 2016/191 (ASIC 
Instrument 2016/191) applies. We have rounded amounts in this 
report in accordance with ASIC Instrument 2016/191. This means 
the amounts in this report and the financial statements have been 
rounded to the nearest million US dollars, unless stated otherwise.

74

GOVERNANCE

Responsibility statement

The Directors state that to the best of their knowledge:

a)  The consolidated financial statements and notes on pages 
105 to 161 were prepared in accordance with applicable 
accounting standards, give a true and fair view of the assets, 
liabilities, financial position and profit and loss of the Group 
and the undertakings included in the consolidation taken as a 
whole; and

b)  The Directors’ report includes a fair review of the development 
and performance of the business and the position of the Group 
and the undertakings included in the consolidation taken as 
a whole, together with a description of the principal risks and 
uncertainties they face.

This Directors’ report and the responsibility statement are made 
in accordance with a resolution of the Board.

Karen Wood 
Chair

Graham Kerr 
Chief Executive Officer and  
Managing Director

Date: 7 September 2023

75

SOUTH32 ANNUAL REPORT 2023LEAD TEAM

Graham Kerr  
BBUS, FCPA, 52
Chief Executive Officer  
and Managing Director

See page 67 for Graham Kerr’s 
qualifications and experience.

76

GOVERNANCE

Noel Pillay 
NHDP Mech Eng, 55
Chief Operating Officer Africa 
and Colombia

Noel Pillay became our Chief 
Operating Officer in October 
2021 and is responsible for 
our operations in Africa and 
Colombia.

Prior to this role, Noel was 
Vice President Operations at 
Worsley Alumina where he was 
responsible for the operation’s 
safety, production and cost 
performance. Before his time 
at Worsley Alumina, Noel was 
Vice President Operations at 
Hillside Aluminium in South 
Africa.

Before joining South32, Noel 
worked for BHP from 1994 as 
a Maintenance Engineer at 
Hillside Aluminium and has 
held several leadership roles 
in Maintenance, Production, 
Business Improvement and 
Human Resources in South 
Africa and Australia.

Noel is a trained Mechanical 
Engineer and holds a National 
Higher Diploma from the 
University of Johannesburg.

Sandy Sibenaler 
BCom, MFin, CA, GAICD, 41
Chief Financial Officer 

Sandy Sibenaler joined 
South32 in 2021 and became 
our Chief Financial Officer in 
April 2023, with responsibility 
for Financial Reporting, 
Management Reporting, 
Treasury, Business Evaluation, 
Tax, Investor Relations and 
Group Assurance. Prior to 
this role, Sandy was our Vice 
President Finance.

Sandy has more than 20 
years of treasury, finance 
and commercial experience 
in the resources sector. Prior 
to joining South32, she held 
a number of senior finance 
and commercial roles at 
Woodside and BHP including 
Vice President of Treasury 
and Insurance, General 
Manager Logistics and Finance 
Reporting Manager.  

Sandy holds a Bachelor of 
Commerce from the University 
of Western Australia, a Master 
of Finance from Kaplan 
Business School, is a Fellow 
of Chartered Accountants 
Australia and New Zealand and 
a Graduate of the Australian 
Institute of Company Directors.

Jason Economidis 
MBA (Executive), GAICD, 54
Chief Operating Officer 
Australia

Jason Economidis became 
our Chief Operating Officer 
in July 2020, assuming 
responsibility for Australia 
Manganese, Cannington, 
Illawarra Metallurgical Coal and 
Worsley Alumina. Prior to this 
role, Jason was Vice President 
Operations at Illawarra 
Metallurgical Coal.

Jason is an experienced 
mining executive having 
worked in the sector in 
Australia and overseas for 
more than 25 years. He 
joined South32 from Orica, 
where he held the position of 
Vice President Coal and was 
responsible for 25 mining 
operations across Queensland 
and New South Wales.

Jason has held several other 
senior positions in the industry 
including General Manager of 
the Coppabella and Moorvale 
Complex for Peabody Energy, 
Chief Operating Officer of 
Vale Coal Australia, General 
Manager of Goonyella-
Riverside and Caval Ridge, 
Vice President Health, Safety, 
Environment and Community 
for BHP and Chief Operating 
Officer of Discovery Metals, 
based in Botswana.

Jason holds a Master of 
Business Administration 
(Executive) from the 
Australian Graduate School 
of Management and is a 
Graduate of the Australian 
Institute of Company Directors.

Vanessa Torres 
BSc (Chemical), MEng, DEng, 53
Chief Technical Officer 

Katie Tovich 
BCom, CA, GAICD, 53
Chief Human Resources and 
Commercial Officer

Kelly O’Rourke 
LLB, BCom, MAICD, 44
Chief Legal and External 
Affairs Officer

Simon Collins 
BE (Mining), MBA, 50
Chief Development Officer 

Vanessa Torres became our 
Chief Technical Officer in 
July 2020. She is responsible 
for Technology, Innovation, 
Business Optimisation, Global 
Business Services, Capital 
Projects as well as Health, 
Safety, Environment and 
Technical Stewardship.

Vanessa joined South32 
in August 2018 as Chief 
Technology Officer. Before this 
role, she was Vice President 
Operational Infrastructure 
for BHP Western Australia 
Iron Ore. She has over 30 
years of global mining 
experience across Australia, 
Canada, Brazil, Peru and 
New Caledonia, and has held 
various senior roles at BHP 
and Vale in strategy, projects, 
business development and 
operations.

Vanessa holds Doctorate 
and Master degrees in 
Minerals Engineering from 
the University of Sao Paulo, 
and a Bachelor of Science 
from the Federal University of 
Minas Gerais, Brazil. She was 
also a Visiting Scholar at the 
University of British Columbia, 
Canada, where her research 
focused on the application 
of artificial intelligence to the 
mining industry.

Katie Tovich joined South32 
in 2015 and became our 
Chief Human Resources and 
Commercial Officer in April 
2023, with responsibility for our 
Human Resources, Marketing 
and Supply functions. Katie 
was our Chief Financial Officer 
from May 2019 to March 2023 
and prior to this role, was Vice 
President Corporate Affairs 
and Investor Relations, as well 
as Head of Treasury. 

Katie brings more than 25 
years of global experience in 
the resources sector. Before 
joining South32, she held 
senior finance and marketing 
roles at BHP in Australia and 
Asia, including Vice President 
Corporate Finance, Head of 
Finance Worsley Alumina 
and Vice President Finance 
Marketing – Carbon Steel 
Materials. Earlier in her mining 
career, she held finance and 
marketing leadership positions 
at WMC Resources Limited in 
Australia and North America.

Katie holds a Bachelor of 
Commerce from the University 
of Tasmania, is a member 
of Chartered Accountants 
Australia and New Zealand and 
is a Graduate of the Australian 
Institute of Company Directors.

Kelly O'Rourke was appointed 
to the Lead Team in November 
2020, initially as our Chief 
External Affairs Officer 
and subsequently as Chief 
Legal and External Affairs 
Officer in July 2021, where 
she is responsible for Legal, 
Company Secretariat, Business 
Integrity, Communications, 
Community, Government and 
Sustainability Strategy.

Kelly joined South32 in 2016 
as Vice President of Corporate 
Affairs and Investor Relations. 
She previously worked at BHP 
for nine years where she held 
senior roles in Legal, Business 
Development, Mergers and 
Acquisitions and the Office of 
the Chief Executive.

Kelly has more than  
20 years’ experience in 
the mining industry across 
legal, commercial, business 
development, mergers and 
acquisitions, external affairs 
and community roles across 
Australia, the United Kingdom, 
Asia, Europe, Africa and the 
Americas.

Kelly holds a Bachelor of 
Laws (Distinction) from 
The University of Western 
Australia, a Bachelor of 
Commerce from Curtin 
University and is a Member 
of the Australian Institute of 
Company Directors.

Simon Collins has been our 
Chief Development Officer 
since October 2018. He is 
responsible for Greenfields 
Exploration, Corporate 
Development, Brazil Alumina, 
Brazil Aluminium, Sierra Gorda 
and the Hermosa project. 
He also represents South32 
on the Board of Directors of 
Ambler Metals LLC.

Simon has nearly 30 years of 
experience in the resources 
industry in senior leadership, 
commercial and business 
development roles. Before 
joining South32, he worked 
for BHP for more than a 
decade, providing leadership 
to commercial and business 
development teams in 
Australia, Africa and the 
Americas. He began his career 
in mine operations initially 
in Australia and then South 
Africa.

Simon holds a Master of 
Business Administration from 
London Business School and 
a Bachelor of Engineering 
(Mining) from the University of 
New South Wales.

77

SOUTH32 ANNUAL REPORT 2023REMUNERATION REPORT

LETTER FROM 
OUR REMUNERATION 
COMMITTEE CHAIR

Dear Shareholders 

On behalf of the Board, I’m pleased to present the Remuneration report for the year ended 30 June 2023 (FY23). 

The Remuneration Committee assists the Board to oversee the remuneration and benefits framework for South32, providing assurance 
that remuneration arrangements support the delivery of our purpose and strategy, and are aligned to our values and the long-term 
interests of our shareholders.

FY23 performance

Nothing is more important than the health, safety and wellbeing of our people. The loss of our colleagues, Mr Cristovão Alberto 
Tonela and Mr Alfredo Francisco Domingos João, who were fatally injured while undertaking maintenance work at Mozal Aluminium 
in November 2022, has been felt deeply across our business. We have reflected on this tragic event and have captured and shared 
learnings across our business and industry, implemented additional controls at our aluminium smelters and identified further safety 
improvement opportunities.

Throughout FY23, we continued to implement our multi-year Safety Improvement Program designed with the aim of enhancing our 
safety culture and achieving a step change in our safety performance. While we exceeded several of our safety performance lead 
measures, notably in risk management and safety leadership, our Total Recordable Injury Frequency did not meet target, increasing by 
11 per cent to 5.9 per million hours worked. For more information on our health and safety performance in FY23, and FY24 focus areas, 
please refer to our Sustainable Development Report available at www.south32.net.

Other important sustainability measures include our water performance and social investment. In FY23 we achieved more than  
two per cent improvement in water use efficiency collectively across our four operations in areas defined as having baseline water 
stress, and we invested US$27.7 million in community programs. As part of the evolution of our approach to social performance we also 
developed economic development plans, which include local employment and procurement targets, at all operations for the first time.

We know that an inclusive and diverse workforce produces better outcomes and is an important enabler to further embed our 'safety 
guarantee' across our business. This year we increased the representation of women on our Lead Team to 50 per cent and Operational 
Leadership Team to 29 per cent, and in the total workforce to 20 per cent. In addition, we progressed initiatives to create a more 
inclusive workplace, in which any form of inappropriate conduct is not tolerated.

Against a volatile global backdrop, in FY23 we delivered strong production growth in aluminium, base metals and manganese, 
underpinned by our recent portfolio improvements and annual production records at three of our operations. This strong production 
growth supported one of our largest underlying profit results to date, with Underlying EBITDA of US$2.5 billion, notwithstanding lower 
commodity prices and industry-wide inflationary pressures. This, in turn, supported continued strong shareholder returns in respect of 
FY23, including dividends totalling US$369 million and a further US$218 million returned via our ongoing on-market share buy-back.

We continue to reshape our portfolio toward commodities that are critical in the transition to a low carbon world and in FY23 we 
progressed work to support planned investment decisions for the development of the Hermosa project’s Taylor zinc-lead-silver Deposit 
and confirmed the opportunity to produce battery-grade manganese from Hermosa’s Clark Deposit.

Our performance across the year is recognised in our FY23 Business Scorecard, where an overall outcome of 83.8 per cent (out of a 
possible 150 per cent) was achieved. See page 89 for more information.

Application of the Business Modifier 

The Business Modifier is an integral component of the short-term incentive (STI) that considers overall business outcomes or other 
factors that are not specifically contemplated in the Business Scorecard, to ensure unintended reward outcomes are avoided. 

When considering the application of the Business Modifier for FY23, the Board primarily focused on two matters, the tragic loss of our 
two colleagues who were fatally injured in the incident at Mozal Aluminium, and the non-cash impairment expense of US$1.3 billion 
recognised in our FY23 financial results in relation to the Taylor Deposit at Hermosa. 

In recognition of these events, the Board chose to exercise its discretion by reducing the overall STI outcome for the CEO by 25 per cent. 
A reduction ranging from 5 to 20 per cent has also been applied to the STI outcome of other Executive key management personnel 
(KMP) and members of the Lead Team. The application of the Business Modifier reflects our commitment to everyone going home safe 
and well and overall reward outcomes that reflect our performance and the shareholder experience.

78

GOVERNANCE

FY23 reward outcomes

Our executive reward framework remained unchanged for FY23 following strong support at our 2022 Annual General Meeting, with over 
98 per cent of shareholders voting in favour of the 2022 Remuneration report. The reward framework consists of fixed remuneration, STI 
and long-term incentives (LTI).

In September 2022, fixed remuneration increases were applied for the CEO and Executive KMP following our annual benchmarking 
exercise. These increases were aligned to the broader workforce and recognised the extensive skill sets of our CEO and Executive KMP. 

The intent of the STI is to focus our executives on what they can influence in the performance year, so we remove the impacts of 
external factors such as commodity price volatility and foreign exchange rate movements. Taking into consideration the FY23 Business 
Scorecard outcome, including the Business Modifier, the CEO STI was 42 per cent of maximum, with other Executive KMP ranging from 
40 to 74 per cent of maximum (see page 92).

The LTI is the component of executive remuneration most closely linked to the shareholder experience as it rewards executives for the 
delivery of returns that exceed peer benchmarks across a four-year period. While South32 delivered a total shareholder return (TSR) of 
41 per cent over the four-year performance period of the FY20 LTI, our TSR fell short of the threshold required for vesting. As a result, all 
FY20 LTI awards lapsed in full for the fourth consecutive year. 

We only grant performance tested LTI awards to permanent members of the Lead Team, including those designated as KMP. However, 
we do not penalise executives when they are promoted to the Lead Team and allow them to retain awards granted when they were in 
prior management roles, with the respective vesting conditions. As a result, our Chief Financial Officer and Chief Operating Officers 
continue to hold service-based awards that were previously granted to them prior to their permanent promotion to the Lead Team, 
which the Board approved to vest in August 2023. For more information on LTI, see pages 93 and 94. 

Continuing from last year, we have included an update for our strategic measures highlighting key activities in FY23 (refer to page 95 for 
this update). This year, for the first time, we have also disclosed our CEO pay ratio in line with the Global Reporting Initiative and ICMM 
requirements. Our FY23 CEO pay ratio is 26:1. For more information on how this is calculated, see page 82.

Looking forward to FY24 

In order to continue to pay executives appropriately, we annually benchmark KMP remuneration against similar-sized Australian listed 
companies and global mining companies that reflect the size, commodity mix, complexity and global presence of South32. Following 
completion of this process, the Board decided to award a four and a half per cent increase to the fixed remuneration of our CEO in 
recognition of his extensive experience and skill set after eight years in the role and consistent with the approach taken with the broader 
workforce. Fees for Non-Executive Directors will remain unchanged. See page 99 for further information about changes to Executive 
KMP fixed remuneration in FY24.

Following the adjustments made to the reward framework effective from FY22, no major changes are being made for FY24. We are, 
however, strengthening the link between safety and reward through an increased weighting in the Business Scorecard. See page 99 for 
our FY24 STI performance metrics and weightings. 

We look forward to continuing to engage with shareholders and sharing in the future success of South32.

Thank you for your support.

Wayne Osborn  
Chair, Remuneration Committee

79

SOUTH32 ANNUAL REPORT 2023REMUNERATION REPORT CONTINUED

FY23 at a glance

Record annual production at:
Hillside Aluminium
Australia Manganese
South Africa Manganese

Underlying EBIT(1):

US$1,616M

41%

Four-year total shareholder return(2):

Total Shareholder Return (TSR)(3)
Diagram 1.1 – Four-year South32 TSR relative to LTI comparator 
groups (AUD)

Diagram 1.2 - Four-year South32 TSR relative to key indices (AUD)

125%

100%

75%

50%

25%

0%

-25%

n
r
u
t
e
R
r
e
d
o
h
e
r
a
h
S

l

l

a
t
o
T

125%

100%

75%

50%

25%

0%

-25%

n
r
u
t
e
R
r
e
d
o
h
e
r
a
h
S

l

l

a
t
o
T

-50%

Jul-19

Jul-20

Jul-21

Jul-22

Jul-23

-50%

Jul-19

Jul-20

Jul-21

Jul-22

Jul-23

South32

Sector Index

World Index

South32

ASX100

FTSE100

S&P500

(1)  This number has not been prepared in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS).
(2)  TSR calculation uses June 2019 average return at the start and June 2023 average return at the end of the measured period.
(3)  Rolling 22-day average TSR.

The following table outlines historic business performance outcomes.

Table 1.1 – Business performance

Performance measures(1)

Underlying earnings before interest and tax (EBIT) (US$M)(2)
Underlying earnings (US$M)(2)
Closing net cash/(debt) (US$M)
Movement in Adjusted ROIC (percentage)(3)
Closing share price on 30 June (A$)(4)
Dividends/special dividends paid (US cents per share)
Total Recordable Injury Frequency (TRIF) (per million hours worked)

FY23

1,616
916
(483)
(6.6%)
3.76
21.9
5.9

FY22

3,967
2,602
538
0.4%
3.94
14.2
5.3

FY21

1,039
489
406
0.7%
2.93
2.4
4.3 

FY20

622
193
298
0.0%
2.04
5.0
4.2

FY19

1,797
992
504
(1.4%)
3.18
13.0
4.5

(1)  The financial information in this table has not been prepared in accordance with IFRS. 
(2)  The underlying information reflects the Group’s interest in material equity accounted investments and is presented on a proportional consolidation basis. Refer to pages  

113 to 120 of the Annual Report for the basis of the underlying information and a reconciliation to statutory earnings. 

(3)  The movement in Adjusted ROIC (FY23: (6.6%)) is calculated as the difference between Adjusted ROIC for the current performance period (FY23: 26.4%) less ROIC from the 

previous performance period (FY22: 33.0%), and represents the impacts of sales volumes (FY23: (6.0%)) and other business performance impacts (FY23: (0.6%)) on ROIC. ROIC 
is calculated as Underlying EBIT (FY22: US$3,967 million) less the discount on rehabilitation provisions included in net finance costs, tax effected by the Group’s Underlying 
effective tax rate (ETR) including our material equity accounted investments on a proportional consolidation basis (FY22: US$1,315 million), divided by the sum of the average 
balance of fixed assets and inventories (FY22: US$9,887 million) (excluding the average balance of any rehabilitation assets, the impact of impairment and impairment reversal, 
and unproductive capital (FY22: US$(3,117) million) including our material equity accounted investments on a proportional consolidation basis (FY22: US$1,265 million). Refer to 
pages 113 to 120 of the Annual Report for the basis of underlying information and a reconciliation to statutory earnings.

(4)  The closing share price on 29 June 2018 (the last trading day in FY18) was A$3.61.

80

GOVERNANCE

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
FY23 Key Management Personnel 

Our KMP consist of our Board (including the Chief Executive Officer), and members of the Lead Team who have authority and 
responsibility for planning, directing and controlling the activities of the Group directly or indirectly. Table 1.2 below provides an 
overview of our KMP in FY23.

Table 1.2 – KMP in FY23 

Non-Executive Directors

FY23 Term

Executive KMP

FY23 Term

K Wood(1)
F Cooper AO(1)
G Lansdown(1)
X Liu
C Mesquita
N Mtoba
J Nelson
W Osborn(2)
K Rumble(1)

Full year
Full year
Ceased on 31 May 2023 
Full year
Appointed on 1 May 2023
Full year
Appointed on 1 May 2023
Full year
Full year

G Kerr – Chief Executive Officer (CEO)
K Tovich – Chief Financial Officer (CFO)(3)
S Sibenaler – CFO(4)
J Economidis – Chief Operating Officer (COO) Australia Full year
Full year
N Pillay – COO Africa and Colombia

Full year
Ceased on 31 March 2023
Appointed on 1 April 2023

(1)  Remuneration Committee member.
(2)  Remuneration Committee Chair.
(3)  K Tovich ceased to be CFO and a member of Executive KMP on 31 March 2023. Effective 1 April 2023, she was appointed as Chief Human Resources and Commercial Officer 

(CHRCO).

(4)  S Sibenaler became CFO and a member of Executive KMP on 1 April 2023. Prior to this, she was Vice President Finance. 

FY23 Executive remuneration overview

CEO fixed remuneration 
increase:

Range of Executive KMP STI outcomes as a 
percentage of maximum STI opportunity:

5.0%

40% to 74%

FY20 LTI vesting  
outcome:

0.0%

Fixed 
remuneration

The Board awarded a five per cent increase to the fixed remuneration of our CEO, Graham Kerr, from 
1 September 2022 in recognition of his extensive experience and skill set, and consistent with the approach 
taken with the broader workforce. This was his second increase in fixed remuneration since commencing as CEO 
in 2015. 

Fixed remuneration for other Executive KMP was also increased by between five and six per cent in recognition 
of their experience and aligned with the increases applied to the broader workforce in the relevant geographies 
(Australia and South Africa). 

FY23 STI

In FY23, our performance against our Business Scorecard measures resulted in an outcome of 83.8 per cent (out 
of a possible 150 per cent). 

Furthermore, the Board determined to apply a negative Business Modifier for all Executive KMP in recognition of 
the two fatalities at Mozal Aluminium and, for the CEO, in recognition of the non-cash impairment for the Taylor 
Deposit at our Hermosa project. This resulted in a negative Business Modifier of 25 per cent for Graham, 20 per 
cent for Noel Pillay, 10 per cent for Jason Economidis and 5 percent for Sandy Sibenaler and Katie Tovich 
respectively. 

The overall STI outcome for Executive KMP ranged from 40 per cent to 74 per cent of maximum with Graham 
receiving 42 per cent.

LTI vesting  
in 2023

While South32 delivered TSR of 41 per cent over the four-year performance period, this fell short of the threshold 
required for vesting when compared to the two performance benchmarks. As a result, all FY20 LTI rights lapsed.

South32 does not offer retention rights to permanent members of the Lead Team, including those that are 
Executive KMP. However, employees who are promoted into Executive KMP roles retain unvested awards 
granted under the Management Share Plan (MSP) while in their prior role. These awards are a combination of 
performance rights and retention rights. As the service-based condition of the MSP retention rights granted to 
Sandy, Jason and Noel prior to their permanent appointment to the Lead Team was met, our Board approved 
these awards to vest in full in August 2023.

FY23 realised pay

Realised pay for Executive KMP (see page 82) was below Target Remuneration (see page 86) as the FY20 LTI did 
not vest, the Business Scorecard outcome was below target and the Board applied a negative Business Modifier 
when determining the STI outcome.

The Board considered all components of remuneration in reviewing the FY23 reward outcomes to align with our 
Guiding Principles (see page 83) and believes the FY23 realised pay is fair for Executive KMP and shareholders, 
based on performance for the year.

81

SOUTH32 ANNUAL REPORT 2023REMUNERATION REPORT CONTINUED

Realised pay for Executive KMP in FY23

Realised pay is the value of reward received by Executive KMP in relation to the financial year, rather than potential pay that may be 
earned or disclosed statutory pay. We publish this information to enable our shareholders to better understand the pay delivered to our 
Executive KMP through our reward framework (including the application of Board discretion) and how this is aligned to the performance 
of South32 over time.

The intention of our reward framework (see our Guiding Principles on page 83) is to deliver realised pay outcomes that reflect Company 
performance and the shareholder experience. The Board and Remuneration Committee believe that our realised pay outcomes reflect 
this objective. 

FY23 realised pay for Executive KMP, outlined in Table 1.3, includes:

 – Fixed remuneration earned in FY23 (including pension/superannuation); 

 – Other cash and non-monetary benefits earned in FY23;

 – Total FY23 STI earned (including cash and deferred rights) based on performance during this financial year (see page 92); and

 – LTI awards that vested based on performance and/or service conditions to 30 June 2023 (see page 94).

Realised pay is likely to vary substantially, either up or down, from statutory remuneration and from Target Remuneration (see page 86) 
because a significant portion of our Executive KMP pay is ‘at risk’ and based on challenging performance measures. Furthermore, as the 
LTI is measured over a four-year performance period, vesting outcomes will not always correlate to the TSR outcomes for a single year.  
In comparison to FY22, FY23 realised pay reflects the lower overall STI outcomes.

Table 1.3 – Realised pay in respect of FY23 (A$’000) 

Executive KMP

G Kerr

K Tovich(4) 

S Sibenaler(5),(6)

J Economidis

N Pillay(7),(8)

Fixed 
remuneration

Other(1)

STI Cash

STI Deferred

LTI(2),(3)

Total Realised 
Pay

1,891
1,815
907
863
576
-
812
780
678
651

48
42
15
9
37
-
12
7
26
239

719
1,215
611
691
249
-
352
482
248
352

719
1,215
611
691
84
-
352
482
248
279

-
-
-
170
89
-
372
245
324
214

3,377
4,287
2,144
2,424
1,035
-
1,900
1,996
1,524
1,735

FY23
FY22
FY23
FY22
FY23
FY22
FY23
FY22
FY23
FY22

(1)  Other includes such items as car parking, insurances and tax advice provided to Executive KMP.  
(2)  Value of LTI is based on a closing share price on 30 June 2023 of A$3.76 (FY23) and 30 June 2022 of A$3.94 (FY22).
(3)  LTI includes Management Share Plan awards granted to S Sibenaler, J Economidis and N Pillay prior to their permanent appointment to the Lead Team (see page 93). FY22 LTI 

includes the FY20 Transitional LTI award granted to K Tovich on appointment to the Lead Team.

(4)  K Tovich ceased to be CFO and a member of Executive KMP on 31 March 2023. Following this, she was appointed as CHRCO. FY23 realised pay reflects nine months as CFO and 

three months as CHRCO.

(5)  S Sibenaler became CFO and a member of Executive KMP on 1 April 2023. Prior to this, she was Vice President Finance. FY23 realised pay reflects nine months in her prior role 

and three months as CFO. 

(6)  Other for S Sibenaler includes the pro-rated payout of a retention agreement of A$35,500 relating to her service as Vice President Finance that was paid prior to becoming a 

member of Executive KMP. 

(7)  N Pillay became COO Africa and Colombia on 1 October 2021 and a member of Executive KMP on 1 December 2021. Prior to this, N Pillay was Vice President Operations at 
Worsley Alumina. FY22 realised pay reflects three months in his prior role and nine months as COO. Salary relating to his time as COO is denominated in ZAR and has been 
converted to A$ using an exchange rate of AUD:ZAR 11.96 for FY23 and AUD:ZAR 11.13 for FY22.

(8)  FY22 Other amounts for N Pillay include benefits provided to him to assist with his relocation from Australia to South Africa. These include a relocation allowance of 

ZAR1,500,000 paid on 25 October 2021 which has been converted to A$ using an exchange rate of AUD:ZAR 10.99.

CEO Pay Ratio
As part of our commitment to pay transparency, we have calculated the ratio of our CEO’s total realised pay to the median total realised 
pay for all our employees globally. This results in an FY23 CEO pay ratio of 26:1 which reflects an STI outcome for the CEO that was below 
target and no LTI vesting. The pay ratio is expected to vary from year to year, given the significant portion of our CEO's pay which is 'at 
risk'.

CEO total realised pay has been calculated in accordance with the method used in Table 1.3. For all other employees realised pay is for 
the 12-month period to 30 June 2023 and includes all allowances, annual incentive payments received in the period and the value of 
shares that vested, but excludes other non-monetary benefits. Pension contributions have been calculated based on the cost to the 
Group of the contributions made in the 12-month period. Internationally mobile employees and employees who joined or left the Group 
after 1 July 2022 have been excluded from the calculation. 

82

GOVERNANCE

Our reward framework

The pages of the Remuneration report that follow (together with Table 1.1 – Business performance) have been prepared in accordance 
with section 300A of the Corporations Act 2001 (Cth) (the Act) and audited as required by section 308(3C) of the Act. These sections 
relate to those persons who were KMP of South32 during FY23, being the individuals listed in Table 1.2 on page 81.

Remuneration governance
The roles and responsibilities of our Board, Remuneration Committee, management and external advisors in relation to remuneration for 
Executive KMP and employees of South32 are outlined below.

Board

Our Board maintains overall responsibility for overseeing the remuneration policy and the principles 
and processes that underpin it. It approves the remuneration arrangements for our CEO and Non-
Executive Directors. Changes to the Director fee pool and equity grants to the CEO are approved by 
shareholders.

Remuneration Committee

The Remuneration Committee approves reward arrangements for our Executive KMP (other than the 
CEO) and oversees the remuneration and benefits framework for all employees of South32. 

By taking advice from other Board Committees (such as the Sustainability and Risk and Audit 
Committees), the Remuneration Committee helps the Board oversee our remuneration policy, 
its specific application to the CEO, executives and Non-Executive Directors and, in general, our 
employees.

The Remuneration Committee provides oversight to gain assurance that remuneration arrangements 
are equitable and aligned to the long-term interests of shareholders, operate within risk appetite and 
support our purpose, strategy and values.

CEO and management

Our CEO makes recommendations to the Remuneration Committee regarding our executives, and how 
the remuneration policy and framework applies to our employees.

Management provides information and recommendations to the Remuneration Committee to help 
them consider and implement approved arrangements.

External advisors

Independent external advisors may be engaged either directly by the Remuneration Committee, 
or via management. These advisors provide information on remuneration-related issues, including 
benchmarking information and market data.

The Remuneration Committee did not receive recommendations from external advisors, including 
remuneration consultants, in relation to KMP in FY23.

We seek information and analysis from a range of data sources. This allows us to make decisions that are informed, objective, 
weighted and aligned to the requirements of the Company, and consistent with our Guiding Principles.

Reward practices and outcomes

Our Guiding Principles

Purpose  
and Strategy

The way  
we work

Shareholders

Performance

Market

We align short-term and long-term 
performance measures to our 
purpose and strategy. This includes 
our efforts to:

 – Optimise our business by 

working safely, minimising our 
impact, consistently delivering 
stable and predictable 
performance and continually 
improving our competitiveness;

 – Unlock the full value of our 

business through our people, 
innovation, projects and 
technology; and
 – Identify and pursue 

opportunities to sustainably 
reshape our business for the 
future, and create enduring 
social, environmental and 
economic value.

Our culture is grounded 
in our values and is at 
the core of how we 
deliver our purpose and 
strategy. You’ll see it 
reflected in our values, 
the decisions we take, 
the courage we show 
and the legacy we leave.

Supporting this is a 
strong belief that 
culture can be actively 
shaped through  
a focus on what we 
prioritise, what we 
measure, what we 
reward and who we 
appoint.

Our reward framework 
focuses executives and 
management on 
delivering superior TSR.

We do this through 
share ownership and LTI 
performance measures 
aligned to the 
shareholder experience.

We value feedback and 
regularly check-in with 
investors and proxy 
advisors.

Our reward outcomes 
align to performance by 
providing a large part of 
executive pay ‘at risk’ 
based on challenging 
financial and non-
financial measures.

STI outcomes reflect 
performance over the 
financial year, while LTI 
outcomes reflect 
performance over a 
four-year period.

Our reward is 
competitive and 
designed to attract and 
retain talented 
executives.

We benchmark our 
reward levels in 
consideration of similar 
sized companies on the 
Australian Securities 
Exchange (ASX), as well 
as our global mining 
peer group.

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SOUTH32 ANNUAL REPORT 2023REMUNERATION REPORT CONTINUED

Components of our reward for FY23

Our intention

Attract and retain 
talented executives 
to lead South32

The majority of pay at risk reflects our commitment to pay for performance  
and deliver value to shareholders

Reward business and individual  
performance in the financial year

Drive long-term performance  
and ownership behaviours

Component

Fixed Remuneration Short-Term Incentive

Long-Term Incentive

The why

Fixed remuneration is 
set with reference to 
the median of our peer 
groups, reflecting each 
member of Executive 
KMP’s responsibilities, 
location, skills and 
experience.

STI focuses efforts on our key priorities both 
in the financial year and into the future. It 
aims to motivate Executive KMP to achieve 
challenging performance objectives. Our STI 
reflects performance during the year and 
measures outcomes within management’s 
control.

LTI is directly linked to: 
 – Relative TSR so that Executive KMP pay outcomes are 

aligned with the shareholder experience over the longer-
term; and

 – Two strategic measures so that Executive KMP pay 

outcomes are aligned to the business priorities that we 
believe will underpin the long-term success of South32.

The how

Base salary and 
superannuation.

Our  
approach  
in FY23

We benchmark our 
fixed remuneration 
and Target 
Remuneration against 
two key peer groups 
that reflect our profile 
as a Company and the 
markets in which we 
operate. Our peer 
groups are:

 – An ASX peer 

group based on 
companies with 
half to double 
our market 
capitalisation 
(excluding foreign 
domiciled entities 
and real estate 
investment trusts); 
and

 – An international 
mining peer 
group of 18 
companies with 
a similar market 
capitalisation, 
commodity mix 
and/or global 
presence to 
South32 (see Our 
global mining peer 
group below).

Fifty per 
cent paid  
in cash 
annually. 

Fifty per cent delivered in 
rights to receive South32 
shares(1), deferred for two 
years(2).

Quantum (percentage of fixed 
remuneration):

Target Value

Maximum 
Opportunity

Executive KMP

120%

180%

Business Scorecard: The Business 
Scorecard reflects a balance of financial and 
non-financial measures that are a priority for 
us in the financial year.

The financial measures remove the impact of 
commodity prices and foreign exchange so 
that we reward for items management can 
control. 

Performance measures:

■ Sustainability (28.3%)

■  Financial: Production, cost and 

capital expenditure (28.3%)

■  Financial: Adjusted ROIC (28.3%)

■ Strategic priorities (15%)

Business Modifier: As scorecard measures 
do not always reflect all aspects of 
performance across a year, and to mitigate 
any unintended reward outcomes, the Board 
has the discretion to apply a Business 
Modifier to the Business Scorecard outcome. 
The Business Modifier may be applied to 
Executive KMP on an individual or group 
basis, having regard to the perspectives of 
stakeholders including employees, 
shareholders and communities. 

Individual performance and behaviours: 
The Board also considers each member of 
Executive KMP’s individual performance, 
taking into account their areas of 
responsibility and the alignment of their 
behaviours with our values (i.e. how 
outcomes have been achieved).

Rights to receive South32 shares that are subject to meeting 
performance conditions over the four-year performance 
period.   

Quantum (percentage of fixed remuneration):

The quantum for FY23 was determined by multiplying fixed 
remuneration by the following face value percentages:

CEO
Other KMP

Performance measures: 

Target Value

Face Value

120%
80%

200%
133%

■  TSR relative to EMIX Global Mining Index constituents 

(53.3%)

■  TSR relative to MSCI World Index (26.7%)

■  Climate change strategic measure (10%)

■  Portfolio management strategic measure (10%)

TSR performance: Eighty per cent of the LTI is assessed based 
on our TSR performance compared to two comparator groups, 
being:
 – Two-thirds, or 53.3 per cent of the total award, is tested 
relative to the TSR performance of the companies that 
comprise the EMIX Global Mining Index at the start of each 
performance period (i.e. at 1 July 2022 for FY23 LTI award)
(3); and

 – One-third, or 26.7 per cent, is tested relative to the TSR of 

the MSCI World Index.

Strategic measures: The strategic measures, which each have 
a weighting of 10 per cent of the LTI, are: 
 – Our response to climate change; and
 – The transition of our portfolio towards the commodities 

critical to a low-carbon future. 

More detail on the measures and our progress against them is 
outlined on page 95.

Vesting Scale: 

Vesting outcome(4)

0%

40%

100%

EMIX Global Mining 
Index constituents*

TSR <= 50th 
percentile

TSR > 50th 
percentile

MSCI World Index*

TSR < Index

TSR = Index

TSR => 75th 
percentile
TSR => Index + 
23.9%

Vesting outcomes will be determined by the 
Board at the end of the performance period.

Strategic  
Measures
*Vesting between 40 per cent and 100 per cent is on a straight-line basis.
The the Board has the discretion to adjust the TSR vesting 
outcome (both upwards and downwards) so that the overall 
vesting outcome is appropriate and aligned with our Guiding 
Principles (see page 83). There is no retesting if the 
performance condition is not met at the end of the 
performance period. 

84

GOVERNANCE

Our global 
mining peer 
group

Minimum 
shareholding 
requirement

Our service 
contracts

The global mining peer group that we use as one of our reference points for benchmarking fixed remuneration and total 
reward levels includes the following companies:

Agnico Eagle Mines, Alcoa, Anglo American, AngloGold Ashanti, Antofogasta, Barrick Gold, Evolution Mining, First Quantum 
Minerals, Fortescue Metals Group, Freeport McMoRan, Gold Fields, Kinross Gold, Lundin Mining, Newcrest Mining, Newmont, 
Northern Star Resources, Teck Resources and Vedanta.
A minimum shareholding requirement (MSR), equal to 100 per cent of fixed remuneration for Executive KMP, drives a long-
term focus and alignment with our shareholders. The MSR applies to all Lead Team members, including those who are 
Executive KMP, and must be obtained within five years of appointment to the Lead Team. The valuation approach applied to 
determine the MSR uses the South32 Ltd share price at the time the assessment is made. See page 102 for our Executive KMP 
shareholdings.
Contracts are entered into by Executive KMP in their personal capacity. The key terms are consistent for all Executive KMP, 
and include:

 – No fixed term;
 – Six months’ notice by either party or payment by the company in lieu of notice; 
 – Termination without notice for serious misconduct; 
 – One month’s notice by the Executive KMP(5) where a fundamental change occurs that materially diminishes their status, 

duties, authority or terms and conditions (receiving payment in lieu of six months’ notice);

 – A maximum payment in lieu of notice of six months’ fixed remuneration; and 
 – Post-employment restraints for a period of up to six months after their employment with the Group ends. 

Shareholder approval was granted at the 2021 Annual General Meeting (AGM) for Executive KMP termination benefits.

(1)  References in this Remuneration report to ‘South32 shares’ are references to fully paid ordinary shares in South32 Limited.
(2)  The deferred rights are subject to a service condition only as performance conditions are applied during the STI performance year.
(3)  The constituent group is fixed for the four-year performance period with Board discretion to adjust the constituent group to take into account events such as takeovers, 

mergers or demergers that may occur during the performance period. 

(4)  The Board and Remuneration Committee use information from an external provider to inform them of the TSR performance of the relevant index and companies to assess the 

vesting outcome for the LTI. 

(5)  Some legacy executive employment contracts, including for the CEO, allow resignation without notice if a fundamental change occurs. 

Linking reward and environmental, social and governance (ESG) topics
The ‘at risk’ components of our Executive KMP reward reflects ESG topics that align remuneration outcomes not just with financial 
performance but also with our performance against ESG measures that underpin our business outcomes, as explained below. 

STI
The Business Scorecard reflects a balance of financial and non-financial measures that reflect the key focus areas for us in the financial 
year. From an ESG perspective, 28.3 per cent of the FY23 Business Scorecard was assessed against ‘sustainability’ metrics, which 
include safety performance, health, community, risk management and water efficiency.

The overall Business Scorecard outcome is also subject to the Business Modifier. The Business Modifier allows the Board to 
appropriately adjust the Business Scorecard outcome to account for ESG-related topics. We have a track record of applying the 
Business Modifier to reflect non-financial performance and the overall shareholder experience (see page 91). 

Further detail on our STI is included in the Short-Term Incentive for FY23 section starting on page 88.

LTI
Twenty per cent of the FY23 LTI directly links executive reward to climate change and the transition of our portfolio toward the 
commodities critical to a low-carbon future. More detail on the strategic measures and our progress against them is outlined on  
page 95.

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SOUTH32 ANNUAL REPORT 2023REMUNERATION REPORT CONTINUED

Target Remuneration for FY23

South32 sets Target Remuneration for each member of Executive KMP at a competitive level to attract and retain appropriate talent in 
the markets in which we operate. Our Target Remuneration is informed by the South32 reward framework (see page 83) that outlines 
the key factors the Board takes into consideration in setting Executive KMP reward and the strategic drivers of pay at South32.

It is important that reward levels fairly reflect the responsibilities and contribution of the Executive KMP and that outcomes are aligned 
to performance and the delivery of TSR. As a result, a meaningful portion of our Executive KMP remuneration is at risk, contingent on 
challenging individual and Company performance measures. 

Target Remuneration, as outlined below, assumes on-target performance for the STI and considers the difficulty of achieving LTI given 
the performance hurdles. The figures reflected in the diagram below are therefore based on the STI paid at 100 per cent of target and 
the LTI vesting at 60 per cent of face value (see page 84 for details on face value). 

Based on these principles, annual Target Remuneration for Executive KMP as at 30 June 2023 is illustrated in Diagram 1.3.

Diagram 1.3 – Annual FY23 Target Remuneration (A$’000)(1)

G Kerr

1,906

1,144

1,144

2,287

6,481
(71% at risk)

K Tovich

914

548

548

731

S Sibenaler

830 

498

498

664

J Economidis

819

491

491

655

2,741 
(67% at risk)

2,490 
(67% at risk)

2,456 
(67% at risk)

N Pillay(2)

685

411

411

548

2,055
(67% at risk)

0

2,000

4,000

6,000

Fixed remuneration

STI (cash)

STI (deferred rights)

LTI

(1)  Target Remuneration reflects a full year in the Executive KMP role. 
(2)  Target Remuneration has been converted from ZAR to A$ using an exchange rate of AUD:ZAR 11.96.

FY23 Target remuneration relative to peer groups (unaudited) 
We have operations and offices on six continents and compete for talent in a global pool.

The diagrams below illustrate the measured approach we have adopted in positioning CEO fixed remuneration and Target 
Remuneration for FY23 compared to relevant benchmarks, being the ASX peer group and the global mining peer group (see page 85). 
CEO fixed remuneration is comparable to the median for both peer groups. CEO Target Remuneration is aligned to the upper quartile 
for the ASX peer group, but below the global mining peer group median. 

Diagram 1.4 – CEO fixed remuneration vs. Peers

Diagram 1.5 – CEO Target Remuneration vs. Peers

3,000

0
0
0
$
A

’

2,000

1,000

0

South32
1,906

15,000

10,000

0
0
0
$
A

’

5,000

0

ASX Peers

Global Mining Peers

ASX Peers

Global Mining Peers

 South32 

 Median 

 Upper and lower quartiles

South32
6,481

86

GOVERNANCE

Range of possible remuneration outcomes
As actual Company and individual achievement over the performance period determines reward outcomes, the amount of pay received 
by Executive KMP each year will vary.

