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FY2023 Annual Report · Telos Corporation
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Telstra 
Annual Report 
2023

Due to the inherent uncertainty and 
limitations in measuring or quantifying 
greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions under 
the calculation methodologies used in the 
preparation of such data, all GHG 
emissions data or references to GHG 
emissions volumes (including ratios or 
percentages) in this report are estimates. 
The accuracy of Telstra’s GHG emissions 
data and other metrics may be impacted 
by factors, including inconsistent data 
availability, a lack of common definitions 
and standards for reporting climate 
related information, quality of historical 
emissions data, reliance on assumptions 
and changes in market practice. These 
factors may impact Telstra’s ability to 
meet commitments and targets or cause 
Telstra’s results to differ materially from 
those expressed or implied in this report. 
There may also be differences in the 
manner that third parties calculate or 
report GHG emissions data compared to 
Telstra, which means that third party data 
may not be comparable to our data.

In FY23 Telstra finalised the acquisition of 
Digicel Pacific. Telstra is working to 
determine the necessary actions to 
incorporate Digicel Pacific in its existing 
climate scenario analysis, climate risk 
financial quantification, adaptation 
planning, emissions reduction plans and 
to gather the relevant activity data to 
calculate Digicel Pacific’s scope 1, 2 and 3 
emissions profile in line with the GHG 
Protocol so that Digicel Pacific can be 
integrated into emissions disclosures and 
targets. The disclosures in this report in 
relation to the matters noted above do 
not include Digicel Pacific unless 
otherwise stated.

Telstra does not provide financial 
guidance beyond the current financial 
year. Telstra’s financial ambitions to FY25 
and growth ambitions across our portfolio 
are not guidance and there are greater 
risks and uncertainties in connection with 
these ambitions.

Investors should not place undue reliance 
on the forward-looking statements. To the 
maximum extent permitted by law, Telstra 
gives no representation, warranty or other 
assurance in connection with, and 
disclaims all responsibility for, the 
currency, accuracy, reliability and 

completeness of any forward-looking 
statements, whether as a result of new 
information, future events or otherwise. 
Telstra assumes no obligation to update 
any forward-looking statements, and to 
the maximum extent permitted by law, 
disclaims any obligation or undertaking to 
release any updates or revisions to the 
information contained in this document to 
reflect any change in expectations and 
assumptions.

Defined terms are set out in the Glossary 
of this report.

No offer, invitation or advice
This report is not intended to (nor does it) 
constitute an offer or invitation by or on 
behalf of Telstra, its subsidiaries, or any 
other person to subscribe for, purchase or 
otherwise deal in any equity, debt 
instrument or other securities, nor is it 
intended to be used for the purpose of or 
in connection with offers or invitations to 
subscribe for, purchase or otherwise deal 
in any equity, debt instruments or other 
securities.

Information in this report, including 
forward-looking statements and 
guidance, should not be considered as 
investment, tax, legal or other advice. You 
should make your own assessment and 
seek independent professional advice in 
connection with any investment decision.

Unaudited information
All forward-looking figures and proforma 
statements in this report are unaudited 
and based on A-IFRS unless otherwise 
indicated. Certain figures may be subject 
to rounding differences. All market share 
information in this report is based on 
management estimates having regard to 
internally available information unless 
otherwise indicated.

Other information
All amounts are in Australian Dollars 
unless otherwise stated.

The ‘Telstra InfraCo’ trade mark is a 
registered trade mark of Telstra 
Corporation Limited. All other trade marks 
of the Telstra Group are the property of 
Telstra Limited. nbn co and other nbn 
logos and brands are trade marks of nbn 
co limited and used under licence. Other 
trade marks are the property of their 
respective owners.

Forward-looking statements

This report includes forward-looking 
statements. The forward-looking 
statements are based on assumptions 
and information known by Telstra as at 
the date of this report, are provided as a 
general guide only and are not guarantees 
or predictions of future performance. 
Telstra believes the expectations 
reflected in these statements are 
reasonable as at the date of this report, 
but acknowledges they involve known and 
unknown risks, uncertainties and other 
factors, many of which are beyond the 
control of Telstra, which may cause 
Telstra’s actual results, performance and 
achievements to differ materially from 
those expressed in, or implied by, the 
forward-looking statements. These 
factors include: general economic 
conditions in Australia; competition in the 
markets in which Telstra operates; the 
continuing growth in the markets in which 
Telstra operates; the inherent regulatory 
risks in the businesses of Telstra; 
technological changes taking place in the 
telecommunications industry; future 
changes to Telstra’s products and 
services; the risk of cyber and data 
security issues; the geopolitical 
environment (including impacts of 
sanctions and trade controls and broader 
supply chain impacts); exchange rates; 
the extent, nature and location of physical 
impacts of climate change and their 
impacts on our assets, service continuity 
and supply chain; electricity grid 
decarbonisation; and changes to forecast 
supply chain emissions including but not 
limited to failure of third parties to 
achieve contractual environmental 
targets or milestones that have direct or 
indirect impact on our environmental 
modelling.

A number of these risks, uncertainties and 
other factors are described in the 
"Chairman and CEO Message", "Our 
material risks", "Outlook" and the 
“Understanding our climate risk” sections 
of this report and our Operating and 
Financial Review (OFR). The OFR is set 
out in Telstra's financial results for the 
year ended 30 June 2023 and in the 2023 
Annual Report which were lodged with 
the ASX on 17 August 2023 and 1 
September 2023 respectively, and are 
available on Telstra's Investor Centre 
website telstra.com/investor.

In addition, there are particular risks and 
uncertainties in connection with the 
implementation of Telstra’s T25 strategy 
(T25). Those risks include the response 
of customers to changes in products and 
the way Telstra interacts with customers 
as Telstra moves to a digital operating 
model, the risks of disruption from 
changes Telstra’s ways of working, and 
Telstra’s ability to execute and manage 
the elements of T25 in a sequenced, 
controlled and effective manner and 
realise the planned benefits, cost savings 
and growth opportunities.

Our reporting suite

Our FY23 reporting suite includes:

Our 2023 Telstra Annual Report (this report) which describes 
our strategy, financial performance and remuneration practices 
for FY23 and also includes our climate-related governance, 
strategy, risks, targets and activities aligned with the 
recommendations of the Task Force on Climate-related 
Financial Disclosures (TCFD).

Our 2023 Corporate Governance Statement which provides 
information about governance at Telstra.

Our 2023 Bigger Picture Sustainability Report which provides 
an in-depth look at our approach and performance in relation to 
our most material sustainability impacts during FY23.

Our 2023 Human Rights and Modern Slavery Act Statement 
which provides an overview of how we identify, manage and 
mitigate the specific risks of modern slavery in our operations 
and supply chains.

All reports are available at telstra.com/governance.

Telstra Group Limited 
ABN 56 650 620 303

The sections of our Annual Report titled FY23 
financial performance, FY23 highlights, 
Chairman and CEO message, Strategy and 
performance, Our material risks, Outlook, 
and Full year results and operations review 
comprise our operating and financial review 
(OFR) and form part of the Directors’ Report. 
Our OFR, Directors’ Report and Financial Report 
were released to the ASX on 17 August 2023 in 
the document titled ‘Financial results for the 
year ended 30 June 2023’ which is available 
at telstra.com/investor. The section titled 
Chairman transition is not part of the OFR.

Contents

FY23 financial performance 

FY23 highlights 

Chairman and CEO message 

Chairman transition 

Strategy and performance 

Our material risks 

Outlook 

Full year results and operations review 

Board of Directors 

Senior management team 

Sustainability 

Understanding our climate risk 

Governance at Telstra 

Directors’ Report 

  •  Message from the People and Remuneration Committee Chair 

  • Remuneration Report 

Financial Report 

  • Financial statements 

  • Notes to the financial statements 

  • Directors’ declaration 

Shareholder information 

Reference tables 

Glossary 

Indicative financial calendar 

Contact details 

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1

Section Title | Telstra Annual Report 2023About Telstra
Telstra is Australia’s leading telecommunications and 
technology provider, offering a full range of communications 
services and competing in all telecommunications markets.

Our origins date back to 1901, when the Postmaster-General’s 
Department was established by the Australian government to 
manage all domestic telephone, telegraph and postal services, 
and to 1946, when the Overseas Telecommunications 
Commission was established by the Australian government to 
manage international telecommunications services.

Telstra Corporation Limited was incorporated as an Australian 
public limited liability company in November 1991 and was 
initially listed on the ASX on 17 November 1997. Since then, the 
Telstra Group has undergone many changes, including a 
corporate restructure in financial year 2023, that resulted in 
Telstra Group Limited becoming the ASX-listed parent entity of 
the Telstra Group on 31 October 2022.

As at 30 June 2023, Telstra is one of the 20 largest companies 
listed on the ASX with a market capitalisation of approximately 
A$49 billion and has over 31,000 employees.

Our purpose is to build a connected future so everyone can 
thrive. We aim to build technology and content solutions that 
are simple and easy to use, including Australia’s largest and 
fastest national mobile network. Our world-leading mobile 
network reaches approximately 99.6 per cent of the Australian 
population. We have around 290 stores in Australia.