Diagram 1.6 illustrates the range of possible remuneration outcomes for the CEO, based on three performance outcome scenarios:  
minimum, target and maximum. While the figures in Diagram 1.6 and explanation are for the CEO, similar analysis can be undertaken for 
other Executive KMP to assess the minimum and maximum range of pay outcomes.

Diagram 1.6 – Range of CEO remuneration outcomes (A$’000)

Minimum

1,906

1,906
(all reward at risk is forfeited)

Target

1,906

1,144

1,144

2,287

6,481
(71% at risk)

Maximum

1,906

1,715

1,715

3,812

9,148
(79% at risk)

0

2,000

4,000

6,000

8,000

10,000

Fixed remuneration

STI (cash)

STI (deferred rights)

LTI

In the Minimum scenario, no STI or LTI is paid. The CEO would receive fixed remuneration, inclusive of superannuation, of A$1.906 
million. 

Target outcomes would be achieved where the business meets the challenging STI performance hurdles, resulting in STI being paid at 
target levels (67 per cent of maximum opportunity, or 120 per cent of fixed remuneration, with half deferred into rights) and 60 per cent 
of the rights granted under the LTI vesting. 

To deliver a Maximum outcome for the STI (i.e. 180 per cent of fixed remuneration, with half deferred into rights), South32 would need to 
achieve the stretch targets for every metric in the Business Scorecard. For the LTI to vest in full, over the four-year performance period: 

 – The South32 TSR would need to meet or exceed the TSR of the company at the 75th percentile in the EMIX Global Mining Index 

constituent group; 

 – The South32 TSR would need to exceed the MSCI World Index by 23.9 per cent; and 

 – The Board would need to assess performance against both strategic measures as outstanding.

Deferred STI and LTI in the Target and Maximum scenarios do not incorporate future share price movements.

Fixed remuneration for FY23

On 1 September 2022, Graham received an increase to fixed remuneration of five per cent from A$1,815,000 to A$1,906,000. This was his 
second increase in fixed remuneration since commencing in role in 2015. Katie, Jason and Noel received fixed remuneration increases 
of between five and six per cent. Fixed remuneration increases for Executive KMP aligned with the increases applied to the broader 
workforce in the relevant geographies (five per cent in Australia and six per cent in South Africa). 

Table 1.4 – Fixed remuneration for Executive KMP in FY23, effective 1 September 2022(1)

Executive KMP

G Kerr
K Tovich(2)
S Sibenaler(3)
J Economidis
N Pillay(4)

FY22 fixed  
remuneration 

A$1,815,000
A$870,000
-
A$780,000
ZAR 7,726,000

FY23 fixed  
remuneration 

A$1,906,000
A$914,000
A$830,000
A$819,000
ZAR 8,190,000

Increase 
%

5.0
5.1
-
5.0
6.0

(1)  Fixed remuneration reflects a full year in the Executive KMP role. 
(2)   Fixed remuneration for K Tovich was effective until she ceased to be CFO and a member of Executive KMP on 31 March 2023.
(3)  Fixed remuneration for S Sibenaler was effective from commencing as CFO on 1 April 2023. 
(4)  Fixed remuneration for N Pillay is denominated in ZAR. Using an exchange rate of AUD:ZAR 11.96, FY23 fixed remuneration in A$ is A$684,783.

87

SOUTH32 ANNUAL REPORT 2023REMUNERATION REPORT CONTINUED

Short-term Incentive for FY23

Determining STI awards
Diagram 1.7 – Determination of STI Awards

South32 
Business Outcome

Individual 
Outcome

Overall 
STI Outcome

x

1A

1B

2

3

x

=

BUSINESS 
SCORECARD

BUSINESS 
MODIFIER

0%-150% 
Target 100%

Discretion +/-

INDIVIDUAL PERFORMANCE 
and BEHAVIOURS

(0%-150%)

Maximum 180% 
Target 120% 
(of fixed remuneration)

As outlined on page 84, the STI is intended to focus and reward Executive KMP for delivering on our key business priorities both in the 
financial year and into the future. The overall STI outcome is determined by assessing three key inputs: the Business Scorecard, the 
Business Modifier and individual performance and behaviours. 

The Business Scorecard includes a balanced range of challenging measures that consider both our financial and non-financial 
performance, and help our Executive KMP focus on outcomes that are within their control and a priority for the year.

The Business Modifier considers overall business outcomes or other factors that are not specifically contemplated in the Business 
Scorecard. The Business Modifier may be applied to Executive KMP on an individual or group basis, having regard to the perspectives of 
stakeholders including employees, shareholders and communities.

Together, the Business Scorecard and the Business Modifier determine the South32 Business Outcome.

Individual performance is measured based on delivery against the relevant operations’, projects’ or functions’ business plans. Our 
people are also assessed on demonstrated behaviour aligned to our values (i.e. both on what is achieved and how it is achieved).

What this means in practice
Including STI performance measures that are within the 
control of our executives means that the Business Scorecard 
outcomes will not always mirror underlying South32 financial 
outcomes. 

However, the Board has designed the STI, including the use 
of the Business Modifier and individual outcomes, so that 
executives are rewarded for delivering strong performance 
across areas within their control, taking into account overall 
business performance and shareholder experience. 

Diagram 1.8 demonstrates the approach to STI Outcomes 
applied by the Board over the past five years.

Diagram 1.8 – CEO STI outcome vs. Underlying earnings 

74%

58%

54%

42%

100%

75%

50%

25%

0%

m
u
m
x
a
m

i

f
o
%

I

T
S

 3,000

 2,500

 2,000

42%

 1,500

U
S
$
M

 1,000

 500

-

FY19

FY20

FY21

FY22

FY23

South32 Underlying earnings US$M

STI % of maximum

88

GOVERNANCE

 
 
 
1A FY23 Business Scorecard

In November 2022, we were devastated by the loss of two of our colleagues, who were fatally injured in an incident while undertaking 
maintenance work at Mozal Aluminium. The Board recognises this significant safety event in our STI through the Business Modifier which 
adjusts the overall Business Scorecard outcome (see page 91). Table 1.5 reflects performance against our stated Business Scorecard 
measures.

Table 1.5 – FY23 Business Scorecard outcomes

Scorecard measure

Sustainability

Safety(1): 

Target

28.3%

At least 80 per cent senior leader attendance at the LEAD 
Safely Every Day workshops and coaching sessions. 

A reported significant hazard frequency of 55.

Ensure 90 per cent of significant event investigations are 
completed and signed off within the allocated timeframe. 

Ensure 90 per cent of significant event actions are completed 
on time. 

Complete a deep dive review of 20 selected material risks 
across all operations. 

A 20 per cent reduction in lost time injury frequency (LTIF) 
against the baseline.

A 10 per cent reduction in TRIF from the FY22 baseline.

Performance

Outcome Zero

Target Maximum

28.7%

Good as assessed against the stated Business Scorecard measure, but prior 
to the Business Modifier adjustment.

FY23 LEAD Safely Every Day program senior leader attendance was 99 per 
cent. 

The significant hazard frequency for the period was 92 which exceeded 
target.

89 per cent of significant event investigations were completed and signed 
off within the allocated timeframe.

95 per cent of significant event actions were completed on time. 

24 material risk deep dives were completed. 

LTIF reduced by 30 per cent compared to the FY22 baseline. 

TRIF increased by 11 per cent compared to the FY22 baseline.

Health(1):

Poor

A 20 per reduction in potential material exposures above  
200 per cent of the Occupational Exposure Limit (OEL) 
compared to the revised FY22 baseline. 

Develop and implement a project pipeline to continue to 
reduce potential material exposures in excess of 200 per cent 
of OEL by FY24.

Potential material exposures above 200 per cent of the OEL increased by 1.1 
per cent compared to the revised FY22 baseline. 

The pipeline of FY24 projects aims to reduce potential exposures in excess 
of 200 per cent of OEL by 28 per cent compared to the FY23 outcome.

Community(1):

Excellent

Implement social investment plans on time and on budget. 

FY23 social investment was delivered to plan.

Increase the proportion of social investment allocated to 
strategic investment by 10 percentage points up to a 
maximum of 90 per cent of the social investment budget. 

Implement at least one new strategic multi-year social 
investment with targets that support climate, biodiversity or 
just transition related outcomes. 

Develop economic development plans which include local 
employment and procurement targets at all operations.

90 per cent of social investment was allocated to strategic investments (up  
8 percentage points from 82 per cent in FY22).

Two strategic investments commenced in FY23; a just transition strategic 
investment at Worsley Alumina and a biodiversity strategic investment in 
Australia with the Australian Wildlife Conservancy.

Economic development plans were established for all operations, which 
include local employment and procurement targets.

Risk management:

Good

Maintain risk routines at more than 95 per cent compliance 
with scheduled work. 

Increase the percentage of well controlled risks.

Achieve 90 per cent compliance with the risk based assurance 
plan.

Risk routines averaged 95 per cent compliance to scheduled work in FY23. 

The percentage of the risk profile reported as 'requires significant 
improvement' was on target. 

96 per cent of the combined assurance plan was delivered to schedule. 

Water performance(1):

Fair

Deliver contextual water target milestones, and achieve the 
FY23 target water use efficiency outcome as defined within 
the Sustainability Linked Loan framework.

The contextual water target for Hillside Aluminium was met. Targets at the 
remaining operations remained on track. 

FY23 water efficiency targets were met. However, the current identified 
pipeline of projects to achieve a 10 per cent improvement in water efficiency 
by FY27 compared to the FY21 baseline fell short of the required trajectory. 

(1)  Further information on this sorecard measure can be found in Our strategy in action section on pages 20 to 25 and our Sustainable Development Report at www.south32.net.

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SOUTH32 ANNUAL REPORT 2023REMUNERATION REPORT CONTINUED

Scorecard measure

Financial: Production, cost  
and capital expenditure

Target

28.3%

Performance

Outcome Zero

Target Maximum

23.4%

Production(2)(3): 

Fair

Deliver 97 – 102 per cent of revenue equivalent production.

Revenue equivalent production was 95 per cent.

Controllable cost(2)(3): 

Fair

Deliver controllable costs that are within US$50 million of 
budget (adjusted for foreign exchange, price-linked costs and 
other adjustments).

Adjusted controllable costs were above budget by US$28M.

Capital expenditure(2)(3): 

Good

Achieve capital expenditure (excluding growth) that is within 
five per cent of budget (adjusted for foreign exchange). 

Achieve growth capital expenditure that is within ten per cent 
of budget and schedule (adjusted for foreign exchange). 

Achieve fewer than 20 per cent break-in safe and reliable 
capital projects(4).

Capital expenditure (excluding growth) was 94 per cent of budget.

Growth capital expenditure was 88 per cent compared to budget and was 
delivered on schedule.  

Break-in projects were at 14 per cent.

Financial: Adjusted ROIC

28.3%

15.1%

Adjusted ROIC(2):

Poor

Achieve budget adjusted ROIC, consistent with our cost, 
production and capital expenditure targets.

Adjusted ROIC was 26.4 per cent versus the budget of 28.1 per cent.

Strategic priorities

15.0%

16.6%

Hermosa project(2): 

Good

Deliver FY23 Taylor Deposit and Clark Deposit agreed project 
milestones.

The feasibility study for the Taylor Deposit is expected to be completed in 
the second half of calendar year 2023, as we undertake additional 
engineering studies to align the mine development schedule for a federal 
permitting process under FAST-41 and incorporate current market cost 
estimates. Water Treatment Plant 2 construction was completed on 
schedule and commissioning commenced.

The Clark pre-feasibility selection study was completed. Multiple non-
binding, non-exclusive memorandums of understanding were signed for the 
future potential supply of battery-grade manganese. 

Next generation mine(2): 

Good

Deliver at least 75 per cent of the agreed initiative milestones 
for the Next Generation Mine mission.

Six of the eight agreed initiatives were fully delivered and two were partially 
delivered.

Inclusion and Diversity(5):

Good

Achieve FY23 measurable objectives and deliver the FY23 
Inclusion and Diversity action plan. 

Inclusion index(2):

Achieve inclusion index scores that are at least equal to FY22 
inclusion index scores. 

Employee engagement(2):

Achieve employee engagement scores that are at least equal 
to FY22 employee engagement scores. 

Subtotal

Target = 100% 
Maximum = 150% 

Inclusion and Diversity: 50 per cent (two out of four) of our female 
representation targets and 50 per cent (one out of two) of our targets for 
Black People representation in South Africa were met.

Completed our equity pay review, investing US$338,000 to improve pay 
equity.

All elements of the Inclusion and Diversity action plan were delivered. 

Inclusion index and employee engagement scores exceeded target.

83.8%

(2)  Further information on this scorecard measure can be found in Our strategy in action section on pages 20 to 25.
(3)  Excludes non-operated entities.
(4)  Capital expenditure projects categorised as safe and reliable above US$100,000 that were not included in the FY23 budget.
(5)  Further information on this scorecard measure can be found in our Sustainable Development Report at www.south32.net.

90

GOVERNANCE

1B FY23 Business Modifier

The Business Modifier is an integral component of the STI that considers overall business outcomes or other factors that are not 
specifically contemplated in the Business Scorecard, such as:

 – Significant safety or environmental events;

 – The shareholder experience;

 – Unexpected material external events, including the impact of a global pandemic or a significant disruption to global trade;

 – Significant reputational issues; and

 – An assessment of risk, culture or any other item that the Board considers appropriate.

The Business Modifier, based on Board discretion, adjusts the overall Business Scorecard outcome so that STI outcomes reflect 
business performance, including both what has been delivered and how it has been achieved. The outcome may be positive or negative, 
and may be applied to Executive KMP on an individual or a group basis depending on the factors under consideration.

In FY23, the Board primarily focused on two matters when considering the application of the Business Modifier for Executive KMP. 

The first was the loss of two of our colleagues, Mr Cristovão Alberto Tonela and Mr Alfredo Francisco Domingos João. Nothing is more 
important than the health, safety and wellbeing of our people. We will continue to work to improve our safety performance through our 
multi-year Safety Improvement Program that commenced in FY22. The program consists of four workstreams and was designed with 
the aim of enhancing our safety culture, and by changing mindsets and behaviours, achieving a step change in our safety performance. 

As part of the Safety Improvement Program's focus on shifting mindsets through leadership, we conducted our LEAD Safely Every Day 
training for senior leaders, managers, superintendents and supervisors across all operations and functions. This comprised workshops, 
learning assignments and individual coaching, with 1,322 leaders having commenced the capability training, and 247 leaders having 
completed it by 30 June 2023. In addition, we have updated our risk guidance documentation and conducted risk training for our risk 
and control owners. We have also finalised our internal safety standard to introduce the Safety System of Work that includes the new 
requirements for safety-critical equipment and process safety management.

We have improved and extended our Contractor Management System of Work for our significant contractor workforce and have 
extended this into relevant functional departments in addition to operations. In FY24, we expect to launch a dedicated monitoring tool 
to better embed contractor management performance and to strengthen compliance with health and safety, and risk management 
requirements. More information on our safety initiatives, including our contractor management system of work, can be found in the 
Sustainable Development Report at www.south32.net.

The second matter was the non-cash impairment expense for the Taylor Deposit recognised in our FY23 financial results which reflected 
the impact of delays due to COVID-19, the significant dewatering requirements and inflationary market pressures. The Board considered 
this when determining the negative overall Business Modifier for the CEO.

Table 1.6 outlines the negative Business Modifiers the Board applied to the Business Scorecard for each member of Executive KMP. The 
different adjustments for the Executive KMP is intended to reflect the level of accountability each of them had in respect of the matters 
outlined above.

Table 1.6 – Application of the Business Modifier by the Board (multiplier applied to the Business Scorecard outcome)

CEO

COO Africa and Colombia

Other Executive KMP

Modifier for

FY23(1)

-25%

-20%

-10%

-5%

FY22(2)

-20%
-20%

-10%
-10%

-5%

Modifier applied in previous years

FY21

-20%

-20%

-5%

FY20

-30%

-30%

-15%

FY19

No Business Modifier 
applied

(1)  In FY23, the Board decided to apply a Business Modifier of -10 per cent for J Economidis, and a Business Modifier of negative five per cent for K Tovich and S Sibenaler.
(2)  In FY22, the Board decided to apply a Business Modifier of -20 per cent for the Chief Operating Officer Africa at the time of the fatality, a Business Modifier of -10 per cent for J 

Economidis and N Pillay, and a Business Modifier of negative five per cent for K Tovich.

91

SOUTH32 ANNUAL REPORT 2023REMUNERATION REPORT CONTINUED

2 FY23 individual performance

Our Board considers the individual scorecard outcomes for Executive KMP with regard to what was delivered, as demonstrated in the 
performance of each member of Executive KMP’s portfolio, and how it was delivered, which considers leadership behaviours aligned to 
our values, risk framework and governance processes.

The board recognises Graham's outstanding leadership in delivering South32's purpose and strategy, but believes an individual 
outcome of 100% combined with the application of the Business Modifier is appropriate for FY23.

Individual outcomes applied to the other Executive KMP reflected the performance outcomes in their areas of accountability and 
development in their respective roles. These outcomes ranged from 85 per cent to 140 per cent, as indicated in Table 1.7 below.

3 Overall FY23 STI outcome

Overall STI outcomes for FY23 are determined through our Board’s assessment of the business and individual outcomes, as outlined in 
Table 1.7.

Table 1.7 – STI earned by Executive KMP in respect of FY23 performance 

Executive KMP

G Kerr
K Tovich(2)
S Sibenaler(3)
J Economidis
N Pillay

Business 
Scorecard 
Outcome %

Business 
Modifier 
+/- %

Individual 
Outcome %

Overall STI 
Outcome  
(% of Target)

Total STI 
Awarded 

Cash 

Deferred 
Rights 

Awarded 

Forfeited

Percentage of maximum STI

(1A)

83.8
83.8
83.8
83.8
83.8

(1B)

-25
-5
-5
-10
-20

(2)

1A x (1+1B) x (2)

(A$’000)

(A$’000)(1)

(A$’000)(1)

100
140
85
95
90

62.9
111.5
67.7
71.6
60.3

1,438
918
168
704
496

719
459
84
352
248

719
459
84
352
248

(%)

42
74
45
48
40

(%)

58
26
55
52
60

(1)  The cash portion of the STI will be paid in September 2023. The deferred rights to receive South32 shares are anticipated to be granted in or around December 2023 and will be 

due to vest in August 2025. The deferred rights remain subject to continued service with the Group. 

(2)  K Tovich ceased to be a member of Executive KMP on 31 March 2023. Details in the above table are for her period as a member of Executive KMP.
(3)  S Sibenaler was appointed as a member of Executive KMP on 1 April 2023. Details in the above table are for her period as a member of Executive KMP. S Sibenaler's individual 

outcome for the nine months in her prior role as Vice President Finance, which is not reflected in the table, was 120 per cent.  

92

GOVERNANCE

Long-term Incentive
FY20 LTI and Management Share Plan (MSP) Performance award
Our FY20 LTI award was tested for vesting subject to service and performance conditions to 30 June 2023. This award is subject to TSR 
performance conditions over four years, with two-thirds measured with reference to a global mining sector index (the IHS Markit Global 
Mining Constrained Weights Index with additional constraints by sector) and one third with reference to a world index (the MSCI World 
Index). The four-year period for this award was from 1 July 2019 to 30 June 2023.

Jason and Noel were granted the FY20 MSP Performance award prior to their appointments as members of Executive KMP. This award 
has the same performance and vesting conditions as our FY20 LTI award.

For the LTI and MSP Performance awards to vest in full, they needed to outperform both indices by at least 23.9 per cent over the four-
year performance period (equivalent to 5.5 per cent per annum cumulative). Given that our TSR failed to meet the threshold level of 
performance required against both comparator indices (see Diagram 1.9 and Table 1.8), these awards lapsed in full in August 2023.

Diagram 1.9 – South32 TSR relative to comparator groups

Diagram 1.10 – Vesting scale

125%

100%

75%

50%

25%

0%

-25%

n
r
u
t
e
R
r
e
d
o
h
e
r
a
h
S

l

l

a
t
o
T

-50%

Jul-19

100% vesting

40% vesting

0% vesting

Jul-20

Jul-21

Jul-22

Jul-23

South32

Sector Index

World Index

TSR = index

TSR => index  
by 23.9%

Table 1.8 – South32 FY20 LTI and MSP Performance award vesting outcomes

Sector Index
World Index

TSR performance(1)(2)

Vesting  
outcome

Index  
weighting

Weighted 
vesting outcome

Index  
(A)

86%
53%

South32 
(B)

Required for 
100% vesting

Achieved 
(B-A)

41%

Index+23.9%
Index+23.9%

(45%)
(12%)

(C)

0%
0%

(D)

2/3
1/3

(C x D)

0%
0%
0%

(1)  TSR calculation uses June 2019 average return at the start and June 2023 average return at the end of the measured period.
(2)  The Board and Remuneration Committee use information from an external provider to inform them of the performance of the relevant index to assess the vesting outcome for 

the LTI.

FY21 MSP Retention award
Although South32 does not offer MSP Retention awards to permanent members of the Lead Team, including those that are Executive 
KMP, when individuals are promoted internally to Lead Team roles, they retain any unvested MSP awards that may vest while they are 
members of KMP. Sandy, Jason and Noel were granted FY21 MSP Retention awards prior to their appointments as permanent members 
of the Lead Team. As the service-based condition of these awards was met, our Board approved these awards to vest in full in August 
2023.

The structure of the MSP is detailed on page 102.

93

SOUTH32 ANNUAL REPORT 2023 
 
 
REMUNERATION REPORT CONTINUED

Summary of LTI outcomes in FY23
Table 1.9 – South32 LTI awards vested or lapsed/forfeited

Executive KMP

Award

Number of 
rights granted

Number of 
rights vested

Number of 
rights lapsed/ 
forfeited

Value at 
grant(1) 
(A$’000)

Value lapsed/ 
forfeited(2) 
(A$’000)

Value of share 
price 
movement(3) 
(A$’000)

Value at 
vesting(4) 
(A$’000)

G Kerr
K Tovich
S Sibenaler

J Economidis

N Pillay

FY20 LTI
FY20 LTI
FY21 MSP Retention
FY20 MSP Performance
FY21 MSP Retention
FY20 MSP Performance
FY21 MSP Retention

1,696,261
517,133
23,762
155,763
99,009
135,708
86,262

-
-
23,762
-
99,009
-
86,262

1,696,261
517,133
-
155,763
-
135,708
-

5,445
1,660
48
500
200
436
174

5,445
1,660
-
500
-
436
-

-
-
41
-
172
-
150

-
-
89
-
372
-
324

(1)  ‘Value at grant’ is the number of rights granted multiplied by the grant determination price in June 2019 of A$3.21 (for the FY20 LTI/FY20 MSP Performance) and June 2020 of 

A$2.02 (for the FY21 MSP Retention), based on the volume weighted average price (VWAP) of South32 Limited shares traded on the ASX over the last 10 trading days in June of 
the respective year.

(2)  ‘Value lapsed/forfeited’ is the number of rights lapsed/forfeited based on performance relative to the performance measures, multiplied by the grant determination price of 

A$3.21 (for the FY20 LTI/FY20 MSP Performance) and A$2.02 (for the FY21 MSP Retention).

(3)  ‘Value of share price movement’ is the number of shares that vested, multiplied by the difference between the grant determination price of A$3.21 (for the FY20 LTI/FY20 MSP 
Performance) and A$2.02 (for the FY21 MSP Retention) and the share price at 30 June 2023 of A$3.76. This reflects the value added/(lost) due to the change in share price over 
the performance period.

(4)  ‘Value at vesting’ is the number of shares that vested in August 2023, multiplied by the closing share price of South32 shares on 30 June 2023 of A$3.76.

LTI granted in FY23

FY23 LTI Plan
Each year we grant performance rights to our Executive KMP. Our FY23 LTI Plan awards, which were granted in December 2022, have 
a four-year performance period and are subject to performance hurdles (see page 84). Shareholders approved, under ASX Listing Rule 
10.14, the grant of rights for the CEO at the AGM on 27 October 2022.

FY23 MSP award
Sandy was granted awards under the MSP in December 2022 prior to her appointment to the Lead Team and before she became a 
member of Executive KMP. The structure of the MSP is detailed on page 102.

Table 1.10 – FY23 LTI and MSP grants

Reward determination(1) 

Executive KMP

Award

G Kerr
K Tovich

S Sibenaler

J Economidis
N Pillay(4)

FY23 LTI
FY23 LTI
FY23 MSP Retention
FY23 MSP Performance
FY23 LTI
FY23 LTI

Face Value  
(% of fixed 
remuneration)

Face value 
(A$’000)

Target value(2)  
(% of fixed 
remuneration)

Target value 
(A$’000)

200
133
30
50
133
133

3,812
1,216
131
218
1,089
980

120
80
30
30
80
80

2,287
731
131
131
655
590

Grant (December 
2022): 
Number of rights 
granted(3)

934,313
297,946
32,113
53,522
266,977
240,246

Anticipated 
Vesting Date

August 2026
August 2026
August 2025
August 2026
August 2026
August 2026

(1)  The grant of awards is based on the face value as outlined in Components of our reward (see page 84).
(2)  The target value considers the difficulty of achieving performance hurdles.
(3)  The number of awards granted to Executive KMP in December 2022 is calculated by dividing the face value by the VWAP of South32 Limited shares traded on the ASX over the 
last 10 trading days of June 2022, being A$4.08. The fair value at grant for accounting purposes, as calculated by an external provider, was A$2.37 per right for the FY23 LTI and 
FY23 MSP Performance awards and A$3.85 per right for the FY23 MSP Retention award.

(4)  Fixed remuneration for N Pillay used to determine his FY23 LTI award was converted to A$ using an exchange rate of AUD: ZAR 11.11.

94

GOVERNANCE

 
FY23 LTI Strategic Measures Performance Update
In FY22 we introduced two strategic measures, with a total weighting of 20 per cent of our LTI grant, to directly link executive 
remuneration to our approach to climate change and the transition of our portfolio towards the commodities critical for a low-carbon 
future. 

Vesting outcomes for the strategic measures will be determined by the Board following the end of each four-year performance period 
(e.g. on 30 June 2026 for the FY23 LTI award), based on our ability to make material progress in these areas, while aiming to protect 
and create shareholder value as we navigate this business-critical transformation. The Board’s rationale in assessing performance 
and determining the vesting outcome for each measure will be clearly articulated and shared with shareholders following the Board’s 
assessment.

Table 1.11 below summarises the progress made against each four-year strategic measure during FY23.

Table 1.11 – Strategic Measures update for FY23

Measure

Climate change

FY23 progress against Measure 

We have announced plans to reduce our operational 
greenhouse gas emissions (Scope 1 and 2) by 50 per 
cent between FY21 and 2035, by implementing our 
decarbonisation framework, which includes:  

 – The advancement of conceptual projects 

through our capital investment tollgates, and the 
successful commissioning of identified emissions 
reduction projects; 

 – The ongoing assessment of new technologies and 

alternative energy sources; and 

In FY23(1), we have continued to mature and accelerate our planned decarbonisation 
programs to support our medium-term target and long-term goals. Key milestones 
included:

 – Commencing the conversion of Worsley Alumina’s first coal-fired boiler to natural 

gas, and progressing decarbonisation studies including mud washing, waste heat to 
digestion, and coal-alternative steam supply; 

 – Converting 18 per cent of Hillside Aluminium pots to AP3XLE energy efficiency 
technology and progressing studies to transition the smelter's energy source 
from coal-based power to secure, reliable and affordable low-carbon energy in the 
medium-term; 

 – Continued participation and direct investment in 

 – Progressing the commercial scale pilot of CSIRO ventilation air methane technology 

research and development partnerships. 

into feasibility at Illawarra Metallurgical Coal;

Consistent with our purpose, we will work to provide 
a just transition towards net zero in a way that 
supports our people, local communities and other 
stakeholders.

 – Transitioning Sierra Gorda to 100 per cent renewable energy;
 – Leading the Electric Mine Consortium’s infrastructure workstream and contributing 

by trialling light electric vehicles at Cannington; and

 – Embedding our just transition guiding principles into our environment and climate 

change standard and our social performance standard. 

Portfolio management

We are planning to further reshape our portfolio and 
increase our exposure to the commodities critical to 
a low-carbon future by:

 – Building a high-quality portfolio of greenfield and 
brownfield exploration and development options;

In FY23, we have continued to make progress in this transformative area. Key 
milestones included:

 – Embedding our recent investments in Sierra Gorda copper and our expanded low-
carbon aluminium capacity, increasing aluminium production by 14 per cent and 
base metals by 17 per cent;

 – Optimising our existing portfolio by responsibly 

 – Progressing multiple exploration programs as we continued work to discover our 

transferring ownership of non-core operations or 
transitioning them to closure;

 – Developing or acquiring operations which are 

cash generative through the cycle, improving the 
overall quality of our business; and

next generation of base metals mines;

 – Consolidating our position in Argentina’s highly prospective San Juan province by 
exercising our earn-in right with Minsud Resources for 50.1 per cent of the Chita 
Valley copper exploration prospect and acquiring an interest in Aldebaran Resources;
 – Commencing our largest greenfield exploration program at our 100 per cent-owned 

 – Maintaining discipline by adhering to our proven 

Roosevelt project in Alaska, targeting copper and zinc mineralisation;

capital management framework.

 – Completing the sale of four non-core royalties, unlocking further latent value in our 

portfolio; and

 – Progressing exploration for copper, in additional to zinc, lead and silver at Hermosa's 
Peake prospect. In addition, permit applications have been advanced during the 
last 12 months to allow for testing of the Flux Prospect, a high priority target with 
similarities to the Taylor Deposit.

(1)  Further information on the progress of items listed can be found in our Sustainable Development Report at www.south32.net.

95

SOUTH32 ANNUAL REPORT 2023REMUNERATION REPORT CONTINUED

Terms and conditions of rights awarded under equity plans

Type of equity

Dividend and voting 
rights

We deliver deferred STI and LTI equity awards (including Transitional LTI and MSP awards) in the form of share rights. 
These are rights to receive fully paid ordinary shares in South32 Limited (or at the Board’s discretion, a cash 
equivalent amount) subject to meeting specific performance and vesting conditions. As the rights are an element of 
remuneration, no amount is payable by employees to be allocated the rights. If the rights vest, no consideration or 
exercise price is payable for the allocation of shares. As rights are automatically exercised on vesting, they do not 
have an expiry date.

Rights carry no entitlement to voting, dividends or dividend equivalent payments.

Unless our Board determines otherwise:

 – Resignation or termination for cause: all unvested rights lapse;
 – Death, serious injury, disability or illness that prevents continued employment or total permanent disability: all 

Cessation of 
employment

unvested rights vest immediately; and

 – Other circumstances, generally: 

•  Deferred STI awards: all unvested rights vest immediately; 

•  LTI and MSP Performance awards: all unvested rights are pro-rated and the reduced portion remains on foot 

and eligible for vesting in the ordinary course, subject to any applicable performance hurdles; and

•  MSP Retention awards: all unvested rights are pro-rated and the reduced portion vests immediately. 

Where awards are pro-rated, the remaining portion lapses. 

Change of control

Our Board can determine the level of vesting (if any) having regard to the portion of the vesting period elapsed, 
performance to date against any applicable performance conditions and other factors they deem appropriate.

Our Board can reduce or clawback all vested and unvested STI and LTI awards in certain circumstances so that 
executives do not obtain an inappropriate benefit. These circumstances are broad, and can include: 

Malus and Clawback

 – An executive engaging in misconduct; 
 – A material misstatement of our accounts that results in vesting; 
 – Behaviours of executives that bring South32 into disrepute;
 – A significant unexpected or unintended consequence or outcome; and 
 – Any other factor our Board deems justifiable.

Rights to participate  
in new issues

A participant cannot take part in new issues of securities in relation to their unvested rights. However, the relevant 
plan rules include specific provisions dealing with rights issues, bonus issues and corporate actions, and other 
capital reconstructions. 

96

GOVERNANCE

Non-Executive Director remuneration 
Components of our reward for FY23

Component

Board Fees

Committee Fees

Travel Allowance

We pay Committee fees to recognise 
the additional responsibilities 
associated with participating on a 
Board Committee.

The why

As a global company, it’s important 
that we offer competitive Non-
Executive Director fees to help us 
attract the appropriate level of 
experience from a diverse global pool. 

Our Board fees reflect the size, 
complexity and global nature of our 
business and acknowledge the 
responsibilities of serving on our 
Board.

To preserve the independence of our 
Non-Executive Directors, their 
remuneration does not have an ‘at risk’ 
element.

The how

Board fee inclusive of superannuation.  We pay a fixed fee to our Board Chair 

for all responsibilities, including 
participation on any Board 
Committees.

Other Non-Executive Directors receive 
Committee Chair and member fees 
(where applicable). 

Our Board meetings are ordinarily held in 
Australia, South Africa and North and South 
America (see page 71 for more details). 

Site visits are also an important part of our 
usual Board program, giving Directors:

 – A better understanding of workplace 

culture through interactions with site-based 
employees;

 – An improved understanding of local and 

operational risks;

 – A chance to participate in continuous 

education; and

 – On-the-ground experience. 
As these meetings (site visits and other 
engagements) take time and commitment, 
particularly if they are in remote locations, we 
provide our Non-Executive Directors with a 
travel allowance.

For air travel to a Board commitment that is 
greater than three hours but less than 10 hours 
to the destination, a one-off allowance of 
A$5,000 per trip applies. Where air travel is 
greater than 10 hours to the destination, the 
allowance per trip is A$10,000. 

The travel allowance is only paid where travel is 
undertaken and does not apply to domestic 
travel to a regularly scheduled Board meeting.

Fee Pool

The maximum aggregate amount we can pay our Non-Executive Directors remains at A$3.9 million per annum (fee pool). We 
will always seek shareholder approval before making any changes to this pool.

Minimum 
shareholding 
requirement

Each Non-Executive Director is required to accumulate a minimum shareholding level of one year’s Board fees within a 
reasonable period. See page 102 for shareholdings of our Non-Executive Directors.

FY23 Non-Executive Director fees 
We review fees every year and may get external advice to help us do so. We based the review of FY23 fees on data provided by external 
consultants. This resulted in a three per cent increase to Board fees for the Chair and other Non-Executive Directors from 1 September 
2022, which were the first increases to Board fees since 1 September 2019.

The table below outlines the fee levels for FY23. There will be no increase to Non-Executive Director fees in FY24. 

Table 1.12 – FY23 Board fees, effective 1 September 2022

Fee

Board fees

Committee fees(1)

Description

FY23 fee  
(A$ per annum)

Increase %  
from FY22 fee

Board of Directors
Chair of the Board 
Other Non-Executive Directors

Risk and Audit, Remuneration, and Sustainability Committees
Committee Chair
Members

595,250 
195,000

46,000 
23,000

3.0
3.0

0
0

(1)  No Committee Chair or member fees were paid in FY23 for participation on the Nomination and Governance Committee.

97

SOUTH32 ANNUAL REPORT 2023REMUNERATION REPORT CONTINUED

FY23 Non-Executive Director remuneration 
In Table 1.13, we have set out the statutory disclosures required under the Act and in accordance with Australian Accounting Standards, 
in respect of FY23 remuneration paid to Non-Executive Directors.

Table 1.13 – Non-Executive Director remuneration (A$’000)

Non-Executive Director

FY23 term

K Wood

Full year

F Cooper AO

Full year

G Lansdown

Ceased on 31 May 2023

X Liu

Full year

C Mesquita

Appointed on 1 May 
2023

N Mtoba

Full year

J Nelson

Appointed on 1 May 
2023

W Osborn

Full year

K Rumble

Full year

Total

(1)  Includes assistance with tax return preparation.
(2)  Includes travel allowances paid.

FY23
FY22
FY23
FY22
FY23
FY22
FY23
FY22
FY23
FY22
FY23
FY22
FY23
FY22
FY23
FY22
FY23
FY22
FY23
FY22

Short-term benefits

Post-
employment 
benefits

Board and 
Committee fees

Non-monetary 
benefits(1)

Other cash 
allowances and 
benefits(2)

Superannuation

567
554
238
235
239
256
215
212
33
-
214
212
33
-
238
235
260
258
2,037
1,962

0
-
0
-
2
1
0
-
0
-
4
-
0
-
0
-
2
2
8
3

20
10
10
10
45
25
30
10
10
-
40
20
5
-
35
10
45
20
240
105

25
24
25
24
3
1
25
24
0
-
3
1
0
-
25
24
3
1
109
99

Total

612
588
273
269
289
283
270
246
43
-
261
233
38
-
298
269
310
281
2,394
2,169

98

GOVERNANCE

Looking forward to FY24

No major changes are proposed for the reward framework for FY24. The Board has confidence in the integrity of the reward framework, 
the core elements of which have remained unchanged since demerger, and believes it incorporates the necessary flexibility to reward 
our Executive KMP for performance that is aligned with the interests of stakeholders. 

Fixed remuneration
The Board approved increases to the fixed remuneration of Executive KMP to maintain fixed remuneration at competitive levels in 
alignment with our reward framework (see page 84). These align with the increases applied to the broader workforce in the relevant 
geographies (four and a half per cent in Australia and six per cent in South Africa) (see Table 1.14).  

Table 1.14 – Fixed remuneration for Executive KMP in FY24, effective 1 September 2023

Executive KMP

G Kerr
S Sibenaler
J Economidis
N Pillay(1)

FY23 fixed  
remuneration 
(A$)

1,906,000
830,000
819,000
ZAR 8,190,000

FY24 fixed  
remuneration 
(A$)

1,991,000
867,000
856,000
ZAR 8,680,000

Increase 
%

4.5
4.5
4.5
6.0

(1)  Fixed Remuneration for N Pillay is denominated in ZAR. Using an exchange rate of AUD:ZAR 11.96, FY24 fixed remuneration in A$ is A$725,750.

Short-term incentive
The structure of our STI plan will remain unchanged for FY24. However, we have adjusted the measures in our Business Scorecard and 
their respective weightings (refer Diagram 1.11 for the FY24 STI measures) to reflect the key focus areas of our Executive KMP and other 
Lead Team members in FY24. The adjustment will result in an increase in weighting towards Safety and Culture as well as Environment 
and Social measures whilst maintaining focus on the financial metrics. Further, we have narrowed our Strategic Delivery measure to 
focus on delivery of key Hermosa project milestones, with the 20 per cent weighting in the LTI capturing the delivery of our broader 
strategic milestones.

Diagram 1.11 – FY24 STI Business Scorecard Performance Metric Weightings

Measures

Performance metrics 

FY24 weighting

Safety and Culture

Safety and health, risk management, people

Environment and Social

Social performance, water performance

Financial

Adjusted return on invested capital, production, cost and capital expenditure

Strategic Delivery

Hermosa

X

25.0%

10.0%

57.5%

7.5%

Business Modifier

Consider factors that are not specifically contemplated in the Business Scorecard

+/-

=

South32 Business Outcome

Reflects our performance over the financial year

Long-term incentive
We are not changing the design of the LTI for FY24. We will continue to measure our performance over a four-year period with 80 per 
cent assessed based on TSR performance relative to two comparator groups and 20 per cent assessed against two strategic measures, 
climate change and portfolio management, each with a 10 per cent weighting. 

Director Fees
There will no increase to Non-Executive Director fees or change to the travel allowances in FY24.

99

SOUTH32 ANNUAL REPORT 2023REMUNERATION REPORT CONTINUED

Statutory disclosures
Statutory remuneration table for Executive KMP
In the following table, we have set out the statutory disclosures required under the Act and in accordance with the Australian 
Accounting Standards. The amounts shown reflect the remuneration for each member of Executive KMP that relates to their service as 
KMP in FY23.

Table 1.15 – Statutory remuneration of Executive KMP in FY23 (A$’000)

Short term benefits

Post 
employment 
benefits

Termination 
benefits

Other 
long-term 
benefits(3) Share based payments(4)

Executive KMP

G Kerr

K Tovich(5)

S Sibenaler(6)

J Economidis

N Pillay(7)

Total

FY23
FY22
FY23
FY22
FY23
FY22
FY23
FY22
FY23
FY22
FY23
FY22

Salary

1,651
1,640
609
768
195
-
716
726
631
523
3,802
3,657

Cash 
bonus(1)

Non-
monetary 
benefits(2) Superannuation

719
1,215
459
691
84
-
352
482
248
217
1,862
2,605

48
42
11
9
1
-
12
7
26
101
98
159

28
25
21
28
6
-
26
40
-
-
81
93

LTI / MSP

2,605
2,500
622
698
49
-
748
637
593
285
4,617
4,120

176
168
62
79
19
-
74
71
79
47
410
365

STI

833
852
425
478
9
-
271
185
151
56
1,689
1,571

-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-

Percentage of 
total 
remuneration 
which is 
performance 
tested

Total 
remuneration

69%
71%
68%
68%
39%
-
62%
61%
57%
45%

6,060
6,442
2,209
2,751
363
-
2,199
2,148
1,728
1,229
12,559
12,570

(1)  STI is provided half in cash (which is included in the cash bonus column of the table) in September following the end of the performance period and half in deferred rights 

(which is included in the share-based payments column of the table). The value of the deferred equity portion is amortised over the vesting period. 

(2)  Non-monetary benefits are non-pensionable and include such items as insurances, car parking and personal tax assistance. FY22 non-monetary benefits for N Pillay also 

include relocation benefits provided prior to becoming a member of Executive KMP to assist with his relocation to South Africa. 

(3)  Other long-term benefits is the accounting expense of annual and long-service leave accrued.
(4)  The related awards were not actually provided to the Executive KMP. The figures are calculated in accordance with Australian Accounting Standards and are the amortised fair 
values of equity and equity-related instruments that have been granted to Executive KMP. Refer to Table 1.16 on page 101 in this report for information on awards outstanding 
during FY23.

(5)  FY23 remuneration for K Tovich is for the period until she ceased to be a member of Executive KMP (31 March 2023).
(6)  FY23 remuneration for S Sibenaler is for the period from when she commenced as a member of Executive KMP (1 April 2023). 
(7)  FY23 salary for N Pillay has been converted to A$ using an exchange rate of AUD: ZAR 11.96. FY22 remuneration for N Pillay is for the period from when he became a member of 
Executive KMP (1 December 2021). FY22 salary for N Pillay has been converted to A$ using an exchange rate of AUD: ZAR 11.13 with the exception of a relocation allowance of 
ZAR 1,500,000 paid on 25 October 2021 which has been converted to A$ using an exchange rate of AUD: ZAR 10.99.