As at 30 June 2023, we provide around 22.5 million retail mobile 
services and 3.4 million retail bundle and data services in 
Australia. We also facilitate over 2,000 network points of 
presence in more than 30 countries and territories around the 
world. We bring innovative and intuitive products and services 
to market, and offer a broad suite of media, content and 
connectivity options in Australia, as well as connectivity and 
enterprise services globally. Our customer base is diverse 
including consumers, small business, large enterprises and 
government organisations.

Acknowledgement of Country

We recognise and acknowledge the existing, 
original, and ancient connection Aboriginal 
and Torres Strait Islander peoples have to the 
lands and waterways across the Australian 
continent. We pay our respects to their Elders 
past and present. At Telstra we are enriched by 
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples’ 
contribution to our organisation, and we commit 
to working with you to build a prosperous and 
inclusive Australia.

Our purpose
The telecommunications industry is experiencing enormous 
growth. Network traffic is growing fast and digital technology is 
changing our world.

Telstra is at the heart of this change—and we’re helping make it 
happen by connecting everything to everyone.

We believe it’s people who give purpose to our 
technology

So we’re committed to staying close to our 
customers and providing them the best experience

And delivering the best tech

On the best network

Because our purpose is to build a connected 
future so everyone can thrive.

Our values
Together with our purpose, our values express what we stand for and guide the way we do things. 
They are core to who we are and we align everything we do with them. Here at Telstra, we have four values.

We are changemakers

We are better together

We care

We make it simple

We think big, set ambitious 
goals and deliver them – for 
our customers, shareholders 
and communities. By 
speaking up, being curious 
to learn and valuing different 
perspectives we challenge 
the status quo and make 
change.

We’re one team and embrace 
the value each of us bring. 
Our (super) power lies in 
working together to deliver 
for our customers. We’re each 
accountable for our actions 
and do what we say we’re 
going to do.

We show care in all that we 
do. We do the right thing 
for our customers, our 
communities, the planet, 
ourselves and each other –
even when no one’s watching.

What we do is complex, 
but we always make things 
simple for our customers and 
each other. Simple doesn’t 
necessarily mean quick. We 
keep the simple, simple.

These are the values we stand for – the values by which we measure all of our actions. 
Putting these values into action will help us to build a connected future so everyone can thrive.

2

3

FY23 financial 
performance

Total income 
(excluding finance 
income)

$23.2 billion

Earnings before Interest, 
Tax, Depreciation and 

Amortisation (EBITDA) $7.9 billion

Underlying EBITDA1 on 
a guidance basis2

Net Profit After Tax 
(NPAT)

$8.0 billion

$2.1 billion

Underlying 
Return on 
Invested 
Capital 
(ROIC)3 8.1%

Earnings 
per share 
16.7 cents

Total FY23 
dividends 
17 cents per 
share fully 
franked

$2.0 billion 
returned to 
shareholders

A-/A2 credit 
rating from 
Moody’s and 
Standard & 
Poors

1. Underlying EBITDA excludes guidance adjustments, and in FY23 and prior years also excludes net one-off nbn DA receipts less nbn net C2C.
2.  Guidance adjustments include material one-offs, such as mergers and acquisitions, disposals, impairments, spectrum, restructuring costs and such other items as determined by the 

Board and management.

3.  Underlying ROIC defined as Net Operating Profit After Tax (NOPAT) as a percentage of total capital, excluding net one-off nbn receipts and guidance adjustments (as defined above) 

less tax.

4

FY23 financial performance and highlights | Telstra Annual Report 2023

FY23 highlights

As we progress through T25, our strategic focus is on customer experience, our network, growth, 
employee engagement, digital leadership and doing business responsibly.

Our customers

Our episode NPS is at all time highs, lifting 6 points across C&SB 
and Enterprise

Customer complaints are at a record low, with a 35% fall in TIO 
escalations

We enabled multi-factor authentication for over 5 million 
customers to keep their Telstra accounts safer

We’re blocking more email, SMS and phone call scams than 
ever before

We helped more than 1 million customers in vulnerable 
circumstances to stay connected and expanded our complimentary 
Pre-Paid credit Top-Up program with our partner Infoxchange

We’ve supported more than 250,000 Australians growing digital 
skills in the last two years, through customer and community digital 
ability programs, including senior and First Nations Australians

Our network

Our mobile footprint reaches 99.6% of the Australian population, 
reflecting our ongoing investment in improving regional coverage

This year we celebrated five years of 5G, and we’ve reached 
more than 85% 5G population coverage and 41% of our mobile 
traffic on 5G

World-first deal announced with Starlink in July 2023 to 
provide voice service and broadband as a reseller to regional 
consumer customers

Expanded our operations across six countries in the Pacific, 
welcoming Digicel Pacific to the Telstra family

Our people

We are making Telstra the place people want to work – 
our Experience Pulse results put us in the top 25% of 
companies globally

We achieved 35.2% representation of women across all of 
Telstra, beating our target of 34%

Our digital leadership

88% of C&SB sales are on our new digital stack

68% of service interactions are available digitally

33% of our core processes have been improved by AI, reducing 
network energy consumption and solving customer issues faster

We’ve built 89% of our targeted APIs for Adaptive Networks, 
using Open APIs to reduce cost and time to market

Our community

We’ve made Wi-Fi available for free at selected payphones across 
the country to help keep disadvantaged Australians and those in 
vulnerable circumstances connected

We responded in times of need, from floods in the south to 
cyclones in the north – and provided support for customers 
with friends and family in Türkiye, Syria, Ukraine and the Pacific

We launched our 2022–2025 Stretch Reconciliation Action 
Plan (RAP) based on a theme of truth telling and committing 
to important steps to talk about our past and the impact of our 
decisions on First Nations people

We recorded our strongest reputation result in 15 years as 
measured by RepTrak, driven by improvements in customer 
experience, network leadership, and cyber leadership

Our environment

We’ve reduced our absolute scope 1+2 greenhouse gas emissions 
by 30% (from a FY19 baseline), to less than 920K tonnes CO2e1, 
beating our FY23 target of a 23% reduction

All Telstra branded packaging is now fully recyclable, and made 
of renewable or recycled material

1. Greenhouse gas emissions are typically measured in tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent (CO2e) gases.

5

Section Title | Telstra Annual Report 2023Chairman and  
CEO message

Dear Shareholders,

Thank you for your continued support of 
and investment in Telstra during the 2023 
financial year.

During the year we welcomed a transition in our leadership team with Vicki 
Brady's succession to the role of CEO and Managing Director and Michael 
Ackland becoming CFO on 1 September 2022.

Our results for the year show continued growth on a reported and 
underlying basis, with positive momentum across our key indicators. 
We maintained our disciplined approach, and our financial performance 
enabled the Board to resolve to pay a final dividend for FY23 of 8.5 cents 
per share, returning $2.0 billion to shareholders over FY23 when combined 
with the interim dividend for FY23. This reflects the principle of our 
capital management framework to seek to grow our fully franked 
dividend over time.

This momentum is also reflected in the progress we have made in the first 
year of delivery against our T25 strategy to improve customer experience, 
build sustainable growth, enhance our reputation, and further invest in our 
network and technology leadership.

While our overall trajectory is good, we have some parts of the business 
performing well, and others where we continue to see challenges. Our 
mobiles business is at the heart of our organisation, remains central to 
growth and continues to perform strongly, and our International and 
Infrastructure businesses are growing.

At the same time, there are aspects of our Enterprise fixed business that 
are experiencing headwinds. The focus is retaining fibre SIOs, simplifying 
our products to meet customer needs, reducing costs and driving further 
growth across Network Applications and Services.

While we still have a lot to deliver, financial year 2023 has been an 
important year. We re-prioritised the big things that will matter most for 
customers, continued to invest in our network leadership and infrastructure 
businesses, and elevated employee engagement and culture to support 
these ambitions. Additionally, we remain disciplined on costs, particularly 
considering the external economic environment.

While we have delivered a significant amount and made real progress on 
our T25 ambitions, we have had to make some difficult choices like raising 
prices on some of our products and services. There is also hard work ahead 
to continue improving our customer experience and consumer value 
propositions, optimise our cost base, and grow returns sustainably. Our 
T25 goals are ambitious, but the progress we have made and the response 
we have seen from customers are strong indicators of our early success.

6

Chairman and CEO message | Telstra Annual Report 2023

Looking beyond T25, as connectivity 
increasingly underpins the way our 
customers live and work, we are in 
a strong position to play a big role 
in Australia’s digital future.

The infrastructure investments we 
are making today – from mobile 
infrastructure to our intercity fibre 
network – will enable a more digitised 
future for the nation and see us 
strategically positioned for growth.

We’ve made good progress on customer 
experience, but we know there is more 
work to do. We have achieved a more 
than one third reduction in customer 
complaints and customer satisfaction is 
at a record high, while we outperformed 
our episode NPS targets in both C&SB 
and Enterprise. We have continued to 
digitise our business, with all pre-paid 
mobile sales and services and 88% of all 
C&SB sales using our digital stack.