100

GOVERNANCE

Details of rights held by Executive KMP

In the following table, we have set out more information about the rights over South32 shares held by Executive KMP, including the 
movements in rights held during FY23. No closely related parties of any Executive KMP are issued rights over South32 shares.  
See page 96 for terms and conditions of rights awarded under our equity plans. 

Table 1.16 – Detail and movement of rights over South32 shares held by Executive KMP during FY23

Award(1)(2)

Executive KMP

G Kerr
FY22 Deferred STI (S)
FY23 LTI (P)
FY21 Deferred STI (S)
FY22 LTI (P)
FY20 Deferred STI (S)
FY21 LTI (P)
FY20 LTI (P)
FY19 LTI (P)
K Tovich(6)
FY22 Deferred STI (S)
FY23 LTI (P)
FY21 Deferred STI (S)
FY22 LTI (P)
FY20 Deferred STI (S)
FY21 LTI (P)
FY20 LTI (P)
FY20 Transitional LTI (P)
FY19 MSP Performance (P)
S Sibenaler(7)
FY23 MSP Retention (S)
FY23 MSP Performance (P)
FY22 MSP Retention (S)
FY22 MSP Performance (P)
FY21 MSP Retention (S)
FY21 MSP Performance (P)
J Economidis
FY22 Deferred STI (S)
FY23 LTI (P)
FY21 Deferred STI (S)
FY22 LTI (P)
FY22 Transitional LTI (P)
FY21 MSP Retention (S)
FY21 MSP Performance (P)
FY20 MSP Retention (S)
FY20 MSP Performance (P)
FY19 MSP Performance (P)
N Pillay
FY22 Deferred STI (S)
FY23 LTI (P)
FY22 LTI (P)
FY22 Transitional LTI (P)
FY21 MSP Retention (S)
FY21 MSP Performance (P)
FY20 MSP Retention (S)
FY20 MSP Performance (P)
FY19 MSP Performance (P)

Opening 
balance as at 
1 July 2022

Number

7,632,787
-
-
 242,160
 1,267,015
280,988
2,695,544
1,696,261
1,450,819
2,325,220
 -
 -
157,804
403,874
156,030
821,782
517,133
129,283
139,314
284,124
32,113
53,522
43,246
72,076
23,762
59,405
1,437,646
-
-
37,628
362,094
102,094
99,009
 495,049
62,305
155,763
123,704
1,031,024
-
-
329,962
93,034
86,262
215,655
54,283
135,708
116,120

Grant 
date

Granted in 
FY23(3) 

Vested in FY23

Lapsed / forfeited or 
other change in FY23

 Closing 
balance as at 
30 June 
2023(6)

Anticipated 
vesting date(4)

Number

Number(4)

08-Dec-22
08-Dec-22
06-Dec-21
06-Dec-21
04-Dec-20
04-Dec-20
06-Dec-19
07-Dec-18

08-Dec-22
08-Dec-22
06-Dec-21
06-Dec-21
04-Dec-20
04-Dec-20
06-Dec-19
06-Dec-19
07-Dec-18

08-Dec-22
08-Dec-22
06-Dec-21
06-Dec-21
06-May-21
06-May-21

08-Dec-22
08-Dec-22
06-Dec-21
06-Dec-21
06-Dec-21
04-Dec-20
04-Dec-20
06-Dec-19
06-Dec-19
07-Dec-18

08-Dec-22
06-Dec-22
06-Dec-21
06-Dec-21
04-Dec-20
04-Dec-20
06-Dec-19
06-Dec-19
07-Dec-18

1,217,602 
283,289
934,313
-
-
-
-
 -
 -
459,198
161,252
297,946
-
-
 -
 -
-
 -
 - 
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
379,481
112,504
266,977
-
-
-
-
-
 - 
-
-
301,582
 61,336 
240,246
-
-
-
-
-
-
-

280,988
-
-
 -
 -
280,988
-
 -
 -
199,124
 -
 -
-
-
156,030
-
-
43,094
 -
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
62,305
-
-
-
-
-
 -
-
62,305
-
-
54,283
-
-
-
-
-
-
54,283
-
-

%(5)

16
-
-
 -
 -
100
-
-
-
47
 -
 -
-
-
100
-
-
33
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
33
-
-
-
-

-
-
100
-
-
32
-
-
-
-
-
-
100
-
-

Number

1,450,819
-
-
 -
 -
-
-
-
1,450,819
225,503
-
 -
-
-
-
-
-
86,189
139,314
-

123,704
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
123,704
116,120
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
116,120

%(5)

84
-
-
 -
 -
-
-
-
100
53
 -
 -
-
-
-
-
-
67
100
-

67
-
-
-
-

-
-
-
-
100
68
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
100

Number

7,118,582
283,289
934,313
242,160
1,267,015
-
2,695,544
1,696,261
-
2,359,791 
161,252
297,946
 157,804 
403,874
-
821,782
517,133
- 
- 
284,124
 32,113 
53,522
 43,246 
72,076
 23,762 
59,405
1,631,118
112,504
266,977
37,628
362,094
102,094
99,009 
 495,049 
- 
 155,763 
- 
1,162,203
 61,336 
240,246
329,962
93,034
86,262
215,655
-
135,708
-

Aug-24
Aug-26
Aug-23
Aug-25
Aug-22
Aug-24
Aug-23
Aug-22

Aug-24
Aug-26
Aug-23
Aug-25
Aug-22
Aug-24
Aug-23
Aug-22
Aug-22

Aug-25
Aug-26
Aug-24
Aug-25
Aug-23
Aug-24

Aug-24
Aug-26
Aug-23
Aug-25
Aug-24
Aug-23
Aug-24
Aug-22
Aug-23
Aug-22

Aug-24
Aug-26
Aug-25
Aug-24
Aug-23
Aug-24
Aug-22
Aug-23
Aug-22

(1)  At the time of vesting, the quantum of all awards that vest based on performance and/or service conditions will automatically convert to South32 ordinary shares, in the 

participant’s name, for nil consideration. Any rights that do not vest will immediately lapse, hence there is no expiry date associated with the awards. (S) - Service only or (P) - 
Performance and Service conditions apply. As rights are subject to service and/or performance conditions, the minimum possible total value of rights granted under South32 
equity plans for future financial years is nil and the maximum possible total value is the number of rights multiplied by the market price of South32 shares on the date of 
vesting.

(2)  Further details regarding each of the prior year equity grants are described in past South32 Annual Reports.
(3)  The fair value for awards granted in FY23 is the grant date fair value for accounting purposes being A$3.99 for the FY22 Deferred STI award, A$2.37 for the FY23 LTI award and 
MSP Performance award and A$3.85 for the FY23 MSP Retention award. Shareholders approved, under ASX Listing Rule 10.14, the grant of rights for the CEO at the AGM on 
27 October 2022.

(4)  Rights that vested in FY23 converted to South32 ordinary shares for nil consideration on 26 August 2022. The South32 closing share price on this date was A$4.23. The vesting 

outcome for FY20 LTI awards, FY20 MSP Performance awards and FY21 MSP Retention awards scheduled to vest in August 2023 is summarised on page 94.  

(5)  The percentage is based on the maximum number of rights available to vest in FY23.
(6)  K Tovich ceased to be a member of Executive KMP on 31 March 2023. Closing balance is at this date.
(7)   S Sibenaler became a member of Executive KMP on 1 April 2023. Opening balance is as at this date.

101

SOUTH32 ANNUAL REPORT 2023 
 
 
 
 
 
REMUNERATION REPORT CONTINUED

Details of MSP and Transitional LTI awards 
Key terms and conditions of MSP and Transitional LTI awards are outlined below in table 1.17. For additional terms of the rights granted 
under the two plans, see Terms and conditions of rights awarded under equity plans on page 96.

Table 1.17 – Key terms and performance conditions of awards(1)

Award

MSP

Key Terms and Performance Conditions

The MSP is our LTI plan for eligible management employees below Lead Team level. The Plan has two elements:

 – Retention rights with a three-year vesting and service period from 1 July to 30 June, vesting in August three years from 

grant provided employees remain employed in the Group(2); and

 – Performance rights with a four-year performance and service period from 1 July to 30 June, vesting in August four years 
from grant, subject to the same performance and vesting conditions as the LTI for Executive KMP (see page 84) for that 
year. There is no retesting if the performance condition is not met and any rights that don’t vest will immediately lapse/
be forfeited.

Rights do not attract any entitlement to voting, dividends or dividend equivalent payments.

Transitional  
LTI plan

Katie, Sandy, Jason and Noel participated in the MSP prior to being permanently appointed to the Lead Team. 
When an executive is promoted to a role in the Lead Team, they move from the MSP (three-year retention rights and 
four-year performance rights) to the LTI plan for the Lead Team (four-year performance rights). The Transitional LTI is a 
one-off award that may be granted to address the potential shortfall in vesting after three years.  

These awards have the same TSR performance conditions as LTI awards granted in the same year except these awards 
have a three-year performance period.

No Transitional LTI awards were granted or vested for Executive KMP during FY23. Details about Transitional LTI awards 
that are currently on foot are outlined above in table 1.16. Further details regarding Transitional LTI awards granted in 
earlier years are described in past South32 Annual Reports.

(1)  See page 84 for key terms of the LTI.
(2)  The retention rights are subject to a service condition. Performance hurdles are factored into the performance rights component of MSP awards.

Shareholdings of KMP 

The minimum shareholding requirement for Executive KMP is summarised on page 85.

For Non-Executive Directors, the valuation approach used to determine the minimum shareholding requirement of one year’s Board fee  
is the cost to the Non-Executive Director to acquire the shares, except for shares acquired at demerger which are valued based on the 
closing South32 Ltd share price on 18 May 2015 (A$2.05). As at 30 June 2023, all Non-Executive Directors except Ms Jane Nelson and 
Dr Ntombifuthi (Futhi) Mtoba met this requirement. The percentage of fees reflected in the table below is based on our share price at 
30 June 2023.

Table 1.18 – South32 shares held directly, indirectly or beneficially by each KMP, including their related parties 

Non-Executive Directors
K Wood
F Cooper AO
G Lansdown(3)
X Liu
C Mesquita(4)
N Mtoba
J Nelson(4)
W Osborn
K Rumble
Executive KMP
G Kerr
K Tovich(5)
S Sibenaler(6)
J Economidis
N Pillay

Held at  
1 July 2022

Received  
on vesting  
of rights

Received as 
remuneration

Other net 
change(1)

Held at  
30 June 2023

% of Board 
Fees/ fixed 
remuneration(2)

367,825
128,010
80,000
60,000
177,440
71,386
-
174,104
161,380

3,804,621
455,574
-
78,743
292,167

-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-

280,988
199,124
-
62,305
54,283

-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-

-
-
-
-
-

-
-
-
6,000
-
-
-
-
-

367,825
128,010
80,000
66,000
177,440
71,386
-
174,104
161,380

(2,108,837)
(93,590)
-
(29,284)
(24,412)

1,976,772
561,108
-
111,764
322,038

232
247
154
127
342
138
0
336
311

390
231
0
51
177

(1)  Other net change includes purchases and sales and transfers of vested shares.
(2)  Based on Board fees and fixed remuneration at 30 June 2023 and the closing share price of South32 shares as at that date of A$3.76.
(3)  G Lansdown ceased to be a Non-Executive Director on 31 May 2023. Closing balance is as at this date.
(4)  C Mesquita and J Nelson were appointed as Non-Executive Directors on 1 May 2023. Opening balance is as at this date. 
(5)  K Tovich ceased to be a member of Executive KMP on 31 March 2023. Closing balance is at this date. 
(6)  S Sibenaler became a member of Executive KMP on 1 April 2023. Opening balance is as at this date. 

102

GOVERNANCE

Additional information
Transactions with KMP
There are no amounts payable to any KMP at 30 June 2023.

During FY23, there were no transactions between KMP or their close family members and the Group other than as described  in this 
report. 

There are no loans with any KMP.

A number of Directors of the Group have control or joint control of other entities (also known as personal entities). During the year, there 
have been no transactions between those entities and the Group, and no amounts were owed by or to the Group from those entities.

This Remuneration report was approved by our Board on 7 September 2023.

103

SOUTH32 ANNUAL REPORT 2023FINANCIAL REPORT

Consolidated income statement 

Consolidated statement of comprehensive income 

Consolidated balance sheet 

Consolidated cash flow statement 

Consolidated statement of changes in equity 

Notes to financial statements – Basis of preparation 

1.  Reporting entity 

2.  Basis of preparation 

3.  New standards and interpretations 

Notes to financial statements – Results for the year 

4.  Segment information 

5.  Expenses excluding finance costs 

6.  Tax 

7.  Dividends 

8.  Earnings per share 

Notes to financial statements – Operating assets and liabilities 

9.  Trade and other receivables 

10.  Inventories 

11.  Property, plant and equipment 

12.  Intangible assets 

13.  Impairment of non-financial assets 

14.  Trade and other payables 

15.  Provisions 

105

106

107

108

109

110

110

110

112

113

113

121

122

125

125

126

126

126

127

130

131

137

137

Notes to financial statements – Capital structure and financing 

16.  Cash and cash equivalents 

17. 

Interest bearing liabilities 

18.  Net finance income/(costs) 

19.  Financial assets and financial liabilities 

20.  Share capital 

Notes to financial statements – Other notes 

21.  Auditor’s remuneration 

22.  Pension and other post-retirement obligations 

23.  Employee share ownership plans 

24.  Contingent assets and liabilities 

25.  Subsidiaries 

26.  Equity accounted investments 

27.  Interests in joint operations 

28.  Key management personnel 

29.  Related party transactions 

30.  Parent entity information 

31.  Subsequent events 

Directors’ declaration 

Lead auditor’s independence declaration 

Independent auditor’s report 

140

140

140

141

142

149

150

150

150

151

155

156

157

159

160

160

161

161

162

163

164

104

FINANCIAL REPORT

CONSOLIDATED INCOME STATEMENT 
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2023

US$M

Revenue:

Group production
Third party products and services

Other income
Expenses excluding finance costs
Share of profit/(loss) of equity accounted investments
Profit from operations
Comprising:

Group production
Third party products and services

Profit from operations
Finance income
Finance costs
Net finance income/(costs)
Profit before tax
Income tax expense
Profit/(loss) for the year

Attributable to:
Equity holders of South32 Limited

Profit/(loss) for the year attributable to equity holders of South32 Limited:
Basic earnings per share (cents)
Diluted earnings per share (cents)

The accompanying notes form part of the consolidated financial statements. 

Note

FY23

FY22

6,795
634
7,429
345
(7,822)
246
198

175
23
198
222
(207)
15
213
(386)
(173)

8,522
747
9,269
183
(6,000)
272
3,724

3,704
20
3,724
79
(110)
(31)
3,693
(1,024)
2,669

(173)

2,669

(3.8)
(3.8)

57.4
57.0

4

5
26

18

6

8
8

105

SOUTH32 ANNUAL REPORT 2023CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME 
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2023

US$M

Profit/(loss) for the year
Other comprehensive income
Items that may be reclassified to the Consolidated Income Statement:
Share of other comprehensive income/(loss) of equity accounted investments
Total items that may be reclassified to the Consolidated Income Statement
Items that will not be reclassified to the Consolidated Income Statement:
Investments in equity instruments designated as fair value through other comprehensive income 
(FVOCI):

Net fair value gains/(losses)
Income tax (expense)/benefit

Share of other comprehensive income/(loss) of equity accounted investments
Gains/(losses) on pension and medical schemes
Income tax (expense)/benefit recognised within other comprehensive income
Total items that will not be reclassified to the Consolidated Income Statement
Total other comprehensive income/(loss)
Total comprehensive income/(loss)

Attributable to:
Equity holders of South32 Limited

The accompanying notes form part of the consolidated financial statements. 

Note

FY23

(173)

FY22

2,669

26

26
15

6
6

(4)
(4)

(11)
3
-
3
(1)
(6)
-
(173)

(78)
24
1
3
(1)
(51)
(55)
2,614

(173)

2,614

106

FINANCIAL REPORT

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEET 
AS AT 30 JUNE 2023

US$M

ASSETS
Current assets
Cash and cash equivalents
Trade and other receivables
Other financial assets
Inventories
Current tax assets
Other assets
Total current assets
Non-current assets
Trade and other receivables
Other financial assets
Inventories

Property, plant and equipment
Intangible assets
Equity accounted investments
Deferred tax assets
Other assets
Total non-current assets
Total assets
LIABILITIES
Current liabilities
Trade and other payables
Interest bearing liabilities
Other financial liabilities
Current tax payables
Provisions 
Deferred income
Total current liabilities
Non-current liabilities
Trade and other payables
Interest bearing liabilities
Other financial liabilities
Deferred tax liabilities
Provisions
Deferred income
Total non-current liabilities
Total liabilities
Net assets
EQUITY
Share capital 
Treasury shares
Reserves
Retained earnings/(accumulated losses)
Total equity attributable to equity holders of South32 Limited
Non-controlling interests
Total equity

The accompanying notes form part of the consolidated financial statements. 

Note

FY23

FY22

16
9
19
10

9
19
10

11
12
26
6

14
17
19

15

14
17
19
6
15

20
20

1,258
778
1
1,102
54
46
3,239

1,923
118
82

8,050
242
499
390
21
11,325
14,564

985
365
-
10
194
6
1,560

19
1,376
37
210
1,986
1
3,629
5,189
9,375

13,251
(51)
(3,553)
(271)
9,376
(1)
9,375

2,365
844
1
982
4
44
4,240

1,903
64
76

8,988
186
470
394
15
12,096
16,336

989
402
6
308
186
6
1,897

8
1,425
84
307
1,835
1
3,660
5,557
10,779

13,469
(32)
(3,558)
901
10,780
(1)
10,779

107

SOUTH32 ANNUAL REPORT 2023CONSOLIDATED CASH FLOW STATEMENT 
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2023

US$M

Operating activities
Profit before tax
Adjustments for:
Non-cash or non-operating significant items 
Depreciation and amortisation expense
Net impairment loss/(reversal) of financial assets
Net impairment loss/(reversal) of non-financial assets
Employee share awards expense
Net finance (income)/costs
Share of (profit)/loss of equity accounted investments
(Gains)/losses on derivative instruments, contingent consideration and other investments 
measured at fair value through profit or loss (FVTPL)
Other non-cash or non-operating items

Changes in assets and liabilities:
Trade and other receivables
Inventories
Trade and other payables
Provisions and other liabilities
Cash generated from operations
Interest received
Interest paid
Income tax paid
Dividends received
Dividends received from equity accounted investments 
Net cash flows from operating activities
Investing activities
Purchases of property, plant and equipment
Exploration expenditure
Exploration expenditure expensed and included in operating cash flows
Purchase of intangibles
Investment in financial assets
Proceeds from financial assets
Payments related to the acquisition of subsidiaries and joint operations, net of their cash
Payments related to the acquisition of equity accounted investments
Proceeds from sale of intangibles
Net cash flows from investing activities
Financing activities
Proceeds from interest bearing liabilities
Repayment of interest bearing liabilities
Purchase of shares by Employee Share Ownership Plan (ESOP) Trusts
Share buy-back
Dividends paid
Net cash flows from financing activities
Net increase/(decrease) in cash and cash equivalents
Cash and cash equivalents, net of overdrafts, at the beginning of the year
Effect of foreign exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents
Cash and cash equivalents, net of overdrafts, at the end of the year

The accompanying notes form part of the consolidated financial statements. 

Note

FY23

FY22

213

3,693

4

7

16

(186)
653
71
1,300
24
(15)
(246)

(6)
(4)

178
(126)
(45)
3
1,814
78
(109)
(818)
3
223
1,191

(790)
(98)
59
(65)
(179)
117
(25)
-
73
(908)

-
(133)
(33)
(218)
(1,007)
(1,391)
(1,108)
2,365
1
1,258

(77)
624
26
145
23
31
(272)

(29)
(18)

(300)
(206)
160
(82)
3,718
66
(70)
(868)
 -
224
3,070

(522)
(70)
37
(4)
(222)
230
(114)
(1,430)
 -
(2,095)

1,527
(932)
(22)
(128)
(660)
(215)
760
1,613
(8)
2,365

108

FINANCIAL REPORT

 
 
 
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN EQUITY 
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2023

Attributable to equity holders of South32 Limited

Share 
capital

Treasury 
shares

Financial 
assets 
reserve(1)

Employee 
share awards 
reserve(2)

Other 
reserves(3)

Retained 
earnings/
(accumulated 
losses)

US$M

Balance as at 1 July 2022
Profit/(loss) for the year
Other comprehensive income/(loss)
Total comprehensive income/(loss)
Transactions with owners:

Dividends
Shares bought back and cancelled
Employee share entitlements for unvested 
awards, net of tax
Employee share awards vested and lapsed, 
net of tax
Purchase of shares by ESOP Trusts 

Balance as at 30 June 2023

Balance as at 1 July 2021
Profit/(loss) for the year
Other comprehensive income/(loss)
Total comprehensive income/(loss)
Transactions with owners:

Dividends
Shares bought back and cancelled
Employee share entitlements for unvested 
awards, net of tax
Employee share awards vested and lapsed, 
net of tax
Purchase of shares by ESOP Trusts
Transfer of cumulative fair value loss on an 
investment in equity instruments 
designated as FVOCI(4)
Balance as at 30 June 2022

13,469
-
-
-

-
(218)

-

-
-
13,251

13,597
-
-
-

-
(128)

-

-
-

-
13,469

(32)
-
-
-

-
-

-

14
(33)
(51)

(22)
-
-
-

-
-

-

12
(22)

-
(32)

(3,597)
-
6
6

901
(173)
2
(171)

Total

10,780
(173)
-
(173)

-
-

-

(1,007)
-

(1,007)
(218)

-

29

-
-
(3,591)

(3,593)
-
(4)
(4)

-
-

-

-
-

6
-
(271)

(1,053)
2,669
3
2,672

(2)
(33)
9,376

8,955
2,669
(55)
2,614

(660)
-

(660)
(128)

-

12
-

27

(6)
(22)

Non-
controlling 
interests

(1)
-
-
-

-
-

-

-
-
(1)

(1)
-
-
-

-
-

-

-
-

Total 
equity

10,779
(173)
-
(173)

(1,007)
(218)

29

(2)
(33)
9,375

8,954
2,669
(55)
2,614

(660)
(128)

27

(6)
(22)

(6)
-
(8)
(8)

-
-

-

-
-
(14)

(22)
-
(54)
(54)

-
-

-

-
-

45
-
-
-

-
-

29

(22)
-
52

48
-
-
-

-
-

27

(30)
-

70
(6)

-
45

-
(3,597)

(70)
901

-
10,780

-
(1)

-
10,779

(1)  Represents the fair value movement in financial assets designated as FVOCI.
(2)  Represents the accrued employee entitlements to share awards that have not yet vested.
(3)  Primarily consists of the common control transaction reserve of US$3,569 million, which reflects the difference between consideration paid and the carrying value of assets 

and liabilities acquired, as well as the gains/losses on disposal of entities as part of the demerger of the Group in 2015.
(4)  Relates to the acquisition of an additional 18.2 per cent shareholding and related rights in Mineração Rio do Norte in FY22.

The accompanying notes form part of the consolidated financial statements. 

109

SOUTH32 ANNUAL REPORT 2023NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – BASIS OF PREPARATION

This section sets out the accounting policies that relate to the 
consolidated financial statements of South32 Limited (referred 
to as the Company) and its subsidiaries and joint arrangements 
(collectively, the Group) as a whole. Where an accounting policy, 
critical accounting estimate, assumption or judgement is specific 
to a note, these are described within the note to which they 
relate. These policies have been consistently applied to all periods 
presented, except as described in note 3 New standards and 
interpretations. 

The consolidated financial statements of the Group for the year 
ended 30 June 2023 were authorised for issue in accordance with 
a resolution of the Directors on 7 September 2023.

1.  Reporting entity

South32 Limited is a for-profit company limited by shares 
incorporated in Australia with a primary listing on the Australian 
Securities Exchange (ASX), a standard listing on the London Stock 
Exchange (LSE) and a secondary listing on the Johannesburg 
Stock Exchange (JSE).

The nature of the operations and principal activities of the Group 
are described in note 4 Segment information.

2.  Basis of preparation

The consolidated financial statements are general purpose 
financial statements which: 

 – Have been prepared in accordance with the requirements 

of the Corporations Act 2001, Australian Accounting 
Standards and other authoritative pronouncements of the 
Australian Accounting Standards Board (AASB), International 
Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) and other authoritative 
pronouncements of the International Accounting Standards 
Board (IASB);

 – Have been prepared on a historical cost basis, except for 

post-retirement assets and obligations, derivative financial 
instruments and certain other financial assets and liabilities 
which are required to be measured at fair value;

 – Are presented in US dollars, with all values rounded to the 

nearest million dollars (US$M or US$ million) unless otherwise 
stated, in accordance with ASIC Corporations Instrument 
2016/191;

 – Present reclassified comparative information where required 

for consistency with the current year’s presentation; 

 – Adopt all new and amended accounting standards and 

interpretations issued by the AASB and IASB that are relevant 
to the operations of the Group and effective for reporting 
periods beginning on or after 1 July 2022. Refer to note 3 New 
standards and interpretations for further details; and

 – Do not early adopt any accounting standards and 

interpretations that have been issued or amended but are 
not yet effective as described in note 3 New standards and 
interpretations. 

(a)  Basis of consolidation 
The consolidated financial statements comprise the financial 
statements of the Group. A list of significant controlled entities 
(subsidiaries) at year end is contained in note 25 Subsidiaries. 

The financial statements of subsidiaries are prepared for the 
same reporting period as the parent entity, using consistent 
accounting policies. 

Changes in the Group’s interest in a subsidiary that do not result 
in a loss of control are accounted for as equity transactions.

(b)  Foreign currency translation
The functional currency of the majority of the Group’s operations 
is the US dollar, as this is assessed to be the principal currency of 
the economic environments in which they operate. 

Transactions denominated in foreign currencies are initially 
recorded in the functional currency using the exchange rate at the 
date of the underlying transaction. Monetary assets and liabilities 
denominated in foreign currencies are translated using the rate of 
exchange at year end. Exchange gains or losses on retranslation 
are included in the Consolidated Income Statement, with the 
exception of foreign exchange gains or losses on foreign currency 
provisions for closure and rehabilitation which are capitalised in 
property, plant and equipment for operating sites.

(c)  Key estimates, assumptions and judgements
The preparation of the consolidated financial statements 
has required management to apply accounting policies and 
methodologies that are based on complex and subjective 
estimates, assumptions and judgements. Management based 
its estimates and judgements on historical experience and 
assumptions it believes to be reasonable and realistic based 
on the current environment. Actual results may differ from 
those reported in these statements due to the uncertainties 
that characterise the assumptions and conditions on which the 
estimates are based. 

Specific sources of uncertainty identified by the Group are set out 
on the following pages and/or together with the applicable note, 
as follows:

Key estimates, assumptions and judgements

Recognition of deferred taxes
Uncertain tax matters
Useful economic lives of assets
Impairment of non-financial assets 
Closure and rehabilitation provisions
Expected credit loss on credit-impaired financial assets

note 6
note 6
note 11
note 13
note 15
note 19

In addition to the specific sources of uncertainty noted above, the 
following assumptions are considered pervasive to the financial 
statements as a whole:

Climate change-related risks and opportunities
The key estimates, assumptions and judgements made in these 
consolidated financial statements take into account the Group’s 
expectations of, and approach to, climate change-related risks, 
and are consistent with the Group’s reporting on climate-related 
matters. 

These expectations may affect the Group’s financial results and 
financial position in a number of ways, including the following:

 – The useful lives of assets, and therefore the depreciation and 
amortisation charged in the Consolidated Income Statement, 
may be impacted by changes in operational plans (refer to note 
11 Property, plant and equipment);

 – Asset recoverable amounts may be affected due to changes 

in estimated future cash flows driven by, for example, changes 
in forecast commodity prices, operating costs, carbon prices 
and useful lives of assets (refer to note 13 Impairment of non-
financial assets and note 19(b)(iii) Credit risk: Shareholder loan 
receivable from Sierra Gorda);

 – The commercial viability of exploration areas of interest may 

impact the recoverability of exploration and evaluation assets 
(refer to note 13 Impairment of non-financial assets); and

 – Timing and cost of closure and rehabilitation activities (refer to 

note 15 Provisions).

The carrying amount of the associated deferred tax assets/
liabilities may change due to changes in estimates of the likely 
recovery of the related tax benefits. 

110

FINANCIAL REPORT

2.  Basis of preparation continued
(c)   Key estimates, assumptions and judgements 

continued

Global transition to a low-carbon world
While we are committed to the goals of the Paris Agreement, 
current global signposts continue to point towards a probable 
trajectory of at least 2°C warming which forms our base case(1) 
for global transition to a low-carbon world. Our base case directly 
informs our commodity demand outlook, forecast commodity 
prices and carbon prices. Any change in our base case may in 
turn impact our Ore Reserve estimates, mine plans, production 
volumes and future costs. 

The Group’s key estimates, assumptions and judgements with 
respect to transition risks and opportunities are based on the 
Group’s expectations and assessments at the date of this report, 
and actual results may differ. Government policies and market 
developments continue to drive uncertainty in commodity and 
carbon price outlooks, which may impact the Group’s approach 
to climate change and assumptions and judgements, which may 
in turn result in material changes to financial results and the 
carrying values of assets and liabilities in future reporting periods.

Physical impacts of climate change
The Group’s operations are located in regions that may 
experience extreme temperatures, bushfires, flooding and 
droughts. The Group has performed a baseline risk assessment of 
the physical impacts of climate change on its operated portfolio, 
with the assessment based on scenarios RCP4.5 and RCP8.5 as 
described by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change 
(IPCC)(2). 

Longer term assets (including those that move into closure) are 
likely to face more significant challenges due to the expected 
severity of climate risks manifesting over longer timeframes. 
Climate change is likely to exacerbate the risks to water supply, 
storage and usage that we currently manage, particularly 
for operations in areas of water scarcity and other sensitive 
environmental aspects. 

The risk of the physical impacts of climate change were 
contemplated during the development of our life of operation 
plans (including closure estimates) and additional capital and/
or increases to operating costs have been incorporated into 
our forward-looking estimates when deemed appropriate. The 
Group’s ongoing analysis of reasonable alternative assumptions 
with respect to future climate conditions has not identified any 
additional indicator that the carrying value of assets cannot be 
recovered or that useful lives of assets will be shortened.

The Group’s key estimates, assumptions and judgments with 
respect to the physical impacts of climate change are based 
on the Group’s expectations and assessments as at the date 
of this report, and actual results may differ. The high degree of 
uncertainty around the nature, timing and magnitude of weather 
events and long-term changes in climate patterns, as well as 
the Group’s continued physical risk assessment process and 
development of its direct adaptation and mitigation strategies, 
may result in material changes to financial results and carrying 
value of assets and liabilities in future reporting periods. 

Mineral Resources and Ore Reserves
Estimating the quantity and/or grade of Mineral Resources 
requires the location, quantity, grade (or quality), continuity 
and other geological characteristics to be known, estimated or 
interpreted from specific geological evidence and knowledge, 
including sampling, in order to satisfy the requirement that there 
are reasonable prospects for eventual economic extraction. 
This process may require complex and difficult geological 
assessments to interpret the data.

An Ore Reserve is the economically mineable part of the 
Measured and/or Indicated Mineral Resource that can be 
legally extracted, or where there is a reasonable expectation 
that approvals for extraction will be granted. In order to 
estimate Ore Reserves, consideration is required for a range of 
modifying factors, including mining, processing, metallurgical, 
infrastructure, economic, marketing, legal, environmental, social 
and governmental. When reporting Ore Reserves, the relevant 
studies, to at least a pre-feasibility level, must demonstrate that, 
at the time of reporting, extraction could be reasonably justified, 
including a consideration of forecast sales prices. 

With the exception of Sierra Gorda's mineral reserves, the Group 
reports Mineral Resources and Ore Reserves in accordance 
with the Australasian Code for Reporting of Exploration Results, 
Mineral Resources and Ore Reserves (JORC Code), and the ASX 
Listing Rules (Chapter 5): Additional reporting on mining and oil 
and gas production and exploration activities. The Sierra Gorda 
estimates of mineral reserves are foreign estimates under the 
ASX Listing Rules and are not reported in accordance with the 
JORC Code. Refer to the Resources and Reserves section of this 
report for further information on the qualifying foreign estimates 
related to Sierra Gorda.

Because the economic assumptions used to estimate the Ore 
Reserves change from period to period, and because additional 
geological data is generated during the course of operations, 
estimates of the Mineral Resources and Ore Reserves may change 
from period to period. The Group’s planning processes consider 
the impacts of climate change on its Ore Reserves, including 
assessments of operating costs and the impact of extreme 
weather events on the expectation of economic extraction.

The Group may also include Exploration Targets in determining 
the recoverable amount of a cash generating unit (CGU) or an 
exploration area of interest.

Similar to climate-change related risks and opportunities, 
changes in the Group's estimates of Mineral Resources and Ore 
Reserves, including estimates of exploration potential, may affect 
the Group’s financial results and financial position in a number of 
ways, including asset recoverable amounts, useful lives of assets, 
commercial viability of exploration areas of interest, timing and 
cost of closure and rehabilitation activities and the recovery of 
any associated deferred tax assets. 

(1)  By contrast, our FY23 1.5°C scenario, which is primarily based on the International Energy Agency’s Net Zero Emissions 2050 scenario (IEA NZE), is utilised by the Group to 
assess the resilience of our portfolio under a rapid global transition. The IEA NZE sets out one credible pathway to achieving a 1.5°C outcome by 2050, providing a set of 
general assumptions on commodity demand drivers, scrap availability, material efficiency and carbon prices.

(2)  There are four Representative Concentration Pathways (RCPs) representing possible future greenhouse gas emissions and concentration scenarios. RCP4.5 equates to 

between 1.1°C and 2.6°C of warming by the end of the century. RCP8.5 equates to between 2.6°C and 4.8°C of warming by the end of the century.

111

SOUTH32 ANNUAL REPORT 2023NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – BASIS OF PREPARATION CONTINUED

3.  New standards and interpretations
(a)   New accounting standards and interpretations 

effective from 1 July 2022

The following new accounting standards and interpretations have 
been published and are effective for the year ended 30 June 
2023:

 – Amendments to AASB 137 – Onerous Contracts, Costs to Fulfil 

a Contract;

 – Amendments to AASB 3 – Updating a reference to the 

Conceptual Framework;

 – Amendments to AASB 116 – Property, Plant and Equipment, 

Proceeds before Intended Use; and

 – Amendments to AASB 112 – International Tax Reform – Pillar 

Two Model Rules.

The Group has reviewed these amendments and concluded that 
none have a significant impact on the Group. Refer to note 6(f) 
for further details of the impact on the Group as a result of the 
international tax reform and the related amendments to AASB 
112.

(b)   New accounting standards and interpretations 

issued but not effective

The following new accounting standards and interpretations 
have been published but are not yet effective for the year ended 
30 June 2023:

 – Amendments to AASB 101 – Classification of Liabilities as 

Current or Non-current;

 – Amendments to AASB 10 and AASB 128 – Sale or Contribution 

of Assets between an Investor and its Associate or Joint 
Venture;

 – Amendments to AASB 7, AASB 101, AASB 108 and AASB 134 – 
Disclosure of Accounting Policies and Definition of Accounting 
Estimates; 

 – Amendments to AASB 1 and AASB 112 – Deferred Tax related 
to Assets and Liabilities arising from a Single Transaction; 

 – Amendments to AASB 16 – Lease Liability in a Sale and 

Leaseback; and

 – AASB 17 Insurance Contracts.

The Group has reviewed these amendments and improvements 
and does not expect them to have a significant impact on the 
Group.

The Group does not intend to early adopt any of the new 
standards or interpretations. It is expected that where applicable, 
these standards and interpretations will be adopted on each 
respective effective date.

112

FINANCIAL REPORT

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – RESULTS FOR THE YEAR

This section focuses on the financial performance of the 
Group, covering both profitability and the resulting return to 
shareholders via earnings per share. 

4.  Segment information
(a)  Description of segments
The operating segments (also referred to as operations) are 
organised and managed separately according to the nature of 
products produced. 

Group financing and income taxes are primarily managed on a 
Group basis and are not allocated to operating segments. 

Total assets and liabilities for each operating segment represent 
operating assets and liabilities which predominantly exclude the 
carrying amount of non-material equity accounted investments, 
cash, interest bearing liabilities, tax balances and certain other 
financial assets and liabilities. 

Revenue recognition 

The Lead Team (the chief operating decision makers) and the 
Board of Directors monitor the segment results regularly for 
the purpose of making decisions about resource allocation and 
assessing performance. 

Revenue is measured based on the consideration specified in 
the contract with a customer and excludes amounts collected on 
behalf of third parties. Revenue is not reduced for royalties and 
other taxes payable from Group production. 

The principal activities of each operating segment are 
summarised as follows:

The following is a description of the principal activities from which 
the Group generates its revenue: 

Operating segment

Principal activities

Worsley Alumina

Brazil Alumina

Brazil Aluminium
Hillside Aluminium
Mozal Aluminium
Sierra Gorda
Cannington
Hermosa

Cerro Matoso

Integrated bauxite mine and alumina 
refinery in Australia
Integrated bauxite mine and alumina 
refinery in Brazil
Aluminium smelter in Brazil
Aluminium smelter in South Africa
Aluminium smelter in Mozambique
Copper mine in Chile 
Silver, lead and zinc mine in Australia
Base metals exploration and development 
options in the United States
Integrated laterite ferronickel mine and 
smelting complex in Colombia
Metallurgical coal mines in Australia

Illawarra Metallurgical 
Coal
Australia Manganese Manganese ore mine in Australia
South Africa 
Manganese

Manganese ore mines in South Africa

All operations are operated by the Group except Brazil Alumina, 
Brazil Aluminium and Sierra Gorda. 

(b)  Segment results 
The segment information reflects the Group’s interest in 
subsidiaries and joint operations, as well as material equity 
accounted joint ventures on a proportional consolidation basis. 
The segment information includes non-IFRS financial measures. 

Segment performance is measured by Underlying EBIT and 
Underlying EBITDA. Underlying EBIT is profit before net finance 
income/(costs), income tax expense, royalty related tax expense 
and other earnings adjustment items. Underlying EBITDA is 
Underlying EBIT before depreciation and amortisation. 

Reconciliations of the underlying segment information to the 
statutory information included in the Group’s consolidated 
financial statements are set out in note 4(b)(i) Underlying results 
reconciliation, including joint venture adjustments which reconcile 
the proportional consolidation of the material equity accounted 
joint ventures back to their statutory equity accounting positions. 
The Group’s material equity accounted joint ventures are Sierra 
Gorda, Australia Manganese and South Africa Manganese, refer to 
note 26 Equity accounted investments.

The Group separately discloses sales of group production 
from sales of third-party products and services because of the 
significant difference in profit margin earned on these sales. 

It is the Group’s policy that inter-segment transactions are made 
on an arm’s length basis.

Group and unallocated items/eliminations represent group centre 
functions and consolidation adjustments. 

Revenue from the sale of commodities
The Group primarily sells the following commodities: alumina, 
aluminium, copper, silver, lead, zinc, ferronickel, metallurgical 
coal and manganese ore. The sales of these commodities are 
considered to be performance obligations as they are the 
contractual promises by the Group to transfer distinct goods to 
customers.

The transaction price allocated to each performance obligation is 
recognised as the performance obligation is satisfied. Satisfaction 
occurs when control of the promised commodity is transferred to 
the customer.

For the sale of commodities, revenue is therefore recognised 
at a point in time, net of treatment and refining charges (where 
applicable). The majority of the Group’s sales agreements 
specify that title passes on the bill of lading date (the date the 
commodity is delivered to the shipping agent) and is assessed to 
be the point of time in which control over the commodity passes 
to the customer. For these sales, revenue is recognised on the 
bill of lading date. For certain sales, title passes and revenue is 
recognised when the goods have been delivered to the customer. 

For certain commodities, the sales price is determined on a 
provisional basis at the date of sale and adjustments to the sales 
price subsequently occur based on movements in quoted market 
or contractual prices up to the date of final pricing. The period 
between provisional invoicing and final pricing is up to 180 days. 
Revenue on provisionally priced sales is recognised based on the 
estimated fair value of the total consideration receivable. The 
revenue adjustment mechanism embedded within provisionally 
priced sales arrangements has the characteristics of a 
commodity derivative. Accordingly, the fair value of the final sales 
price adjustment is re-estimated continuously and changes in fair 
value are disclosed separately as ‘other’ revenue. In all cases, fair 
value is estimated by reference to forward market prices. 

Revenue from the provision of freight services
The Group sells most of its commodities on either Free On Board 
(FOB) or Cost, Insurance, and Freight (CIF) Incoterms. In the case 
of CIF Incoterms, the Group is responsible for shipping services 
after the date at which control of the commodities passes to the 
customer at the port of loading. The provision of shipping services 
in these types of arrangements are a distinct service (and 
therefore a separate performance obligation) to which a portion 
of the transaction price should be allocated and recognised 
over time as the shipping services are provided. The Group also 
provides third party freight services which are recognised as the 
shipping service is provided.

The Group does not separately disclose sales revenue from 
freight services as it does not consider this necessary in order to 
understand the impact of economic factors on the Group. 