We have continued to invest in mobile 
leadership – we achieved our FY23 
target of 85% 5G population coverage, 
expanded regional coverage by 80,000 
square kilometres1 over the last two 
years, broke speed records, and made a 
world-first 100 kilometres long-range 5G 
data call. We continue to look at how new 
and evolving technologies can improve 
the experience for our customers and 
announced agreements with LEO satellite 
providers OneWeb and Starlink to deliver 
better services for our consumer 
customers in regional and rural Australia.

We’ve made good progress on our 
intercity fibre network – we now have 
fibre in the ground and have conducted 
speed tests that have exceeded our 
expectations. We also launched our 
400Gbps wavelength services between 
Adelaide, Melbourne, Canberra, Sydney 
and Brisbane.

We’ve grown our international operations, 
welcoming Digicel Pacific to the Telstra 
family in our largest ever acquisition 
while Telstra International continued 
to grow and deliver for customers. 
Our Telstra Enterprise industry teams 
are establishing deeper industry 
expertise across the agriculture, supply 
chain, retail, mining, energy, banking 
and finance, and government sectors. 
We see huge potential in unlocking the 
value of data and AI, and formed our IT 
and Data & AI functions to grow our focus 
in those areas.

Protecting our network and defending 
our customers is a constantly evolving 
battle for our expert cyber security 
teams. We are blocking more email, 
SMS and phone call scams than 
ever, including partnering with the 
Commonwealth Bank to launch a pilot 
tool to help detect and prevent mobile 
phone scams for joint customers. We also 
entered into a new Quantium Telstra 
venture to combine our leading network 
solutions with Quantium’s AI and data 
science expertise, helping us identify 
and react quickly to emerging AI trends.

Our corporate restructure was completed 
during financial year 2023, and the 
entities in the Telstra Group continue 
to work together on creating innovative 
products and services, supporting 
customers and delivering an exceptional 
customer experience. When we 
established InfraCo and embarked on 
our Group Restructure, our aim was to: 
create transparency of our infrastructure 
business, to run it as a standalone 
business, and provide optionality. We 
have achieved these three goals and 
created a strong digital infrastructure 
operator. Overall, there is now a clearer 
understanding of the value of InfraCo 
within the Telstra Group. As we’ve 
demonstrated before, where we see the 
opportunity to realise value through 
monetisation, we will. For example, 
through the 49 per cent sale of Amplitel. 
After thoroughly examining alternatives, 
we have concluded that the greatest 
value to be created for shareholders is 
by maintaining the current ownership 
structure of InfraCo Fixed, for at least 
the medium term.

Our focus remains on delivering long-
term, sustainable growth, and the 
objectives and principles of our capital 
management framework, including 
seeking to grow our dividend. In our 
current structure, InfraCo Fixed plays 
an important role in enabling this, 
particularly in an inflationary 
environment.

1. The statutory full year financial results released on 17 August 2023 contained a typographical error which has now been corrected.

7
7

As we continue to grow through T25, 
doing business responsibly has become 
fundamental to how we work, and we 
consider our commitment to the 
environment and our community at all 
levels of our operations. Telstra is a key 
contributor to the economy, a major 
employer and has a significant 
environmental impact, so we have a 
responsibility to contribute to the 
betterment of society and our planet. 
We outline how we are managing our 
social and environmental impacts and 
contributing to a more sustainable and 
inclusive world in our 2023 Bigger Picture 
Sustainability Report, which will be 
available from 1 September 2023.

We have made meaningful contributions 
to sustainability and community – we’ve 
reduced our scope 1+2 emissions by 30% 
(from a FY19 baseline) exceeding our 
FY23 target, underwritten investment 
in additional renewable energy projects, 
and supported more than 250,000 
Australians to build digital skills in 
FY22 and FY23.

We have continued to support our 
customers in a period of increased 
global instability, market volatility, and 
uncertainty, as the world continues to 
recover from the effects of the COVID-19 
pandemic, deals with a changing climate 
and faces other geopolitical challenges 
that create uncertainty around the world.

Telstra shareholders, customers and our 
people reflect all walks of life, and cost of 
living pressures and inflation challenges 
are important to us as they are to our 
community. We understand the 
importance of consistent shareholder 
returns and dividends, and we seek to 
grow our fully franked dividend over 
time as part of our approach to capital 
management. This year we have 
increased our support for customers in 
vulnerable circumstances, be that from 
natural disasters, from domestic and 
family violence, or financial hardship. 
This year we have supported more than 
one million customers facing vulnerable 
circumstances to stay connected.

Our leadership team remains focused 
and committed as we continue to 
position ourselves to respond to the new 
challenges our transformed business 
faces. In January 2023, we welcomed 
Brad Whitcomb as Group Executive, 
Consumer and Small Business, and 
Kathryn van der Merwe joined us as 
Group Executive, People, Culture and 
Communications in July 2023.

We are very pleased to appoint two new 
non-executive directors to our Board, 
Ming Long AM and Maxine Brenner, and 
we thank Nora Scheinkestel who retired 
from the Board in October 2022 for 
her years of service and invaluable 
contributions. We are grateful to former 
CEO Andrew Penn AO for his leadership 
as Telstra CEO from May 2015 to 
September 2022, which has set Telstra 
up to thrive.

Through the work we have done, Telstra 
is well positioned to lead through a 
rapidly changing and evolving time – as 
it has through disruption before. As our 
country and our planet grapple with the 
challenges and opportunities ahead, we 
will respond and adapt, and we will help 
our customers do the same

Thank you

The Telstra Board and management team 
would like to sincerely thank our millions 
of customers for their ongoing support 
this year. Without you, there would be no 
Telstra. Thank you also to all our Telstra 
employees for the great work you have 
done, and the successes we have 
achieved together throughout our 
transformation and shift to growth.

Most importantly, we would like to thank 
you, our shareholders, for your continued 
support.

We hope you enjoy reading about the 
progress we have made to protect and 
grow your business.

Vicki Brady 
CEO and Managing Director

John P Mullen 
Chairman

8
8

Chairman transition

On 28 August 2023, after the publication of Telstra’s Full Year 
Results, I announced my intention to retire from the Telstra 
Board at the conclusion of this year’s Annual General Meeting. 
At the same time it was announced I would be succeeded as 
chairman by my fellow director, Craig Dunn.

After 15 years on the Board, the past seven as Chairman,  
and with a new leadership team in place, the time is right  
to step down.

We have a strong leadership team in place, the company has 
undergone a successful transformation through T22 and is now 
growing again, and our strategy is set out to 2025. 

We have recently added two new directors and we have a 
diverse and capable Board guiding the future strategic direction 
of the company.

It has been an absolute privilege to be a part of the Telstra team 
and all we have delivered in my time with the company. I know 
from working closely with him on the Board that Craig is the 
right person to lead the Board and I will hand over the reins 
confident that Telstra will continue to play a vital and strategic 
role in building Australia’s digital future.

I thank shareholders for their support during my time on the 
Board and the Telstra team for all of the hard work that has 
gone into delivering for our shareholders and customers.

I would like to thank John for his enormous contribution 
to the company and the country more broadly.

John’s time on the Board saw Telstra successfully 
navigate through significant upheaval, including the two 
negotiations with NBN Co and the Government and the 
consequent rollout of the NBN and its impact on 
Telstra’s business.

The period also saw Telstra announce and execute on  
its transformative T22 Strategy, continue its investment 
to build and maintain its world class mobile network, 
rolling out 4G and 5G and expanding its coverage to be 
around one million square kilometres greater than its 
competition. 

The company is leaner and more agile and strongly 
positioned to grow, with a highly skilled workforce and 
world class network and infrastructure assets that will 
help underpin Australia’s digital economy for decades  
to come.

Come October I look forward with energy and eagerness 
to continuing to deliver growth for shareholders as we 
execute on the T25 strategy in the coming years.

John Mullen 
Chairman

Craig Dunn

99

Chairman and CEO message | Telstra Annual Report 2022

Strategy and 
performance

We are one year into T25 and are a simpler, more agile, more 
customer-focussed and digitised business. As we enter FY24, 
our goals are clearer and more refined than ever. We know we 
are on the right path and we see the early results of our work.

10

Strategy and 

performance

Strategy and performance | Telstra Annual Report 2023

Our strategic context and focus

We are approaching the mid-way point in our T25 strategy for sustainable growth, and our ambition remains to improve our core 
business and improve our customer experience. FY24 will see us continue to deliver our T25 objectives, and we know what to focus on.

T25 is our strategy for growth, with four pillars:

 1

 2

 3

Provide an exceptional 
customer experience 
you can count on

Provide leading network 
and technology 
solutions that deliver 
your future

Create sustained growth 
and value for our 
shareholders

 4

Be the place 
you want to work

T25 scorecard

Customer 
experience

Network & 
Technology

Growth
and value

New ways
of working

Digital
leadership

Responsible 
business

Market leading CX 
with

Network leadership; 
by FY25:

  ~95% pop. coverage 
for 5G
  >80% of traffic on 
5G
 3G closed in FY24

Win majority of key 
surveys for best 
fixed/mobile network 
including

 Coverage, and
  Overall customers 
speeds for mobile 
FY23-FY25

  Double metro cell 
sites by FY25 to 
densify the network1

Expand regional 
coverage

  100,000km2 new 
coverage by FY25

s
c
i
r
t
e
m
d
n
a
s
t
n
e
m

t
i

m
m
o
c
r
u
O

 eNPS >40 by FY25
  sNPS uplift of +25 
by FY25

Getting it right for 
customers

  >90% ‘Once and 
Done’ by FY25 
(C&SB)
  90% rating in 
support and 
engagement by 
FY25 (TE)

Reduce our 
complaints

  One-third by FY23, 
50% by FY25 
(C&SB)
  >95% of billing 
disputes will be 
resolved in 1 cycle 
by FY25 (TE)

Grow Telstra Plus 
members (#) and 
engagement (%)

  5.4m and 70% by 
FY23
  6m and 80% by 
FY25

  Grow digitally active 
users by 2m to 8.5m 
FY25 (C&SB)

Improve availability of 
infra. assets for 
customers, by FY25
  250 new towers
  20,000km of fibre 
deployed1

Underlying EBITDA

$7.5-8.0b by FY23
  Mid-single digit 
CAGR FY21 to FY25

Underlying ROIC
~8% by FY23
  Grow beyond to 
FY25

  Underlying EPS: 
High-teens CAGR 
FY21 to FY25

  Maximise fully-
franked dividend 
and seek to grow 
over time

Maintain cost 
discipline

  $500m net fixed 
cost out from FY23 
to FY25 while 
investing for growth
  Maintain leading 
operating cost 
metrics for full-
service telco

Maximise value from 
infra.

  Amplitel EBITDAaL 
CAGR – low-to-mid 
single digit
  InfraCo Fixed 
EBITDAaL CAGR –
low-single digit

  Remain at 90th 
percentile employee 
engagement 
(equivalent to high-
performance norm)

  Improve agile 
maturity of teams, 
with 70% scoring 
above 4 by FY25

  Halve our time to 
market for products 
and services from 
FY22 to FY25

  50% increase in 
representation of 
Data & Analytics 
workforce by FY25

  Direct software 
engineering 
workforce delivering 
~2x the percentage 
of strategic 
development work 
by FY25

  All key service 
transactions with 
customers are 
capable of being 
conducted digitally 
by FY25

  100% of key 
business processes 
enhanced/ 
improved using AI 
by FY25

  Reach top 20% in 
Digital Capability 
Index by FY25

  100% API-first 
architecture for 
customer 
management, 
product 
development, 
and external 
monetisation

  Move ~90% of 
applications to 
the public cloud 
by FY25

  Enable renewable 
energy generation 
equivalent to 100% 
of our consumption 
by 2025

  Reduce absolute 
emissions from 
FY19 by at least 
50% by 2030

  Increase digitally 
active customers 
by 2m, including 
building digital skills 
for 500k Australians, 
by FY25

  Help keep 1m 
customers in 
vulnerable 
circumstances 
connected each year 
from FY22-25

  4-7pt uplift in 
RepTrak reputation 
score by FY25

Legend

On track for 
delivery

Progress made 
but below target

Not on track

Completed

Not achieved

Target removed

Note: Commitments are baselined to FY21, except where stated otherwise and see disclaimer slide in relation to financial ambitions.

1. Fibre deployed target removed in August 2023 due to our focus on the highest priority routes. Double metro cell side target removed in August 2023 due to technology review.

11

 
 
 
Telstra Enterprise has also made strides in 
speeding up key processes and delivering 
for customers faster – 51% of Enterprise 
service interactions are now through the 
digital channel.

We are driven every day to help make 
digital experiences safer and ensure trust 
in the connectivity we provide. Our cyber 
security initiatives have included 
reviewing and changing how we retain 
personal ID data, and joining forces with 
the Commonwealth Bank to help protect 
customers from phone scams with our 
Scam Indicator pilot program. Through 
our Cleaner Pipes program, we have also 
blocked hundreds of millions of scam 
calls and texts from reaching our 
customers each year, and enabled a 
service for Telstra customers who receive 
scam texts to forward them to 7226 
(SCAM) to help us identify and block 
emerging scam techniques.

We have also helped our customers when 
natural disasters hit, from floods affecting 
Australia’s south-eastern states to 
cyclones affecting the north. During FY23 
we activated disaster relief in 101 
postcodes following severe weather 
events, and activated over 63,000 short 
and long term packages totalling over 
$1.26 million in customer assistance. We 
also provided support internationally with 
free calls to Türkiye, Syria and Ukraine, as 
well as in the Pacific.

Maintaining our network leadership 
and planning for the future

At the end of financial year 2023 our total 
mobile coverage was more than 2.72 
million square kilometres – an 80,000 
square kilometre increase in the last two 
years. We have around one million square 
kilometres more mobile network coverage 
than our nearest competitor.

We’ve successfully reached our target of 
85% 5G population coverage, and now 
have 41% of our mobile traffic on 5G. The 
world-first 100km long-range 5G data call 
we conducted in collaboration with 
Ericsson in February broke speed records. 
Our mobile network continues to win the 
majority of key network surveys in 
network coverage, performance and 
resiliency, including umlaut mobile 
network performance survey wins for 
‘Best in Test’, ‘Reliability Score’ and the 
highest 5G availability in all cities tested 
in its latest results.

We enabled 5G Standalone technology on 
our mobile network, allowing for end-to-
end 5G experiences across customer 
devices and our network infrastructure 
and core. This innovation allows for 
software-defined features like network 
slicing, letting us customise network 
access for customers with different 
requirements, and edge computing, 
letting us deploy cloud processing power 

into connected hardware at the edge of 
our network map closest to the customer.

The decision by the Australian 
Competition Tribunal and the ACCC to 
not grant authorisation for our Multi-
Operator Core Network agreement with 
TPG was a disappointing outcome for 
customers in regional Australia. Despite 
this, we remain committed to improving 
customer experience outside metro areas, 
and we continue to invest in new ways to 
keep people in remote locations 
connected. We will continue to advocate 
for getting the best possible outcomes for 
regional Australia and will continue to 
look for commercially negotiated 
arrangements to deliver better 
experiences for customers.

Part of our T25 strategy is to assess 
evolving satellite technologies and use 
them to deliver better services for 
customers, especially in rural and remote 
Australia. After testing in Australia, 
Telstra and OneWeb have agreed 
commercial terms and will begin moving 
hundreds of existing remote mobile base 
stations currently using satellite backhaul 
to OneWeb's LEO service, and we will 
adopt OneWeb LEO services for future 
sites where satellite backhaul is the 
preferred or only viable option. We also 
reached a world-first reseller agreement 
with SpaceX to offer Starlink LEO satellite 
voice and fixed broadband service, also 
leveraging our local customer support and 
providing the option for professional 
installation.

We have begun laying ultra-high capacity, 
low-latency fibre as part of our intercity 
fibre network build across Australia – a 
high performance national network for 
customers who need reliable, ultra-high 
bandwidth between capital cities and 
connections to international submarine 
cable landing stations. Hyperscale 
businesses that deal in big data, cloud 
computing and other enablers of our 
digital future will rely on this network in 
coming years.

In a simulated network trial of our planned 
1,240 kilometre intercity fibre network 
between Melbourne and Sydney, speeds 
recorded reached almost seven times 
today’s typical capacity per fibre pair, 
enabling us to develop market-leading 
solutions for our customers today and in 
the future.

We are approaching another milestone in 
the transition from our legacy network to 
the future with almost 10 million premises 
disconnected from our copper and HFC 
networks, as a consequence of the nbn 
network rollout. This work is central to our 
digitisation efforts and is a huge feat in 
both the transformation of our business 
and the enablement of the digital 
economy.

Building a better customer 
experience

This past year, we have focussed closely 
on improving the experience that our 
customers have when they interact with 
us, whether that is through a self-service 
channel or by contacting our Customer 
Service team. We beat our Episode NPS 
targets, improving by six points to reach 
+43 and exceeded our target of +40. 
Strategic NPS also increased by four 
points, however it is still not where we 
want it to be.

The progress we have made on 
digitisation has gone on behind the 
scenes for most of our customers, but the 
gains we have made mean that 88% of all 
C&SB sales now occur on our new digital 
stack. For customers this means 
simplified billing, as well as faster 
average activation times for their 
services. For our teams this means 
simpler processes freeing up more time 
to spend with the customer.

Similarly, we completed the migration of 
our existing mobile pre-paid services over 
to our new digital stack, which allows 
customers access to our latest offers and 
provides them with faster, better support. 
In total, 43% of all C&SB services are on 
our new platform and we are on track for 
all services to be on our new digital stack 
by FY25.

70% of new Consumer fixed broadband 
orders are now being placed in our new 
digital stack, significantly reducing order 
entry time and delivering strong eNPS 
results. Through the effects of this 
combined work, we have seen a 35% fall 
in Telecommunications Industry 
Ombudsman escalations. Much of this 
progress has been achieved through 
generally improved customer service 
experiences in the last year, and 
reductions in assurance – and 
connection-related issues.

We have launched a customer service 
platform for Consumer and Small 
Business customers based on Amazon 
Connect, enabling us to route customers 
to the right agent with the right skill 
based on their needs. It also allows for 
more self-service capabilities and better 
integration between telephone support 
and other channels.