113

SOUTH32 ANNUAL REPORT 2023NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – RESULTS FOR THE YEAR CONTINUED

4.  Segment information continued
(b)  Segment results continued

FY23

US$M 

Revenue from customers
Other(2)
Total underlying revenue
Comprising:
Group production
Third party products and services(3) 
Inter-segment revenue 
Total underlying revenue

Underlying EBITDA 
Underlying depreciation and amortisation
Underlying EBIT 
Comprising:
Group production 
Exploration expensed
Third party products and services(3)
Share of profit/(loss) of equity accounted investments
Underlying EBIT
Underlying net finance costs
Underlying income tax expense
Underlying royalty related tax expense
Underlying earnings
Total adjustments to profit/(loss)(4)
Profit/(loss) for the year

Underlying exploration expenditure
Underlying capital expenditure(5)
Underlying equity accounted investments
Total underlying assets(6)
Total underlying liabilities(6)

Worsley 
Alumina

1,364
(1)
1,363

642
 -
721
1,363

251
(183)
68

68
 -
 -
 -
68

 -
82
 -
3,578
1,121

Brazil Alumina

Brazil 
Aluminium

Hillside 
Aluminium

Mozal 

Aluminium

Gorda(1)

Cannington

Hermosa

Cerro Matoso

Coal

Manganese(1)

Illawarra 

Metallurgical 

Australia 

South Africa 

Manganese(1)

Group and 

unallocated 

items/

eliminations

Group 

underlying 

results(1)

456
 -
456

395
 -
61
456

7
(52)
(45)

(51)
 -
 -
6
(45)

 -
58
51
880
142

166
 -
166

166
 -
 -
166

(129)
(7)
(136)

(136)
 -
 -
 -
(136)

1,822
1
1,823

1,823
 -
 -
1,823

257
(66)
191

191
 -
 -
 -
191

 -
9
 -
91
63

 -
18
 -
1,156
311

Sierra

682

2

684

684

 -

 -

684

358

(141)

217

221

(4)

 -

 -

217

196

7

 -

1,811

223

888

(2)

886

886

 -

 -

886

108

(52)

56

56

 -

 -

 -

56

 -

17

 -

778

200

554

(12)

542

542

 -

 -

542

213

(71)

142

148

(6)

 -

 -

142

8

61

 -

575

403

 -

 -

 -

 -

 -

 -

 -

(15)

(4)

(19)

(19)

 -

 -

 -

(19)

20

256

 -

1,095

96

698

 -

698

698

 -

 -

698

246

(57)

189

191

(2)

 -

 -

189

2

38

 -

581

218

1,664

(21)

1,643

1,643

 -

 -

1,643

833

(141)

692

696

(9)

 -

5

692

17

248

7

1,275

506

720

(32)

688

688

 -

 -

688

369

(103)

266

266

 -

 -

 -

266

1

58

 -

660

421

369

(25)

344

344

 -

 -

344

66

(21)

45

46

(1)

 -

 -

45

1

25

 -

326

183

(236)

(7)

(243)

 -

539

(782)

(243)

(30)

(20)

(50)

(31)

(42)

23

 -

(50)

51

3

 -

2,709

2,253

9,147

(97)

9,050

8,511

539

 -

9,050

2,534

(918)

1,616

1,646

(64)

23

11

1,616

(188)

(457)

(55)

916

(1,089)

(173)

107

1,069

58

15,515

6,140

(1)  The segment information reflects the Group’s interest in material equity accounted joint ventures and is presented on a proportional consolidation basis, which is the 

measure used by the Group’s management to assess their performance. The Group’s underlying results includes the proportional elimination of revenue and corresponding 
expenses relating to freight services provided by the Group to material joint ventures of US$128 million and third party product revenue of US$33 million included in Group and 
unallocated items/eliminations. Refer to note 4(b)(i) Underlying results reconciliation for the joint venture adjustments that reconcile the underlying proportional consolidation 
to the statutory equity accounting positions included in the Group’s consolidated financial statements. 

(2)  Underlying other revenue relates to fair value movements on provisionally priced contracts. 
(3)  Underlying revenue on third party products and services sold comprises US$86 million for aluminium, US$25 million for alumina, US$140 million for coal, US$33 million for 

manganese, US$106 million for freight services and US$149 million for raw materials. Underlying EBIT on third party products and services sold comprises US$(1) million for 
aluminium, US$13 million for alumina, US$11 million for coal, US$(1) million for freight services and US$1 million for raw materials.

(4)  Represents the total of all adjustments made to Profit from operations, Net finance income/(costs) and Income tax expense. Refer to note 4(b)(i) Underlying results 

reconciliation for further details.

(5)  Underlying capital expenditure excludes the purchase of intangibles and capitalised exploration expenditure. 
(6)  Total underlying assets and liabilities for each operating segment represent operating assets and liabilities which predominantly exclude the carrying amount of non-material 

equity accounted investments, cash, interest bearing liabilities, tax balances and certain other financial assets and liabilities.

114

FINANCIAL REPORT

4.  Segment information continued

(b)  Segment results continued

FY23

US$M 

Other(2)

Revenue from customers

Total underlying revenue

Comprising:

Group production

Third party products and services(3) 

Inter-segment revenue 

Total underlying revenue

Underlying EBITDA 

Underlying depreciation and amortisation

Underlying EBIT 

Comprising:

Group production 

Exploration expensed

Underlying EBIT

Underlying net finance costs

Underlying income tax expense

Underlying royalty related tax expense

Underlying earnings

Total adjustments to profit/(loss)(4)

Profit/(loss) for the year

Underlying exploration expenditure

Underlying capital expenditure(5)

Underlying equity accounted investments

Total underlying assets(6)

Total underlying liabilities(6)

Third party products and services(3)

Share of profit/(loss) of equity accounted investments

Worsley 

Alumina

1,364

(1)

1,363

642

 -

721

1,363

251

(183)

68

68

 -

 -

 -

68

 -

82

 -

3,578

1,121

Hillside 

Aluminium

1,822

1,823

1,823

1

 -

 -

1,823

257

(66)

191

191

 -

 -

 -

166

 -

166

166

 -

 -

166

(129)

(7)

(136)

(136)

 -

 -

 -

 -

9

 -

91

63

 -

18

 -

1,156

311

456

 -

456

395

 -

61

456

7

(52)

(45)

(51)

 -

 -

6

 -

58

51

880

142

(45)

(136)

191

Brazil Alumina

Aluminium

Brazil 

Mozal 
Aluminium

Sierra

Gorda(1)

Cannington

Hermosa

Cerro Matoso

Illawarra 
Metallurgical 
Coal

Australia 
Manganese(1)

South Africa 
Manganese(1)

Group and 
unallocated 
items/
eliminations

Group 
underlying 
results(1)

888
(2)
886

886
 -
 -
886

108
(52)
56

56
 -
 -
 -
56

 -
17
 -
778
200

682
2
684

684
 -
 -
684

358
(141)
217

221
(4)
 -
 -
217

7
196
 -
1,811
223

554
(12)
542

542
 -
 -
542

213
(71)
142

148
(6)
 -
 -
142

8
61
 -
575
403

 -
 -
 -

 -
 -
 -
 -

(15)
(4)
(19)

(19)
 -
 -
 -
(19)

20
256
 -
1,095
96

698
 -
698

698
 -
 -
698

246
(57)
189

191
(2)
 -
 -
189

2
38
 -
581
218

1,664
(21)
1,643

1,643
 -
 -
1,643

833
(141)
692

696
(9)
 -
5
692

17
248
7
1,275
506

720
(32)
688

688
 -
 -
688

369
(103)
266

266
 -
 -
 -
266

1
58
 -
660
421

369
(25)
344

344
 -
 -
344

66
(21)
45

46
(1)
 -
 -
45

1
25
 -
326
183

(236)
(7)
(243)

 -
539
(782)
(243)

(30)
(20)
(50)

(31)
(42)
23
 -
(50)

51
3
 -
2,709
2,253

9,147
(97)
9,050

8,511
539
 -
9,050

2,534
(918)
1,616

1,646
(64)
23
11
1,616
(188)
(457)
(55)
916
(1,089)
(173)

107
1,069
58
15,515
6,140

115

SOUTH32 ANNUAL REPORT 2023NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – RESULTS FOR THE YEAR CONTINUED

4.  Segment information continued
(b)  Segment results continued

FY22

US$M 

Revenue from customers
Other(2)
Total underlying revenue
Comprising:
Group production
Third party products and services(3) 
Inter-segment revenue 
Total underlying revenue

Underlying EBITDA 
Underlying depreciation and amortisation
Underlying EBIT 
Comprising:
Group production 
Exploration expensed
Third party products and services(3)
Share of profit/(loss) of equity accounted investments
Underlying EBIT
Underlying net finance costs
Underlying income tax expense
Underlying royalty related tax expense
Underlying earnings
Total adjustments to profit/(loss)(4)
Profit/(loss) for the year

Underlying exploration expenditure
Underlying capital expenditure(5)
Underlying equity accounted investments
Total underlying assets(6)
Total underlying liabilities(6) 

Worsley 
Alumina

1,626
(1)
1,625

818
 -
807
1,625

571
(185)
386

386
 -
 -
 -
386

 -
55
 -
3,571
1,000

Brazil Alumina

Brazil 
Aluminium

Hillside 
Aluminium

Aluminium Sierra Gorda(1)

Cannington

Hermosa

Cerro Matoso

Coal

Manganese(1)

Illawarra 

Metallurgical 

Australia 

South Africa 

Manganese(1)

Group and 

unallocated 

items/

eliminations

522
2
524

523
 -
1
524

150
(61)
89

92
 -
 -
(3)
89

 -
51
40
805
109

 -
 -
 -

 -
 -
 -
 -

(43)
(1)
(44)

(44)
 -
 -
 -
(44)

 -
1
 -
67
21

2,257
(3)
2,254

2,254
 -
 -
2,254

730
(64)
666

666
 -
 -
 -
666

 -
24
 -
1,284
357

Mozal 

925

(1)

924

924

 -

 -

924

305

(34)

271

271

 -

 -

 -

271

280

(39)

241

241

 -

 -

241

133

(58)

75

76

(1)

 -

 -

75

 -

11

 -

764

149

2

81

 -

1,614

212

771

(35)

736

736

 -

 -

736

388

(73)

315

317

(2)

 -

 -

315

3

45

 -

555

414

 -

 -

 -

 -

 -

 -

 -

(12)

(2)

(14)

(14)

 -

 -

 -

(14)

19

97

 -

67

2,098

927

2

929

929

 -

 -

929

529

(66)

463

463

 -

 -

 -

 -

37

 -

592

243

2,336

2

2,338

2,338

 -

 -

2,338

1,507

(119)

1,388

1,396

(9)

 -

1

11

189

2

1,277

491

463

1,388

833

15

848

848

 -

 -

848

488

(86)

402

402

 -

 -

 -

402

1

62

 -

645

387

Group 

underlying 

results(1)

10,690

(60)

10,630

10,030

600

 -

10,630

4,755

(788)

3,967

3,988

(39)

20

(2)

3,967

(155)

(1,151)

(59)

2,602

67

2,669

74

684

42

17,269

6,490

(205)

(3)

(208)

 -

600

(808)

(208)

(69)

(19)

(88)

(82)

(26)

20

 -

(88)

37

12

 -

3,666

2,844

418

1

419

419

 -

 -

419

78

(20)

58

59

(1)

 -

 -

58

1

19

 -

331

196

(1)  The segment information reflects the Group’s interest in material equity accounted joint ventures and is presented on a proportional consolidation basis, which is the 

measure used by the Group’s management to assess their performance. The Group’s underlying results includes the proportional elimination of revenue and corresponding 
expenses relating to freight services provided by the Group to material joint ventures of US$187 million and third party product revenue of US$40 million included in Group and 
unallocated items/eliminations. Refer to note 4(b)(i) Underlying results reconciliation for the joint venture adjustments that reconcile the underlying proportional consolidation 
to the statutory equity accounting positions included in the Group’s consolidated financial statements. 

(2)  Underlying other revenue relates to fair value movements on provisionally priced contracts. 
(3)  Underlying revenue on third party products and services sold comprises US$110 million for aluminium, US$25 million for alumina, US$115 million for coal, US$40 million for 
manganese, US$145 million for freight services and US$165 million for raw materials. Underlying EBIT on third party products and services sold comprises US$8 million for 
aluminium, US$8 million for alumina, US$7 million for coal and US$(3) million for freight services.

(4)  Represents the total of all adjustments made to Profit from operations, Net finance income/(costs) and Income tax expense. Refer to note 4(b)(i) Underlying results 

reconciliation for further details.

(5)  Underlying capital expenditure excludes the purchase of intangibles and capitalised exploration expenditure. 
(6)  Total underlying assets and liabilities for each operating segment represent operating assets and liabilities which predominantly exclude the carrying amount of non-material 

equity accounted investments, cash, interest bearing liabilities, tax balances and certain other financial assets and liabilities.

116

FINANCIAL REPORT

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
4.  Segment information continued

(b)  Segment results continued

FY22

US$M 

Other(2)

Revenue from customers

Total underlying revenue

Comprising:

Group production

Third party products and services(3) 

Inter-segment revenue 

Total underlying revenue

Underlying EBITDA 

Underlying depreciation and amortisation

Underlying EBIT 

Comprising:

Group production 

Exploration expensed

Underlying EBIT

Underlying net finance costs

Underlying income tax expense

Underlying royalty related tax expense

Underlying earnings

Total adjustments to profit/(loss)(4)

Profit/(loss) for the year

Underlying exploration expenditure

Underlying capital expenditure(5)

Underlying equity accounted investments

Total underlying assets(6)

Total underlying liabilities(6) 

Third party products and services(3)

Share of profit/(loss) of equity accounted investments

Worsley 

Alumina

1,626

(1)

1,625

818

 -

807

1,625

571

(185)

386

386

 -

 -

 -

386

 -

55

 -

3,571

1,000

522

2

524

523

 -

1

524

150

(61)

89

92

 -

 -

(3)

89

 -

51

40

805

109

 -

 -

 -

 -

 -

 -

 -

(43)

(1)

(44)

(44)

 -

 -

 -

(44)

 -

1

 -

67

21

2,257

(3)

2,254

2,254

 -

 -

2,254

730

(64)

666

666

 -

 -

 -

666

 -

24

 -

1,284

357

Brazil Alumina

Aluminium

Brazil 

Hillside 

Aluminium

Mozal 

Aluminium Sierra Gorda(1)

Cannington

Hermosa

Cerro Matoso

Illawarra 
Metallurgical 
Coal

Australia 
Manganese(1)

South Africa 
Manganese(1)

Group and 
unallocated 
items/
eliminations

925
(1)
924

924
 -
 -
924

305
(34)
271

271
 -
 -
 -
271

 -
11
 -
764
149

280
(39)
241

241
 -
 -
241

133
(58)
75

76
(1)
 -
 -
75

2
81
 -
1,614
212

771
(35)
736

736
 -
 -
736

388
(73)
315

317
(2)
 -
 -
315

3
45
 -
555
414

 -
 -
 -

 -
 -
 -
 -

(12)
(2)
(14)

(14)
 -
 -
 -
(14)

19
97
 -
2,098
67

927
2
929

929
 -
 -
929

529
(66)
463

463
 -
 -
 -
463

 -
37
 -
592
243

2,336
2
2,338

2,338
 -
 -
2,338

1,507
(119)
1,388

1,396
(9)
 -
1
1,388

11
189
2
1,277
491

833
15
848

848
 -
 -
848

488
(86)
402

402
 -
 -
 -
402

1
62
 -
645
387

418
1
419

419
 -
 -
419

78
(20)
58

59
(1)
 -
 -
58

1
19
 -
331
196

(205)
(3)
(208)

 -
600
(808)
(208)

(69)
(19)
(88)

(82)
(26)
20
 -
(88)

37
12
 -
3,666
2,844

Group 
underlying 
results(1)

10,690
(60)
10,630

10,030
600
 -
10,630

4,755
(788)
3,967

3,988
(39)
20
(2)
3,967
(155)
(1,151)
(59)
2,602
67
2,669

74
684
42
17,269
6,490

117

SOUTH32 ANNUAL REPORT 2023 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – RESULTS FOR THE YEAR CONTINUED

4.  Segment information continued
(b)  Segment results continued

(i)  Underlying results reconciliation 
The following tables reconcile the underlying segment information to the statutory information included in the Group’s consolidated 
financial statements:

US$M

Underlying EBIT
Significant items(1)
Sierra Gorda joint venture adjustments(2)(3)
Manganese joint venture adjustments(2)(4)
Gains on the consolidation of interests in operations(5)
Exchange rate gains/(losses) on restatement of monetary items(6)
Net impairment (loss)/reversal of financial assets(6)(7)
Net impairment (loss)/reversal of non-financial assets(6)(8)
Gains/(losses) on non-trading derivative instruments, contingent consideration and other investments measured 
at FVTPL(6)
Profit from operations

Underlying net finance costs
Sierra Gorda joint venture adjustments(2)
Manganese joint venture adjustments(2)
Exchange rate variations on net cash/(debt)
Net finance income/(costs)

Underlying income tax expense
Underlying royalty related tax expense
Tax effect of significant items(1)
Sierra Gorda joint venture adjustments relating to income tax expense(2)
Sierra Gorda joint venture adjustments relating to royalty related tax expense(2)
Manganese joint venture adjustments relating to income tax expense(2)
Manganese joint venture adjustments relating to royalty related tax expense(2)
Tax effect of other adjustments to Underlying EBIT
Tax effect of other adjustments to Underlying net finance costs
Exchange rate variations on tax balances
Income tax expense

Underlying earnings
Total adjustments to profit/(loss)
Profit/(loss) for the year

FY23

1,616
186
(144)
(147)
-
62
(71)
(1,300)

(4)
198

(188)
167
28
8
15

(457)
(55)
(23)
11
12
85
43
(3)
(3)
4
(386)

916
(1,089)
(173)

FY22

3,967
77
(44)
(216)
9
50
(26)
(145)

52
3,724

(155)
62
22
40
(31)

(1,151)
(59)
(26)
1
4
153
55
32
(13)
(20)
(1,024)

2,602
67
2,669

(1)  Refer to note 4(b)(ii) Significant items.
(2)  The segment information reflects the Group’s interest in material equity accounted joint ventures and is presented on a proportional consolidation basis, which is the measure 

used by the Group’s management to assess their performance. Joint venture adjustments reconcile the proportional consolidation to the statutory equity accounting 
positions, recognised in share of profit/(loss) of equity accounted investments in the Consolidated Income Statement.

(3)  The Group’s investment in the Sierra Gorda operation is represented by the carrying value of an equity accounted investment of US$101 million (FY22: US$30 million) and 

the carrying value of a purchased credit-impaired receivable of US$1,711 million (FY22: US$1,648 million) classified as a loan to an equity accounted investment within trade 
and other receivables on the Consolidated Balance Sheet. The earnings adjustments include a revaluation gain of US$71 million (FY22: gain of US$26 million) relating to the 
shareholder loan payable that was eliminated from the Group’s Underlying EBIT upon proportional consolidation.

(4)  Includes earnings adjustments of US$(3) million (FY22: US$6 million) included in the Australia Manganese segment and US$12 million (FY22: US$8 million) included in the South 

Africa Manganese segment.

(5)  FY22 gain relates to the acquisition of an additional 16.6 per cent shareholding and related rights in Mozal Aluminium, recognised in other income in the Consolidated Income 

Statement.

(6)  Recognised in expenses excluding finance costs in the Consolidated Income Statement.
(7)  Refer to note 19 Financial assets and financial liabilities.
(8)  Refer to note 13 Impairment of non-financial assets.

118

FINANCIAL REPORT

4.  Segment information continued
(b)  Segment results continued

(i)  Underlying results reconciliation continued

FY23

US$M

Total revenue
Depreciation and amortisation
Share of profit/(loss) of equity accounted investments
Exploration expenditure
Capital expenditure
Equity accounted investments
Total assets
Total liabilities

FY22 

US$M

Total revenue
Depreciation and amortisation
Share of profit/(loss) of equity accounted investments
Exploration expenditure
Capital expenditure
Equity accounted investments
Total assets
Total liabilities

Group 
underlying 
results

Sierra Gorda 
joint venture 
adjustments

Manganese 
joint venture 
adjustments

9,050
918
11
107
1,069
58
15,515
6,140

(684)
(141)
71
(7)
(196)
101
(450)
(450)

(937)
(124)
164
(2)
(83)
340
(501)
(501)

Group 
statutory 
results

7,429
653
246
98
790
499
14,564
5,189

Group 
underlying 
results

Sierra Gorda 
joint venture 
adjustments

Manganese 
joint venture 
adjustments

Group 
statutory 
results

10,630
788
(2)
74
684
42
17,269
6,490

(241)
(58)
30
(2)
(81)
30
(452)
(452)

(1,120)
(106)
244
(2)
(81)
398
(481)
(481)

9,269
624
272
70
522
470
16,336
5,557

119

SOUTH32 ANNUAL REPORT 2023NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – RESULTS FOR THE YEAR CONTINUED

4.  Segment information continued
(b)  Segment results continued

(ii)  Significant items
Significant items are those items, not separately identified in note 4(b)(i) Underlying results reconciliation, whose nature and amount are 
considered material to the Group’s consolidated financial statements. 

FY23

US$M

Disposal of royalties
Assets write-off
Tax adjustments relating to the Sierra Gorda acquisition
Vendor indemnity relating to the Sierra Gorda acquisition
Total significant items

Disposal of royalties

Gross

189
(51)
-
48
186

Tax

(56)
16
17
-
(23)

Net

133
(35)
17
48
163

On 19 July 2022, the Group divested four royalties to Ecora Resources PLC (formerly known as Anglo Pacific Group PLC) in exchange 
for consideration comprising an upfront cash payment of US$48 million, deferred cash consideration of US$55 million, US$78 million 
in equity and a variable consideration receivable valued at US$10 million. The equity in Ecora Resources PLC has been recognised as 
an investment in equity instruments designated at FVOCI. The variable consideration is payable if certain production and price-linked 
conditions are met prior to 2032, up to a maximum of US$15 million.

The royalties were recognised as intangible assets with a nominal carrying value. On completion the Group recognised other income, 
net of transaction costs, of US$189 million (US$133 million post-tax) in the Consolidated Income Statement and was included in Group 
and unallocated items.

Assets write-off

On 23 August 2022, the Group announced that it would not proceed with an investment in the Dendrobium Next Domain project 
at Illawarra Metallurgical Coal following its consideration of recently completed study work and extensive analysis of alternatives 
considered for the complex. As a result of the decision in August 2022, the Group wrote off US$51 million (US$35 million post-tax) of 
costs previously capitalised in relation to the project which were recognised within expenses excluding finance costs in the Consolidated 
Income Statement. The write-off related to capitalised exploration and evaluation assets previously included in property, plant and 
equipment on the Consolidated Balance Sheet.

Tax adjustments relating to the Sierra Gorda acquisition

During the year, the Group recognised an income tax benefit of US$31 million relating to tax liabilities recognised on the acquisition of 
Sierra Gorda during FY22. The US$31 million benefit comprises a reassessment of US$17 million and a foreign exchange gain of US$14 
million which is separately reported as part of exchange variations of tax balances. The tax adjustments relating to the Sierra Gorda 
acquisition have been excluded from the Group’s Underlying income tax expense on the basis that they do not relate to assessable 
income earned during its ownership.

Vendor indemnity relating to the Sierra Gorda acquisition 

On 17 May 2023, Chilean Mining Tax reforms were passed by the Chilean Congress and subsequently enacted in August 2023. As part of 
the Group’s acquisition of Sierra Gorda during FY22, the Group has the right to claim an indemnity from the vendors for any mining tax 
changes enacted prior to December 2025. As a result of these changes the Group has recognised other income of US$48 million in the 
Group’s Consolidated Income Statement and a corresponding receivable of US$48 million from the vendors on the Group’s Consolidated 
Balance Sheet in relation to the indemnity.

FY22

US$M

Recognition of indirect tax assets
Total significant items

Recognition of indirect tax assets

Gross

77
77

Tax

(26)
(26)

Net

51
51

Following the Group’s decision to participate in the restart of Brazil Aluminium, the Group recognised indirect tax assets of US$77 
million that were previously expensed since the smelter was placed on care and maintenance in 2015. The recognition of the indirect tax 
assets has resulted in a significant one-off amount of US$77 million (US$51 million post-tax) being recognised as other income in the 
Consolidated Income Statement.

120

FINANCIAL REPORT

4.  Segment information continued
(c)  Geographical information
The geographical information below analyses statutory Group revenue and non-current assets by location. Revenue is primarily 
presented by the geographical destination of the product and non-current assets are presented by the geographical location of the 
operations.

Revenue from external customers

Non-current assets

US$M

Australia
China
India
Japan
Middle East
Mozambique
Netherlands(1)
Brazil
Russia
South Africa 
South Korea
United States of America
Rest of Asia
Rest of Europe
Rest of North America
Rest of Oceania
Rest of South America 
Unallocated assets(2)
Total

(1)  Non-current assets include the non-current portion of the shareholder loan receivable from Sierra Gorda.
(2)  Comprises other financial assets and deferred tax assets.  

5.  Expenses excluding finance costs

US$M

Changes in inventories of finished goods and work in progress
Raw materials and consumables used
Wages, salaries and redundancies
Pension and other post-retirement obligations
External services (including transportation)
Third party commodity purchases
Depreciation and amortisation 
Exchange rate (gains)/losses on restatement of monetary items
(Gains)/losses on derivative instruments, contingent consideration and other investments 
measured at FVTPL 
Government and other royalties paid and payable
Exploration expenditure incurred and expensed 
Net impairment of financial assets
Net impairment of non-financial assets
Short-term, low-value and variable lease rentals
All other operating expenses
Total 

FY23

765
728
304
434
326
346
1,079
192
 -
495
411
419
850
776
234
70
-
-
7,429

FY22

1,013
776
581
523
283
458
1,255
125
44
633
692
439
967
1,079
278
92
31
-
9,269

Note

19
13

FY23

5,239
-
-
-
-
488
1,604
765
 -
882
 -
1,193
100
1
1
 -
544
508
11,325

FY23

(60)
2,761
690
65
1,175
600
653
(62)

(6)
286
59
71
1,300
69
221
7,822

FY22

5,099
-
-
-
-
497
1,648
695
-
933
-
2,185
102
1
1
-
477
458
12,096

FY22

(133)
2,309
657
60
1,111
718
624
(50)

(29)
295
37
26
145
77
153
6,000

121

SOUTH32 ANNUAL REPORT 2023NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – RESULTS FOR THE YEAR CONTINUED

6.  Tax

Income tax expense comprises current and deferred tax and is recognised in the Consolidated Income Statement except to the extent 
that it relates to items recognised directly in the Consolidated Statement of Comprehensive Income.

(a)  Income tax expense

US$M

Current income tax (expense)/benefit
Deferred income tax (expense)/benefit
Total income tax expense

FY23

(476)
90
(386)

FY22

(1,006)
(18)
(1,024)

Income tax expense
Income tax expense for the period is the tax payable on the current period’s taxable income based on the applicable income tax rate for 
each jurisdiction adjusted for changes in deferred tax assets and liabilities attributable to temporary differences and unused tax losses. 
Current and deferred tax is calculated using the tax rates enacted or substantively enacted at period end and includes any adjustment 
to tax payable in respect of previous years. 

(b)  Reconciliation of prima facie tax expense to income tax expense

US$M

Profit before tax
Deduct: Share of profit/(loss) of equity accounted investments 
Profit/(loss) subject to tax
Income tax on profit/(loss) calculated at 30 per cent
Tax rate differential on non-Australian income
Exchange variations and other translation adjustments
Withholding tax on distributed earnings
Derecognition of future tax benefits(1)
Non-deductible impairment charges(1) 
Non-deductible Colombian royalty
Tax adjustments relating to the Sierra Gorda acquisition(2)
Change in tax rates
Prior year adjustments
Other
Total income tax expense

FY23

213
246
(33)
10
1
4
(36)
(55)
(333)
(24)
31
-
4
12
(386)

FY22

3,693
272
3,421
(1,026)
72
(20)
(54)
(7)
-
-
-
(3)
(5)
19
(1,024)

(1)  Primarily relates to the impairment of the Taylor Deposit at Hermosa, which resulted in the Group derecognising US$53 million of deferred tax assets and incurring  

US$315 million of non-deductible tax expenses. Refer to note 13 Impairment of non-financial assets. 

(2)   Refer to note 4(b)(ii) Significant items.

Profit from equity accounted investments has been taxed in companies other than South32 Limited, being the companies whose results 
are disclosed as equity accounted investments in the consolidated financial statements.

Refer to note 26 Equity accounted investments for further details of the Group’s equity accounted investments.

122

FINANCIAL REPORT

6.  Tax continued
(c)  Movement in deferred tax balances
The composition of the Group’s net deferred tax assets and liabilities recognised in the Consolidated Balance Sheet and the deferred 
tax expense (charged)/credited to the Consolidated Income Statement is as follows:

Deferred tax assets

Deferred tax liabilities

Deferred tax (charged)/credited to 
the Consolidated Income 
Statement

US$M

FY23

FY22

FY23

FY22

FY23

FY22

Type of temporary difference
Depreciation 
Employee benefits
Closure and rehabilitation
Other provisions
Deferred charges
Non tax-depreciable fair value adjustments, revaluations 
and mineral rights
Tax-effected losses
Brazil deferral incentive(1)
Leases
Other
Total 

253
49
234
-
(52)

(95)
15
-
(1)
(13)
390

295
49
208
-
(60)

(94)
6
-
-
(10)
394

261
(12)
(59)
(13)
 - 

 11 
(54)
 70 
 (1)
7
210

305
(11)
(51)
(13)
-

12
(7)
64
(1)
9
307

2 
 1 
34
 - 
8

-
57 
(6) 
 (1)
(5) 
90

(29)
(3)
27
(4)
7

29
-
(8)
(10)
(27)
(18)

(1)  Our Brazilian subsidiary has received a 75 per cent corporate income tax deferral due to the reinvestment of capital in the North East regions of Brazil. The tax is deferred until 

earnings are repatriated from Brazil.

Deferred tax is provided using the balance sheet liability method, providing for the tax effect of temporary differences between the 
carrying amount of assets and liabilities for financial reporting purposes and the amounts used for tax assessment or deduction 
purposes. The tax effect of certain temporary differences is not recognised, principally with respect to:

 – Temporary differences arising on the initial recognition of assets or liabilities (other than those arising in a business combination or in 

a manner that initially impacted accounting or taxable profit); 

 – Temporary differences relating to investments and undistributed earnings in subsidiaries, joint ventures and associates to the extent 

that the Group is able to control its reversal and it is probable that it will not reverse in the foreseeable future; and

 – Goodwill.

To the extent that an item’s tax base is solely derived from the amount deductible under capital gains tax legislation, deferred tax is 
determined as if such amounts are not deductible in determining future assessable income.

A deferred tax asset is recognised only to the extent that it is probable that future taxable profits will be available against which the 
asset can be utilised. Deferred tax assets are reviewed at each balance sheet date and amended to the extent that it is no longer 
probable that the related tax benefit will be realised. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are offset when they relate to income taxes 
levied by the same tax authority and the Group has both the right and the intention to settle its current tax assets and liabilities on a net 
or simultaneous basis.

(d)  Unrecognised deferred tax assets and liabilities
The composition of the Group’s unrecognised deferred tax assets and liabilities is as follows:

US$M

FY23

FY22

Unrecognised deferred tax assets
Tax-effected losses(1)
Mineral rights
Impairment of investments in subsidiaries
Closure and rehabilitation
Depreciable assets
Other temporary differences
Total unrecognised deferred tax assets
Unrecognised deferred tax liabilities
Taxable temporary differences associated with investments and undistributed earnings in subsidiaries
Total unrecognised deferred tax liabilities

(1)  Represents tax losses that have no expiry.

 58 
617
 949 
 48 
32
 1 
1,705

33
33

21
589
945
50
8
-
1,613

39
39

123

SOUTH32 ANNUAL REPORT 2023NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – RESULTS FOR THE YEAR CONTINUED

6.  Tax continued
(e)  Tax consolidation
South32 Limited and its 100 per cent owned Australian resident subsidiaries have formed a tax consolidated group with effect 
from 25 May 2015. South32 Limited is the head entity of the tax consolidated group. Members of the group have entered into a tax 
sharing agreement in order to allocate income tax expense to the wholly-owned subsidiaries on a stand-alone basis. The tax sharing 
arrangement provides for the allocation of income tax liabilities between the entities should the head entity default on its tax payment 
obligations. The possibility of such a default is considered remote at the date of this report.

Members of the tax consolidated group have also entered into a tax funding agreement. The group has applied its allocation approach 
in determining the appropriate amount of current taxes to allocate to members of the tax consolidated group. The tax funding 
agreement provides for each member of the tax consolidated group to pay or receive a tax equivalent amount to or from the head 
entity in accordance with their notional current tax liability or current tax asset. Such amounts are reflected in amounts receivable from 
or payable to the head entity in their accounts and are settled as soon as practicable after lodgement of the consolidated return and 
payment of the tax liability.

(f)  Future tax developments
The Group continues to monitor the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development’s Two Pillar Solution in all countries in 
which the Group operates.

Pillar One measures currently apply only to multinational enterprises that have a global turnover exceeding €20 billion and profitability 
exceeding 10%, and therefore does not apply to the Group. Pillar Two measures seek to introduce a 15% global minimum tax and 
will apply to the Group given its annual turnover exceeds the €750 million threshold. The Group notes that the UK Government has 
substantively enacted Pillar Two legislation in June 2023 and the Australian Government has committed to enacting the rules, however 
draft legislation is yet to be released.

The Group has adopted the guidance contained in the IASB issued International Tax Reform - Pillar Two Model Rules, which amended 
IAS 12 Income Taxes, released in May 2023 and applied the mandatory temporary exception to recognise and disclose information 
about deferred tax assets and liabilities related to Pillar Two income taxes. The Group is currently evaluating the cash tax implications 
and other impacts of the Pillar Two model rules, and does not expect the impact on the Group to be significant.

(g)  Tax transparency report
More detail of the Group’s tax outcomes, including country-by-country reporting is included in the 2023 Transparency and Payments to 
Government Report. 

Key estimates, assumptions and judgements

Deferred tax
Judgement is required in assessing whether deferred tax assets and certain deferred tax liabilities are recognised in the 
Consolidated Balance Sheet. Deferred tax assets are recognised only where it is considered more likely than not that they will be 
recovered, which is dependent on the generation of sufficient future taxable profits. Deferred tax liabilities arising from temporary 
differences in investments, caused principally by retained earnings held in foreign tax jurisdictions, are recognised unless 
repatriation of retained earnings can be controlled and are not expected to occur in the foreseeable future.

Assumptions about the generation of future taxable profits and repatriation of retained earnings depend on management’s 
estimates of future cash flows. These depend on estimates of future production and sales volumes, commodity prices, climate 
change-related impacts, Mineral Resources and Ore Reserves, operating costs, closure and rehabilitation costs, capital 
expenditure, dividends and other capital management transactions. 

Uncertain tax matters
Judgements are required about the application of the inherently complex income tax legislation in Colombia and Brazil. These 
judgements are subject to risk and uncertainty, hence there is a possibility that changes in circumstances will alter expectations, 
which may impact the amount of deferred tax assets and deferred tax liabilities recognised in the Consolidated Balance Sheet 
and the amount of other tax losses and temporary differences not yet recognised.

Where the final tax outcomes are different from the amounts that were initially recorded, these differences impact the current 
and deferred tax provisions in the period in which the determination is made. Measurement of uncertain tax and royalty matters 
considers a range of possible outcomes, including assessments received from tax authorities. Where management is of the view 
that potential liabilities have a low probability of crystallising, or it is not possible to quantify them reliably, they are disclosed as 
contingent liabilities.

124

FINANCIAL REPORT

7.  Dividends

US$M

Prior year final dividend(1)
Prior year special dividend(1)
Interim dividend(2)
Total dividends declared and paid during the year

FY23

646
138
223
1,007

FY22

163
93
404
660

(1)  On 25 August 2022, the Directors resolved to pay a fully franked final dividend of US 14.0 cents per share (US$648 million) and a fully franked special dividend of US 3.0 cents 
per share (US$139 million) in respect of the 2022 financial year. The dividends were paid on 13 October 2022. In addition to the ESOP Trusts receiving dividends from South32 
Limited, a total of 9,665,568 shares were bought back between the declaration and the ex-dividend dates, therefore reducing the dividends paid externally to US$784 million.

(2)  On 16 February 2023, the Directors resolved to pay a fully-franked interim dividend of US 4.9 cents per share (US$224 million) in respect of the 2023 financial half year. The 
dividend was paid on 6 April 2023. In addition to the ESOP Trusts receiving dividends from South32 Limited, a total of 3,292,746 shares were bought back between the 
declaration and the ex-dividend dates, therefore reducing the dividend paid externally to US$223 million. 

Franking account

US$M

Franking credits at the beginning of the year
Credits arising from tax paid/payable by South32 Limited(2)
Credits arising from the receipt of franked dividends
Utilisation of credits arising from the payment of franked dividends
Exchange rate variations
Total franking credits available at the end of the year(3)

FY23

678
243
68
(426)
(25)
538

FY22 
Restated(1)

344
559
71
(266)
(30)
678

(1)  FY22 comparatives have been restated to allow for foreign exchange rate variations, consistent with current year presentation.
(2)  Includes the Australian FY23 income tax liability of US$16 million due in December 2023.
(3)  The payment of the final franked FY23 dividend declared after 30 June 2023 will decrease the franking account balance by US$62 million. Refer to note 31 Subsequent events.

8.  Earnings per share 

Basic earnings per share (EPS) amounts are calculated based on profit or loss attributable to equity holders of South32 Limited and the 
weighted average number of shares outstanding during the year.

Dilutive EPS amounts are calculated based on profit or loss attributable to equity holders of South32 Limited and the weighted average 
number of shares outstanding after adjustment for the effects of all dilutive potential shares. 

The following reflects the profit or loss and share data used in the basic and diluted EPS computations: 

Profit/(loss) attributable to equity holders

US$M

Profit/(loss) attributable to equity holders of South32 Limited (basic)
Profit/(loss) attributable to equity holders of South32 Limited (diluted)

Weighted average number of shares

Million

Basic EPS denominator(1)
Shares contingently issuable under employee share ownership plans(2)
Diluted EPS denominator

FY23

(173)
(173)

FY23

4,572
-
4,572

FY22

2,669
2,669

FY22

4,647
32
4,679

(1)  The basic EPS denominator is the aggregate of the weighted average number of shares after deduction of the weighted average number of treasury shares outstanding and 

shares permanently cancelled through the on-market share buy-back program.

(2)  The diluted EPS calculation excludes 26,994,090 (FY22: nil) rights which are considered anti-dilutive and are subject to service and performance conditions.

Earnings per share

US cents

Basic EPS
Diluted EPS

FY23

(3.8)
(3.8)

FY22

57.4
57.0

125

SOUTH32 ANNUAL REPORT 2023NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – OPERATING ASSETS AND LIABILITIES

This section shows the assets used to generate the Group’s trading performance and the liabilities incurred. Assets and liabilities 
relating to the Group’s financing activities are addressed in the capital structure and financing section, notes 16 to 20. 

9.  Trade and other receivables 

US$M

Current
Trade receivables
Loans to equity accounted investments(1)(2)
Other receivables
Total current trade and other receivables(3)
Non-current
Loans to equity accounted investments(1)(2)
Other receivables
Total non-current trade and other receivables(3)

FY23

FY22

395
114
269
778

1,790
133
1,923

643
7
194
844

1,793
110
1,903

(1)  Refer to note 29 Related party transactions.
(2)  Includes a purchased credit-impaired receivable which is classified as current of US$107 million and non-current of US$1,604 million (FY22: non-current of US$1,648 million). 

Refer to note 19 Financial assets and financial liabilities.

(3)  Net of allowances for expected credit losses of US$2 million (FY22: US$2 million).

Trade receivables generally have terms of up to 30 days. Trade and other receivables which are not held at FVTPL are recognised initially 
at fair value and subsequently at amortised cost using the effective interest method, less an allowance for expected credit losses. 

10.  Inventories 

US$M

Current
Raw materials and consumables
Work in progress
Finished goods
Total current inventories
Non-current
Raw materials and consumables
Work in progress
Total non-current inventories

FY23

FY22

519
333
250
1,102

57
25
82

455
338
189
982

55
21
76

The value of inventories carried at net realisable value as at 30 June 2023 was US$222 million (FY22: US$31 million). Inventory write-
downs of US$18 million (FY22: US$17 million) were recognised in the year. 

Inventories are valued at the lower of cost and net realisable value. Cost is determined primarily on the basis of average cost. For 
processed inventories, cost is derived on an absorption costing basis. Cost comprises the cost of purchasing raw materials and the cost 
of production, including attributable overheads. 

126

FINANCIAL REPORT

FY23

US$M

Cost 
At the beginning of the year
Additions
Foreign exchange 
movements in closure and 
rehabilitation provisions(1)
Disposals
Transfers and other 
movements
At the end of the year
Accumulated depreciation 
and impairments
At the beginning of the year
Depreciation
Net impairments(2)
Disposals
At the end of the year
Net book value at  
30 June 2023(3)

FY22

US$M

Cost 
At the beginning of the year
Additions
Acquisition of subsidiaries 
and joint operations(1)
Foreign exchange 
movements in closure and 
rehabilitation provisions(2)
Disposals
Transfers and other 
movements
At the end of the year
Accumulated depreciation 
and impairments
At the beginning of the year
Depreciation
Net impairments(3)
Disposals
Transfers and other 
movements
At the end of the year
Net book value at  
30 June 2022(4)

11.  Property, plant and equipment 

Land and buildings

Plant and equipment

Right-of-use 
assets

Owned assets

Right-of-use 
assets

Owned assets

Other mineral 
assets

Assets under 
construction

Exploration 
and evaluation

37
6

-
-

-
43

15
3
-
-
18

25

2,352
-

943
91

13,204
133

-
(3)

64
2,413

1,438
78
-
-
1,516

897

-
-

(68)
(112)

17
1,051

251
13,408

9,239
402
-
(108)
9,533

316
64
-
-
380

671

4,547
-

-
(140)

63
4,470

2,050
94
1,049
(140)
3,053

815
815

-
-

(395)
1,235

51
-
119
-
170

212
84

-
(51)

-
245

13
-
132
-
145

100

(1)  Refer to note 15 Provisions.
(2)  Refer to note 13 Impairment of non-financial assets.
(3)  Includes US$98 million of land and buildings, US$37 million of plant and equipment, US$580 million of other mineral assets, US$328 million of assets under construction and 

US$51 million of exploration and evaluation expenditure that relates to the Hermosa project.

Capital expenditure commitments as at 30 June 2023 were US$193 million (FY22: US$114 million). 

3,875

1,417

1,065

Land and buildings

Plant and equipment

Right-of-use 
assets

Owned assets

Right-of-use 
assets

Owned assets

Other mineral 
assets

Assets under 
construction

Exploration 
and evaluation

50
9

-

-
(22)

-
37

28
7
-
(20)

-
15

22

2,299
-

22

-
(2)

33
2,352

1,396
67
(15)
(2)

(8)
1,438

914

906
57

1

-
(21)

-
943

274
51
7
(17)

1
316

627

13,061
152

95

(127)
(171)

194
13,204

9,001
415
(17)
(167)

7
9,239

3,965

4,468
-

-

-
(25)

104
4,547

1,894
79
102
(25)

-
2,050

2,497

594
547

5

-
-

(331)
815

-
-
51
-

-
51

153
59

-

-
-

-
212

-
-
13
-

-
13

764

199

8,988

(1)  Relates to the acquisition of an additional 16.6 per cent shareholding and related rights in Mozal Aluminium in FY22.
(2)  Refer to note 15 Provisions.
(3)  Refer to note 13 Impairment of non-financial assets.
(4)  Includes US$77 million of land and buildings, US$37 million of plant and equipment, US$1,629 million of other mineral assets, US$230 million of assets under construction and 

US$122 million of exploration and evaluation related expenditure that relates to the Hermosa project.