12

Strategy and performance | Telstra Annual Report 2023

Telstra International continued its growth. 
We officially welcomed Digicel Pacific to 
the Telstra family, in our largest ever 
acquisition. Digicel Pacific is the biggest 
mobile operator in the South Pacific 
spanning six countries – Papua New 
Guinea, Fiji, Samoa, Tonga, Vanuatu and 
Nauru. We were already one of the biggest 
providers of voice and data services 
connecting the South Pacific to the rest of 
the world through our Southern Cross 
subsea cable, and we are experienced in 
delivering and operating mobile networks 
in Australia’s remote north and Torres 
Strait Islands, so Digicel Pacific has a 
strong alignment with our core strengths.

Extending our digital leadership

We created a new commercial partnership 
in our Quantium Telstra venture following 
our previous memorandum of 
understanding, combining Quantium’s 
leadership in data science and AI with our 
leading network, IoT, cloud and edge 
solutions into a ‘whole of tech stack’ 
proposition. Backed by our Telstra Purple 
technology design and management 
experts, this venture will explore tailored 
solutions across cloud, cyber security and 
software development to solve business 
challenges.

To enable these innovative solutions to be 
created at speed, we realigned our 
network, product, IT and data teams to 
bolster those capabilities within our 
business, and separated our IT and Data & 
AI teams into a standalone function to 
better serve our future opportunities. Our 
Global Networks & Technology function 
will focus on maintaining our network 
leadership, boosting automation and 
orchestration capability as well as leading 
on cyber security.

33% of our core processes have been 
improved by AI through our digitisation 
process, reducing network energy 
consumption and solving customer issues 
faster, and we’ve built 89% of our targeted 
APIs for Enterprise Adaptive Networks 
using Open APIs to reduce cost and time 
to market.

Becoming the place where you want 
to work

Making Telstra the place where you want 
to work is a central pillar of our T25 
strategy, and revolves around us listening 
to our people to understand their needs. 
We have focussed our attention on 
improving customer experience and 
simplifying our company-wide objectives 
after asking our teams for their feedback 
on where we could make maximum impact 
across our organisation.

We also continued to invest this year in 
our people as one of the world’s largest 
Agile workforces and to set the standard 
in hybrid working. Our employee 
engagement score put us in the top 25% of 
companies globally, and this year we were 
named #9 on LinkedIn Top Companies list, 
which recognises 25 workplaces across 
Australia investing in talent and helping 
their people build long-term careers.

Guided by our First Nations Strategy, we 
have created opportunities to engage our 
people on the First Nations Voice to 
Parliament to learn about what it could 
mean for Australia’s future. Other 
initiatives include in-person cultural 
learning, on-country immersion 
opportunities, developing a First Nations 
employment strategy, and a First Nations 
procurement policy.

Doing business responsibly

We are committed to doing business 
responsibly and having a positive social 
impact on the communities in which we 
operate. In FY22 and FY23 cumulatively, 
we reached more than 250,000 Australians 
through digital ability programs, 
exceeding our FY23 target and well on the 
way to 500,000 Australians by FY25. We 
supported this through initiatives like the 
NSW State Government’s Tech Savvy 
Seniors program, the Good Things 
Foundation’s Get Online Week and other 
community-led initiatives that close the 
digital divide.

We’ve helped keep more than one million 
vulnerable customers connected through 
activities such as providing lower-cost 
services for people on a low income; 
offering support during times of financial 
hardship, including access to safe and 
secure communications for victims of 
domestic and family violence; and 
ensuring we have accessible product and 
service options for people with disability.

Unlocking value and sustained 
growth for our shareholders

Our mobiles business is at the heart of our 
organisation, remains central to growth 
and continues to perform very strongly, 
and our International and Infrastructure 
businesses are growing. At the same time, 
there are aspects of our Enterprise fixed 
business that are experiencing headwinds.

Our corporate restructure was completed 
during financial year 2023, and the entities 
in the Telstra Group continue to work 
together on creating innovative products 
and services, supporting customers and 
delivering an exceptional customer 
experience.

When we established InfraCo and 
embarked on our Group Restructure, our 
aim was to: create transparency of our 
infrastructure business, to run it as a 
standalone business, and provide 
optionality. We have achieved these three 
goals and created a strong digital 
infrastructure operator. Overall, there is 
now a clearer understanding of the value 
of InfraCo within the Telstra Group. As 
we’ve demonstrated before, where we see 
the opportunity to realise value through 
monetisation, we will. For example, 
through the 49 per cent sale of Amplitel. 
After thoroughly examining alternatives, 
we have concluded that the greatest value 
to be created for shareholders is by 
maintaining the current ownership 
structure of InfraCo Fixed, for at least the 
medium term.

We are seeing strong customer demand 
for our infrastructure, while customer 
needs and long-term demand continue to 
evolve. This is being shaped by the shift to 
the cloud and rapid AI adoption driving 
data centre and edge requirements, along 
with needs for domestic fibre and 
undersea cable. Maintaining the current 
ownership structure provides alignment 
across the whole of Telstra to best capture 
and maximise long-term value. First, by 
providing the flexibility to meet evolving 
customer needs through how we go to 
market and deliver products and solutions. 
Second, by continuing our work on 
improving the efficiency of InfraCo Fixed, 
including across our portfolio of fixed 
network sites. Third, by delivering growth 
projects including our intercity fibre build, 
and exploring further growth 
opportunities, and finally, because we are 
best able to explore other operating and 
financial infrastructure partnerships.

Our focus remains on delivering long-
term, sustainable growth, and the 
objectives and principles of our capital 
management framework, including 
seeking to grow our dividend. In our 
current structure, InfraCo Fixed plays an 
important role in enabling this, particularly 
in an inflationary environment.

13

Our material risks

The importance of continuing to identify, measure and monitor the most 
material risks to our business is more pronounced than ever. We operate 
under a new normal of greater geopolitical and economic uncertainty, as well 
as a fresh appetite for growth as part of our T25 strategy.

Managing our material risks is an 
important part of ensuring the success of 
our strategy, as well as enhancing 
customer experience, reputation, 
financial position, and capacity to pay 
dividends. We do this through our risk 
management program, which includes 
our “Top Risks” and “Watchlist Risks” 
that have sustained visibility at a 
leadership level – as well as other risks 
managed by our risk and compliance 
community.

Below we describe the material risks that 
may affect Telstra in this context, and 
how we seek to manage them. These are 
not listed in order of significance, nor are 
they all-encompassing. They reflect the 
most significant risks identified through 
our risk management process.

Focus on growth

Our T25 strategy is about delivering 
growth. This growth ambition include our 
aspirations to grow in mobiles (grow 
revenue, and differentiate via 
experience), Network Applications & 
Services (to become a recognised 
market leader in key digital growth 
categories including Internet of things, 
Cybersecurity, Workplace & Digital, and 
more), International (deliver profitable 
growth and value by leveraging our 
market leading international connectivity, 
people and services), InfraCo (grow 
external revenue with a focus on new 
towers and securing long term tenants, 
maximising the potential of existing 
towers and infrastructure, developing 
new products and driving growth through 
a better customer experience) the Small 
& Medium Business and Mid-Market & 
Business sectors (through key product 
optimisations, customer experience 
improvements through digitisation and 
strategic channel initiatives, and more) 
and in our Health business.

We acknowledge that our greater focus 
on growth after a period of 
transformation poses a level of inherent 
risk, including the design and delivery of 
products and services which may not 
sufficiently meet our customers’ needs. 

We also recognise that Telstra operates in 
a competitive environment, and that our 
competitors have also made their own 
strides during this time. More generally, 
while identifying risks to actively 
mitigate, we are also conscious that 
managed risk-taking is essential for 
growth.

To manage these risks, we constantly 
monitor business performance and 
forecasts against changes in the external 
environment, and stress test our 
approach against various market 
scenarios. Our agile ways of working 
allow us to rapidly respond to market 
challenges. We continue to have a strong 
focus on maintaining effective 
governance and leadership so that we 
can identify, escalate, and manage 
growth risks and risks within the market 
segments in which we operate. When our 
growth is inorganic, we have robust due 
diligence processes to ensure we make 
appropriate investments.

Market and competition risks

The telecommunications industry in 
Australia and internationally is 
competitive and subject to change 
(including accelerating technological 
change). The effect of competitive 
market conditions, including any decline 
in the pricing as well as the purchase and 
use of our products and services, may 
adversely impact our earnings and 
assets.

In the market for fixed broadband 
services provided over the nbn™ network, 
competition remains significant, 
including discounted introductory offers. 
In our mobile and fixed businesses, we 
face increasing competition from satellite 
operators, including from Low Earth Orbit 
satellite services which will, over time, 
provide alternative services to some 
mobile and fixed services offered today.

We are also experiencing strong 
competition in other parts of our 
business, such as Network Applications & 
Services, Data & Connectivity, and 
International. In particular, we note the 
expansion of NBN Co into the enterprise 

data and connectivity market, along with 
increasing adoption by enterprise 
customers of lower margin SDWAN 
solutions.

Other key competition risks include:

• Innovation and disruptive technologies 
that may cause market discontinuity, 
adversely impacting on business 
models where there is failure to 
transition and adapt quickly;

• Competition in the Australian 

telecommunications market could 
cause us to lose market share and 
reduce our prices and profits from 
current products and services. We may 
also lose market share and revenue if 
we don’t adapt to changes in the 
industry and competitive landscape;

• Hyperscaler growth strategies could 

result in disintermediating us from the 
end-customer rather than their 
partnering with us to grow if we are not 
able to provide the exceptional end-
customer experience that they seek to 
deliver.