127

Total

22,110
1,129

(68)
(306)

-
22,865

13,122
641
1,300
(248)
14,815

8,050

Total

21,531
824

123

(127)
(241)

-
22,110

12,593
619
141
(231)

-
13,122

SOUTH32 ANNUAL REPORT 2023NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – OPERATING ASSETS AND LIABILITIES CONTINUED

11.  Property, plant and equipment continued
(a)  Property, plant and equipment
Property, plant and equipment is held at cost less accumulated depreciation and impairment charges. Cost is the fair value of 
consideration given to acquire the asset at the time of its acquisition or construction and includes the direct cost of bringing the asset 
to the location and condition necessary for operation and its estimated future cost of closure and rehabilitation.

(b)  Assets under construction
When Ore Reserves are estimated and development of commercial production is approved, capitalised exploration and evaluation 
expenditure is reclassified to assets under construction. All subsequent development expenditure is capitalised and classified as assets 
under construction, provided commercial viability conditions continue to be satisfied. 

All assets included in assets under construction are reclassified to other categories in property, plant and equipment when the asset is 
available and ready for use in the location and condition necessary for it to be capable of operating in the manner intended.

(c)  Exploration and evaluation expenditure
Exploration is defined as the search for potential mineralisation after the Group has obtained legal rights to explore in a specific area 
and includes topographical, geological, geochemical and geophysical studies and exploratory drilling, trenching and sampling. 

Evaluation is defined as the determination of the technical feasibility and commercial viability of a particular prospect. Activities 
conducted during the evaluation phase include the determination of the tonnage and grade and/or quality of the deposit, examination 
and testing of extraction methods and metallurgical or treatment process, surveys of transportation and infrastructure requirements, 
and market and finance studies.

Exploration and evaluation expenditure (including amortisation of capitalised licence and lease costs) is charged to the Consolidated 
Income Statement as incurred except in the following circumstances, in which case the expenditure may be capitalised:

 – The existence of a commercially viable mineral deposit has been established as a result of a reasonable prospect for the eventual 

economic extraction; or

 – The exploration and evaluation activity is within an area of interest which was previously acquired as an asset acquisition or in a 

business combination and was measured at fair value on acquisition.

In addition, drilling costs incurred at a producing mine for the purpose of improving confidence of the existing resource may be 
capitalised when the following criteria are satisfied:

 – The drilling occurs within the existing physical boundaries of the area defined as the resource; and

 – The drilling costs are incurred in resources which are economically recoverable.

Capitalised exploration and evaluation expenditure considered to be a tangible asset is recognised as a component of property, 
plant and equipment at cost less impairment charges. Otherwise, it is recognised as an intangible asset (such as certain licence and 
lease arrangements). In determining whether the purchase of an exploration licence or lease is an intangible asset or a component of 
property, plant and equipment, consideration is given to the substance of the item acquired and not its legal form. Licences or leases 
purchased which allow exploration over an extended period of time meet the definition of an intangible exploration lease asset where 
they cannot be reasonably associated with a known Mineral Resource.

(d)  Other mineral assets
Other mineral assets comprise:

 – Capitalised exploration and evaluation expenditure for areas now in production;

 – Development expenditure for areas now in production; and

 – Mineral rights acquired.

In underground mines, when production and development activity occur concurrently, development activity is separated from 
production activity, and is capitalised as development expenditure in other mineral assets. Underground mine development activity 
includes the cost associated with gaining access to an ore deposit which gives rise to a substantive change in the future productive 
capacity of the mine.

128

FINANCIAL REPORT

11.  Property, plant and equipment continued
(e)  Leases
At inception of a contract, the Group assesses whether a contract is, or contains, a lease. A contract is, or contains, a lease if the 
contract conveys the right to control the use of an identified asset for a period of time in exchange for consideration. 

The Group recognises a right-of-use (ROU) asset and a lease liability at the lease commencement date. The ROU asset is initially 
measured at cost, which comprises the initial amount of the lease liability, plus any initial direct costs incurred and estimated future 
cost of closure or rehabilitation, less any lease incentives received. The ROU asset is subsequently measured at cost less accumulated 
depreciation, impairment and any adjustments for remeasurement of the lease liability.

The corresponding lease liability is included within interest bearing liabilities. The lease liability is initially measured based on the value 
of lease payments not yet paid at the commencement date, discounted to present value using the interest rate implicit in the lease or, 
if that rate cannot be readily determined, the lessee’s incremental borrowing rate. The lessee’s incremental borrowing rate is the rate of 
interest that a lessee would have to pay to borrow over a similar term, and with similar security, the funds necessary to obtain an asset 
of a similar value to the ROU asset in a similar economic environment. 

The lease liability is subsequently measured at amortised cost using the effective interest method. It is remeasured when there is a 
change in future lease payments arising from a change in a rate or an index or if the Group changes its assessment of whether it will 
exercise a purchase, extension or termination option. When the lease liability is remeasured, a corresponding adjustment is made to the 
carrying amount of the ROU asset, or is recognised in the Consolidated Income Statement if the carrying amount of the ROU asset has 
been reduced to nil. 

The nature of the Group’s leases predominantly relates to mining equipment and assets supporting the operations in line with the 
Group’s principal activities. 

Leased assets are pledged as security for the related lease liabilities. 

Short-term, low-value and variable leases
The Group has elected not to recognise ROU assets and lease liabilities for short-term and low-value leases. Short-term leases are 
leases with a lease term of 12 months or less, while low-value leases are leases where the underlying asset is considered low value. 
Variable leases are leases with lease payments which are variable but do not depend on a rate or an index. The Group recognises the 
lease payments associated with these leases as an expense in the Consolidated Income Statement on a straight-line basis over the 
lease term. If variable leases have a fixed component, these would be recognised in the Consolidated Balance Sheet. 

Total cash outflows for lease obligations consist of US$98 million (FY22: US$99 million) for lease liabilities recognised in the Consolidated 
Balance Sheet and US$69 million (FY22: US$77 million) for short-term, low-value and variable leases recognised in the Consolidated 
Income Statement.

(f)  Depreciation and amortisation
The carrying amounts of property, plant and equipment are depreciated to their estimated residual values over the estimated useful 
lives of the specific assets concerned. Estimates of residual values and useful lives are reassessed annually and any change in estimate 
is taken into account in the determination of remaining depreciation charges. Depreciation commences on the date of commissioning. 
The major categories of property, plant and equipment are depreciated on a units of production or straight-line basis using the 
estimated lives indicated below. However, where assets are dedicated to an operation or lease and are not readily transferable, the 
below useful lives are subject to the lesser of the asset category’s useful life and the life of the operation or lease.

Category

Useful life

Buildings
Land
Plant and equipment
ROU assets
Mineral rights
Capitalised exploration, evaluation and development expenditure

25 to 40 years straight-line
not depreciated
3 to 30 years straight-line
based on the shorter of the useful life or the lease term (straight-line)
based on Ore Reserves on a units of production basis
based on Ore Reserves on a units of production basis

Key estimates, assumptions and judgements

Useful economic lives of assets
The useful lives of our property, plant and equipment are often dependent, either directly or indirectly, on the reserve life of the 
orebody to which they relate. Changes in economic assumptions used to estimate Ore Reserves and/or the timing of closure of 
operations, including the Group’s expectations with respect to climate change-related risks, may impact the estimated useful lives 
of the specific assets concerned. 

Refer to note 2(c) Key estimates, assumptions and judgements for further details regarding climate change-related risks and 
opportunities, and Mineral Resources and Ore Reserves as sources of estimation uncertainty.

129

SOUTH32 ANNUAL REPORT 2023NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – OPERATING ASSETS AND LIABILITIES CONTINUED

12.  Intangible assets

FY23

US$M

Cost
At the beginning of the year
Additions
Disposals
At the end of the year
Accumulated amortisation and impairments
At the beginning of the year
Amortisation charge for the year
Disposals
At the end of the year
Net book value at 30 June 2023

FY22

US$M

Cost
At the beginning of the year
Additions
Acquisition of subsidiaries and joint operations(1)
At the end of the year
Accumulated amortisation and impairments
At the beginning of the year
Amortisation charge for the year
Impairments for the year
At the end of the year
Net book value at 30 June 2022

Goodwill

Other 
intangibles

139
-
-
139

-
-
-
-
139

284
69
(25)
328

237
13
(25)
225
103

Goodwill

Other 
intangibles

139
-
-
139

-
-
-
-
139

278
4
2
284

228
5
4
237
47

Total

423
69
(25)
467

237
13
(25)
225
242

Total

417
4
2
423

228
5
4
237
186

(1)  Relates to the acquisition of an additional 16.6 per cent shareholding and related rights in Mozal Aluminium in FY22.

(a)  Goodwill
Where the fair value of consideration paid for a business combination exceeds the fair value of the Group’s share of the identifiable net 
assets acquired, the difference is treated as purchased goodwill. Where the fair value of the Group’s share of the identifiable net assets 
acquired exceeds the fair value of consideration paid, the difference is immediately recognised in the Consolidated Income Statement. 
Goodwill is not amortised, however, its carrying amount is assessed annually against its recoverable amount. 

(b)  Other intangible assets
Amounts paid for the acquisition of identifiable intangible assets, such as software, licences and contract based intangible assets are 
capitalised at the fair value of consideration paid and are recognised at cost less accumulated amortisation and impairment charges. 
Identifiable intangible assets with a finite life are amortised on a straight-line basis over their expected useful life from when the asset is 
ready for use. The useful lives are as follows:

Category

Software and licences
Contract based intangible assets

Useful life

5 years
up to 35 years

The Group has no identifiable intangible assets for which the expected useful life is indefinite.

130

FINANCIAL REPORT

13.  Impairment of non-financial assets

In testing for indications of impairment and performing impairment calculations, assets are considered as collective groups and referred 
to as CGUs. Impairment tests are carried out annually for CGUs containing goodwill and when there is an indication of impairment or 
impairment reversal for all other CGUs. The Group uses discounted cash flow valuation ranges to assess whether there is an indicator of 
impairment or impairment reversal for its CGUs. For any resulting impairment testing, and for CGUs containing goodwill, the Group uses 
the higher of fair value less cost of disposal (FVLCD) and its value in use to assess the recoverable amount.

If the carrying value of the CGU exceeds its recoverable amount, the CGU is impaired and an impairment loss is charged to the 
Consolidated Income Statement. Previously impaired CGUs are reviewed for possible reversal of impairment at each reporting date. 
Impairment reversals cannot exceed the carrying value that would have been determined (net of depreciation) had no impairment loss 
been recognised for the CGU. Goodwill is not subject to impairment reversal.

For areas not yet in production, any mineral rights acquired, together with subsequent capitalised exploration and evaluation 
expenditure, are reviewed to determine the appropriateness of continuing to carry forward costs in relation to that area of interest. 
Once the technical feasibility and commercial viability of an area of interest are demonstrated, exploration and evaluation assets 
attributable to that area of interest are tested for impairment.

The Group recognised the following net impairment for the year ended 30 June 2023:

US$M

Impairment
Property, plant and equipment(1)
ROU assets(1)
Intangible assets
Impairment reversal
Property, plant and equipment(2)
Total net impairment

Note

FY23

FY22

11
11
12

11

1,300
-
-

-
1,300

176
7
4

(42)
145

(1)  FY23 relates to a US$1,300 million impairment of the Taylor Deposit within the Hermosa segment. FY22 relates to a US$183 million impairment included in Group and 

unallocated items in respect of Eagle Downs. This includes a US$176 million impairment of property, plant and equipment and a US$7 million impairment of ROU assets.

(2)  FY22 relates to a US$42 million impairment reversal included within the Brazil Aluminium segment.

(a)  Recognised impairments - 30 June 2023

Hermosa – Taylor Deposit
In August 2018, the Group completed its acquisition of the Hermosa project located in Arizona, United States. The Hermosa project 
comprises the zinc-lead-silver sulphide deposit (Taylor Deposit), the manganese-zinc-silver oxide deposit (Clark Deposit) and a land 
package with the potential for further polymetallic and copper mineralisation (Land Package). In FY23, the Group advanced the 
feasibility study for the Taylor Deposit, completed a pre-feasibility selection study for the Clark Deposit and announced that the US 
Federal Permitting Improvement Steering Council, an independent federal agency, had confirmed the Hermosa project as the first 
mining project added to the FAST-41 process. Since acquisition, the fair value of the Taylor Deposit has been negatively impacted by 
delayed first production as a result of COVID-19 related restrictions and significant dewatering requirements, as well as capital cost 
escalation in line with industry-wide inflation.

Recently completed study work confirmed that the Taylor Deposit and the Clark Deposit can be developed independently. As a result, 
the Group identified three separate areas of interest within the Hermosa project: the Taylor Deposit, the Clark Deposit and the Regional 
Land Package. On separation into three separate areas of interest, the Group allocated the carrying value of the previous single 
Hermosa area of interest to each of the newly identified and separate areas of interest.

As a result of the study work to date, the Group identified an impairment indicator for the Taylor Deposit and recognised a resulting 
impairment of property, plant and equipment of US$1,300 million in FY23 within expenses excluding finance costs in the Consolidated 
Income Statement. The impairment of US$1,300 million includes US$1,049 million recognised in other mineral assets, US$119 million 
recognised in assets under construction and US$132 million recognised in exploration and evaluation. The recoverable amount of the 
Taylor Deposit was determined as US$482 million based on its FVLCD. 

131

SOUTH32 ANNUAL REPORT 2023NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – OPERATING ASSETS AND LIABILITIES CONTINUED

13.  Impairment of non-financial assets continued
(a)  Recognised impairments - 30 June 2023 continued

Hermosa – Taylor Deposit continued
The fair value measurement was categorised as a Level 3 fair value based on the inputs in the discounted cashflow valuation model 
(refer to note 19 Financial assets and financial liabilities). The recoverable amount was informed by inputs from the feasibility study in 
progress for the Taylor Deposit, including the expected technical performance of the deposit as well as expected capital and operating 
costs for the life of the operation. The determination of FVLCD was most sensitive to:

 – Zinc, lead and silver prices;

 – Pre-production capital expenditure;

 – Mineral Resource estimation;

 – Development approvals; and

 – Discount rate

Zinc, lead and silver prices - The long-run zinc, lead, and silver prices, in real terms, used in the FVLCD determinations were within the 
following ranges:

FY23

Zinc (US$/t)
Lead (US$/t)
Silver (US$/oz)

Assumptions used

2,700 to 3,200
2,000 to 2,100
20 to 22

Pre-production capital expenditure – The calculation of FVLCD includes an estimate of pre-production capital to support the 
development of the Taylor Deposit to its nameplate capacity of up to 4.3 million tonnes per annum. Key inputs including steel, cement 
and electrical components are subject to uncertainties, including industry-wide inflation.

Mineral Resource estimation - The Mineral Resource estimate of the Taylor Deposit is reported in accordance with the JORC Code, and 
the ASX Listing Rules (Chapter 5): Additional reporting on mining and oil and gas production and exploration activities. Refer to the 
Mineral Resources and Ore Reserves section of note 2(c) for further information on these estimates.

Development approvals – Construction is planned to commence in late FY24, subject to a final investment decision for the Taylor 
Deposit. The addition of the Hermosa project to the FAST-41 process has reduced the expected timing of Federal environmental 
approvals and permits by approximately two years. A Record of Decision (RoD) to permit surface disturbance and additional tailings 
storage on unpatented land will require completion of the National Environmental Policy Act process with the United States Forest 
Service. The ramp-up to planned nameplate production could be impacted if the RoD is delayed as production will have to be slowed 
due to tailings capacity restrictions on patented lands. 

Discount rate - In determining the FVLCD, a real US$ post tax discount rate range of between 6 and 8 per cent was applied to discount 
future cash flows expressed in real terms.

The following table illustrates the sensitivity of the recoverable amount of the Taylor Deposit based on a reasonably possible change 
in key assumptions. Owing to the complexity of the relationships between each key assumption, the analysis was performed for each 
assumption individually (all other assumptions held constant).

FY23

US$M

Zinc prices
Lead prices
Silver prices
Pre-production capital expenditure
Discount rate

Change in key 
assumption

10%
10%
10%
10%
100 basis points

Impact on profit/(loss) after tax

Favourable

Unfavourable

235
200
120
205
335

(235)
(200)
(120)
(205)
(275)

132

FINANCIAL REPORT

13.  Impairment of non-financial assets continued
(b)  Recognised impairments - 30 June 2022

Eagle Downs Metallurgical Coal
In October 2021, the Group announced the commencement of a process to investigate the potential divestment of our interest in the 
Eagle Downs Metallurgical Coal development option. In December 2021, as part of the negotiation for sale, the Group received non-
binding offers from external parties which, in combination with the long-term market outlook for metallurgical coal demand and prices, 
resulted in the recognition of an impairment of US$79 million for the Eagle Downs area of interest. The impairment was recognised 
within expenses excluding finance costs in the Consolidated Income Statement.

In April 2022, a preferred bidder withdrew from the negotiations and the Group revised its recoverable amount of the Eagle Downs area 
of interest to US$nil, bringing the total impairment recognised for the Eagle Downs area of interest in FY22 to US$183 million. 

The long-run metallurgical coal prices and exchange rates, in real terms, used as part of the Group’s FVLCD determinations at 30 June 
2022 were within the following ranges as published by market commentators:

FY22

Metallurgical coal (US$/t)
Foreign exchange rates (A$ to US$)

Assumptions 
used

135 to 175
0.71 to 0.80

The fair value measurement was categorised as a Level 3 fair value based on the inputs in the discounted cashflow valuation model in 
combination with the use of the market approach (refer to note 19 Financial assets and financial liabilities). In determining the FVLCD, 
a real US$ post tax discount rate range of between six and eight per cent was applied to discount future cash flows expressed in real 
terms.

In addition to the impairment of ROU assets of US$7 million, the impairment of US$176 million for property, plant and equipment of 
Eagle Downs includes US$3 million recognised in land and buildings, US$7 million recognised in plant and equipment, US$102 million 
recognised in other mineral assets, US$51 million recognised in assets under construction, and US$13 million recognised in exploration 
and evaluation.

Brazil Aluminium 
On 6 January 2022, the Group announced its decision to participate in a restart of the Brazil Aluminium smelter. The Group assessed the 
implications of the restart decision and reviewed the impact on the carrying value of the Brazil Aluminium CGU as at 31 December 2021.

At 31 December 2021, the Group reversed the full impairment that was recognised when the smelter was placed on care and 
maintenance in 2015, limited to the carrying amount that would have been determined (net of amortisation and depreciation) had 
no impairment loss been recognised at such time. The recoverable amount remains significantly higher than the carrying amount 
recorded.

The recoverable amount was based on the smelter’s FVLCD and was informed by the Group’s production profile and cost profile which 
were consistent with the Group’s commitments to long-term power agreements. The key assumptions used for commodity prices were 
comparable to market consensus forecasts and foreign exchange rates were aligned with forward market rates.

The fair value measurement was categorised as a Level 3 fair value based on the inputs in the discounted cashflow valuation model 
(refer to note 19 Financial assets and financial liabilities). In determining the FVLCD, a real US$ post tax discount rate range of between 
six and eight per cent, and a country risk premium of two per cent, was applied to discount future cash flows expressed in real terms.

The impairment reversal of US$42 million includes US$18 million recognised in land and buildings and US$24 million recognised in plant 
and equipment, both within property, plant and equipment. The impairment reversal was recognised within expenses excluding finance 
costs in the Consolidated Income Statement. In addition, the Group recognised indirect tax assets of US$77 million that had been 
expensed since the smelter was placed on care and maintenance in 2015. Refer to note 4(b)(ii) Significant items.

133

SOUTH32 ANNUAL REPORT 2023NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – OPERATING ASSETS AND LIABILITIES CONTINUED

13.  Impairment of non-financial assets continued
(c)  Impairment test for CGUs containing goodwill
For the purpose of impairment testing, goodwill has been allocated to CGUs that are expected to benefit from the synergies of the 
business combination and which represent the level at which management will monitor and manage the goodwill.

The carrying amount of goodwill has been allocated to the following CGU:

US$M

Hillside Aluminium
Total goodwill 

Note

12

FY23

139
139

FY22

139
139

The goodwill arose from the acquisition of Alusaf in Hillside Aluminium (Pty) Ltd and has been allocated to the Hillside Aluminium CGU 
which comprises the Hillside aluminium smelter. The recoverable amount of the Hillside Aluminium CGU was determined based on a 
FVLCD calculation and was categorised as a Level 3 fair value based on the inputs in the valuation technique (refer to note 19 Financial 
assets and financial liabilities). The impairment test for the Hillside Aluminium CGU indicated that no impairment was required. The 
determination of FVLCD was most sensitive to:

 – Production volumes;

 – Aluminium and alumina prices;

 – Foreign exchange rates;

 – Carbon pricing and timing; and

 – Discount rate.

Production volumes – estimated production volumes are based on the life of the smelter as determined by management as part of its 
long-term planning process. Production volumes are influenced by production input costs such as electricity prices, jurisdiction based 
carbon pricing, and the selling price of aluminium.

Aluminium and alumina prices, and foreign exchange rates – the ranges of aluminium prices, alumina prices and exchange rates, in real 
terms, used in the FVLCD determinations, together with the potential effect of using reasonably possible alternative assumptions on the 
recoverable amount, based on unfavourably changing these assumptions by 10 per cent whilst holding all other variables constant, are 
shown in the table below:

FY23

Aluminium prices (US$/t)
Alumina prices (US$/t)
Foreign exchange rates (US$ to ZAR)

Assumptions used

2,238 to 2,510
343 to 426
16.1 to 19.1

Impact on recoverable 
amount (US$M)

(683)
(214)
(304)

Carbon pricing and timing – in determining the FVLCD, the current jurisdiction enacted carbon price, in real terms, of ZAR186 to ZAR474 
per tonne CO2-e (FY22: ZAR143 to ZAR150 per tonne CO2-e) is applied for the life of operation for Scope 1 and 2 emissions, net of 
operation specific abatement allowances.

Discount rate – in determining the FVLCD, a real US$ post tax discount rate range of between six and eight per cent (FY22: range of 
between six and eight per cent), and a country risk premium of two per cent (FY22: two per cent) was applied to discount future cash 
flows expressed in real terms.

The impairment test for the Hillside Aluminium CGU indicated that no impairment was required. At 30 June 2023 the carrying value 
approximates its recoverable amount. As such any material long-term unfavourable change in the aforementioned key assumptions 
could lead to the carrying value exceeding the recoverable amount. The relationships between each key assumption are complex, such 
that a change in one may cause a change in several other inputs.

134

FINANCIAL REPORT

13.  Impairment of non-financial assets continued

Key estimates, assumptions and judgements
An assessment as to whether there is any indication of impairment and the calculation of a CGU’s recoverable amount requires 
management to make estimates and assumptions about expected production and sales volumes, commodity prices, foreign 
exchange rates, Mineral Resources and Ore Reserves, regulatory approvals, operating costs, closure and rehabilitation costs, 
future capital expenditure, allocation of corporate costs, jurisdiction-specific carbon prices and global carbon pricing. These 
estimates and assumptions are subject to risk and uncertainty. There is a possibility that changes in circumstances will alter 
these projections, which may impact the recoverable amount. In such circumstances, some or all of the carrying amount may be 
impaired or a previously recognised impairment charge may be reversed with the impact recognised in the Consolidated Income 
Statement.

The key estimates and assumptions used in the assessment of impairment indicators are as follows:

Future production

Commodity prices 
and market traded 
consumables

Exchange rates

Discount rates

Regulatory approvals

Carbon prices

Life of operation plans based on Mineral Resource and Ore Reserve estimates, economic life of 
smelters and refineries and, in certain cases, Exploration Targets and expansion projects, including 
future cost of production. Refer to note 2(c) Key estimates, assumptions and judgements for further 
details regarding Mineral Resources and Ore Reserves as sources of estimation uncertainty.

Forward market and contract prices, and longer-term price estimates which includes an assessment 
of the impact carbon price assumptions might have. 

Forward market foreign exchange rates, and longer-term price protocol estimates.

Risk-adjusted cost of capital and appropriate to the resource.

Life of operation plans include assumptions associated with the successful application, and timing 
thereof, of ongoing and future regulatory approvals.

Actual enacted schemes less allowable abatements, where applicable, and a long-term base case 
estimate of US$64 per tonne CO2-e (real) applied to all Scope 1 and 2 emissions from FY40 onwards.

Where impairment testing is undertaken, a range of external sources are considered as further input to the above assumptions. 

Exploration and evaluation expenditure
For areas not yet in production, acquired mineral rights, together with subsequent capitalised exploration and evaluation 
expenditure, require judgement to determine the likelihood of future economic benefits from future development, and whether 
sufficient data exists to indicate that, although a development in the specific area is likely to proceed, the carrying amount of 
the exploration and evaluation asset is unlikely to be recovered in full. When facts and circumstances suggest that the carrying 
amount exceeds the recoverable amount, an impairment test is required which may result in an adjustment to the carrying value 
of acquired mineral rights together with subsequent capitalised exploration and evaluation expenditure.

At or before the final investment decision for a given area of interest, and once technical feasibility and commercial viability 
has been demonstrated, the Group assess the carrying value of that area of interest for impairment or, for an area of interest 
previously impaired, impairment reversal.

135

SOUTH32 ANNUAL REPORT 2023NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – OPERATING ASSETS AND LIABILITIES CONTINUED

13.  Impairment of non-financial assets continued

Key estimates, assumptions and judgements continued

Climate change-related risks and opportunities
The Group’s forecast commodity prices and other key assumptions represent management’s expectations on likely outcomes, 
with a base case estimation of at least 2°C warming. When assessing whether there is any indication of impairment or impairment 
reversal, management performs a sensitivity analysis by considering a range of possible scenarios, with no one scenario being 
conclusive in isolation. Our sensitivity analysis shows that our FY23 1.5°C scenario would result in an increased risk of impairment 
at the Hillside Aluminium and Illawarra Metallurgical Coal CGUs. 

The full costs and benefits of decarbonisation projects are included in the Group’s valuations when it has a high degree of 
confidence that a project will achieve an emissions reduction, which typically aligns with the related capital project being internally 
approved, or when it is critical for meeting regulatory licensing requirements. The Group’s valuations include the cost and 
benefit of initiatives necessary to meet its medium-term target to halve its operational greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by 2035 
compared to its FY21 baseline. ‘Target’ is defined as an intended outcome in relation to which we have identified one or more 
pathways for delivery of that outcome, subject to certain assumptions or conditions. The decarbonisation pathway to meet our 
goal of net zero GHG emissions by 2050 is not yet fully defined and, as such, the cost and benefit of all associated initiatives are 
not included in the Group’s valuations. ‘Goal’ is defined as an ambition to seek an outcome for which there is no current pathway(s), 
but for which efforts will be pursued towards addressing that challenge, subject to certain assumptions or conditions.

The Group utilises an internal price on carbon to inform decision-making and valuations, based on actual enacted schemes less 
allowable abatements, where applicable, and a long-term base case estimate of US$64 per tonne CO2-e (real) applied to all Scope 
1 and 2 emissions from FY40 onwards. In developing forecast global carbon prices, the Group considers policy and market-driven 
carbon prices as well as abatement costs, weighted across developed and developing countries.

When assessing for impairment indicators, the Group has considered the sensitivity of operations to changes in carbon prices. 
The Group’s operations are not uniformly impacted by carbon prices. The impact is influenced by the amount of Scope 1 and 2 
emissions the operation generates and the jurisdiction in which it operates, in combination with the respective life of operation 
plans. The Group’s CGUs with a higher carbon sensitivity include Worsley Alumina, Hillside Aluminium, Mozal Aluminium and 
Illawarra Metallurgical Coal.

Previously impaired areas of interest and CGUs
When assessing for impairment reversal indicators, the fundamental characteristics of previously impaired areas of interest and 
CGUs are relevant to their sensitivity to key estimates and assumptions. For previously impaired areas of interest and CGUs these 
include:

 – Areas of interest that are subject to ongoing study and evaluation, for example the Taylor Deposit at Hermosa;

 – CGUs with higher operating margins and with life of operation plans longer than 10 years which are less sensitive to short-term 

commodity prices and foreign exchange rates, for example Worsley Alumina;

 – CGUs with lower operating margins which are highly sensitive to movements in commodity prices and foreign exchange rates, 

for example South Africa Manganese; and

 – CGUs with higher operating margins, shorter life of operation plans and exposure to commodities that display greater price 

volatility, for example Australia Manganese.

Mozal Aluminium
The Group jointly controls Mozal Aluminium together with the Industrial Development Corporation of South Africa Limited and the 
Government of the Republic of Mozambique. Electricity supplied to Mozal Aluminium is generated by Hidroeléctrica de Cahora 
Bassa, a hydro-electric power generator, and supplied via Eskom, the South African state-owned entity which owns and operates 
South Africa’s national electricity grid. Eskom also provides back-up energy to Mozal Aluminium for periods when Hidroeléctrica 
de Cahora Bassa produces less than its contractual minimum supply of hydro-electric power.

The Group is working with key stakeholders to extend the supply of power from Hidroeléctrica de Cahora Bassa for Mozal 
Aluminium beyond 2026. Although an extension and pricing of the existing arrangement with Eskom is uncertain, the Group has 
made a reasonable assumption that an extension to 2030 can be achieved on mutually acceptable commercial terms. Failure to 
extend the supply of power from Hidroeléctrica de Cahora Bassa will have a material impact on the recoverable amount of Mozal 
Aluminium.

136

FINANCIAL REPORT

14.  Trade and other payables

US$M

Current
Trade creditors
Other creditors
Total current trade and other payables
Non-current
Trade creditors
Other creditors
Total non-current trade and other payables

FY23

FY22

854
131
985

18
1
19

813
176
989

7
1
8

Trade and other payables generally represent liabilities for goods and services provided to the Group prior to the end of the year which 
were unpaid at the end of the year. These amounts are unsecured. Trade and other payables are included in current liabilities, except for 
those liabilities where payment is not due within 12 months from the reporting date, which are classified as non-current liabilities.

Trade and other payables, other than financial liabilities held at FVTPL, are stated at their amortised cost and are non-interest bearing. 
The carrying value of these trade and other payables is considered to approximate fair value due to the short-term nature of the 
payables.

15.  Provisions

US$M

Current
Employee benefits
Closure and rehabilitation
Other 
Total current provisions 
Non-current
Employee benefits
Closure and rehabilitation
Post-retirement employee benefits 
Other
Total non-current provisions 

Note

FY23

FY22

177
7
10
194

6
1,931
33
16
1,986

171
8
7
186

4
1,785
34
12
1,835

22

137

SOUTH32 ANNUAL REPORT 2023NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – OPERATING ASSETS AND LIABILITIES CONTINUED

15.  Provisions continued

FY23

US$M

At the beginning of the year
Charge/(credit) for the year to the Consolidated Income Statement:

Underlying
Discounting
Net interest expense
Exchange rate variations
Released during the year

Amounts capitalised for change in costs and estimates
Amounts capitalised for change in discount rate
Foreign exchange amounts capitalised 
Amounts taken to retained earnings
Utilisation
At the end of the year

FY22

US$M

At the beginning of the year
Charge/(credit) for the year to the Consolidated Income Statement:

Underlying
Discounting
Change in discount rate
Net interest expense
Exchange rate variations
Released during the year

Amounts capitalised for change in costs and estimates
Amounts capitalised for change in discount rate
Foreign exchange amounts capitalised 
Amounts taken to retained earnings
Utilisation
Acquisition of subsidiaries and joint operations(1)
At the end of the year

Employee  
benefits

Closure and  
rehabilitation

175

1,793

167
-
-
(7)
(1)
-
-
-
-
(151)
183

16
91
-
(15)
(7)
149
(16)
(68)
-
(5)
1,938

Employee  
benefits

Closure and  
rehabilitation

201

1,717

156
-
-
-
(14)
(8)
-
-
-
-
(160)
-
175

3
67
(2)
-
(19)
(8)
167
(15)
(127)
-
(9)
19
1,793

Post-
retirement 
employee 
benefits

34

5
-
3
(3)
-
-
-
-
(3)
(3)
33

Post-
retirement 
employee 
benefits

41

1
-
-
3
(4)
-
-
-
-
(3)
(4)
-
34

Other

19

7
-
-
1
-
-
-
-
-
(1)
26

Other

39

6
-
-
-
(3)
(19)
-
-
-
-
(4)
-
19

Total

2,021

195
91
3
(24)
(8)
149
(16)
(68)
(3)
(160)
2,180

Total

1,998

166
67
(2)
3
(40)
(35)
167
(15)
(127)
(3)
(177)
19
2,021

(1)  Relates to the acquisition of an additional 16.6 per cent shareholding and related rights in Mozal Aluminium in FY22.

(a)  Employee benefits 
Liabilities for unpaid wages and salaries are recognised in other creditors. Current entitlements to annual leave and accumulating sick 
leave accrued for services up to the reporting date are recognised in the provision for employee benefits and are measured at the 
amounts expected to be paid. Entitlements to non-accumulated sick leave are recognised when the leave is taken.

The current liability for long service leave (for which settlement within 12 months of the reporting date cannot be deferred) is recognised 
in the current provision for employee benefits and is measured in accordance with annual leave described above. 

(b)  Closure and rehabilitation 
The mining, extraction and processing activities of the Group normally give rise to obligations for site closure or rehabilitation. Closure 
and rehabilitation works can include facility decommissioning and dismantling, removal or treatment of waste materials, site and land 
rehabilitation.

Provisions for the cost of each closure and rehabilitation program are recognised at the time that environmental disturbance occurs. 
When the extent of disturbance increases over the life of an operation, the provision is increased accordingly. Costs included in the 
provision encompass all closure and rehabilitation activity expected to occur progressively over the life of the operation and at, or 
after, the time of closure, for disturbance existing at the reporting date. Routine operating costs that may impact the ultimate closure 
and rehabilitation activities, such as waste material handling conducted as an integral part of a mining or production process, are not 
included in the provision. Costs arising from unforeseen circumstances, such as the contamination caused by unplanned discharges, are 
recognised as an expense and liability when the event gives rise to an obligation which is probable and capable of reliable estimation.

The timing of the actual closure and rehabilitation expenditure is dependent upon a number of factors such as: the life and nature of the 
asset; the operating licence conditions; and the environment in which the operation operates. Expenditure may occur before and after 
closure, and can continue for an extended period of time depending on closure and rehabilitation requirements.

138

FINANCIAL REPORT

15.  Provisions continued
(b)  Closure and rehabilitation continued
Closure and rehabilitation provisions are measured based on the expected value of future cash flows, discounted to their present value 
and determined according to the probability of alternative estimates of cash flows occurring for each operation. 

Discount rates used are risk-free interest rates specific to the country in which the operations are located and the expected timing of 
the closure and rehabilitation expenditure. Material changes in country specific risk-free interest rates may affect the discount rates 
applied. The Group reviews its discount rates used periodically, with any corresponding change in the provision as a result of revising 
discount rates capitalised as an asset in the case of open sites or charged/(credited) to the Consolidated Income Statement in the case 
of closed sites.

When provisions for closure and rehabilitation are initially recognised, the corresponding cost is capitalised as an asset, representing 
part of the cost of acquiring the future economic benefits of the operation. The capitalised cost of closure and rehabilitation activities 
is recognised in property, plant and equipment and depreciated accordingly. The value of the provision is progressively increased over 
time due to the effect of discounting unwind and inflation, creating an expense recognised in finance costs.

Closure and rehabilitation provisions are also adjusted for changes in costs and estimates. Those adjustments are accounted for as a 
change in the corresponding capitalised cost, except where a reduction in the provision is greater than the depreciated capitalised cost 
of the related assets, in which case the carrying value is reduced to nil and the remaining adjustment is recognised in the Consolidated 
Income Statement. In the case of closed sites, changes to estimated costs are recognised immediately in the Consolidated Income 
Statement. Changes to the capitalised cost result in an adjustment to future depreciation. Adjustments to the estimated amount and 
timing of future closure and rehabilitation cash flows are a normal occurrence in light of the significant judgements and estimates 
involved.

(c)  Post-retirement employee benefits
This relates to the provision for post-employment defined benefit pension and medical schemes. Refer to note 22 Pension and other 
post-retirement obligations.

Key estimates, assumptions and judgements
The recognition of closure and rehabilitation provisions requires judgement and is based on significant estimates and 
assumptions such as: 

 – The requirements of the relevant local legal and regulatory framework; 

 – The magnitude of possible contamination; 

 – The timing, extent and cost of required closure and rehabilitation activity; and 

 – Potential changes in physical and climate conditions. 

These uncertainties may result in future actual expenditure differing from the amounts currently provided.

The Group’s expectations and approach in relation to climate change-related risks and opportunities are reflected in the 
estimates and assumptions noted above. For example, our base case estimation of at least 2°C climate-related warming impacts 
our life of operations plans, which in turn impacts assumptions regarding timing and cost of closure and rehabilitation activities. 
Physical impacts of climate change have been considered in the estimation of closure and rehabilitation costs, including timing of 
relinquishment based on the Group’s assessment to date. These estimates will continue to be refined as the Group progresses its 
assessment of physical risks and development of direct adaptation and mitigation strategies.

The provision recognised for each site is periodically reviewed and updated based on the facts and circumstances available at the 
time. 

In addition to the uncertainties noted above, certain closure and rehabilitation activities may be subject to legal disputes and 
depending on the ultimate resolution of these disputes, the final liability for such matters could vary.

If risk-free interest rates were decreased by 0.5 per cent (in real terms), the provision would increase by approximately  
US$261 million.

139

SOUTH32 ANNUAL REPORT 2023NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – CAPITAL STRUCTURE AND FINANCING

This section outlines how the Group manages its capital and related financing activities. 

16.  Cash and cash equivalents

Cash and cash equivalents include cash at bank and on hand as well as short-term deposits. 

US$M

Cash
Short-term deposits
Cash and cash equivalents(1)(2)

FY23

611
647
1,258

FY22

763
1,602
2,365

(1)  Cash and cash equivalents include US$6 million (FY22: US$4 million) which is restricted by legal or contractual arrangements. 
(2)  Cash and cash equivalents include US$287 million (FY22: US$335 million) consisting of short-term deposits and cash managed by the Group on behalf of its equity accounted 

investments. The corresponding amount payable is included in note 17 Interest bearing liabilities.

17.  Interest bearing liabilities

US$M

Current
Lease liabilities
Unsecured loans from equity accounted investments(1)
Unsecured other
Total current interest bearing liabilities
Non-current
Lease liabilities
Senior unsecured notes
Unsecured other
Total non-current interest bearing liabilities

FY23

FY22

51
287
27
365

623
690
63
1,376

40
335
27
402

610
689
126
1,425

(1)  Refer to note 16 Cash and cash equivalents and note 29 Related party transactions.

On 14 April 2022, the Group completed the issuance of US$700 million of senior unsecured notes pursuant to Rule 144A and Regulation 
S of the United States Securities Act of 1933. The Group utilised the cash proceeds from the offering, together with cash on hand, for 
the repayment in full of the amounts drawn down under its acquisition bridge facility used to partly fund the acquisition of a 45 per cent 
interest in Sierra Gorda in FY22. The notes will pay interest on 14 April and 14 October each year at a rate of 4.35 per cent per annum and 
mature in 2032. 

All borrowings are initially recognised at their fair value net of directly attributable transaction costs. Subsequent to initial recognition, 
interest bearing liabilities are measured at amortised cost using the effective interest method. Gains and losses are recognised in the 
Consolidated Income Statement when the liabilities are derecognised. Interest bearing liabilities are classified as current liabilities, 
except when the Group has an unconditional right to defer settlement for at least 12 months after the reporting date, in which case the 
liabilities are classified as non-current. 

140

FINANCIAL REPORT

17.  Interest bearing liabilities continued

A reconciliation of movements in interest bearing liabilities to cash flows arising from financing activities is set out below:

FY23 

US$M

At the beginning of the year
Cash movements:

Repayment of interest bearing liabilities
Interest paid

Non-cash movements:
Interest expense 
Net increase/(decrease) in interest bearing liabilities(1)
Effect of foreign exchange rate changes 

At the end of the year

Lease liabilities

Other interest 
bearing 
liabilities

Total interest 
bearing 
liabilities

650

1,177

1,827

(46)
(52)

52
93
(23)
674

(87)
(57)

59
(41)
16
1,067

(133)
(109)

111
52
(7)
1,741

(1)  The non-cash decrease in other interest bearing liabilities relates to an agreement with a subsidiary of Seriti Resources Holdings Pty Ltd (Seriti) to settle the vendor loan 
facility, previously recognised within other financial assets, against the related rehabilitation fund liability. Both facilities were originally provided to Seriti as part of the 
divestment of South Africa Energy Coal. Refer to note 19(a)(iv) Measurement of fair value.

FY22

US$M

At the beginning of the year
Cash movements:

Proceeds from interest bearing liabilities
Repayment of interest bearing liabilities
Interest paid

Non-cash movements:
Interest expense 
Net increase/(decrease) in interest bearing liabilities
Effect of foreign exchange rate changes 

At the end of the year

18.  Net finance income/(costs)

US$M

Finance income
Interest on loans to equity accounted investments
Other interest income
Total finance income
Finance costs
Interest on borrowings
Interest on lease liabilities
Discounting on provisions and other liabilities
Change in discount rate on closure and rehabilitation provisions
Net interest expense on post-retirement employee benefits
Exchange rate variations on net cash/(debt)
Total finance costs
Net finance income/(costs)

Lease liabilities

687

-
(46)
(53)

53
66
(57)
650

Other interest 
bearing 
liabilities

Total interest 
bearing 
liabilities

520

1,207

1,527
(886)
(17)

24
-
9
1,177

1,527
(932)
(70)

77
66
(48)
1,827

FY23

FY22

162
60
222

(68)
(52)
(92)
-
(3)
8
(207)
15

63
16
79

(31)
(53)
(65)
2
(3)
40
(110)
(31)

141

SOUTH32 ANNUAL REPORT 2023NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – CAPITAL STRUCTURE AND FINANCING CONTINUED

19.  Financial assets and financial liabilities

The following table presents the financial assets and liabilities by class at their carrying amounts:

FY23

US$M

Financial assets 
Cash and cash equivalents 
Trade and other receivables(1)
Other financial assets:

Derivative contracts 

Total current financial assets 
Trade and other receivables(1)
Other financial assets:

Investments in equity instruments designated as FVOCI
Contingent consideration receivable

Total non-current financial assets
Total financial assets
Financial liabilities
Trade and other payables(2)
Interest bearing liabilities
Total current financial liabilities 
Trade and other payables(2)
Interest bearing liabilities
Other financial liabilities:

Contingent consideration payable
Total non-current financial liabilities
Total financial liabilities

Note

Held at FVTPL

Designated  
as FVOCI

Amortised 
 cost

16
9

9

14
17

14
17

-
105

1
106
-

-
10
10
116

6
-
6
-
-

37
37
43

-
-

-
-
-

108
-
108
108

-
-
-
-
-

-
-
-

1,258
532

-
1,790
1,802

-
-
1,802
3,592

962
365
1,327
18
1,376

-
1,394
2,721

Total

1,258
637

1
1,896
1,802

108
10
1,920
3,816

968
365
1,333
18
1,376

37
1,431
2,764

(1)  Excludes current input taxes of US$141 million and non-current input and other taxes of US$121 million included in other receivables. Refer to note 9 Trade and other 

receivables.