Effective innovation is fundamental in 
securing revenue streams and 
withstanding challenges from a changing 
competition and industry landscape. Our 
capacity and ability to respond to the 
innovation challenge are related to the 
agility of our internal process and the 
capability and flexibility of our people. To 
compete effectively, we may be required 
to make significant investments. However 
there is no guarantee that such 
investments will help us maintain or grow 
market share or address these issues 
(either fully or at all), and may affect the 
performance of the Group.

Doing business responsibly

Doing business responsibly means doing 
the right thing for our customers, our 
people, and the communities we serve. 
We believe every company has a 
responsibility to operate sustainably and 
actively consider its impact on 
customers, communities and the 
environment. This is why ‘doing business 
responsibly’ is one of the key pillars in our 

14

T25 strategy and the foundation of our 
sustainability strategy.

Our purpose is to build a connected 
future so everyone can thrive. This 
underpins our belief that Telstra has a 
real opportunity to play a leadership role 
in creating a more sustainable and 
inclusive world. We are harnessing 
technology to create a better digital 
world and minimise our impact on the 
planet, as well as helping our customers, 
suppliers and communities do the same. 
The foundational connectivity and digital 
solutions we provide create value for our 
customers, people, communities and 
shareholders.

The risks associated with not conducting 
our business responsibly are extensive. 
We risk eroding community and customer 
trust in our standing as a responsible 
corporate citizen and damaging our 
reputation with stakeholders through 
negative regulatory and financial 
implications.

In 2023, we began trialling new ways of 
embedding sustainability into our 
business, decision making and culture. 
We know that building organisational 
resilience and the capacity to respond to 
emerging challenges will allow us to 
anticipate and manage the future risk 
landscape more effectively. It accelerates 
innovation by driving the development of 
new products, services and solutions that 
lead to new customers and market 
opportunities. As a purpose driven 
organisation, we attract and retain the 
best talent, build our reputation and 
strengthen our stakeholder relationships.

Our responsibility to do the right thing 
goes to the core of our operational 
practices, particularly those that have the 
potential to impact customers in 
vulnerable circumstances. 
Acknowledging the shortcomings of the 
past, we have focused significant 
attention and resources in the last few 
years to learn from the past and improve.

We are committed to conducting our 
business responsibly through a range of 
measures. This means complying with 
ethical and responsible business 

practices such as anti-bribery and anti-
corruption, fair competition, compliance, 
tax practices and transparency. It also 
includes enabling renewable energy 
generation, reducing absolute emissions, 
helping Australians to build their digital 
skills, focusing on keeping our customers 
in vulnerable circumstances connected, 
respecting human rights and embedding 
a broader culture that supports our 
people to act responsibly.

People and culture

Our people – and the culture we 
collectively create and live – are among 
the cornerstones of our T25 and 
sustainability strategies. Success will rely 
upon us building a team with the right 
talent, but also a culture where those 
people share our values and expectations 
and are proud to work. We recognise the 
criticality of in-demand skill sets and the 
need to develop a skilled and engaged 
workforce.

In this regard, we recognise and continue 
to manage the risk of failing to attract, 
develop and retain the workforce required 
to achieve our strategic objectives, as 
well as the risk of failing to have effective 
leadership that develops the culture of 
simplicity, change, accountability and 
collaboration that we need to embed 
throughout our organisation.

To manage the risks related to our 
workforce and talent and succession 
more generally, we continue to invest 
strongly in our people and in succession 
planning. Our Learning Strategy and 
Capability Investment Plan focuses on 
developing and upskilling core 
capabilities through credentials and 
training for large staff cohorts. Further, 
we continue to maintain focus on critical 
role succession through the active 
development and nurturing of a 
succession cohort of team members. An 
organisation-wide talent review is also 
completed annually and will be revised 
following the completion of our ongoing 
T25 roadmap work, ensuring we have the 
skills and talent to deliver on our 
strategy. Where we need to recruit 
externally, we augment these internal 

programs of work through targeted 
recruitment, ensuring roles are filled 
through talent aligned to our values and 
purpose.

To ensure that we develop a leadership 
and broader culture that promotes 
simplicity, accountability and other key 
strategic priorities, we have developed 
and rolled out the “Future Ready” 
framework, which focuses investment on 
the training of our leaders. These training 
and skills development programs are 
focused on developing attributes that 
align with the ways of working we are 
seeking to embed into our teams.

In both our internal training and 
credentials as well as our external 
recruitment, we prioritise and promote 
attributes that align with our agile ways 
of working, which position us to deliver 
better and faster, and give us the ability 
to adapt rapidly in times of change as an 
organisation. Further, we continue to 
embed the expectations and standards of 
the broader community – as well as our 
commitment to responsible business 
practices – through our commitment to 
our values and regular internal training 
that emphasise these to our teams.

Safety and security

Telstra operates in a sector where the 
safety and security of our teams is often 
placed at risk. Our teams and contractors 
are involved in major construction works, 
working at significant heights and other 
similarly dangerous situations. As well as 
the physical safety risks our team 
members face in our varied and 
sometimes challenging work locations, 
we also actively monitor a diverse range 
of other health, safety and wellbeing 
outcomes. These include the security of 
our workplaces and premises, our teams’ 
mental health and wellbeing and the 
potential for harm to our environment 
and the communities in which we work. 
We have zero tolerance for behaviours 
that lead to potential injury, 
environmental or reputational damage 
because of our activities, products, or 
infrastructure.

15

mental health and wellbeing services. 
Our continued operationalisation of  
the Mental Health and Wellbeing Plan 
helps us manage mental health risks  
by providing tailored communications 
and support.

Privacy, data, and cybersecurity

The information and cybersecurity  
threat environment in which we operate 
continue to become more complex, both 
in Australia and globally. This is taking 
place at a time when the demand for and 
dependence on being able to live, work 
and learn online and from anywhere only 
accelerates. Data privacy, information 
security and cybersecurity are crucial 
priorities for us. We understand that if  
we fail in this respect, it has the potential 
to allow crime, espionage, data breaches 
and impact our business operations and 
those of our customers.

Cyber attacks continue to be a persistent 
threat in Australia and internationally. 
The current threat landscape is varied, 
complex and constantly evolving. Cyber 
attacks are particularly significant risks 
to companies like Telstra due to the 
threat they pose to our network and 
critical infrastructure. They have the 
power to undermine networks and the 
services provided through them. Further, 
they can also have a devastating impact 
from a privacy perspective, leading to the 
breach of personal information and other 
sensitive data.

We believe it is crucial to do all we can  
to help our customers and stakeholders 
to trust the connectivity we provide from 
a security perspective, while noting that 
it is not always possible to mitigate for  
all cyber risks all the time. We use a  
wide range of technologies and security 
controls to minimise both the likelihood 
and impact of unauthorised access to our 
networks and systems, including logging 
and monitoring capabilities to pre-empt 
and proactively prepare for internal and 
external threats, and industry-standard 
infrastructure configurations. We 
continuously invest in our security 
capabilities, maintaining and enhancing 
existing technologies to stay ahead of 
new threats.

We also continue to monitor external 
threats and the geopolitical environment. 
We have developed comprehensive 
response plans, reviewed our 
infrastructure and systems to enhance 
the integrity of the Telstra network  
and we work closely with government 
stakeholders to provide technical 
capability to help defend the country  
– and our customers – against cyber-
attacks.

More generally, our approach to 
cybersecurity risk management means 
appropriate ownership, oversight and 
ongoing risk management are applied to 

IT systems, data, and risks. We also have 
security processes that include technical 
reviews of projects and solutions and due 
diligence of third parties to test the 
presence and effectiveness of security 
controls at critical points. We deliver 
programs designed to foster a strong 
cybersecurity culture, including 
mandatory annual training for all 
employees and contractors and regular 
phishing drills. We regularly review and 
update our privacy statements and 
procedures so that we remain compliant 
with our legal obligations and consider 
society’s expectations in relation to 
collection, storage and use of our 
customers’ personal information.

Protecting the personal information  
of our customers and employees is a 
benchmark of trust, and we continue to 
strive to meet our legal and regulatory 
obligations in this regard. Our fraud 
teams continue to implement changes to 
respond to the evolving external threat 
environment and we are proactively 
working with law enforcement agencies 
to report fraud scams. We continue to 
remediate customer accounts that have 
been affected and help mitigate risk  
more generally through a new Account 
Takeover model scheduled for 
deployment in August 2023.

Data and AI

Artificial intelligence (AI) technology is 
developing rapidly and is transforming 
many aspects of modern life. As with 
almost all companies, Telstra too is 
exploring ways in which it can leverage  
AI to better meet our customers’ needs. 
AI presents clear opportunities in our 
sector, for instance by way of creating 
dynamic, responsive networks that are 
more resilient, guarantee better service 
to our customers and are robust through 
proactive management and action.  
As technology continues to evolve, 
however, it also poses risks in relation  
to data collection, standards, and 
protection, as well as the machine 
learning that underlies the potential  
of AI. The biggest risks today include 
threats to consumer privacy, biased 
programming, danger to humans, and 
unclear legal regulation. Our focus, 
therefore, is on balancing opportunities 
with risk-mitigation in a way that  
satisfies our regulatory and stakeholder 
expectations.