(2)  Excludes current input taxes of US$17 million and non-current input and other taxes of US$1 million included in other creditors. Refer to note 14 Trade and other payables.

FY22

US$M

Financial assets 
Cash and cash equivalents 
Trade and other receivables(1)
Other financial assets:

Derivative contracts 

Total current financial assets 
Trade and other receivables(1)
Other financial assets:

Investments in equity instruments designated as FVOCI
Vendor loan facility

Total non-current financial assets
Total financial assets
Financial liabilities
Trade and other payables(2)
Interest bearing liabilities
Other financial liabilities:
Derivative contracts

Total current financial liabilities 
Trade and other payables(2)
Interest bearing liabilities
Other financial liabilities:

Contingent consideration payable
Total non-current financial liabilities
Total financial liabilities

Note

Held at FVTPL

Designated  
as FVOCI

Amortised 
cost

16
9

9

14
17

14
17

-
143

1
144
-

-
39
39
183

20
-

6
26
-
-

84
84
110

-
-

-
-
-

25
-
25
25

-
-

-
-
-
-

-
-
-

2,365
561

-
2,926
1,806

-
-
1,806
4,732

929
402

-
1,331
7
1,425

-
1,432
2,763

Total

2,365
704

1
3,070
1,806

25
39
1,870
4,940

949
402

6
1,357
7
1,425

84
1,516
2,873

(1)  Excludes current input taxes of US$140 million and non-current input and other taxes of US$97 million included in other receivables. Refer to note 9 Trade and other 

receivables.

(2)  Excludes current input taxes of US$40 million and non-current input and other taxes of US$1 million included in other creditors. Refer to note 14 Trade and other payables.

142

FINANCIAL REPORT

19.  Financial assets and financial liabilities continued
(a)  Accounting classification and fair value

(i)  Financial assets
Financial assets are held at FVTPL, amortised cost or designated as FVOCI based on the business model for managing the financial 
assets and the contractual terms of the cashflows. 

Classification

Held at FVTPL

Amortised cost

Designated as FVOCI

Initial recognition and subsequent measurement

Financial assets held at FVTPL, including derivative financial assets, are initially recognised at fair value, with 
transaction costs recognised immediately in the Consolidated Income Statement. 

Financial assets held at FVTPL are subsequently remeasured through the Consolidated Income Statement, 
including any interest income, dividend income and foreign exchange gains and losses, unless hedge 
accounting is applied. 
At initial recognition, trade receivables that do not have a significant financing component are recognised at 
their transaction price. Other financial assets held at amortised cost are initially recognised at fair value plus 
related transaction costs.

Financial assets subsequently measured at amortised cost are measured using the effective interest method 
and reduced by any impairment losses. Interest income, foreign exchange gains and losses, impairments and 
any gain or loss on derecognition, are recognised in the Consolidated Income Statement.
For certain investments in equity instruments, the Group has made an irrevocable election to present fair 
value changes in other comprehensive income. 

Investments in equity instruments designated as FVOCI are subsequently remeasured through other 
comprehensive income and are not reclassified to the Consolidated Income Statement. Dividends are 
recognised as other income in the Consolidated Income Statement unless the dividend clearly represents a 
recovery of part of the cost of the investment. 

(ii)  Financial liabilities
Financial liabilities are held at FVTPL or amortised cost. 

Classification

Held at FVTPL

Amortised cost

Initial recognition and subsequent measurement

Financial liabilities held at FVTPL, including derivative financial liabilities, are initially recognised at fair value, 
with transaction costs recognised immediately in the Consolidated Income Statement. 

Financial liabilities held at FVTPL are subsequently remeasured through the Consolidated Income Statement, 
including any interest expense and foreign exchange gains and losses, unless hedge accounting is applied.
Financial liabilities held at amortised cost are recognised initially at fair value, net of transaction costs 
incurred. 

Financial liabilities held at amortised cost are subsequently measured using the effective interest method. 
Interest expense and foreign exchange gains and losses are recognised in the Consolidated Income 
Statement. Any gain or loss on derecognition is also recognised in the Consolidated Income Statement.

(iii)  Embedded derivatives
A derivative embedded within a hybrid contract, with a financial liability or non-financial host, is separated from the host and accounted 
for as a separate derivative if: 

 – the economic characteristics and risks are not closely related to the host; 

 – a separate instrument with the same terms as the embedded derivative would meet the definition of a derivative; and 

 – the hybrid contract is not measured at FVTPL. 

Embedded derivatives are measured at fair value with changes in fair value recognised in the Consolidated Income Statement. 

A derivative embedded within a hybrid contract containing a financial asset host is not accounted for separately. The financial asset 
host together with the embedded derivative is required to be classified in its entirety as a financial asset held at FVTPL.

143

SOUTH32 ANNUAL REPORT 2023NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – CAPITAL STRUCTURE AND FINANCING CONTINUED

19.  Financial assets and financial liabilities continued
(a)  Accounting classification and fair value continued

(iv)  Measurement of fair value
The carrying values of the Group’s financial assets and liabilities measured at amortised cost are equal to or approximate their 
respective fair values, except for senior unsecured notes, which have a fair value of US$617 million (FY22: US$650 million), and lease 
liabilities, for which a fair value has not been determined. The fair value of the Group’s senior unsecured notes is estimated based on 
quoted market prices at the reporting date and are classified as Level 1 on the fair value hierarchy as shown below.

For financial assets and liabilities measured at fair value, the Group uses quoted marked prices in active markets for identical assets 
where available. Where no price information is available from a quoted market source, alternative market mechanisms or recent 
comparable transactions, the fair value is estimated based on the Group’s views on relevant future prices, net of valuation allowances to 
accommodate liquidity, modelling, credit and other risks implicit in such estimates.

The following table shows the Group’s financial assets and liabilities carried at fair value with reference to the nature of valuation inputs 
used:

Level 1  Valuation is based on unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical financial assets and liabilities.

Level 2 

 Valuation is based on inputs (other than quoted prices included in Level 1) that are observable for the financial asset or liability, 
either directly (i.e. as unquoted prices) or indirectly (i.e. derived from prices).

Level 3  Valuation includes inputs that are not based on observable market data.

FY23

US$M

Financial assets and liabilities
Trade and other receivables
Trade and other payables
Derivative contract assets
Investments in equity instruments designated as FVOCI
Contingent consideration receivable
Contingent consideration payable
Total 

FY22

US$M

Financial assets and liabilities
Trade and other receivables
Trade and other payables
Derivative contract assets
Derivative contract liabilities
Investments in equity instruments designated as FVOCI
Vendor loan facility
Contingent consideration payable
Total 

Level 1

Level 2

Level 3

Total

-
-
1
101
-
-
102

105
(6)
-
-
-
-
99

-
-
-
7
10
(37)
(20)

105
(6)
1
108
10
(37)
181

Level 1

Level 2

Level 3

Total

-
-
1
(6)
25
-
-
20

143
(20)
-
-
-
-
-
123

-
-
-
-
-
39
(84)
(45)

143
(20)
1
(6)
25
39
(84)
98

FY23

FY22

(45)

15
(39)
-
47
2
(20)

52

(97)
-
(5)
52
(47)
(45)

The following table shows the movements in the Group’s Level 3 financial assets and liabilities:

US$M

At the beginning of the year

Addition of financial assets/(liabilities)
Reclassification of financial asset from level 3 to level 2(1)
Derecognition of financial assets/(liabilities)
Unrealised gains/(losses) recognised in the Consolidated Income Statement(2)
Unrealised gains/(losses) recognised in the Consolidated Statement of Comprehensive Income(3)
At the end of the year

(1)  The valuation of the vendor loan facility provided to Seriti as part of the Group’s divestment of South Africa Energy Coal no longer included inputs that are based on 

unobservable market data. This financial asset was subsequently settled through agreement with the vendor to offset this facility against the related rehabilitation fund 
liability, recognised within unsecured other interest bearing liabilities. Refer to note 17 Interest bearing liabilities.

(2)  Recognised in expenses excluding finance costs in the Consolidated Income Statement.
(3)  Recognised in the financial assets reserve in the Consolidated Statement of Comprehensive Income.

144

FINANCIAL REPORT

19.  Financial assets and financial liabilities continued
(b)  Financial risk management objectives and policies
The Group is exposed to market, liquidity and credit risk. These risks are managed in accordance with the Group’s portfolio risk 
management strategy which supports the delivery of the Group’s financial targets while protecting its future financial security 
and flexibility by taking advantage of the natural diversification of the Group’s operations and activities. A Cash Flow at Risk (CFaR) 
framework is used to capture the benefits of diversification and to measure the aggregate impact of financial risks on those financial 
targets. CFaR is measured on a portfolio basis and is defined as the expected reduction from projected business plan cash flows over a 
one-year horizon in a pessimistic case. In addition to the CFaR framework, deterministic analysis of a range of operational, commodity 
price and foreign exchange rate scenarios is also used to measure the potential impact on financial targets. 

(i)  Market risk
Market risk is the risk that the fair value of future cash flows of a financial instrument will fluctuate because of changes in market prices. 
Market risk comprises interest rate risk, foreign currency risk and other price risk, such as equity price risk and commodity price risk. 

The Group’s activities expose it to market risks associated with movements in interest rates, foreign currencies and commodity prices. 
The Group predominantly manages currency impacts, input costs and commodity prices on a floating or index basis. This strategy gives 
rise to a risk of variability in earnings which is measured under the CFaR framework.

In executing the Group’s strategy, financial instruments may be employed for risk mitigation purposes within a strict Board of Directors 
approved mandate, or to align the total Group exposure to the relevant index target in the case of commodity sales, operating costs or 
debt issuances.

Interest rate risk
The Group had the following exposure to interest rate risk:

US$M

Financial assets 
Cash and cash equivalents
Trade and other receivables
Other financial assets
Financial liabilities
Interest bearing liabilities
Net exposure

FY23

FY22

1,218
153
-

(286)
1,085

2,306
102
39

(334)
2,113

The following table demonstrates the sensitivity to a reasonably possible change in interest rates on that portion of financial assets and 
liabilities affected. With all other variables held constant, the Group’s profit/(loss) after tax would increase/(decrease) as follows:

US$M

Increase of 100 basis points
Decrease of 100 basis points

Impact on profit/(loss) after tax

FY23

8
(8)

FY22

16
(13)

The sensitivity analysis assumes that the change in interest rates is effective from the beginning of the year and the fixed/floating mix 
and balances are constant over the year. However, interest rates and the profile of the Group’s financial assets and liabilities may not 
remain constant over the coming year and therefore such sensitivity analysis should be used with care.

145

SOUTH32 ANNUAL REPORT 2023NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – CAPITAL STRUCTURE AND FINANCING CONTINUED

19.  Financial assets and financial liabilities continued
(b)  Financial risk management objectives and policies continued

(i)  Market risk continued

Foreign currency risk
The Group’s potential currency exposures comprise:

 – Translational exposure in respect of non-functional currency monetary items; and

 – Transactional exposure in respect of non-functional currency expenditure and revenues. 

The functional currency of the Group’s operations is primarily the US dollar. Certain operating and capital expenditure is incurred by 
operations in currencies other than their functional currency. To a lesser extent, certain sales revenue is earned in currencies other than 
the functional currency of the operation, and certain exchange control restrictions may require funds to be maintained in currencies 
other than the operations functional currency. When required, the Group may enter into forward exchange contracts. 

The following table shows the principal foreign currency risk arising from financial assets and liabilities by currency of denomination:

US$M

Australian dollar
Brazilian real
Colombian peso
South African rand

FY23

(946)
(103)
(70)
74

FY22

(860)
(63)
(47)
98

Based on the Group’s net financial assets and liabilities as at 30 June, a weakening of the US dollar against these currencies as 
illustrated in the table below, with all other variables held constant, would increase/(decrease) the Group’s profit/(loss) after tax, as 
follows: 

US$M

10% movement in Australian dollar
10% movement in Brazilian real 
10% movement in Colombian peso 
10% movement in South African rand

Impact on profit/(loss) after tax

FY23

FY22

(67)
(10)
(7)
7

(60)
(6)
(5)
10

The Group’s other comprehensive income is not exposed to any significant fluctuations as a result of foreign exchange risk arising from 
financial assets and liabilities. 

Commodity price risk
Contracts for the sale and physical delivery of commodities are executed whenever possible on a pricing basis intended to achieve a 
relevant index target. Where pricing terms deviate from the index, the Group may choose to use derivative commodity contracts to 
realise the index price. Contracts for the physical delivery of commodities are not typically financial instruments and are not recognised 
in the Consolidated Balance Sheet. 

146

FINANCIAL REPORT

19.  Financial assets and financial liabilities continued
(b)  Financial risk management objectives and policies continued

(i)  Market risk continued

Provisionally priced commodity sales and purchases contracts
Provisionally priced sales or purchases contracts are those for which price finalisation, referenced to the relevant index, is outstanding 
at the reporting date. Provisional pricing mechanisms embedded within these sales and purchases arrangements have the character of 
a commodity derivative and are carried at FVTPL as part of trade receivables or trade creditors. Fair value movements on provisionally 
priced sale contracts are disclosed as other revenue in the Group’s segment results, refer to note 4(b) Segment results. The Group’s 
exposure at 30 June 2023 to the impact of movements in commodity prices on provisionally invoiced sale and purchase volumes was 
predominantly around nickel, silver, lead, zinc, metallurgical coal and aluminium.

The Group had 3.7kt of nickel, 2.6Moz of silver, 24.4kt of lead, 5.4kt of zinc, 30.0kt of metallurgical coal, 10.0kt of aluminium and 31.5kt 
of alumina exposure at 30 June 2023 (FY22: 2.3kt of nickel, 1.8Moz of silver, 30.0kt of lead, 5.7kt of zinc, 27.1kt of aluminium) that was 
provisionally priced. The final price of these sales or purchases will be determined during the first half of FY24. A 10 per cent change in 
the realised price of these commodities, with all other factors held constant, would increase or decrease profit/(loss) after tax by US$19 
million (FY22: US$18 million). The relationship between commodity prices and foreign currencies is complex and foreign exchange rates 
and commodity prices may move concurrently in response to market conditions. These sensitivities should therefore be used with care.

(ii)  Liquidity risk 
The Group’s liquidity risk arises from the possibility that it may not be able to settle or meet its obligations as they fall due. Operational, 
capital and regulatory requirements are considered in the management of liquidity risk, in conjunction with short and long-term 
forecast information.

In line with the Group’s policy on counterparty credit exposure, the Group only uses counterparties of a high credit standing for the 
investment of any excess cash.

The entities in the Group are funded by a combination of cash generated by the Group’s operations, working capital facilities and 
intercompany loans provided by the Group. Intercompany loans may be funded by a combination of cash, short and long-term debt. 
Details of the Group’s major standby arrangement are as follows:

FY23

US$M

Revolving credit facility(1)

Available

1,400

Used

-

Unused

1,400

(1)  The Group has an undrawn revolving credit facility which was extended in December 2022 by one year to December 2027, with the size of the facility in the final year reduced to 

US$1,200 million.

Maturity profile of financial liabilities
The maturity profiles of financial liabilities, based on the contractual amounts, are as follows:

FY23

US$M

Trade and other payables(1) 
Senior unsecured notes
Lease liabilities
Other interest bearing liabilities
Other financial liabilities – contingent consideration payable
Total

Carrying 
amount

986
690
674
377
37
2,764

On demand  
or less than  
1 year

1 to 5 years

More than  
5 years

968
30
102
315
 -
1,415

 -
122
331
68
48
569

18
822
715
-
 -
1,555

Total

986
974
1,148
383
48
3,539

(1)  Excludes current input taxes of US$17 million and non-current input and other taxes of US$1 million included in other creditors. Refer to note 14 Trade and other payables.

FY22

US$M

Trade and other payables(1)
Senior unsecured notes(2)
Lease liabilities
Other interest bearing liabilities
Other financial liabilities – contingent consideration payable
Other financial liabilities – derivative contracts
Total

Carrying 
amount

956
689
650
488
84
6
2,873

On demand  
or less than  
1 year

1 to 5 years

More than  
5 years

 949 
30
 90 
 362 
- 
 6 
1,437

 7 
122
 314 
 85 
 109 
-
637

 - 
 852 
 745 
 60 
 - 
-
1,657

Total

 956 
 1,004 
 1,149 
 507 
 109 
 6 
3,731

(1)  Excludes current input taxes of US$40 million and non-current input and other taxes of US$1 million included in other creditors. Refer to note 14 Trade and other payables.
(2)  The maturity profile of senior unsecured notes was restated to include future coupon payments, consistent with current year presentation.

147

SOUTH32 ANNUAL REPORT 2023NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – CAPITAL STRUCTURE AND FINANCING CONTINUED

19.  Financial assets and financial liabilities continued
(b)  Financial risk management objectives and policies continued

(iii)  Credit risk

Credit risk management
The Group has credit risk management policies in place covering the credit analysis, approvals and monitoring of counterparty 
exposures. As part of these processes the ongoing creditworthiness of counterparties is regularly assessed. Credit limits are 
established for customers and reviewed annually or with the release of new information materially impacting the customer’s 
creditworthiness.

Mitigation methods are defined and implemented for higher-risk counterparties to protect revenues, with more than half of the Group’s 
sales of physical commodities occurring via secured payment terms including prepayments, letters of credit, guarantees and other risk 
mitigation instruments. Mitigation methods include credit exposure management and overdue accounts monitoring. In addition, leading 
key risk indicators are actively monitored for all customers to identify any emerging risks. 

There are no material concentrations of credit risk, either with individual counterparties or groups of counterparties, by industry or 
geography. The carrying amounts of financial assets represent the maximum credit exposure.

Expected credit losses
Impairment allowances are based on a forward-looking expected credit loss model. For trade receivables, the Group uses the simplified 
approach to recognise impairments based on the lifetime expected credit loss. For other receivables, the Group applies the general 
approach and recognises impairments based on a 12-month expected credit loss. Where there has been a significant increase in credit 
risk, a loss allowance for lifetime expected credit losses is recognised.

Exposures are grouped by external credit rating and security options and an expected credit loss rate is calculated accordingly. Where 
applicable, actual credit loss experience is also taken into account. For remaining receivables without an external credit rating or 
security option, a rating of BB (S&P Global Ratings) is used, on the basis that there is no support that it is investment grade, nor is there 
any evidence of default.

Shareholder loan receivable from Sierra Gorda
Purchased credit-impaired financial assets are initially recognised at fair value. They are subsequently measured at amortised cost 
using the credit-adjusted effective interest method, less an allowance for changes in lifetime expected credit losses since initial 
recognition. The credit-adjusted effective interest rate is determined at initial recognition and not amended for subsequent changes to 
lifetime expected credit losses since acquisition. Changes in lifetime expected credit losses are recognised as impairment and reversals 
of impairment of financials assets.

The Group’s investment in the Sierra Gorda operation is represented by the carrying value of an equity accounted investment of US$101 
million (FY22: US$30 million), and the carrying value of a purchased credit-impaired receivable of US$1,711 million (FY22: US$1,648 
million) classified as a loan to an equity accounted investment within trade and other receivables on the Consolidated Balance Sheet.

The loan has a contractual interest rate of 8 per cent and the repayment of the loan by the Sierra Gorda operation is dependent on its 
financial performance. At 30 June 2023, the Group updated its estimated timing of the loan repayments and as a result recognised 
an impairment of US$71 million (FY22: impairment of US$26 million) which is included in expenses excluding finance costs in the 
Consolidated Income Statement. The net present value of the expected future cash flows of the loan was determined as US$1,711 
million (FY22: US$1,648 million) using a measurement methodology consistent with a Level 3 fair value based on the inputs in the 
valuation technique.

The following table shows the movement in the carrying amount of this receivable:

US$M

At the beginning of the financial year
Acquisition
Interest accrued
Net impairment
Repayments
At the end of the financial year

FY23

1,648
-
148
(71)
(14)
1,711

FY22

-
1,687
55
(26)
(68)
1,648

The future loan repayments were informed by a production profile and costs based on management’s planning processes. Refer to the 
Mineral Resources and Ore Reserves section of note 2(c) for further information on the estimates which underpin the production profile.

An effective interest rate of nine per cent, as determined on the date of acquisition, was applied to discount the future loan repayments.

Determining the net present value requires management to make certain key estimates, assumptions and judgements, which are 
consistent with those outlined in note 13 Impairment of non-financial assets. 

148

FINANCIAL REPORT

19.  Financial assets and financial liabilities continued
(b)  Financial risk management objectives and policies continued

(iii)  Credit risk continued

Shareholder loan receivable from Sierra Gorda continued
The net present value of the expected future cash flows of the loan is most sensitive to the Group’s copper price assumption, with 
a range of US$3.81/lb to US$4.11/lb used, in real terms. The potential effect of using a reasonably possible alternative copper price 
assumption on the carrying value of the loan, based on changing this assumption by 10 per cent while holding all other variables 
constant, is shown in the following table:

FY23

US$M

Trade and other receivables
Loans to equity accounted investments

Face value  Carrying value 

Favourable

Unfavourable

Impact on profit/(loss) after tax

2,185

1,711

90

(164)

(c)  Capital management
The Group allocates capital in line with its strategy and capital management framework. The Group’s priorities for cash flow are to:

 – Maintain safe and reliable operations and an investment grade credit rating through the cycle;

 – Distribute a minimum of 40 per cent of Underlying earnings as dividends to shareholders following each six-month reporting period; 

and

 – Maximise total shareholder returns through other alternatives including special dividends, share buy-backs and high return 

investment opportunities which compete for capital.

20.  Share capital

Share capital
At the beginning of the year
Shares bought back and cancelled
At the end of the year 
Treasury shares
At the beginning of the year
Purchase of shares by ESOP Trusts
Employee share awards vested
At the end of the year

FY23

FY22

Shares

US$M

Shares

US$M

4,628,431,584
(83,017,889)
4,545,413,695

13,469
(218)
13,251

4,674,538,013
(46,106,429)
4,628,431,584

(11,467,507)
(11,676,773)
5,880,807
(17,263,473)

(32)
(33)
14
(51)

(11,676,185)
(6,379,586)
6,588,264
(11,467,507)

13,597
(128)
13,469

(22)
(22)
12
(32)

Shares entitle the holder to participate in dividends and the proceeds on winding up of the Group in proportion to the number of shares 
held. On a show of hands every holder of shares present at a meeting in person or by proxy, is entitled to one vote, and upon a poll 
each share is entitled to one vote. Incremental costs directly attributable to the issuance of shares, net of any income tax effects, are 
recognised as a deduction from equity. 

149

SOUTH32 ANNUAL REPORT 2023NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – OTHER NOTES

21.  Auditor’s remuneration

The auditor of the Group is KPMG. 

US$’000

Fees payable to the Group’s auditor for assurance services 
Audit and review of financial statements
Other assurance services(1)
Total auditor’s remuneration

(1)  Primarily comprises assurance services in respect of the Group's sustainability and tax reporting.

22.  Pension and other post-retirement obligations

FY23

FY22

4,207
705
4,912

4,448
625
5,073

The Group operates or participates in a number of pension and medical (including superannuation) schemes throughout the world. The 
funding of the schemes complies with local regulations. The assets of the schemes are generally held separate from those of the Group 
and are administered by trustees or management boards. Full actuarial valuations are prepared for the schemes.

Defined contribution pension schemes 
The Group contributed US$60 million (FY22: US$59 million) to defined contribution plans and multi-employer defined contribution plans. 
These contributions are expensed as incurred.

Defined benefit pension schemes (closed schemes)
At 30 June 2023, the Group had defined benefit obligations of US$61 million (FY22: US$57 million) and defined benefit scheme assets 
with a fair value of US$45 million (FY22: US$46 million) with a net liability recognised in the Consolidated Balance Sheet of US$16 million 
(FY22: US$11 million).

The fair value of scheme assets by major asset class is as follows:

US$M

Bonds(1)
Equities
Cash and cash equivalents
Other(2)
Total

FY23

FY22

32
5
2
6
45

31
6
3
6
46

(1)  Comprises Fixed Interest Government bonds of US$7 million (FY22: US$6 million), Index Linked Government bonds of US$21 million  (FY22: US$20 million) and Corporate bonds 

of US$4 million (FY22: US$5 million).

(2)  Primarily comprises property and alternative investments in Australia.

Defined benefit post-retirement medical schemes (closed schemes)
At 30 June 2023, the Group had post-retirement medical scheme obligations of US$17 million (FY22: US$23 million). The post-retirement 
medical scheme is unfunded. 

Weighted average maturity profile of schemes 
The weighted average duration of the defined benefit obligations is eight years (FY22: seven years) and nine years (FY22: 10 years) for 
the defined benefit pension schemes and post-retirement medical scheme respectively. 

Risks associated with defined benefit pension and post-retirement medical schemes 
The Group’s defined benefit pension and post-retirement medical schemes expose the Group to the risks pertaining to asset value 
volatility, uncertainty in future benefit payments and uncertainty in future contribution requirements.

150

FINANCIAL REPORT

23.  Employee share ownership plans

At 30 June 2023, the Group had the following employee share ownership plans:

Awards granted to Lead Team members(1)

Long-Term Incentive Plan(2)
Deferred Short-Term Incentive Plan(3)
Executive Transitional Award Plan(2)
Management Share Plan(2)(4)

FY20, FY21, FY22, FY23
FY21, FY22
FY21, FY22
FY21

(1)  Awards granted on 6 December 2019, 4 December 2020, 6 December 2021 and 8 December 2022.
(2)  Awards subject to performance and service conditions.
(3)  Awards subject to service conditions only.
(4)  During FY21, Jason Economidis, as acting Chief Operating Officer, participated in the Management Share Plan and not the Long-Term Incentive Plan.

Awards granted to eligible employees(1)

Management Share Plan(2)
AllShare Plan(3)
Management Transitional Award Plan(2)

FY20, FY21, FY22, FY23
2020, 2021, 2022
FY20

(1)  Awards granted on 6 December 2019, 15 May 2020, 4 December 2020, 7 December 2020, 6 May 2021, 6 December 2021, 9 May 2022, 8 December 2022 and 15 May 2023. 
(2)  Awards subject to performance and service conditions.
(3)  Awards subject to service conditions only.

All awards take the form of rights to receive one share in South32 Limited for each right granted, subject to performance and/or service 
conditions being met. Performance conditions include total shareholder return relative to peer groups and, for FY22 and FY23 Long-
Term Incentive Plan and Management Share Plan awards, climate change and portfolio management performance hurdles. Further 
information on the vesting conditions of performance rights granted in FY23 is disclosed in the Remuneration report. A portion of the 
2020, 2021 and 2022 AllShare Plan awards (participants located in Colombia and Mozambique) take the form of rights to receive a cash 
payment equivalent to the value of South32 Limited shares at the time of payment. Employees in Africa are granted rights on the JSE 
and all other employees are granted rights on the ASX. 

Awards do not confer any dividend or voting rights until they convert into shares at vesting. In addition, the awards do not confer any 
rights to participate in a share issue, however, there is discretion under the plans to adjust the awards in response to a variation in 
South32 Limited’s share capital. 

The AllShare JSE plan is eligible to receive a payment equal to the dividend amount that would have been earned on the underlying 
shares awarded to those participants (Dividend Equivalent Payment). The Dividend Equivalent Payment is made to participants once the 
underlying shares are issued or transferred to them. No Dividend Equivalent Payment is made in respect of awards that have lapsed or 
have been forfeited. No other awards are eligible for a Dividend Equivalent Payment.

151

SOUTH32 ANNUAL REPORT 2023NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – OTHER NOTES CONTINUED

23.  Employee share ownership plans continued
(a)  Description of share-based payment arrangements

(i)  Recurring share-based payment plans
The awards listed below are subject to the general conditions noted above and may be granted annually subject to approval by 
shareholders at the annual general meeting for awards to the Chief Executive Officer and by the Board of Directors for all other awards. 

FY20, FY21, FY22 and FY23 Long-Term Incentive Plan

The Long-Term Incentive Plan is the Group’s long-term incentive plan for Lead Team members. 

Awards have a four-year performance period from 1 July 2019 to 30 June 2023, 1 July 2020 to 30 June 2024, 1 July 2021 to 30 June 2025 
and 1 July 2022 to 30 June 2026 respectively. 

The FY21 Long-Term Incentive Plan award granted to the Chief Executive Officer is subject to a specific vesting cap imposed by the 
Board of Directors. For other Lead Team members, the Board of Directors retains the discretion to apply a vesting cap to limit the value 
of the rights which may vest in the ordinary course.

FY21 and FY22 Deferred Short-Term Incentive Plan

The Deferred Short-Term Incentive Plan is the Group’s short-term incentive plan for Lead Team members. Awards vest in August 2023 
and August 2024 respectively, provided participants remain employed by the Group.

FY20, FY21, FY22 and FY23 Management Share Plan

The Management Share Plan is the Group’s long-term incentive plan for eligible employees below the Lead Team. The Management 
Share Plan comprises two elements: 

 – Retention rights vesting in August 2023, August 2024 and August 2025 provided participants remain employed by the Group; and 

 – Performance rights vesting in August 2023, August 2024, August 2025 and August 2026 subject to performance conditions and 

provided participants remain employed by the Group. 

For the FY21 Management Share Plan awards, the Board of Directors retains the discretion to apply a vesting cap to limit the value of 
the rights which may vest in the ordinary course.

2020, 2021 and 2022 AllShare Plan

The AllShare Plan is the Group’s employee share plan for employees not eligible to participate in the other employee share plans. 
Awards to the value of at least US$1,250 per employee are granted annually. Awards will vest provided participants remain employed by 
the Group. The vesting period depends on the participants’ location at the grant date:

 – Participants in Africa: August 2023, August 2024 and August 2025; and

 – Participants elsewhere: August 2023 and August 2024.

(ii)  Transitional share-based payment plans 
The awards listed below are subject to the general conditions noted above and are either one-off or will not be granted on an ongoing 
basis.

FY21 and FY22 Executive Transitional Award Plan

The Executive Transitional Award Plan is a one-off grant made to Lead Team members in recognition of their adjustment from the 
Management Share Plan (three year retention rights and four year performance rights) to the four year plan at the Group. Awards have a 
three year performance period from 1 July 2020 to 30 June 2023 and 1 July 2021 to 30 June 2024 respectively.

FY20 Management Transitional Award Plan

The Management Transitional Award Plan is a grant made to certain eligible employees to bridge the gap between their total target 
reward at BHP and their total target reward at the Group. The Management Transitional Award Plan has the same conditions as the 
Management Share Plan and comprises both service and performance conditions.

152

FINANCIAL REPORT

23.  Employee share ownership plans continued
(b)  Employee Share Ownership Plan Trusts
The South32 Limited Employee Incentive Plans Trust (the Australian Trust) and the South32 South African AllShare Trust (the South 
African Trust) are discretionary trusts for the benefit of employees of South32 Limited and its subsidiaries.

The trustee for the Australian Trust (CPU Share Plans Pty Ltd) is an independent company, resident in Australia. The trustees for the 
South African Trust are made up of employer and employee representatives per the Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment 
(B-BBEE) requirements under South African law. The Trusts use funds provided by South32 Limited and/or its subsidiaries to acquire 
shares to enable awards to be made or satisfied under the Group employee share ownership plans.

The shares may be acquired by purchase in the market or by subscription at not less than nominal value.  

(c)  Measurement of fair values
The fair value at grant date of equity-settled share awards is charged to the Consolidated Income Statement, net of tax, over the period 
for which the benefits of employee services are expected to be derived. The corresponding accrued employee entitlement is recorded 
in the employee share awards reserve.

Where awards are forfeited because non-market based vesting conditions are not satisfied, the expense previously recognised is 
proportionally reversed. If awards do not vest due to a market performance condition not being met, the expense is recognised in full, 
and the share awards reserve is released to retained earnings. Where shares in South32 Limited are acquired by on-market purchases 
prior to settling the vested entitlement, the cost of the acquired shares is carried as treasury shares and deducted from equity. Where 
awards are satisfied by delivery of acquired shares, any difference between their acquisition cost and the cumulative remuneration 
expense recognised is charged directly to retained earnings, net of tax.

The fair value of market-based performance rights is measured using a Monte Carlo methodology. This model considers the following:

 – Expected life of the award;

 – Current market price of the underlying shares;

 – Expected volatility (of the individual company and of each peer group);

 – Expected dividends;

 – Risk-free interest rate; and

 – Market based performance hurdles.

The fair value of retention and other non-market-based performance rights is measured using a Black Scholes methodology. This model 
considers the following: 

 – Expected life of the award;

 – Current market price of the underlying shares;

 – Expected volatility;

 – Expected dividends; and

 – Risk-free interest rate.

153

SOUTH32 ANNUAL REPORT 2023NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – OTHER NOTES CONTINUED

23.  Employee share ownership plans continued
(c)  Measurement of fair values continued
The inputs used in the measurement of the fair values at grant date of the equity-settled share-based payments plans were as follows:

FY23

Recurring plans
FY23 Long-Term Incentive Plan
FY22 Deferred Short-Term Incentive Plan
FY23 Management Share Plan – Retention rights
FY23 Management Share Plan – Performance rights
2022 AllShare Plan

FY22

Recurring plans
FY22 Long-Term Incentive Plan
FY21 Deferred Short-Term Incentive Plan
FY22 Management Share Plan – Retention rights
FY22 Management Share Plan – Performance rights
2021 AllShare Plan
Transitional plan
FY22 Executive Transitional Award Plan

Fair value at 
grant date 
(US$)

Share price at 
grant date 
(US$)

Expected 
volatility (%)

Expected life 

(in years)

Risk-free 
interest rate 
based on 
government 
bonds (%) 

1.74
2.68
2.59 – 2.63
1.74 – 1.77
2.68 – 2.90

2.76
2.76
2.76 – 2.85
2.76 – 2.85
2.76 – 2.85

35
35
35
35
35

4
2
3
4
2 - 3

3.14
3.09
3.12 – 8.32
3.14 – 8.85
3.09 – 8.32

Fair value at 
grant date 
(US$)

Share price at 
grant date 
(US$)

Expected 
volatility (%)

Expected life 

(in years)

1.65
2.36
2.25 - 2.26
1.65 - 1.66
2.36 - 2.57

2.60
2.60
2.34 - 2.60
2.34 - 2.60
2.34 - 2.60

1.68

2.60

30
30
30
30
30

30

Risk-free 
interest rate 
based on 
government 
bonds (%)

0.85
0.01
0.43 - 5.17
0.85 - 5.61
0.01 - 5.17

4
2
3
4
2 - 3

3

0.43

The fair value at grant date, expected life, and risk-free interest rates shown represent the ranges based on the amounts of rights 
granted on the ASX or the JSE during the year, and the variations in offer terms and grant dates of each plan where applicable. 
Expected volatility is based on the historical South32 Limited share price volatility at the grant date. The risk-free interest rate and 
expected volatility does not materially impact service-based awards.

154

FINANCIAL REPORT

23.  Employee share ownership plans continued
(d)  Reconciliation of outstanding share awards
None of the awards listed below have an exercise price or are exercisable at 30 June 2023.

FY23

Number of rights

Recurring plans
FY19 Long-Term Incentive Plan 
FY20 Long-Term Incentive Plan
FY21 Long-Term Incentive Plan
FY22 Long-Term Incentive Plan
FY23 Long-Term Incentive Plan
FY20 Deferred Short-Term Incentive Plan
FY21 Deferred Short-Term Incentive Plan
FY22 Deferred Short-Term Incentive Plan
FY19 Management Share Plan - Performance rights
FY20 Management Share Plan - Retention rights 
FY20 Management Share Plan - Performance rights
FY21 Management Share Plan - Retention rights
FY21 Management Share Plan - Performance rights
FY22 Management Share Plan - Retention rights
FY22 Management Share Plan - Performance rights
FY23 Management Share Plan - Retention rights
FY23 Management Share Plan - Performance rights
2019 AllShare Plan
2020 AllShare Plan
2021 AllShare Plan
2022 AllShare Plan

Transitional plans
FY20 Executive Transitional Award Plan
FY21 Executive Transitional Award Plan
FY22 Executive Transitional Award Plan
FY19 Management Transitional Award Plan
FY20 Management Transitional Award Plan
Total awards

24. Contingent assets and liabilities

Rights at 
beginning of 
the year

4,145,497
4,765,759
6,957,349
3,743,629
-
851,180
907,232
-
4,313,892
1,502,428
5,124,843
2,702,433
7,366,059
2,224,932
3,599,229
-
-
1,958,385
6,115,200
4,323,740
-

Granted during 
the year

Vested during 
the year

Forfeited 
during the year

Lapsed during 
the year

Rights at end 
of the year

-
-
-
-
2,494,503
-
-
949,257
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
1,907,751
3,198,587
-
-
-
4,610,840

-
-
-
-
-
(851,180)
(178,242)
-
-
(1,502,428)
-
(65,227)
-
(26,731)
-
(2,947)
-
(1,942,655)
(3,695,200)
(59,360)
(24,440)

-
(432,477)
(673,913)
(313,351)
-
-
-
-
-
-
(224,230)
(155,832)
(430,437)
(166,623)
(290,913)
(74,912)
(126,329)
(15,730)
(132,800)
(276,660)
(169,520)

(4,145,497)
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
(4,313,892)
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-

-
4,333,282
6,283,436
3,430,278
2,494,503
-
728,990
949,257
-
-
4,900,613
2,481,374
6,935,622
2,031,578
3,308,316
1,829,892
3,072,258
-
2,287,200
3,987,720
4,416,880

129,283
154,702
195,128
190,959
89,670
61,361,529

-
-
-
-
-
13,160,938

(43,094)
-
-
-
(14,209)
(8,405,713)

-
-
-
-
(543)
(3,484,270)

(86,189)
-
-
(190,959)
-

-
154,702
195,128
-
74,918
(8,736,537) 53,895,947

Contingent assets and liabilities not otherwise provided for in the consolidated financial statements are categorised as arising from:

US$M

Actual or potential litigation 
Total contingent liabilities 

Actual or potential litigation
Total contingent assets

FY23

519
519

143
143

FY22

427
427

156
156

Actual or potential litigation liabilities primarily relate to numerous tax assessments or matters relating to transactions in prior years in 
Colombia and Brazil. 

There are a number of legal claims or potential claims against the Group, the outcome of which cannot be foreseen at present, and for 
which no amounts have been disclosed.

Actual or potential litigation assets primarily relate to potential recovery of pre-closing tax liabilities in respect of the Sierra Gorda 
acquisition, with allocation of liability for these pre-closing tax liabilities being disputed with the vendors.

The Group has entered into various counter-indemnities of bank and performance guarantees related to its own future performance 
which are in the normal course of business. Additionally, the Group has provided indemnities against certain liabilities as part of 
agreements for the disposal of business operations. Having taken appropriate legal advice, the Group believes that a material liability 
arising from the indemnities provided is remote. 

155

SOUTH32 ANNUAL REPORT 2023NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – OTHER NOTES CONTINUED

25.  Subsidiaries

Significant subsidiaries of the Group, which are those with the most significant contribution to the Group’s profit/(loss) after tax or net 
assets, are as follows: 

Effective interest %

Significant subsidiaries 

African Metals (Pty) Ltd
South32 Hermosa Inc.
Cerro Matoso SA

Dendrobium Coal Pty Ltd
Endeavour Coal Pty Ltd
Hillside Aluminium (Pty) Ltd
Illawarra Coal Holdings Pty Ltd
Illawarra Services Pty Ltd
South32 Finance 1 B.V.
South32 Finance 2 B.V.
South32 Aluminium (Holdings) Pty Ltd
South32 Aluminium (RAA) Pty Ltd
South32 Aluminium (Worsley) Pty Ltd
South32 Cannington Pty Ltd 
South32 Eagle Downs Pty Ltd
South32 Group Operations Pty Ltd

South32 Investment 1 B.V.
South32 Marketing Pte Ltd
South32 Minerals SA
South32 SA Investments Ltd
South32 SA Ltd

South32 Sierra Gorda SpA
South32 Treasury Ltd
South32 USA Exploration Inc.

Country of incorporation 

Principal activity

South Africa
United States
Colombia

Australia
Australia
South Africa
Australia
Australia
Netherlands
Netherlands
Australia
Australia
Australia
Australia
Australia
Australia

Netherlands
Singapore
Brazil
United Kingdom
South Africa

Chile
Australia
United States

Investment holding company
Exploration and development
Integrated laterite ferronickel mine and 
smelting complex
Metallurgical coal mine
Metallurgical coal mine 
Aluminium smelter
Investment holding company
Coal washery, rail and road transportation
Financing company
Financing company
Investment holding company
Interest in a joint operation
Interest in a joint operation
Silver, lead and zinc mine
Interest in a joint operation
Administrative, management and support 
services
Interest in a joint operation
Sales, marketing and distribution
Interest in a joint operation
Investment holding company
Administrative, management and support 
services
Investment holding company
Financing company
Exploration

FY23

100
100
99.9

100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100

100
100
100
100
100

100
100
100

FY22

100
100
99.9

100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100

100
100
100
100
100

100
100
100

Subsidiaries are entities controlled by the parent entity. Control exists where the parent entity is exposed or has rights to variable 
returns from its involvement with the subsidiary and has the ability to affect those returns through its power over the subsidiary. A 
parent entity has power over the subsidiary when it has existing rights to direct the relevant activities of the subsidiary which are those 
which significantly affect the subsidiary’s returns. The financial statements of subsidiaries are included in the consolidated financial 
statements for the period they are controlled. 