We recognise and face risks such as  
not adequately protecting, securing, and 
managing our data and AI assets across 
their lifecycle. Further, inadequate data 
and AI management policies, controls, 
systems and practices may result in an 
inability to trust our data and AI, leading 
to substandard business decisions & 
performance. This may in turn result in 
data breaches, reputational damage and 
regulatory attention.

We make safety and security a 
responsibility all our teams, who shoulder 
responsibility in maintaining a healthy 
and safe workplace, whatever it may 
physically look like. We view each team 
member as forming part of our “first line 
of defence” for the management of risks 
relevant to them, and empower both 
employees and contractors with the 
training needed to ensure the safe 
execution of their roles. Our SSW Risk 
Governance Framework governs the way 
we manage and report these risks, and 
aligns with rigorous ISO standards.

We have seen improvement in key 
performance metrics that measure safety 
and security and maintain a constant 
focus on risks that may undermine our 
aspirations in this regard. We continue  
to promote our health and wellbeing 
services to increase awareness and 
understanding of the services available  
to employees and contractors, including 

1616

Our response to these risks is governed 
by our Data & AI Framework and key 
forums (such as our Data & AI Council) 
which have been set up specifically to 
respond to these evolving risks. We have 
in place several controls to manage the 
risks associated with the adoption of AI 
by Telstra, and have plans to extend 
these controls and make our use of AI 
safer through strategic investments.

As the adoption of AI gathers pace, both 
within Telstra and by our technology 
partners and customers, we will focus not 
just on the management of risk at an 
individual machine learning model level, 
but also on how the risk landscape 
changes when threat actors are operating 
at scale and interacting with each other 
and our data. We will operate within 
defined guardrails when taking strategic 
opportunities, purposefully leveraging 
data and AI for growth, but working 
proactively to identify and respond to 
emerging risks to high standards of 
compliance and transparency with 
regulatory authorities.

Resilient networks and technology

One of Telstra’s key competitive 
advantages continues to be the quality, 
scale, speed, and resilience of our 
network. As society continues to expand 
the ways in which it is ever reliant on 
connectivity to cater to the evolving 
nature of work and education, the 
demand for resilient networks and 
technology has never been more 
pronounced. Given so many customers 
and stakeholders depend on the quality 
of our network, we recognise the 
significant impacts that flow from 
network congestion and outages.

Where they occur, these events can be 
disruptive and frustrating for customers 
and enterprises, and significant for 
Telstra in terms of financial loss, 
regulatory scrutiny, reputational risk and 
erosion of trust in our brand. Importantly, 
they can also be particularly dangerous 
where they interrupt Emergency 000 
services and other health services on 
which the community may rely. The 
resilience of our networks can also be 
undermined by natural disasters, the 
activity of malicious actors, unforeseen 
peaks in demand, human error, 
equipment failure, data quality, or failure 
in the underlying electricity grid that 
powers our network.

We assess these scenarios through our 
risk management approach and respond 
to them through a range of strategies and 
processes that seek to prevent or recover 
from network and technology disruptions.

We have several indicators in place to 
dynamically monitor network and 
technology resilience, and we proactively 
track risk remediations and improvements 
in our network over time to progressively 

reduce our risk exposure. The end-to-end 
resilience of our systems and processes 
is a key enabler of our T25 Growth 
Strategy by enhancing resilience for our 
customers.

Economic downside

Changing financial conditions are 
contributing to key external 
macroeconomic uncertainties today. 
These include weaker than anticipated 
economic growth, persistent high 
inflation, a tight labour market, persistent 
supply disruptions and a decline in non-
essential spending within households in 
response to living cost pressures. As our 
research has validated, many customers 
carry the burden of high costs of living 
into their spending attitudes and 
behaviours.

We have elevated economic downside to 
a “Top Risk” for the purposes of our FY24 
risk management program and recognise 
the challenge this could pose to the 
business. To mitigate its impacts, we are 
proactively monitoring demand 
uncertainty and other key indicators to 
dynamically adjust operating plans and 
budgets if needed. Last year, we let our 
customers know we would be doing a 
yearly review on the prices of our mobile 
plans, and that the prices of those plans 
may increase in July each year in line with 
CPI. This allows us to alter prices as 
economic pressures act on our business. 
We have also protected ourselves where 
possible against supply side price 
increases, by taking steps such as 
hedging our energy expenditure and 
foreign exchange rates.

As part of the T25 strategy, we are 
looking to transform how we deliver in  
a way that factors for macroeconomic 
downside by looking at long-term 
innovation and opportunities. We are 
challenging existing workflows and 
processes, automating where possible 
and making them faster, simpler, and 
more agile. In doing so, we are confident 
we will be able to weather downside 
scenarios by continuing to deliver as our 
customers expect us to, while having 
more efficient operations and processes 
in place.

Geopolitical environment

The continued and increasing 
international conflicts, volatility, tension, 
and uncertainty whist operating our 
business in 30+ countries present a 
heightened risk that we must continue  
to effectively plan for and respond to.  
We have elevated geopolitical risk to a 
“Top Risk” in our risk management 
program for FY24 and recognise the 
impact shifts in the global political 
climate could have on our business, 
including on safety, security and 
wellbeing, cybersecurity, supply chain 
and partner dependencies.

Our material risks | Telstra Annual Report 2023

We continue to evolve our mitigation 
plan, conducting geopolitical risk analysis 
as relating to our key operating regions 
and mapping our key risks and obligations 
in jurisdictions in which we operate. We 
also utilise a Geopolitical Risk Index and 
have recourse to independent risk 
analysis, assessment, and advice, whilst 
ensuring that we continue to operate in 
accordance with our policies, standards, 
and regulations.

While it is impossible to mitigate the 
effects of unpredictability in the 
geopolitical environment with certainty, 
we will continue to actively consider risks 
that will have material impact on the 
security and value of our critical physical 
assets, data, and will seek to capture 
growth opportunities within our appetite.

To support our mitigation plan, we also 
undertake several stakeholder workshops 
and forums with corporate relation peers, 
Australian government agencies 
including DFAT & Home Affairs, 
embassies, regulators and global peers. 
This ensures we understand government 
and corporate sentiment more broadly, 
and factor that into our strategy and 
operations an ongoing basis.

Compliance and Regulatory 
Change

Telstra needs to comply with a broad 
range of obligations, ranging from the 
way we sell devices to how we maintain 
our complex network of subsea cables.  
It is on us as a responsible business to 
understand and meet these compliance 
obligations so that we do the right thing 
by our people, our customers, our 
communities and our shareholders. 
Further, Telstra’s products and services 
— and the way we deliver them — are 
subject to constant scrutiny from a range 
of regulators and agencies.

To maintain our compliance with key 
regulatory requirements, we continue  
to maintain proactive relations with 
relevant regulators, consumer groups and 
policy makers to ensure balanced and 
socially appropriate policy decisions are 
made. Key matters presently relevant to 
Telstra relate to regulatory compliance, 
responsible business practices, 
regulations related to services on the  
nbn Co network, consumer safeguards, 
spectrum allocation, government security 
policies, regional connectivity, and 
universal service obligations (USOs). 
Ongoing regulatory reforms that impact 
us and with which we are presently 
engaged include the Telecommunications 
Consumer Protections Code, Privacy Act 
reforms and cybersecurity regulation.

Failure to comply with our legal and 
regulatory obligations may lead to 
adverse impacts to our various 
stakeholders, as well as to our reputation 
more broadly. We have several measures 

17

in place to manage our compliance risks, 
including a robust framework which sets 
out a standardised approach to 
compliance and regular reporting on 
material compliance issues to our Audit & 
Risk Committee (that do or could lead to 
a breach of our obligations). We also have 
in place a mandatory compliance training 
framework which includes monitoring 
training completion across all teams and 
consequences for non-completion.

In FY22, we established a Compliance 
Uplift program to mitigate risks of non-
compliance across the whole of Telstra, 
focusing on uplifting our control 
environment after several compliance 
breaches were identified. This Uplift 
program seeks to embed awareness and 
ownership of critical compliance 
obligations (COAs) at all levels of the 
organisation, improve assurance, 
governance and oversight, and more 
promptly report and escalate breaches 
when identified. While we acknowledge 
the need for continual improvement, we 
have made significant progress as an 
organisation in creating a culture where 
acting responsibly is core to decision 
making and delivers compliant and 
sustainable outcomes. We focus our 
efforts on mitigating the risk of non-
compliance with the obligations that are 
most impactful for our customers, 
communities and people, and supporting 
everyone at Telstra to understand the 
compliance obligations relevant to them, 
and to fulfil their compliance 
responsibilities.

Climate change

Australia is already experiencing more 
frequent and severe extreme events due 
to climate change, with an emerging 
consensus that these are only likely to 
increase in the medium to long term.