156

FINANCIAL REPORT

26.  Equity accounted investments

The Group’s interests in equity accounted investments with the most significant contribution to the Group’s net profit/(loss) after tax or 
net assets, are as follows: 

Significant joint ventures 

Australia Manganese(1)
South Africa Manganese(2)
Sierra Gorda(3)

Country of 
incorporation

Australia
South Africa
Chile

Principal activity

Acquisition date 

FY23

FY22

Manganese ore mine
Manganese ore mines
Copper mine

8 May 2015
3 February 2015
22 February 2022

60
60
45

60
60
45

(1)  Australia Manganese consists of an investment in Groote Eylandt Mining Company Pty Ltd (GEMCO). 
(2)  The Group holds a 60 per cent interest in Samancor Holdings (Pty) Ltd (Samancor). Samancor indirectly owns 74 per cent of Hotazel Manganese Mines (Pty) Ltd (HMM), which 
gives the Group its indirect ownership interest of 44.4 per cent. The remaining 26 per cent of HMM is owned by B-BBEE entities, of which 17 per cent of the interests were 
acquired using vendor finance with the loans repayable via distributions attributable to these parties, pro rata to their share in HMM. Until these loans are repaid, the Group’s 
interest in HMM is accounted for at 54.6 per cent.

(3)  Sierra Gorda consists of an investment in Sierra Gorda Sociedad Contractual Minera. 

A reconciliation of the carrying amount of the equity accounted investments is set out below:

Ownership interest %

US$M

At the beginning of the year
Share of profit/(loss)
Share of other comprehensive income/(loss)
Dividends received from equity accounted investments
Acquisition of an equity accounted investment
At the end of the year

Carrying amount of equity accounted investments 

US$M

Australia Manganese
South Africa Manganese
Sierra Gorda
Individually immaterial(1)
Total 

FY23

470
246
6
(223)
-
499

FY23

95
173
101
130
499

FY22

380
272
(3)
(224)
45
470

FY22

143
180
30
117
470

(1)  Individually immaterial consists of investments in Samancor Marketing Pte Ltd (60 per cent), Mineração Rio do Norte (33 per cent) and Port Kembla Coal Terminal Ltd (16.7 per 

cent).

Share of profit/(loss) of equity accounted investments 

US$M

Australia Manganese 
South Africa Manganese
Sierra Gorda
Individually immaterial(1)
Total

FY23

120
36
71
19
246

FY22

211
31
30
-
272

(1)  Individually immaterial consists of investments in Samancor Marketing Pte Ltd (60 per cent), Mineração Rio do Norte (33 per cent) and Port Kembla Coal Terminal Ltd  

(16.7 per cent).

157

SOUTH32 ANNUAL REPORT 2023NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – OTHER NOTES CONTINUED

26.  Equity accounted investments continued

The following table summarises the financial information relating to each significant equity accounted investment:

FY23

US$M

Reconciliation of the carrying amount of equity accounted investments 
Current assets
Non-current assets
Current liabilities
Non-current liabilities
Net assets – 100%
Net assets – the Group’s share
Carrying amount of equity accounted investments 
Reconciliation of share of profit/(loss) of equity accounted investments
Revenue – 100%
Profit/(loss) after tax – 100% 
Profit/(loss) after tax – the Group’s share
Share of profit/(loss) of equity accounted investments
Other balances of equity accounted investments presented on a 100% basis
Cash and cash equivalents(1)
Non-current financial liabilities (excluding trade and other payables and provisions)
Depreciation and amortisation
Interest income
Interest expense
Income tax (expense)/benefit (excluding royalty related tax)

Joint ventures

Australia 
Manganese

South Africa 
Manganese

Sierra Gorda

351
837
(235)
(794)
159
95
95

1,028
200
120
120

-
(263)
(167)
4
(39)
(127)

231
514
(94)
(255)
396
173
173

512
64
36
36

32
(8)
(32)
9
(11)
(37)

590
4,437
(322)
(4,481)
224
101
101

1,521
158
71
71

180
(4,331)
(314)
3
(385)
(62)

(1)  South Africa Manganese cash and cash equivalents includes US$32 million, on a 100 per cent basis, which is restricted by legal or contractual arrangements.

FY22

US$M

Reconciliation of the carrying amount of equity accounted investments 
Current assets
Non-current assets
Current liabilities
Non-current liabilities
Net assets – 100%
Net assets – the Group’s share
Carrying amount of equity accounted investments 
Reconciliation of share of profit/(loss) of equity accounted investments
Revenue – 100%
Profit/(loss) after tax – 100% 
Profit/(loss) after tax – the Group’s share
Share of profit/(loss) of equity accounted investments
Other balances of equity accounted investments presented on a 100% basis
Cash and cash equivalents(1)
Non-current financial liabilities (excluding trade and other payables and provisions)
Depreciation and amortisation
Interest income
Interest expense
Income tax (expense)/benefit (excluding royalty related tax)

Joint ventures

Australia 
Manganese

South Africa 
Manganese

Sierra Gorda

328
836
(260)
(665)
 239 
143 
143 

1,239
351
211
211

 -
(173)
(136)
 -
(20)
(208)

258
516
(81)
(290)
 403 
180 
180 

602
59
31
31

27
(19)
(26)
3
(13)
(63)

485
4,252
(367)
(4,303)
67
30
30 

535
67
30
30

154
(4,177)
(129)
 -
(139)
(23)

(1)  South Africa Manganese cash and cash equivalents includes US$27 million, on a 100 per cent basis, which is restricted by legal or contractual arrangements.

158

FINANCIAL REPORT

 
 
 
26.  Equity accounted investments continued

The Group’s share of contingent liabilities and capital expenditure commitments of significant equity accounted investments as at 
30 June 2023 was US$3 million (FY22: US$6 million) and US$58 million (FY22: US$27 million) respectively.

The Group uses the term ‘equity accounted investments’ to refer to associates and joint ventures collectively.

Associates are entities in which the Group holds significant influence. If the Group holds 20 per cent or more of the voting power of an 
entity, it is presumed that the Group has significant influence, unless it can be clearly demonstrated that this is not the case. Significant 
influence can also arise when the Group has less than 20 per cent of the voting power but it can be demonstrated that the Group has 
the power to participate in the financial and operating policy decisions of the associate. Investments in associates are accounted for 
using the equity method. 

Joint ventures are joint arrangements in which the parties with joint control of the arrangement have rights to the net assets of the 
arrangement. A separate vehicle, not the parties, will have the rights to the assets and obligations for the liabilities, relating to the 
arrangement. If more than an insignificant share of output from a joint venture is sold to third parties, this indicates that the joint venture 
is not dependent on the parties to the arrangement for funding and that the parties to the arrangement have no obligation for the 
liabilities of the arrangement. Joint ventures are accounted for using the equity method. 

Equity accounted investments are initially recorded at cost, including the value of any goodwill on acquisition. In subsequent periods, the 
carrying amount of the investment is adjusted to reflect the share of post-acquisition profit or loss and other comprehensive income. 
After application of the equity method, including recognising the Group’s share of the investees’ results, the value of the investment will 
be assessed for impairment if there is objective evidence that an impairment of the investment may have occurred. 

27.  Interests in joint operations

Significant joint operations of the Group, which are those with the most significant contributions to the Group’s net profit/(loss) after tax 
or net assets, are as follows:

Significant joint 
operations

Country of 
operation

Principal activity

Effective interest %

Acquisition date

FY23 

FY22 

Ambler Metals
Brazil Alumina
Brazil Aluminium
Eagle Downs 
Metallurgical Coal
Mozal Aluminium(1)
Worsley Alumina(1)

United States
Brazil
Brazil 
Australia

Mozambique
Australia

Base metals exploration and development options
Integrated bauxite mine and alumina refinery
Aluminium smelter
Metallurgical coal exploration and  
development option
Aluminium smelter
Integrated bauxite mine and alumina refinery

11 February 2020
3 July 2014
3 July 2014
14 September 
2018
27 March 2015(2)
8 May 2015

50
36
40
50

63.7
86

50
36
40
50

63.7
86

(1)  While the Group holds a greater than 50 per cent interest in Worsley Alumina and Mozal Aluminium, participants jointly approve certain matters and are entitled to receive their 

share of output from the arrangement.

(2)  The Group initially acquired a 47.1 per cent interest on 27 March 2015 and subsequently acquired a further 16.6 per cent interest on 31 May 2022. 

Joint operations are joint arrangements in which the parties with joint control have rights to the assets and obligations for the liabilities 
relating to the arrangement. The activities of a joint operation are primarily designed for the provision of output to the parties to the 
arrangement, indicating that:

 – The parties have the rights to substantially all the output and economic benefits of the assets of the arrangement; and 

 – All liabilities are satisfied by the joint participants through their purchases of that output. This indicates that, in substance, the joint 

participants have an obligation for the liabilities of the arrangement.

The consolidated financial statements of the Group include its share of the assets and liabilities, revenues and expenses arising jointly 
or otherwise from those operations and its revenue derived from the sale of its share of the output from the joint operation. All such 
amounts are measured in accordance with the terms of each arrangement, which are usually in proportion to the Group’s interest in the 
joint operation. 

The assets in these joint operations are restricted to the extent that they are only available to be used by the joint operation itself and 
not by other operations of the Group. For certain joint operations, the Group has also either pledged, mortgaged or provided a cross 
charge to joint operation partners over assets within the joint operation.

159

SOUTH32 ANNUAL REPORT 2023NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – OTHER NOTES CONTINUED

28.  Key management personnel
(a)  Key management personnel compensation

US$’000

Short-term employee benefits
Post-employment benefits
Other long-term benefits
Termination benefits
Share-based payments
Total

FY23

5,419
128
276
-
4,246
10,069

FY22

6,321
137
293
428
4,764
11,943

(b)  Transactions with key management personnel
There were no transactions with key management personnel during the year ended 30 June 2023 (FY22: US$nil). 

(c)  Loans to key management personnel
On 22 June 2021, the Group made an interest free loan of US$620 thousand to Mike Fraser in relation to his South African income tax 
payable on his Group remuneration. The final instalment to repay the loan in full was made on 24 November 2021. There were no other 
loans with any key management personnel as at 30 June 2023 (FY22: US$nil). 

(d)  Transactions with key management personnel related entities
There were no transactions with entities controlled or jointly controlled by key management personnel and there were no outstanding 
amounts with those entities as at 30 June 2023 (FY22: US$nil).

29.  Related party transactions
(a)  Parent entity
The ultimate parent entity of the Group is South32 Limited, which is domiciled and incorporated in Australia. 

(b)  Subsidiaries, joint ventures and associates 
The interests in subsidiaries, joint ventures and associates are disclosed in note 25 Subsidiaries and note 26 Equity accounted 
investments.

(c)  Key management personnel 
The compensation of, and loans to, key management personnel are disclosed in note 28 Key management personnel.

(d)  Pension and other post-retirement obligations 
The pension and other post-retirement obligations are disclosed in note 22 Pension and other post-retirement obligations.

(e)  Transactions with related parties

Transactions with related parties

US$’000

Sales of goods and services 
Purchases of goods and services 
Interest income
Dividend income
Interest expense
Increase/(decrease) in short-term financing arrangements
Increase/(decrease) in loans with related parties

Outstanding balances with related parties

US$’000

Trade and sundry amounts owing to related parties
Other amounts owing to related parties(1)
Trade and sundry amounts owing from related parties
Loan amounts owing from related parties(2)(3)(4)

Joint ventures

Associates

FY23

FY22

FY23

271,141
531
160,288
223,468
14,977
(47,726)
113,587

360,674
-
60,661
224,424
2,109
49,530
1,619,366

3,863
163,096
-
-
-
-
(9,117)

Joint ventures

Associates

FY23

FY22

928
286,804
29,993
1,863,753

748
334,530
30,114
1,750,166

FY23

18,393
-
312
40,302

FY22

3,961
53,107
-
-
-
-
(17,237)

FY22

973
-
769
49,419

(1)  Other amounts owing to joint ventures relate to short-term deposits and cash managed by the Group on behalf of its equity accounted investments. Interest was paid based 

on the three-month London Inter-Bank Offer Rate (LIBOR) less a margin of 0.05 per cent and the one-month Johannesburg Inter-Bank Agreed Rate. From 1 July 2023 the three-
month LIBOR was replaced by the three-month Chicago Mercantile Exchange Term Secured Overnight Financing Rate (CME Term SOFR) plus a margin of 0.21 per cent.

(2)  Loan amounts owing from GEMCO include an interest bearing loan which is repayable by 2 January 2026. Interest was paid based on the three-month LIBOR plus a margin of 

three per cent. From 1 July 2023 the three-month LIBOR was replaced by the three-month CME Term SOFR plus a margin of 3.26 per cent.

(3)  Loan amounts owing from Sierra Gorda include a purchased credit-impaired loan which has a face value of US$2,185 million (FY22: US$2,073 million) and incurs interest at a 

contractual rate of eight per cent per annum. The loan is repayable by 15 December 2024, subject to review and agreement between the joint venture parties. Refer to note 19 
Financial assets and financial liabilities.

(4)  Loan amounts owing from Port Kembla Coal Terminal include an interest free loan which is repayable by 30 June 2030. 

Sales to, and purchases from, related parties are transactions at market prices and on commercial terms, or under terms and prices 
that are no less favourable to the Group than those arranged with third parties.

Outstanding balances at year end are unsecured and settlement mostly occurs in cash. 

160

FINANCIAL REPORT

29.  Related party transactions continued
(e)  Transactions with related parties continued
South32 Limited has guaranteed its equivalent 45 per cent share of the repayment of a US$700 million revolving credit facility entered 
into by Sierra Gorda. At the end of the year, the facility was drawn down by US$400 million (FY22: US$400 million). The facility extends to 
30 September 2024. No other guarantees are provided for or have been received from any related party.

30.  Parent entity information
(a)  Summary financial information
The individual financial statements for the parent entity, South32 Limited, show the following aggregate amounts:

US$M

Result of parent entity 
Profit/(loss) after tax for the year
Total comprehensive income/(loss)
Financial position of parent entity at year end
Current assets
Total assets
Current liabilities
Total liabilities
Net assets
Total equity of the parent entity
Share capital
Treasury shares
Other reserves
Profit reserve(1)
Accumulated losses
Total equity

FY23

FY22

(995)
(995)

445
12,056
(1,375)
(1,383)
10,673

13,251
(47)
32
3,816
(6,379)
10,673

3,879
3,879

652
13,006
(100)
(108)
12,898

13,469
(28)
24
4,823
(5,390)
12,898

(1)  Prior year profits, net of dividends paid, have been appropriated to a profit reserve for future dividend payments.

(b)  Parent company guarantees
The parent entity and South32 SA Investments Ltd have jointly and severally, fully and unconditionally guaranteed the payment of the 
principal and premium, if any, and interest, including certain additional amounts that may be payable in respect of the notes issued 
by South32 Treasury Ltd, a 100 per cent owned finance subsidiary of the parent entity. The parent entity and South32 SA Investments 
Ltd have guaranteed the payment of such amounts when they become due and payable, whether on an interest payment date, at the 
stated maturity of the notes, by declaration or acceleration, call for redemption or otherwise. At 30 June 2023, the guaranteed liabilities 
in respect of the notes amounted to US$690 million (FY22: US$689 million). 

The parent entity has also guaranteed a US commercial paper program and a Group revolving credit facility of US$1,400 million. The 
Group revolving credit facility remains undrawn as at 30 June 2023, refer to note 19 Financial assets and financial liabilities for further 
details.

The parent entity is party to a Deed of Support with the effect that the Company guarantees debts in respect of South32 Group 
Operations Pty Ltd.

31.  Subsequent events 

Capital management
On 24 August 2023, the Directors resolved to pay a fully-franked final dividend of US 3.2 cents per share (US$145 million) in respect of 
the 2023 financial year. The dividends will be paid on 12 October 2023. The dividends have not been provided for in the consolidated 
financial statements and will be recognised in the 2024 financial year. 

On 24 August 2023, the Group also announced an increase to the existing capital management program, announced in March 2017, of 
US$50 million to a total of US$2.4 billion. This leaves US$133 million expected to be returned by 1 March 2024.

No other matters or circumstances have arisen since the end of the year that have significantly affected, or may significantly affect, the 
operations, results of operations or state of affairs of the Group in subsequent accounting periods.

161

SOUTH32 ANNUAL REPORT 2023 
 
DIRECTORS’ DECLARATION 

In accordance with a resolution of the Directors of the Company, we state that:

1.  In the opinion of the Directors:

(a) The consolidated financial statements and notes that are set out on pages 105 to 161 of the Annual Report are in accordance with 

the Corporations Act, including:

(i)  Giving a true and fair view of the Group’s financial position as at 30 June 2023 and of its performance for the year ended on that 

date; and

(ii)  Complying with Australian Accounting Standards and Corporations Regulations 2001.

(b) There are reasonable grounds to believe that the Company will be able to pay its debts as and when they become due and 

payable.

2.  The Directors have been given the declarations required by Section 295A of the Corporations Act from the Chief Executive Officer 

and Chief Financial Officer for the year ended 30 June 2023.

3.  The Directors draw attention to note 2 to the financial statements on page 110, which includes a statement of compliance with 

International Financial Reporting Standards. 

Signed in accordance with a resolution of the Board of Directors.

Karen Wood 
Chair

Graham Kerr 
Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director

Dated 7 September 2023

162

FINANCIAL REPORT

LEAD AUDITOR’S INDEPENDENCE DECLARATION  
UNDER SECTION 307C OF THE CORPORATIONS ACT 2001

To the Directors of South32 Limited

I declare that, to the best of my knowledge and belief, in relation to the audit of South32 Limited for the financial year ended  
30 June 2023 there have been:

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

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

KPMG

Graham Hogg 
Partner

Perth 
7 September 2023

KPMG, an Australian partnership and a member firm of the KPMG global organisation of independent member firms affiliated with KPMG 
International Limited, a private English company limited by guarantee. All rights reserved. The KPMG name and logo are trademarks 
used under license by the independent member firms of the KPMG global organisation. Liability limited by a scheme approved under 
Professional Standards Legislation.

163

SOUTH32 ANNUAL REPORT 2023INDEPENDENT AUDITOR’S REPORT

To the shareholders of South32 Limited

Report on the audit of the Financial Report

Opinion

We have audited the Financial Report of South32 Limited (the 
Company).

The Financial Report comprises: 

•  Consolidated balance sheet as at 30 June 2023;

In our opinion, the accompanying Financial Report of the Company 
is in accordance with the Corporations Act 2001, including: 

•  Giving a true and fair view of the Group’s financial position as at 
30 June 2023 and of its financial performance for the year ended 
on that date; and

•  Complying with Australian Accounting Standards and the 

Corporations Regulations 2001.

•  Consolidated income statement, Consolidated statement of 

comprehensive income, Consolidated statement of changes in 
equity and Consolidated cash flow statement for the year then 
ended;

•  Notes including a summary of significant accounting policies; and

•  Directors’ Declaration.

The Group consists of the Company and the entities it controlled at 
the year-end or from time to time during the financial year.

Basis for opinion

We conducted our audit in accordance with Australian Auditing Standards. We believe that the audit evidence we have obtained is 
sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for our opinion.

Our responsibilities under those standards are further described in the Auditor’s responsibilities for the audit of the Financial Report 
section of our report. 

We are independent of the Group in accordance with the Corporations Act 2001 and the ethical requirements of the Accounting 
Professional and Ethical Standards Board’s APES 110 Code of Ethics for Professional Accountants (including Independence Standards) (the 
Code) that are relevant to our audit of the Financial Report in Australia. We have fulfilled our other ethical responsibilities in accordance with 
these requirements.

Key Audit Matters

The Key Audit Matters we identified are:

•  Asset valuation; and
•  Closure and rehabilitation provision.

Key Audit Matters are those matters that, in our professional 
judgement, were of most significance in our audit of the Financial 
Report of the current period. 

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

KPMG, an Australian partnership and a member firm of the KPMG global organisation of independent member firms affiliated with KPMG 
International Limited, a private English company limited by guarantee. All rights reserved. The KPMG name and logo are trademarks 
used under license by the independent member firms of the KPMG global organisation. Liability limited by a scheme approved under 
Professional Standards Legislation.

164

FINANCIAL REPORT

INDEPENDENT AUDITOR’S REPORT

Asset valuation (Property, plant and equipment US$8,050m, Intangible assets US$242m and  
Equity accounted investments US$499m)

Refer to Note 13 Impairment of non-financial assets and Note 26 Equity Accounted Investments to the Financial Report

The key audit matter

How the matter was addressed in our audit

The assessment of the existence of impairment or reversal indicators 
and the Group’s impairment testing of Cash Generating Units (CGU) 
and Areas of Interest (AOI), where required, was a key audit matter. This 
is due to the size of property, plant and equipment, intangible assets 
and equity accounted investments, and the sensitivity of valuations to 
certain assumptions. 

The Group had previously impaired the carrying value of several CGUs 
to equate to their recoverable amount, as required by accounting 
standards. Combined with the volatility in both commodity and foreign 
exchange markets, this increases the sensitivity of the current carrying 
values of these CGUs to potential impairment or reversal.  

The Group has recorded an impairment charge of US$1,300m in the 
Hermosa – Taylor deposit AOI resulting from identification of an 
impairment indicator.

This further increased our audit effort in this key audit area. 

The Group uses sophisticated models to perform their assessment of 
impairment or reversal indicators and fair value less cost of disposal for 
impairment testing, where required. 

The Group’s models use life of operation and project plans, approved 
budgets, and a range of external sources as inputs to the assumptions. 
Modelling using forward-looking assumptions tends to be prone to 
greater risk for potential bias, error and inconsistent application. These 
conditions necessitate additional scrutiny by us to address the 
objectivity of inputs and their consistent application. 

We focused on the significant forward-looking assumptions the Group 
applied in their models, including: 

•  Forecast commodity prices and foreign exchange rates – the 

current economic climate has resulted in significant volatility in 
forecast commodity prices across the Group. The Group’s models 
are sensitive to small changes in these price assumptions, as 
well as changes to foreign exchange rates, particularly the South 
African Rand, which increases forecasting risk.

•  Forecast operating cash flows, production volumes, capital 

expenditure and reserve and resource estimates – these are 
determined by the Group based on historical performance 
adjusted for expected changes or plans for development, 
including consideration of regulatory approvals. This drives 
additional audit effort specific to the feasibility of the forecasts 
and consistency with the Group’s strategy.

•  Discount rates - these are complicated in nature and vary 

according to the conditions and environment the CGUs are subject 
to from time to time.

•  Carbon price – the Group incorporates carbon price assumptions 

in its modelling based on enacted local schemes and assumptions 
of longer-term pricing and timing in the jurisdictions they operate 
and transact in.  

We involved valuation specialists to supplement our senior audit team 
members in assessing this key audit matter.

Our procedures included: 

•  We considered the appropriateness of the fair value less cost 

of disposal method applied by the Group to perform the annual 
test for impairment against the requirements of the accounting 
standards.

•  We assessed the integrity and consistency of the models used 

for impairment testing and assessment of impairment or reversal 
indicators on a sample basis, including the accuracy of the 
underlying formulas and consistency of modelling to the prior year.  

•  We assessed the Group’s view of the indicators leading to 

impairment testing for the Hermosa – Taylor deposit AOI. We 
recalculated the impairment charge and compared to the 
amounts recognised.  

•  We compared the forecast operating cash flows, production 

volumes, capital expenditure and reserve and resource estimates 
contained in the models to the life of operation plans incorporated 
in the approved budgets and study estimates incorporated in 
project plans. We assessed the accuracy of the Group’s previous 
forecasts to assist with this assessment.  

•  We considered the sensitivity of the models by varying key 
assumptions, such as forecast commodity prices, foreign 
exchange rates, carbon pricing, discount rates, pre-production 
capital expenditure and risking applied to future development 
projects for probability, within a reasonably possible range. We did 
this to identify those CGUs at higher risk of impairment or reversal 
and to focus our further procedures.  

•  We assessed the scope, objectivity and competence of the 
Group’s internal experts responsible for preparation of key 
resource and reserve estimates and compared these estimates to 
those incorporated in the life of operation and project plans where 
applicable. 

•  We checked the preparation of key resource and reserve 

estimates against key requirements of the JORC code, including 
testing controls over the appointment of Competent Person and 
checking declarations made.

•  We challenged the Group’s significant forecast operating cash 
flow, capital expenditure and production volume assumptions.  
We compared key events to the Board approved plan and 
strategy. We applied increased scepticism to forecasts in the 
areas where previous forecasts were not achieved. We compared 
key forecast expenditure to published studies of industry 
trends and expectations, and considered differences for the 
Group’s operations. We used our knowledge of the Group, their 
past performance, business and customers, and our industry 
experience.  

•  Working with our valuation specialists, and considering the risk 

factors specific to the Group, we compared the discount rates to 
publicly available market data for comparable entities. We also 
compared forecast foreign exchange rates to published views of 
market commentators. 

•  We compared forecast commodity prices to published views of 
market commentators on future trends and long-term supply 
agreements. 

•  We involved our sustainability specialists and inquired of key 
members of the Group’s climate team on their progress of 
climate-related strategy. We compared those areas identified by 
the Group having an impact on asset valuation to our knowledge 
of their industry and business. We tested key climate-related 
assumptions incorporated into the financial modelling of carbon 
pricing assumptions against locally enacted country specific 
schemes and longer term published industry views.

•  We assessed the disclosures in the Financial Report using 

our understanding obtained from our testing and against the 
requirements of the accounting standards.

165

SOUTH32 ANNUAL REPORT 2023INDEPENDENT AUDITOR’S REPORT

Closure and rehabilitation provision (US$1,938m)

Refer to Note 15 Provisions to the Financial Report.

The key audit matter

How the matter was addressed in our audit

Closure and rehabilitation provisioning was a key audit matter due 
to the size of the provision and the judgement we used to audit the 
provision estimates across multiple sites the Group operates.

Closure and rehabilitation activities are governed by Group policies 
based on legal and regulatory requirements, which differ across 
multiple jurisdictions.

We focused on the following assumptions the Group applied in 
determining the provisions using their closure and rehabilitation 
plans:

•  Nature and extent of activities required at sites, including the 

magnitude of possible contamination and disturbance, which are 
inherently challenging to assess.

•  Timing of when closure and rehabilitation will take place, which 

increases estimation uncertainty given the unique nature of each 
site and long timeframes involved.

•  Forecast cost estimates incorporating historical experience, which 
may not be a reliable predictor of such costs particularly in an 
inflationary economy, and risk adjustments. The Group engages 
external experts periodically to assist in their determination of 
these estimates.

•  Economic assumptions, including country specific discount rates, 

which are complicated in nature.

Our procedures included:

•  Comparing the basis for recognition and measurement of 

the closure and rehabilitation provision for consistency with 
environmental and regulatory requirements and criteria in the 
accounting standards.

•  Evaluating the methodology applied by the Company’s expert in 
determining the nature and extent of closure and rehabilitation 
activities by comparison to industry practice.

•  Evaluating key assumptions used in the closure and rehabilitation 

provision, relevant to the jurisdictions of the sites the Group 
operates, by:
•  Comparing the nature and extent of activities costed to a 
sample of the Group’s closure and rehabilitation plans and 
relevant regulatory requirements.

•  Comparing the timing of closure and rehabilitation activities to 
the Group’s resources and reserve estimates and the expected 
production profile contained in the life of operation plans.
•  Assessing the scope, objectivity and competence of the 

Group’s internal and external experts to provide closure and 
rehabilitation cost estimates.

•  Comparing a sample of cost estimates of the activities, 
incorporating allowance for uncertainties, to historical 
experience and underlying documentation, the Group’s 
external expert estimates, and our knowledge of the Group, 
forecast economic conditions and its industry.
Involving our sustainability closure specialists, we tested key 
climate and environment-related assumptions incorporated 
into the financial modelling of closure cost activities against 
environmental laws and regulations and industry guidelines.

• 

•  Working with our valuation specialists, comparing country 

specific discount rate assumptions to market observable data, 
including risk free rates.

•  Assessing the disclosures in the Financial Report using our 

understanding obtained from our testing against the requirements 
of the accounting standard. 

166

FINANCIAL REPORT

INDEPENDENT AUDITOR’S REPORT

Other Information

Other Information is financial and non-financial information in South32 Limited’s annual reporting which is provided in addition to the Financial 
Report and the Auditor's Report. The Directors are responsible for the Other Information. 

Our opinion on the Financial Report does not cover the Other Information and, accordingly, we do not express an audit opinion or any form of 
assurance conclusion thereon, with the exception of the Remuneration Report and our related assurance opinion.

In connection with our audit of the Financial Report, our responsibility is to read the Other Information. In doing so, we consider whether the 
Other Information is materially inconsistent with the Financial Report, or our knowledge obtained in the audit, or otherwise appears to be 
materially misstated.

We are required to report if we conclude that there is a material misstatement of this Other Information, and based on the work we have 
performed on the Other Information that we obtained prior to the date of this Auditor’s Report we have nothing to report.

Responsibilities of the Directors for the Financial Report

The Directors are responsible for:

•  Preparing the Financial Report that gives a true and fair view in accordance with Australian Accounting Standards and the Corporations Act 

• 

2001;
Implementing necessary internal control to enable the preparation of a Financial Report that gives a true and fair view and is free from 
material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error; and

•  Assessing the Group and Company’s ability to continue as a going concern and whether the use of the going concern basis of accounting is 

appropriate. This includes disclosing, as applicable, matters related to going concern and using the going concern basis of accounting unless 
they either intend to liquidate the Group and Company or to cease operations, or have no realistic alternative but to do so.

Auditor’s responsibilities for the audit of the Financial Report

Our objective is:

•  To obtain reasonable assurance about whether the Financial Report as a whole is free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or 

error; and 

•  To issue an Auditor’s Report that includes our opinion. 

Reasonable assurance is a high level of assurance, but is not a guarantee that an audit conducted in accordance with Australian Auditing 
Standards will always detect a material misstatement when it exists.

Misstatements can arise from fraud or error. They are considered material if, individually or in the aggregate, they could reasonably be 
expected to influence the economic decisions of users taken on the basis of the Financial Report.

A further description of our responsibilities for the audit of the Financial Report is located at the Auditing and Assurance Standards Board 
website at: https://www.auasb.gov.au/admin/file/content102/c3/ar1_2020.pdf. This description forms part of our Auditor’s Report.

Report on the Remuneration Report

Opinion
In our opinion, the Remuneration report of South32 Limited for the 
year ended 30 June 2023, complies with Section 300A of the 
Corporations Act 2001.

Directors’ responsibilities
The Directors of the Company are responsible for the preparation and 
presentation of the Remuneration report in accordance with Section 
300A of the Corporations Act 2001.

Our responsibilities
We have audited the Remuneration Report included in pages 83 to 103 
of the Directors’ report for the year ended 30 June 2023. 

Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Remuneration report, 
based on our audit conducted in accordance with Australian Auditing 
Standards.

KPMG

Graham Hogg 
Partner

Perth 
7 September 2023

167

SOUTH32 ANNUAL REPORT 2023RESOURCES 
AND RESERVES

Information 

Competent Persons 

Accompanying tables 

169

170

171

168

RESOURCES AND RESERVES

INFORMATION

As required by Chapter 5 of the 
Australian Securities Exchange (ASX) 
Listing Rules, we report Mineral 
Resources and Ore Reserves (including 
Coal Resources and Coal Reserves) in 
accordance with the 2012 Edition of the 
Australasian Code for Reporting of 
Exploration Results, Mineral Resources 
and Ore Reserves (JORC Code).

In this report, information relating to 
Mineral Resources and Ore Reserves 
is based on, and fairly represents, 
information and supporting 
documentation prepared by our 
Competent Persons.

A Competent Person is defined in the 
JORC Code. They must have a minimum 
of five years of relevant experience in the 
style of mineralisation or type of deposit 
under consideration and the activity being 
undertaken.

Each of our Competent Persons have 
given consent to the inclusion of the 
information in this report in the form and 
context in which it appears. You can find 
more details on each of their professional 
affiliations, employer and areas of 
accountability on page 170. Unless we 
state otherwise, all Competent Persons 
listed are full-time employees at South32, 
or at one of our related entities.

We report Mineral Resources and Ore 
Reserves in 100 per cent terms and 
represent estimates as at 30 June 
2023. Our Mineral Resource estimations 
include Measured and Indicated Mineral 
Resources which, after the application of 
all Modifying Factors, and development of 
a mine plan, have been classified as Ore 
Reserves.

We report all quantities as dry metric 
tonnes, unless stated otherwise.

It is important to note that Mineral 
Resources and Ore Reserves are 
estimations, not precise calculations. 
We have rounded tonnes and grade 
information to reflect the relative 
uncertainty of the estimate, which is why 
minor computational differences may be 
present in the totals.

Our long-range forecasts are the basis for 
the commodity prices and exchange rates 
used to estimate the economic viability 
of Ore Reserves. Our planning processes 
consider the impacts of climate change 
on our Ore Reserves estimates, including 
assessments of operating costs and the 
impact of extreme weather events on the 
expectation of economic extraction.

Our Ore Reserves are within existing 
permitted mining tenements. Our mineral 
leases are of sufficient duration, or 
convey a legal right to renew the tenure, 
to enable all Ore Reserves on the leased 
properties to be mined in accordance with 

At a glance - Resources and Reserves (as at 30 June 2023)

Operations  and  development  options

Worsley Alumina
Brazil Alumina (MRN)
Sierra Gorda
Cannington
Taylor
Clark
Peake
Arctic
Bornite
Cerro Matoso
Australia  Manganese
South Africa Manganese(2)
Illawarra  Metallurgical  Coal(2)(3)
Eagle Downs

Total Ore/Coal 
Reserve (Mt)

Reserve  Life 
Years(1)

Total Mineral/ 
Coal Resource 
(Mt)

217
39

15

33
49
99
99

13
4.0

6.0

9.0
4.7
41
23

1,100
448
1,890
73
153
55
3.3
37
148
316
140
201
1,190
1,140

(1)  Scheduled extraction period in years for the total Ore Reserves in the approved Life of Operation Plan.
(2)  Reserve life for Illawarra Metallurgical Coal and South Africa Manganese is reported as the life of scheduled Coal/ 
Ore Reserves for Bulli and Wessels respectively. The Reserve life for each of the remaining operations is stated in 
the detailed disclosures that follow.

(3)  Coal Reserves in this table are presented as Marketable Coal Reserves. Process recoveries are reported in the 

detailed disclosures that follow for each coal operation.

the current production schedules. These 
Ore Reserves may include areas where 
additional approvals are required, and it 
is expected that such approvals will be 
obtained within the timeframe needed for 
the current production schedule.

Foreign estimate

In the market announcement “South32 to 
Acquire a 45 per cent Interest in the Sierra 
Gorda Copper Mine” dated 14 October 
2021, we reported on the estimates of 
mineral resources and mineral reserves 
for the Sierra Gorda copper mine. These 
estimates of mineral resources and 
mineral reserves are foreign estimates 
under the ASX Listing Rules and are not 
reported in accordance with the JORC 
Code. We completed the acquisition on 
22 February 2022 and in accordance with 
ASX Listing Rule 5.14.1, our technical team 
has been reviewing available information 
in collaboration with the Sierra Gorda 
operational team to verify the foreign 
resource and reserve estimates, with the 
intention of enabling these estimates to 
be reported in accordance with the JORC 
Code. 

Following review of all information, we 
have updated the Mineral Resource 
estimate in accordance with the JORC 
Code and it is included in page 172.

With respect to the mineral reserve 
estimate, we are not in possession of any 
new information or data relating to the 
foreign estimate that materially impacts 
on the reliability of the estimates or our 
ability to verify the foreign mineral reserve 
estimates as Ore Reserves in accordance 
with the JORC Code. We confirm that the 
information contained in our 14 October 
2021 market announcement in relation 
to the mineral reserve foreign estimates 

continues to apply and has not materially 
changed. The Competent Person has not 
done sufficient work to classify the foreign 
estimates as Ore Reserves in accordance 
with the JORC Code and it is uncertain 
at this time whether, following evaluation 
and further exploration, the foreign 
estimates will be able to be reported as 
Ore Reserves in accordance with the JORC 
Code.

Our governance arrangements and 
internal controls

We have internal standards and 
governance arrangements that cover 
regulatory requirements for public 
reporting. To ensure correct and accurate 
public reporting with respect to Mineral 
Resources and Ore Reserves, our 
governance processes are managed by 
the Resource and Reserve Governance 
function in coordination with the Company 
Secretariat function.

Our comprehensive review and audit 
program is aimed at assuring our Mineral 
Resource and Ore Reserve estimates. This 
includes:

 – Annual review of Mineral Resources and 
Ore Reserves declarations and reports;

 – Annual review of reconciliation 

performance metrics for operating 
mines;

 – Periodic internal mine planning and Ore 

Reserve audits; and

 – Independent audits of Exploration 
Results, Mineral Resources or Ore 
Reserves that are new or have 
materially changed.

169

SOUTH32 ANNUAL REPORT 2023RESOURCES AND RESERVES CONTINUED

In FY23, we undertook two independent 
assurance audit of Exploration Results, 
Mineral Resource or Ore Reserve 
estimates and three internal mine 
planning and Ore Reserve assurance 
audits. The frequency and scope of 
the audits are generally a function of 
the perceived risks and uncertainties 
associated with a particular Mineral 
Resource and Ore Reserve.

The accompanying tables, on pages 171 
to 176, outline our Mineral/Coal Resources 
and Ore/Coal Reserves holdings.

Our exploration, research and 
development

Our operations carry out exploration, 
research and development necessary 
to support our activities. Our brownfield 
exploration activities target the 
delineation and categorisation of mineral 
deposits connected or adjacent to our 
existing operations. Our greenfield 
exploration activities focus on the 
discovery and delineation of opportunities 
outside of our operational footprint, with a 
bias to base metals.

During FY23 we continued to expand our 
global exploration footprint. We funded 
greenfield exploration in Australia, Peru, 
Argentina, Ireland, Canada and the 
United States of America. Our exploration 
expenditure for FY23 was US$107 million 
(FY22: US$74 million) of which  
US$36 million related to brownfield 
and US$71 million related to greenfield 
(FY22: US$18 million and US$56 million 
respectively).

Competent Persons
Mineral Resources
Worsley Alumina: P Soodi Shoar, MAusIMM

Brazil Alumina: 

Mineração Rio Do Norte (MRN): R Aglinskas, MAusIMM, employed by  
Projel Engenharia Especializada

Sierra Gorda: Omar Cortès, MAusIMM, employed by Sierra Gorda SCM; 

Ian Glacken, FAusIMM (CP) employed by Snowden Optiro

Cannington: P Soodi Shoar, MAusIMM

Hermosa: 

Taylor, Clark and Peake: P Richardson, SME 

Ambler Metals Joint Venture: 

Arctic: D F Machuca Mory, PEng., employed by SRK Consulting (Canada);  
T Fouet, MAusIMM (CP) 
Bornite: S Khosrowshahi, MAusIMM (CP) employed by WSP Global;  
T Fouet, MAusIMM (CP)

Cerro Matoso: I Espitia, MAusIMM (CP)

Australia Manganese: 

Groote Eylandt Mining Company (GEMCO): J Harvey, MAusIMM

South Africa Manganese: 

Wessels and Mamatwan: L Lautze, Pr. Sci. Nat., SACNASP, employed by  
SRK Consulting

Ore Reserves
Worsley Alumina: G Burnham, MAusIMM

Brazil Alumina: 

MRN: J P M Franco, MAusIMM, independent consultant

Cannington: R Muller, MAusIMM

Cerro Matoso: R Perez, MAusIMM

Australia Manganese: 

GEMCO: M Bryant, MAusIMM, employed by The Minserve Group

South Africa Manganese: 

Wessels and Mamatwan: D Takalani, SAIMM, employed by Consulting Evolution 
Mining

Coal Resources
Illawarra Metallurgical Coal: 

Bulli and Wongawilli: M Krejci, MAusIMM

Eagle Downs: M Blaik, MAusIMM, employed by JB Mining Services

Coal Reserves
Illawarra Metallurgical Coal: 

Bulli and Wongawilli: M Rose, MAusIMM

170

RESOURCES AND RESERVES

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(

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
INFORMATION

Shareholder information  

Glossary of terms and abbreviations  

Corporate directory  

178

181

188

SOUTH32 ANNUAL REPORT 2023

177

SHAREHOLDER INFORMATION

Voting rights for shares

South32 Limited ordinary shares carry voting rights of one vote per share.

Shareholders may hold a beneficial entitlement to South32 Limited dematerialised ordinary shares, UK Depositary Interests and 
American Depositary Shares (ADS) through the Central Securities Depositories of Strate (Strate), CREST and the Depository Trust 
Company, respectively. Each share held dematerialised in Strate, or as a Depositary Interest held in CREST, entitles the holder to one 
vote. Each ADS is represented by five ordinary shares, with ADS voting managed by South32 Limited’s ADS Depositary.

Substantial shareholders

As of 4 August 2023, South32 Limited has two substantial shareholders who, together with their associates, hold five per cent or more of 
the voting rights in South32 Limited, as notified to South32 Limited under the Corporations Act.

Name

BlackRock Group
Vanguard Group

Date notice received

Number of shares in notice

Percentage of capital in notice

8 December 2021
23 June 2022

318,403,413
235,364,454

6.84
5.077

Distribution of shareholdings and number of shareholders

The following table shows the distribution of South32 Limited shareholders by size of shareholding and number of shareholders and 
shares as of 4 August 2023.

Size of holding

1 – 1,000
1,001 – 5,000
5,001 – 10,000
10,001 – 100,000
100,001 and over
Total

Number of shareholders

Number of shares

Percentage of capital

120,611
89,096
25,806
23,306
773
259,592

57,870,635
218,585,330
189,469,549
532,516,783
3,546,971,398
4,545,413,695

1.27
4.81
4.17
11.72
78.03
100.00

Distribution of rights holdings and number of rights holders

The following table shows the distribution of rights holders in South32 Limited by size of rights holding and number of rights holders and 
rights as of 4 August 2023.

Size of holding

0 - 1,000
1,001 - 5,000
5,001 - 10,000
10,001 - 100,000
100,001 and over
Total

Number of rights holders

Number of rights

Percentage of rights on issue

813
5,769
26
114
72
6,794

422,770
7,636,640
194,403
5,536,194
37,328,051
51,118,058

0.83
14.94
0.38
10.83
73.02
100.00

178

INFORMATION

Twenty largest shareholders in South32 Limited

The following table sets out the 20 largest shareholders of ordinary shares listed on the South32 Limited share register and the details 
of their shareholding as of 4 August 2023.

Name

1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
Total

HSBC Custody Nominees (Australia) Limited
J P Morgan Nominees Australia Pty Limited
Citicorp Nominees Pty Ltd
South Africa Control A/C\C
Computershare Clearing Pty Ltd 
National Nominees Limited 
BNP Paribas Noms Pty Ltd 
Citicorp Nominees Pty Limited 
BNP Paribas Nominees Pty Ltd 
HSBC Custody Nominees (Australia) Limited  
HSBC Custody Nominees (Australia) Limited
CPU Share Plans Pty Ltd 
Citicorp Nominees Pty Limited 
HSBC Custody Nominees (Australia) Limited - A/C 2
HSBC Custody Nominees (Australia) Limited 
BNP Paribas Nominees Pty Ltd ACF Clearstream
Netwealth Investments Limited 
Neweconomy Com Au Nominees Pty Limited <900 Account>
BNP Paribas Nominees Pty Ltd Hub24 Custodial Serv Ltd 
Merrill Lynch (Australia) Nominees Pty Limited

Number of fully paid shares

Percentage of capital

1,246,770,087
746,119,979
389,982,815
256,286,669
135,083,433
113,192,678
106,439,505
88,211,690
80,477,054
31,183,864
19,162,986
16,074,527
14,979,445
13,766,925
12,790,017
11,046,007
9,360,817
8,290,529
7,083,756
6,356,721
3,312,659,504

27.43
16.41
8.58
5.64
2.97
2.49
2.34
1.94
1.77
0.69
0.42
0.35
0.33
0.30
0.28
0.24
0.21
0.18
0.16
0.14
72.88

Restricted and escrowed 
securities

As of 4 August 2023, South32 Limited 
does not have any restricted securities or 
securities subject to voluntary escrow on 
issue.

Shareholders with less than a 
marketable parcel

As of 4 August 2023, there were 9,907 
shareholders on the Australian South32 
Limited register holding less than a 
marketable parcel (A$500) based on the 
closing market price of A$3.94.

On-market purchases of South32 
Limited securities for employee 
incentive plans

The Group purchases South32 Limited 
ordinary shares on-market through the 
Company’s employee share plan trusts 
for the purposes of the South32 Equity 
Incentive Plans. During FY23, 11,620,000 
shares were purchased on-market for the 
Australian ESOP Trust. The average price 
at which the shares were purchased was 
A$4.08. No shares were purchased for the 
South African ESOP Trust during FY23.

In addition, 56,768 shares were purchased 
on-market and immediately distributed 
to Canadian based employees on vesting 
of rights. The average price at which the 
shares were purchased was A$4.35.

(1)  Numbers in this section are subject to rounding.

Dividend policy

Our dividend policy is determined by the 
Board at its discretion. Our priorities for 
cash flow are to maintain safe and reliable 
operations and an investment grade credit 
rating through the cycle.

Our current dividend policy is that South32 
Limited intends to distribute a minimum 
of 40 per cent of Underlying earnings as 
ordinary dividends to our shareholders 
following each six-month reporting period. 
South32 Limited intends to distribute 
dividends with the maximum practicable 
franking credits for the purposes of the 
Australian dividend imputation system.

Dividend determination and 
payment

Our dividends are determined in US 
dollars.

Dividends for shareholders of South32 
Limited on the Australian register are paid 
by direct credit into their nominated bank 
account in Australian dollars, UK pounds 
sterling, New Zealand dollars or US dollars, 
provided direct credit details and currency 
election information is submitted no later 
than close of business on the dividend 
record date as stated in the relevant 
Australian Securities Exchange (ASX) 
announcement.

Dividends for shareholders of South32 
Limited on the South African branch 
register and UK Depositary Interest 
holders are paid by direct credit in South 
African rand and UK pounds sterling, 
respectively.

Refer to the Investors section at  
www.south32.net for further information 
about dividends.

Capital management program(1)

In August 2022, we expanded our capital 
management program by US$156 million 
and in February 2023, we expanded our 
capital management program again by 
a further US$50 million to US$2.3 billion, 
comprising a US$1.8 billion on-market 
share buy-back and special dividends  
of US$154 million (paid in 2018),  
US$85 million (paid in 2019), US$53.5 
million (paid in 2020), US$93 million (paid  
in 2021) and US$139 million (paid in 2022).

As of 30 June 2023, we had returned 
a total value of US$2.2 billion to 
our shareholders under our capital 
management program. Subsequent to 
30 June 2023, the Board has expanded 
the capital management program by a 
further US$50 million to US$2.4 billion 
and extended the execution window for 
the remaining program by six months to 
1 March 2024.

The on-market share buy-back was 
initially announced on 27 March 2017 and 
purchasing commenced on 19 April 2017. 
During the year ended 30 June 2023, 
South32 Limited purchased 83 million 
shares under the on-market share buy- 
back, which represented two per cent 
of share capital at the beginning of the 
financial year. Total consideration paid 
for these shares was US$218 million. The 
shares have no par value.

179

SOUTH32 ANNUAL REPORT 2023Branches

In accordance with DTR 4.1.11R(5), South32 
Limited, through various subsidiaries, 
has established branches in different 
jurisdictions in which the business 
operates.

Registered office

South32 Limited’s Registered Office is 
Level 35, 108 St Georges Terrace, Perth 
WA 6000, Australia. Information regarding 
South32’s other office locations is included 
in the Corporate directory on page 188.

Electronic communications 

Shareholders are encouraged to 
access all South32 communications 
electronically. Shareholders that wish to 
receive electronic communications can 
update their preferences online or by 
telephoning the relevant Computershare 
Investor Centre. Refer to the Investors 
section at www.south32.net for further 
details on how to receive shareholder 
communications.

SHAREHOLDER INFORMATION CONTINUED

Share registries
Australia
Computershare Investor Services Pty 
Limited 
Yarra Falls 452 Johnston Street 
Abbotsford Victoria 3067 
Australia

Telephone (Australia): 
1800 019 953 
Telephone (International):  +61 3 9415 4169 
+61 3 9473 2500
Facsimile: 

South Africa
Computershare Investor Services (Pty) 
Limited 
Rosebank Towers, 15 Biermann Avenue 
Rosebank, 2196 
South Africa

Telephone: 
Facsimile: 
Email enquiries: 
web.queries@computershare.co.za

+27 11 373 0033 
+27 11 688 5217 

Holders of shares dematerialised into 
Strate should contact their Central 
Securities Depository Participant or 
stockbroker.

United Kingdom
Computershare Investor Services PLC  
The Pavilions, Bridgwater Road  
Bristol BS99 6ZZ 
United Kingdom

Telephone: 
Facsimile: 
Email enquiries: 
web.queries@computershare.co.uk

+44 370 873 5884 
+44 370 703 6101  

ADR
ADR holders should deal directly with 
Citibank Shareholder Services.

Citibank Shareholder Services 
PO Box 43077 Providence, 
Rhode Island 02940-3077

Telephone: 

+1 877 248 4237 
(+1-877-CITIADR) (toll-free within US) 
+1 781 575 4555 (outside of US)

Facsimile: 
Email enquiries: 
citibank@shareholders-online.com 
Website: www.citi.com/dr

+1 201 324 3284 

Between the commencement of 
purchasing under the on-market share 
buy-back on 19 April 2017 and 30 June 
2023, South32 Limited has purchased 
a total of 778 million shares, which 
represented 15 per cent of share capital 
at the commencement of the program. 
The total consideration paid for the shares 
bought back up to 30 June 2023 was 
US$1.7 billion.

The shares purchased by South32 Limited 
under the on-market share buy-back have 
been cancelled.

Annual General Meeting (AGM)

Our 2023 AGM is scheduled to be held on 
Thursday 26 October 2023 at 12.00pm 
(midday) Australian Western Standard 
Time as a hybrid meeting, providing 
shareholders with the opportunity 
to attend physically or online. If it 
becomes necessary or appropriate to 
make alternative or supplementary 
arrangements, we will provide an update. 
Further details regarding the AGM will be 
made available in September 2023, and 
shareholders are encouraged to monitor 
securities exchange releases and www.
south32.net for information and updates.

Addresses delivered at the AGM, together 
with the results of voting, will be provided 
to all stock exchanges and will be available 
at www.south32.net.

Stock exchanges

As of 4 August 2023, South32 Limited has 
a primary listing on the ASX, a secondary 
listing on the Johannesburg Stock 
Exchange, is admitted to the standard 
segment of the Official List of the UK 
Listing Authority and its ordinary shares 
are traded on the London Stock Exchange.

South32 Limited also has a Level 1 
American Depositary Receipts (ADR) 
program, which trades in the United States 
over-the-counter market.

Shareholder enquiries

Shareholders can access their current 
holding details as well as their transaction 
history, view dividend statements and 
payments made, download statements 
and documents, change their address, 
update their communication preferences 
and banking details, and check their tax 
details online via Computershare’s Investor 
Centre at www.computershare.com.

Alternatively, refer to the following 
contacts:

180

INFORMATION

 
 
GLOSSARY OF TERMS AND ABBREVIATIONS 

Mining related terms

Alumina
Aluminium oxide (Al₂O₃). Alumina is 
produced from bauxite in the Bayer 
refining process. It’s then converted 
(reduced) in an electrolysis cell to produce 
aluminium metal.

Ash
Inorganic material remaining after 
combustion of coal.

ASX Listing Rules (Chapter 5)
This chapter of the ASX Listing Rules sets 
out additional reporting and disclosure 
requirements for mining entities, oil and 
gas entities, as well as other entities 
reporting on mining and oil and gas 
activities.

Bauxite
Principal commercial ore of aluminium.

Beneficiation
The process of physically separating 
ore from gangue to produce a mineral 
concentrate prior to subsequent 
processing.

Brownfield
An exploration or development project 
located within an existing mineral 
province, which can share infrastructure 
and management with an existing 
operation.

Coal Reserve
The same meaning as Ore Reserve, but 
specifically concerning coal.

Coal Resource
The same meaning as Mineral Resource, 
but specifically concerning coal.

Coking coal
Used in the manufacture of coke, which is 
used in the steelmaking process by virtue 
of its carbonisation properties. Coking 
coal is a form of, and may also be referred 
to as, metallurgical coal.

Competent Person
A minerals industry professional who is 
a Member or Fellow of The Australasian 
Institute of Mining and Metallurgy, or of the 
Australian Institute of Geoscientists, or of 
a ‘Recognised Professional Organisation’, 
as included in a list available on the JORC 
and ASX websites. These organisations 
have enforceable disciplinary processes, 
including the powers to suspend or expel 
a member.

A Competent Person must have a 
minimum of five years’ relevant experience 
in the style of mineralisation or type of 
deposit under consideration and in the 
activity that the person is undertaking 
(JORC Code).

Cut-off grade
The lowest grade, or quality, of mineralised 
material that qualifies as economically 
mineable and available in a given deposit. 
It may be defined on the basis of economic 
evaluation, or on physical or chemical 
attributes that define an acceptable 
product specification (JORC Code).

Energy attributes
Energy attributes represent information 
about the energy generated, such 
as its GHG emissions factor, but not 
the energy itself. Attributes may be 
conveyed in the form of certificates, tags, 
credits, generator declarations or other 
contractual instruments.

Energy coal
Used as a fuel source in electrical power 
generation, cement manufacture and 
various industrial applications. Energy coal 
may also be referred to as steaming or 
thermal coal.

Exploration Results
Exploration Results include data and 
information generated by mineral 
exploration programs that might be of use 
to investors but which do not form part of 
a declaration of Mineral Resources or Ore 
Reserves (JORC Code).

Exploration Target
An Exploration Target is a statement or 
estimate of the exploration potential of 
a mineral deposit in a defined geological 
setting where the statement or estimate, 
quoted as a range of tonnes and range of 
grade (or quality), relates to mineralisation 
for which there has been insufficient 
exploration to estimate a Mineral 
Resource. 

FAusIMM (CP)
Fellow of the Australasian Institute 
of Mining and Metallurgy. Accredited 
Chartered Professional status of members 
of the AusIMM. These members have 
undergone an assessment of their 
competencies, which are maintained 
through continuing professional 
development activities.

Flotation
A method of selectively recovering 
minerals from finely ground ore using a 
froth created in water by specific reagents. 
In the flotation process, certain mineral 
particles are induced to float by becoming 
attached to bubbles of froth and the 
unwanted mineral particles sink.

Foreign Estimate
An estimate of quantity and grade 
of mineralisation that was prepared 
using a mineral resources classification 
and reporting standard from another 
jurisdiction prior to an entity acquiring, 
or entering into an agreement to acquire, 
an interest in a mining tenement that 

contains the deposit, and which the entity 
has not verified as mineral resources or 
ore reserves in accordance with JORC 
Code. (ASX Listing Rules).

Grade
Any physical or chemical measurement 
of the characteristics of the material of 
interest in samples or product (JORC 
Code).

Greenfield
An exploration or development project 
that refers to a new venture or operation, 
without any association or proximity to a 
current operation.

Indicated Mineral Resource
That part of a Mineral Resource for which 
quantity, grade (or quality), densities, 
shape and physical characteristics are 
estimated with sufficient confidence. 
This allows the application of Modifying 
Factors in sufficient detail to support mine 
planning and evaluation of the economic 
viability of the deposit (JORC Code).

Inferred Mineral Resources
That part of a Mineral Resource for 
which quantity and grade (or quality) 
are estimated on the basis of limited 
geological evidence and sampling. 
Geological evidence is sufficient to imply 
but not verify geological and grade (or 
quality) continuity (JORC Code).

JORC
Joint Ore Reserves Committee comprising 
representatives of The Australasian 
Institute of Mining and Metallurgy 
(AusIMM), Australian Institute of 
Geoscientists (AIG) and Minerals Council 
of Australia (MCA) as well as the Australian 
Securities Exchange (ASX), the Financial 
Services Institute of Australasia (FinSIA) 
and the accounting profession.

JORC Code
The Australasian Code for reporting of 
Exploration Results, Mineral Resources 
and Ore Reserves 2012 Edition prepared 
by the JORC.

Laterite
A residual soil or deposit formed by the 
leaching of silica from rocks under specific 
climatic conditions.

Leaching
The process by which a soluble metal can 
be economically recovered from minerals 
in ore by dissolution.

Life of Operation Plan
The combination of an Optimised Base 
Plan and incremental opportunities 
available to the operation for maximising 
value.

181

SOUTH32 ANNUAL REPORT 2023Sands
Tailings produced as a by-product during 
beneficiation of ore.

SME
Registered member of the Society for 
Mining, Metallurgy and Exploration.

Stockpile (SP)
An accumulation of ore or mineral built 
up when demand slackens or when 
the treatment plant or beneficiation 
equipment is incomplete or temporarily 
unable to process the mine output; any 
heap of material formed to create a buffer 
for loading or other purposes, or material 
dug and piled for future use.

Tailings
The left-over materials that remain after 
the target mineral is extracted from ore. 

TSF
Tailings Storage Facility

Total Mineral Resources
The sum of Inferred Mineral Resources, 
Indicated Mineral Resources and 
Measured Mineral Resources.

Total Ore Reserves
The sum of Proved Ore Reserves and 
Probable Ore Reserves.

UG
Underground working in which the 
working area is below the surface of the 
earth.

Yield
The percentage of material of interest 
that is extracted during mining and/
or processing. A measure of mining or 
processing efficiency (JORC Code). When 
used in reference to the Mineral Resource 
estimate yield refers to the sample mass 
recovery following beneficiation.

GLOSSARY OF TERMS AND ABBREVIATIONS CONTINUED

Mining related terms continued

Marketable Coal Reserves
Represents beneficiated or otherwise 
enhanced coal product where 
modifications due to mining, dilution and 
processing have been considered (JORC 
Code).

MAusIMM
Member of the Australasian Institute of 
Mining and Metallurgy.

MAusIMM (CP)
Accredited Chartered Professional 
status of members of the AusIMM. 
These members have undergone an 
assessment of their competencies, 
which are maintained through continuing 
professional development activities.

Measured Mineral Resource
That part of a Mineral Resource for which 
quantity, grade (or quality), densities, 
shape and physical characteristics are 
estimated with confidence sufficient to 
allow the application of Modifying Factors 
to support detailed mine planning and 
final evaluation of the economic viability of 
the deposit (JORC Code).

Metallurgical coal
A broader term than coking coal that 
includes all coals used in steelmaking, 
such as coal used for the pulverised coal 
injection process.

Mineral reserve
A mineral reserve is the economically 
mineable part of a measured and/or 
indicated mineral resource. It includes 
diluting materials and allowances for 
losses, which may occur when the material 
is mined or extracted and is defined by 
studies at pre-feasibility or feasibility level 
as appropriate that include application 
of Modifying Factors. Such studies 
demonstrate that, at the time of reporting, 
extraction could reasonably be justified.
(CIM Standard)

Mineral Resource
A concentration or occurrence of solid 
material of economic interest in or on 
the Earth’s crust in such form, grade 
(or quality), and quantity that there 
are reasonable prospects for eventual 
economic extraction. The location, 
quantity, grade (or quality), continuity 
and other geological characteristics of a 
Mineral Resource are known, estimated 
or interpreted from specific geological 
evidence and knowledge, including 
sampling. Mineral Resources are sub-
divided, in order of increasing geological 
confidence, into Inferred, Indicated and 
Measured categories (JORC Code).

Mineralisation
Any single mineral or combination of 
minerals occurring in a mass, or deposit, of 
economic interest (JORC Code).

Modifying Factors
Considerations used to convert 
Mineral Resources to Ore Reserves. 
These include, but are not restricted 
to, mining, processing, metallurgical, 
infrastructure, economic, marketing, legal, 
environmental, social and governmental 
factors (JORC Code).

Net smelter return
An estimate of revenue derived from 
the sale of products and concentrates 
following the application of metallurgical 
recoveries and deducting transport costs, 
treatment and refining charges, penalties 
and royalties. For Sierra Gorda, mining 
cost is also included in the calculation. 

Ore Reserve
The economically mineable part of a 
Measured and/or Indicated Mineral 
Resource. It includes diluting materials and 
allowances for losses, which may occur 
when the material is mined or extracted 
and is defined by studies at Prefeasibility 
or Feasibility level as appropriate that 
include application of Modifying Factors. 
Such studies demonstrate that, at the time 
of reporting, extraction could reasonably 
be justified (JORC Code).

PEng
A licenced member of Professional 
Engineers of Ontario (PEO).

Probable Ore Reserve
The economically mineable part of an 
Indicated and, in some circumstances, 
a Measured Mineral Resource. The 
confidence in the Modifying Factors 
applying to a Probable Ore Reserve is 
lower than that applying to a Proved Ore 
Reserve (JORC Code).

Proved Ore Reserve
The economically mineable part of a 
Measured Mineral Resource. A Proved 
Ore Reserve implies a high degree of 
confidence in the Modifying Factors (JORC 
Code).

Pr.Sci.Nat.
Professional Natural Scientist of the South 
African Council for Natural Scientific 
Professions.

Reserve Life
The scheduled extraction period in years 
for the Total Ore Reserves in the approved 
Life of Operation Plan.

ROM (Run of Mine product)
Product mined in the course of regular 
mining activities.

SACNASP

South African Council for Natural Scientific 
Professions

SAIMM
Member of the Southern African Institute 
of Mining and Metallurgy.

182

INFORMATION

Finance, marketing and  
general terms

AASB 
Australian Accounting Standards Board.

Adjusted return on invested capital 
(ROIC)
Calculated as Underlying EBIT, adjusted 
for uncontrollable and one-off impacts in 
the current financial year, less the discount 
on rehabilitation provisions included in net 
finance cost, tax effected by the Group’s 
prior period Underlying effective tax 
rate (ETR) including our material equity 
accounted investments on a proportional 
consolidated basis, divided by the sum of 
fixed assets (excluding any rehabilitation 
assets, the impairment reversal of Brazil 
Aluminium, and unproductive capital) and 
inventories. Underlying EBIT is adjusted 
by excluding the current period impacts 
of foreign currency on revenue and cost, 
and commodity prices on revenue and 
associated price-linked costs, less the 
discount on rehabilitation provisions 
included in net finance cost, and tax 
effected by the Group’s prior period 
Underlying effective tax rate.

AGM
Annual General Meeting.

AO
Officer of the Order of Australia.

ASX
ASX Limited or Australian Securities 
Exchange.

ASX Listing Rules
The rules governing the listing of an entity 
and the quotation of its securities on the 
ASX.

Australian Securities and Investments 
Commission (ASIC)
The independent Australian Government 
body that is Australia’s integrated 
corporate, markets, financial services and 
consumer credit regulator.

B-BBEE
Broad-Based Black Economic 
Empowerment.

BHP

BHP, formerly known as BHP Billiton, is 
the group of companies headed by, and 
including, BHP Group Ltd and BHP Group 
plc.

Biodiversity
Refers to the variety of life on Earth – the 
different animals, plants and micro- 
organisms, their genetic diversity and the 
ecosystems of which they are a part.

Black People
As defined in the Broad-Based Black 
Economic Empowerment Amendment 
Act 2013 (South Africa), a generic term 
meaning Africans, Coloureds and Indians 
who are citizens of the Republic of South 
Africa by birth or descent; or who become 
citizens of the Republic of South Africa by 
naturalisation before 27 April 1994 or on 
or after 27 April 1994 and who would have 
been entitled to acquire citizenship by 
naturalisation prior to that date.

Board
The Board of Directors of South32 Limited.

Catchment
The area of land from which all surface 
runoff and subsurface water flows 
through a sequence of streams, rivers, 
aquifers and lakes into the sea or another 
outlet at a single river mouth, estuary, 
or delta. Catchments include associated 
groundwater areas and might include 
portions of waterbodies (such as lakes 
or rivers). In different parts of the world, 
catchments are also referred to as 
‘watersheds’ or ‘basins’ (or sub-basins).

CCAP
Climate Change Action Plan contained in 
the 2022 Sustainable Development Report 
available at www.south32.net.

CEO
Chief Executive Officer.

CFO
Chief Financial Officer.

CO2-e
Carbon dioxide equivalent.

Contextual water target
A contextual water target is a specific 
timebound target that is set to deliver 
an intended outcome based on the 
environmental and social context of the 
local catchment.

Contractor
A contractor is an employee of a company 
contracted by the employer to do work 
on its behalf and under its control with 
respect to location, work practices and 
application of health and safety standards.

COO
Chief Operating Officer.

Copper equivalent production
Copper equivalent production is 
calculated by accumulating revenue using 
average realised prices for all operations 
and dividing by the average realised price 
of copper.

Corporations Act
Corporations Act 2001 (Cth).

Cost, Insurance, and Freight (CIF)
A contractual term defining 
responsibilities and division of cost and 
risk between buyer and seller, in which 
the seller is responsible for clearing the 
goods for export and bears the cost of 
freight and insurance to the named port 
of destination. The buyer assumes all risks 
and costs for unloading the goods and 
clearing the goods for import. Risk passes 
from seller to buyer once the goods are on 
board the vessel at the port of shipment.

COVID-19
Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an 
infectious disease caused by the SARS-
CoV-2 virus.

CTO
Chief Technical Officer.

Decarbonisation
Avoiding or reducing the greenhouse gas 
emissions associated with an activity.

Demerger
The separation of assets from BHP 
effected in May 2015 to create a separate 
entity South32 Limited, listed on the ASX, 
LSE and JSE.

Dewatering
Aquifer interception and removal of water 
from beneath the earth’s surface. Does 
not include the removal of sea water.

DND 
Dendrobium Next Domain.

DTR
UK Financial Conduct Authority’s 
Disclosure Guidance and Transparency 
Rules. A reference to DTR followed by a 
number is a specific rule under the DTR.

EBIT
Earnings before interest and tax.

EBITDA
Earnings before interest, tax, depreciation 
and amortisation.

Effective tax rate (ETR)
Income tax expense/benefit divided by 
profit/loss subject to tax.

Employee
Any person in full-time, part-time or casual 
employment engaged by South32 on a 
temporary or permanent basis pursuant 
to a contract of service.

Employee Share Ownership Plan (ESOP) 
Trusts
The trusts which purchase and hold 
South32 Limited shares for the purpose 
of the South32 Equity Incentive Plans. 
South32 has an Australian ESOP Trust and 
South African ESOP Trust.

183

SOUTH32 ANNUAL REPORT 2023GLOSSARY OF TERMS AND ABBREVIATIONS CONTINUED

Finance, marketing and  
general terms continued

Environmental incident
Any event with an impact to land, 
biodiversity, ecosystem services, water 
resources or air.

ESG
Environmental, social and governance.

EthicsPoint
A 24/7 confidential reporting hotline that is 
serviced by an independent provider.

Executive KMP
Lead Team members who are classified 
as KMP.

External Auditor
KPMG.

Fatality
A health or safety event where an injury or 
occupational illness has caused the death 
of one or more person(s).

Free cash flow
Free cash flow represents operating cash 
flows including distributions received from 
equity accounted investments, and after 
interest (paid)/received, tax (paid)/received 
and capital expenditure.

Free On Board (FOB)
A contractual term defining 
responsibilities and division of cost and 
risk between buyer and seller, in which the 
seller is responsible for clearing the goods 
for export and loading them on board the 
vessel at the named port of shipment. 
The buyer assumes all risks and costs for 
goods from this moment forward Including 
the cost of freight and insurance.

FX
Foreign exchange.

FYXX
Refers to the financial year ending 30 June 
20XX, where XX is the two-digit number 
for the year.

Gearing
The ratio of (net debt/(cash)) to (net debt/
(cash)) plus net assets.

GEMCO
Groote Eylandt Mining Company.

GHG
Greenhouse gas.

Global Reporting Initiative (GRI)
GRI is an international independent 
organisation that has established an 
international framework and standards for 
sustainability reporting. South32 prepares 
our Group-level annual Sustainable 
Development Report in accordance 
with the GRI Sustainability Reporting 
Standards.

Goal
The use of this term in the context of 
climate change in this report means 
an aspiration to deliver an outcome for 
which we have not identified a pathway 
for delivery, but for which efforts will be 
pursued towards achieving that outcome, 
subject to certain assumptions or 
conditions.

Greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions
For our reporting purposes, GHG 
emissions are the combined 
anthropogenic emissions of carbon 
dioxide (CO2), methane (CH4), nitrous 
oxide (N2O), perfluorocarbons (PFCs) 
and sulphur hexafluoride (SF6). They are 
measured in carbon dioxide equivalent 
(CO2-e). Hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) GHG 
emissions are currently not relevant for 
our reporting purposes.

-  Scope 1 emissions - GHG emissions 

from our own operations, including the 
electricity we generate at our sites.

-  Scope 2 emissions - Indirect GHG 
emissions from the generation of 
purchased electricity.

-  Scope 3 emissions - GHG emissions in 

the value chain.

HMM
Hotazel Manganese Mines.

ICMM
ICMM, previously referred to as the 
International Council on Mining and 
Metals, is an international organisation 
that leads through collaboration to 
enhance the contribution of mining and 
metals to sustainable development. As a 
corporate member, South32 commits to 
implementing and reporting on the ICMM 
Mining Principles and its Performance 
Expectations, which define environmental, 
social and governance requirements.

IMC
Illawarra Metallurgical Coal.

Indigenous, Traditional and Tribal 
Peoples
We use the defined term ‘Indigenous, 
Traditional and Tribal Peoples’ as per the 
definition and guidance set out in the 
Indigenous and Tribal Peoples Convention, 
1989 (No. 169). We use this term inclusively 
to encompass the diversity of worldwide 
Indigenous, Traditional and Tribal Peoples, 
including but not limited First Nations, 
Native Americans, Traditional Owners, 
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander 
Peoples and other land connected 
communities. We recognise that no single 
definition can fully capture the diversity of 
Indigenous, Traditional and Tribal Peoples.

Injury
An occupational injury occurs during a 
single work shift or a single exposure 
to an agent(s) causing an acute toxic 
effect, which can be identified by time 
and place resulting from direct contact 
with an object following an instantaneous 
event. Examples include cut, puncture, 
laceration, abrasion, fracture, bruise, 
contusion, chipping tooth, amputation, 
insect bite, electrocution, or a thermal, 
chemical, electrical or radiation burn. 
Sprain and strain injuries to muscles joints 
connective tissue are classified as injuries 
when they result from a slip, trip, fall or 
other similar accidents.

International Financial Reporting 
Standards (IFRS)
Accounting standards as issued by the 
IASB (International Accounting Standards 
Board).

JSE
Johannesburg Stock Exchange.

Just transition
A fair, equitable and inclusive social 
transition towards a low-carbon economy.

KMP
Key management personnel are people 
who have authority and responsibility for 
planning, directing and controlling the 
activities of South32 either directly or 
indirectly.

LBMA
London Bullion Market Association.

Lead Team
All Chief positions within South32.

LME
London Metal Exchange.

Local procurement
Local procurement is the direct purchase 
of goods and services within the local 
communities in which South32 operates. 
Suppliers are deemed as local based on 
their proximity to our local communities, 
including boundaries defined by local 
government areas, provinces and states.

Lost time injury
The sum of work-related (fatalities 
+ injuries that caused permanent 
impairment >30 per cent of body + lost 
time injuries). Lost time injuries include 
injuries that result in one or more lost work 
day after the day of the event. 

184

INFORMATION

Lost Time Injury Frequency (LTIF)
The sum of (Lost Time injuries x 1,000,000) 
÷ exposure hours, for employees and 
contractors. This is stated in units of per 
million hours worked for employees and 
contractors. We adopt the United States 
Government Occupational Safety and 
Health Administration (OSHA) guidelines 
for the recording and reporting of 
occupational injuries and illnesses.

Low-carbon
Refers to lower levels of GHG emissions 
when compared to the current state. 
Where used in relation to South32’s 
products or portfolio, it refers to 
enhancement of existing methods, 
practices and technologies to substantially 
lower the level of embodied GHG 
emissions as compared to the current 
state.

Low-carbon aluminium
Aluminium produced in a process that 
results in less than 4t CO2-e Scope 1 and 
Scope 2 GHG emissions per tonne of 
aluminium produced.

LSE
London Stock Exchange.

LTI
Long-term incentive.

Management Roles
Management roles are leaders with an 
identified job grading of 13 or higher 
based on the requirements of their role.

Margin on third party products
Comprises Underlying EBIT on third 
party products and services, divided 
by underlying revenue on third party 
products and services.

Material Health Exposures
Material health exposures include 
potential exposure to carcinogens and 
airborne contaminants.

Material sustainability topic 
Topic that reflects a reporting 
organisation’s significant economic, 
environmental, and social impacts or that 
substantively influences the assessments 
and decisions of stakeholders.

Modern slavery
The term modern slavery is used to 
describe situations where coercion, 
threats or deception are used to exploit 
victims and undermine or deprive them of 
their freedom.

As defined by the Australian Modern 
Slavery Act 2018 (Cth) modern slavery 
include eight types of serious exploitation: 
trafficking in persons; slavery; servitude; 
forced marriage; forced labour; debt 
bondage; deceptive recruiting for labour 
or services; and the worst forms of child 
labour. The worst forms of child labour 
means situations where children are 
subjected to slavery or similar practices, or 
engaged in hazardous work. 

MRN
Mineração Rio do Norte.

Net cash
Comprises cash and cash equivalents less 
interest-bearing liabilities.Net debt

Comprises interest bearing liabilities less 
cash and cash equivalents.

Net operating assets
Represents operating assets net of 
operating liabilities which predominantly 
exclude the carrying amount of non-
material equity accounted investments, 
cash, interest bearing liabilities, tax 
balances and certain other financial assets 
and liabilities.

Net zero
Net zero greenhouse gas emissions are 
reached when anthropogenic emissions of 
greenhouse gases to the atmosphere are 
balanced by anthropogenic removals over 
a specified period.

No net loss
The impacts on biodiversity caused as a 
result of a development project/activities 
are balanced (so that no net loss remains) 
by rigorous application of the mitigation 
hierarchy: 

1)  Avoid;

2)  Minimise and mitigate negative 

impacts;

3)  Rehabilitate or restore affected areas; 

and 

4)  Offset the residual impacts. 

Occupational Exposure Limit (OEL)
The concentration of a substance or 
agent, exposure to which, according to 
current knowledge, should not cause 
adverse health effects nor cause undue 
discomfort to nearly all workers.

Occupational illness
An occupational illness is any abnormal 
condition or disorder, other than one 
resulting from an occupational injury, 
caused or aggravated by exposures to 
factors associated with employment. 
It includes acute or chronic illnesses 
or diseases which may be caused by 
inhalation, absorption, ingestion, or direct 
contact.

Operational GHG emissions
Scope 1 and 2 GHG emissions from our 
operated assets.

Operational Leadership Team
All General Managers and Managers 
reporting to Vice President Operations 
including Functional Managers such as 
Human Resources, Finance and Supply, 
etc. (limited to one per function).

Our people
As defined in our Code of Business 
Conduct, our people includes South32 
Directors, executive management, 
employees and contractor staff. 

Paris Agreement
A legally binding international treaty on 
climate change that aims to bring all 
nations into a common cause to undertake 
ambitious efforts to combat climate 
change and adapt to its effects, with 
enhanced support to assist developing 
countries to do so.

Recordable injuries
The sum of work-related (fatalities 
+ injuries that caused permanent 
impairment >30 per cent of body + lost 
time injuries + restricted work injuries + 
medical treatment injuries).

Return on invested capital (ROIC)
Calculated as Underlying EBIT less the 
discount on rehabilitation provisions 
included in net finance costs, tax effected 
by the Group’s Underlying effective tax 
rate (ETR) including our material equity 
accounted investments on a proportional 
consolidation basis, divided by the sum of 
fixed assets (excluding any rehabilitation 
assets, the impairment reversal of Brazil 
Aluminium, and unproductive capital) and 
inventories.

SAEC
South Africa Energy Coal.

'Safety guarantee'
Our 'safety guarantee' is our internal 
approach to creating a sense of chronic 
unease to enhance our safety culture. 
Every day, we ask our people to reflect on 
whether they can guarantee both their 
safety and that of their colleagues when 
executing their role. If the answer is no, 
then the challenge is to stop and ask 
what would need to be done differently to 
provide that guarantee.

Scope 1 emissions
GHG emissions from our own operations, 
including the electricity we generate at 
our sites.

Scope 2 emissions
Indirect GHG emissions from the 
generation of purchased electricity. 

Scope 3 emissions
GHG emissions in the value chain.

185

SOUTH32 ANNUAL REPORT 2023GLOSSARY OF TERMS AND ABBREVIATIONS CONTINUED

Finance, marketing and  
general terms continued

Senior Leadership Team
Presidents and Vice Presidents reporting 
to members of the South32 Lead Team.

Shared value
The identification of opportunities 
that create economic value while also 
advancing the environmental and social 
outcomes of the communities and regions 
in which we operate.

SMMEs
Small, medium and micro enterprises.

Social investment
Contributions made to support 
communities where we operate or have an 
interest. Our contributions to community 
programs comprise direct investment, in-
kind support and administrative costs.

South32 Equity Incentive Plan
An equity incentive plan that allows the 
Board to make offers to employees to 
acquire securities in South32 Limited and 
to otherwise incentivise employees.

South32, South32 Group or Group
Refers to South32 Limited and its 
controlled entities and joint arrangements, 
unless otherwise stated.

STI
Short-term incentive.

Supply Chain
The global network of suppliers 
that support South32’s operations, 
development options and exploration 
programs through the flow of goods, 
services and information.

Sustainability, sustainable development, 
sustainably
Our approach to sustainability aims 
to balance environmental, social and 
economic considerations in a way 
that creates enduring value for our 
stakeholders. We recognise that in 
many cases these considerations will 
be interdependent or may compete or 
conflict with each other. In delivering 
our strategy we aim to understand and 
balance the environmental, social and 
economic impacts of our business in a 
way that seeks to create value overall. 
References to sustainability (including 
sustainable development and sustainably) 
in the suite or other disclosures do not 
mean that there will be no adverse impact, 
or an absolute outcome, in any one area. 

Target
An intended outcome in relation to which 
we have identified one or more pathways 
for delivery of that outcome, subject to 
certain assumptions or conditions.

Taskforce on Climate-Related Financial 
Disclosures (TCFD)
The TCFD has issued climate-related 
financial disclosure recommendations 
designed to help companies provide 
better information to support informed 
capital allocation.

Taskforce on Nature-Related Financial 
Disclosures (TNFD)
A taskforce to develop and deliver a risk 
management and disclosure framework 
for organisations to report and act on 
evolving nature-related risks.  

TEMCO
Tasmanian Electro Metallurgical Company

Total Recordable Injury Frequency (TRIF)
(The sum of recordable injuries x 
1,000,000) ÷ exposure hours, for 
employees and contractors. This is stated 
in units of per million hours worked for 
employees and contractors. We adopt the 
United States Government Occupational 
Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) 
guidelines for the recording and reporting 
of occupational injuries and illnesses.

Total Recordable Illness Frequency 
(TRILF)
(The sum of recordable illnesses 
x 1,000,000) ÷ exposure hours, for 
employees and contractors. This is stated 
in units of per million hours worked for 
employees and contractors. We adopt the 
United States Government Occupational 
Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) 
guidelines for the recording and reporting 
of occupational injuries and illnesses.

Total Shareholder Return (TSR)
TSR measures the return delivered 
to shareholders over a certain period 
through the change in share price and 
any dividends paid. It is a measure used 
to compare our performance to that of 
relevant peer groups under the LTI.

Transformation
A national strategy in South Africa aimed 
at attaining national unity, promoting 
reconciliation through negotiated 
settlement and non-racism.

TSX
Toronto Stock Exchange.

Underlying earnings
Underlying earnings is profit after tax 
and earnings adjustment items. Earnings 
adjustments represent items that don’t 
reflect our underlying operations. We 
believe that Underlying earnings provides 
useful information, but shouldn’t be 
considered as an indication of, or an 
alternative to, profit or attributable profit 
as an indicator of operating performance.

Underlying EBIT
Underlying EBIT is profit before net 
finance costs, tax and after any earnings 
adjustment items, impacting profit. 
The underlying information reflects 
the Group’s interest in material equity 
accounted joint ventures and is presented 
on a proportional consolidation basis. It 
is not an IFRS measure of profitability, 
financial performance or liquidity and 
may be defined and used in differing 
ways by different entities. We believe 
that Underlying EBIT provides useful 
information, but should not be considered 
as an indication of, or alternative to, profit 
or attributable profit as an indicator of 
operating performance.

Underlying EBIT margin
Comprises Underlying EBIT excluding third 
party product EBIT, divided by underlying 
revenue excluding third party product 
revenue.

Underlying EBITDA
Underlying EBIT before underlying 
depreciation and amortisation.

Underlying effective tax rate (ETR) 
Underlying income tax expense/benefit 
divided by underlying profit/loss subject 
to tax.

Value Chain
The interrelated activities and systems 
involving the full lifecycle and added 
value of our products and processes, in 
which South32 explore and develop our 
commodities, through to processing, 
refining and smelting, and finally to sale 
and distribution to customers and closure 
of the mines.

Water scarcity
Water scarcity refers to the volumetric 
abundance, or lack thereof, of freshwater 
resources.

Water stress
Water stress refers to the ability, or lack 
thereof, to meet the human and ecological 
demand for freshwater. Stress comprises 
three primary components: availability, 
quality, and accessibility and is based 
on subjective elements and is assessed 
differently depending on societal values, 
such as the suitability of water for drinking 
or the requirements to be afforded to 
ecosystems.

Water use efficiency
Water use efficiency is calculated as the 
total water recycled and reused divided by 
the sum of total water recycled and reused 
and total operational inputs/withdrawal.

186

INFORMATION

Units of measure continued

US$/oz
US dollars per ounce

US$/t
US dollars per tonne

Terms used in resources and 
reserves

A.Al₂O₃
available alumina

Ag
Silver

Au
Gold

Cu/TCu
Copper/ total copper

Fe
iron

Met
metallurgical coal

Mn
manganese

Mo
molybdenum

Ni
nickel

OC
open-cut/open-pit/opencast

Pb
lead

R.SiO₂
reactive silica

S
sulphur

Th
thermal coal

VM
Volatile Matter

Zn
zinc

Units of measure

%
percentage or per cent

A$/t
Australian dollars per tonne

dmtu
dry metric tonne unit

g/t
grams per tonne

ha
hectare

Kcal/kg
thousand calories per kilogram

kdmt
thousand dry metric tonne

kL
kilolitre

km
kilometre

koz
thousand ounces

ktpa
kilotonnes per annum

kt
kilotonnes (metric)

kW
kilowatt

kwmt
thousand wet metric tonnes

ML
megalitre

m
metre

Moz
million ounces

Mt
million metric tonnes

Mtpa
Million metric tonnes per annum

oz
ounce

t
Metric tonne

tpa
Metric tonnes per annum

tpd
Metric tonnes per day

tph
Metric tonnes per hour

US$/lb
US dollars per pound

187

SOUTH32 ANNUAL REPORT 2023CORPORATE DIRECTORY

Group Headquarters

108 St Georges Terrace 
Perth WA 6000 
Australia

Telephone:  +61 8 9324 9000 
+61 8 9324 9200 
Facsimile: 
Company.Secretary@south32.net
Email: 

South Africa Office 

39 Melrose Boulevard 
Melrose Arch 
Melrose, Johannesburg 2076 
South Africa

PO Box 61820 
Marshalltown 2107

Telephone:  +27 11 376 2000

Singapore Marketing Office

16 Collyer Quay 
#18-00, Collyer Quay Centre 
Singapore 049318 
Singapore

Telephone:  +65 6679 2600 
+65 6679 2500
Facsimile: 

London Marketing Office

Nova North 
11 Bressenden Place 
London SW1E 5BY  
United Kingdom

Telephone:  +44 20 7798 1700 
+44 20 7798 1701
Facsimile: 

North America Office

1066 West Hastings Street  
Vancouver V6E 3X1  
British Colombia 
Canada

Telephone:  +1 604 915 5680

Share Registrars and Transfer Offices

Contact details for the Company’s share registries in Australia, 
South Africa and the United Kingdom are included on page 180.

Information about the American Depositary Receipts Depositary, 
Transfer Agent and Registrar can also be found on page 180.

Printed copies of this Annual Report will only be 
posted to those shareholders who have requested a 
printed copy. Other shareholders are notified when 
the Annual Report becomes available and given 
details of where to access it electronically. 

188

INFORMATION

This Annual Report is printed on paper that is 
FSC® (Forest Stewardship Council) certified and 
manufactured from plantation-grown timber.

Both the paper manufacturer and printer are certified 
to the highest possible internationally recognised 
standard for environmental management.

www.south32.net