We are committed to strong action to 
further prepare for and adapt to the 
impacts of climate change. We have 
recruited an internal climate risk 
specialist, evaluated the 
Intergovernmental Panel on Climate 
Change (IPCC) guidance, and in FY23 
conducted climate scenario analysis on 
chronic heat impacts to infrastructure 
and staff. We are also currently 
progressing with additional flood risk 
analysis and expanding our climate risk 
assessment to cover key linear assets 
such as critical fibre routes.

Our preparation and adaption to climate 
change also includes supporting the 
natural environment. We have developed 
policies for environmental protection and 
remediation, and our carbon farming pilot 
has been an important foray towards 
developing processes and initiatives for 
habitat restoration. We also continue to 
deliver on our external Environment, 
Social and Governance (sustainability) 
commitments and adequately plan for 
and respond to impacts and opportunities 
in those areas.

More broadly, we are increasing our focus 
on climate-related opportunities. We 
have capitalised on commercial 
opportunities including the launch of our 
carbon neutral certified mobile plans and 
an option for customers to redeem their 

Telstra Plus points to drive further 
investment in Australian and 
international climate projects. These are 
in addition to the carbon neutral 
organisation certification which we have 
had since 2020.

We continue to deliver towards our 
existing external environment targets. 
However, there is a risk to our target to 
enable renewable energy generation 
equivalent to 100% of our consumption 
by 2025. The operational output of the 
new renewable energy projects we are 
underwriting may not reach that level by 
the end of 2025 due to the complexity 
and long lead times for planning, 
construction and connection to the 
electricity grid. In addition, there is a risk 
to our target to reduce absolute scope 3 
greenhouse gas emissions by at least 
50% by 2030, while we work through 
impacts and decarbonisation 
opportunities from the acquisition of 
Digicel Pacific. In 2022 we noted that we 
were assessing the impact of retail 
energy growth in relation to our scope 3 
emissions reduction target. The scaling 
of our retail energy products has since 
been paused. We will communicate any 
material impacts to our scope 3 target 
from our retail energy product after 
further guidance is provided to the 
market in relation to any scaling of those 
products. The Understanding our Climate 
Risk chapter provides more detail on 
these risks. We will continue to regularly 
review these targets to ensure we take 
appropriate steps to reduce our 
environmental impact in accordance with 
our stated ambitions.

Further detail on our risk management framework and our overall 
approach to managing risk is provided in our 2023 Corporate 
Governance Statement available at telstra.com/governance.

For more information about our material sustainability impacts,  
please see the Material impacts section of our 2023 Bigger  
Picture Sustainability Report on our reports page, available at  
telstra.com.au/sustainability/report.

For more information about our climate-related risks, please see  
the Understanding our climate risk section of this report.

1818

Outlook

For FY24 guidance1,  
we anticipate continued 
underlying business growth:

Total income $22.8 to $24.8 billion

Underlying EBITDA2 of $8.2 to  
$8.4 billion

Capex3 of $3.6 to $3.7 billion

Free cashflow after lease 
payments (FCFal)4 of $2.8 to  
$3.2 billion

In the year ahead we will reach the 
midpoint of our T25 strategy. Our 
focus continues to be on improving the 
customer experience and how customers 
see us, maintaining and developing our 
network leadership, and increasing our 
employee engagement while conducting 
our business responsibly and growing 
returns for shareholders.
We are creating sustainable growth under 
T25, so we will look to extend our 
leadership in our mobiles business by 
differentiating our products and their 
advantages in an evolving market. We will 
do this by delivering better experiences.

We will continue to make strides in 
improving the experience for our 
customers, with our digitisation process 
well underway. The year ahead will see 
crucial progress as we progress the 
migration of C&SB customers to our new 
digital stack and deliver further work to 
digitise the Enterprise business.

We are targeting driving increased 
revenues and improving operating 
efficiency, remaining disciplined on 
reducing our cost base and improving 
underlying ROIC. While our cost reduction 
ambition is being challenged by high 
inflation, we are absolutely committed to 
delivering our FY25 underlying EBITDA 
and EPS growth ambitions.

Enhancing our reputation means building 
and protecting value for your company. 
We are elevating the importance of 
growing community support for and 
understanding of Telstra and its central 
position in the Australian 
telecommunications industry. We believe 
we can improve and demonstrate our 
customer service, better represent the 
value for money that Telstra products and 
services provide, and show our 
commitment to ethical conduct in 
everything we do.

Maintaining and extending our network 
leadership will remain a focus, along with 
delivering new network experiences for 
our customers. We are committed to 
delivering an additional 100,000 square 
kilometres of mobile coverage by the end 
of FY25, on top of the around 1 million 
square kilometres of unique coverage we 
already offer. We remain committed to 
improving our customer experience 
outside metro areas and our arrangements 
with OneWeb and Starlink will see us 
deliver new and improved services to 
consumer customers in regional and 
remote Australia.

We will make further progress on reducing 
our emissions, continue to support the 
growth of digital skills and the digital 
economy, and improve how we support 
vulnerable Australians – both our 
customers and non-customers – to help 
keep everyone connected.

We have listened to our people’s feedback 
and have further simplified our company-
wide approach to our FY24 objectives, so 
we can focus on the big things that matter 
most for our customers. Our roadmap is 
clearer than ever and includes further 
engagement with our people by building a 
culture of customer focus, operational 
excellence and accountability.

Delivering upon our simplified objectives 
and iterating further on those objectives 
will unlock more value for our shareholders 
and better position your company for 
continued, sustainable growth.

While our strategic direction is clear and 
we are sharpening our focus on 
completing transformational changes and 
culture shifts, we are navigating a number 
of challenges and these are detailed in the 
Material Risks section of this report. 
These include the continued challenges in 
the economy from increased cost of living 
pressures and recent inflation, geopolitical 
risks, and a variety of other risks we face. 
The accelerating pace of technological 
innovation, as well as growth of the digital 
economy create changing market 
dynamics that we will need to constantly 
adapt to.

Within our business we are driving growth 
in productivity, and developing culture and 
capabilities that will help us centre our 
focus on customer experience; we are 
confident that we will start to see the 
positive results in these areas in the year 
ahead. We will be delivering a better 
customer experience, faster, and this in 
turn will help us reach our growth and 
reputation goals.

We are experienced in riding the waves of 
change and the changes we have made 
allow us to react more quickly to the 
uncertainty of modern times. The ever-
growing threat of climate change, 
increasing the frequency and severity of 
extreme weather events, will continue to 
impact on our planet.

Keeping our networks secure and 
heightening our cyber defences is central 
to our business. Cyber security is crucial 
for us and our customers, and we already 
block millions of threats every day through 
our Cleaner Pipes initiative. We will 
continue to maintain our cyber defences, 
develop new approaches to fight scams 
and monitor for emerging threats.

The purpose and values that we have 
adopted and held throughout our 
transformation guide how we operate, and 
are core to creating long-term value for 
our shareholders. We are moving into the 
tech-driven digital future at pace, and we 
see many opportunities that Telstra is well 
positioned to fulfil its purpose of building 
a connected future so everyone can thrive.

1.  This guidance excludes material one-offs, such as mergers and acquisitions, disposals, impairments, spectrum, restructuring costs and such other items as determined by the Board 

and management.

2.  Underlying EBITDA excludes guidance adjustments, and in FY23 and prior years also excludes net one-off nbn DA receipts less nbn net C2C.
3.  Capex is measured on an accrued basis and excludes spectrum and guidance adjustments, externally funded capex, and capitalised leases.
4.  Free cashflow after lease payments defined as ‘operating cash flows’ less ‘investing cash flows’ less ‘payments for lease liabilities’ and excludes spectrum and guidance adjustments.

1919

Full year results and 
operations review

Financial results

Summary reported results

Revenue (excluding finance income)

Total income (excluding finance income)

Operating expenses

Share of net loss from equity accounted entities

EBITDA

Depreciation and amortisation

EBIT

Net finance costs

Income tax expense

Profit for the period

Profit attributable to equity holders of Telstra Entity

Capex1

Free cashflow

Earnings per share (cents)

FY23

$m

22,702

23,245

15,356

(27)

7,862

4,470

3,392

529

812

2,051

1,928

3,597

851

16.7

FY22

$m

21,277

22,045

14,758

(31)

7,256

4,358

2,898

417

667

1,814

1,688

3,042

3,854

14.4

Change

%

6.7

5.4

4.1

12.9

8.4

2.6

17.0

26.9

21.7

13.1

14.2

18.2

(77.9)

16.0

1.   Capex is measured on an accrued basis and excludes spectrum and guidance adjustments, externally funded capex, and capitalised leases.

Telstra delivered 
FY23 results showing 
continued financial 
growth and positive 
momentum through 
the first year of its T25 
strategy.

Financial performance in FY23 included:

• Total income (excluding finance 

income) up 5.4 per cent to $23.2 billion

• EBITDA up 8.4 per cent to $7.9 billion 

and Underlying EBITDA1 up 9.6 per cent 
to $8.0 billion

• Net Profit After Tax up 13.1 per cent to 

$2.1 billion

• ROIC up 0.8 percentage points to 7.9 per 

cent and Underlying ROIC2 up 1.1 
percentage points to 8.1 per cent

• Earnings Per Share was up 16.0 per cent 

to 16.7 cents

Telstra's T25 strategy was on track 
overall, including its growth ambitions in 
underlying EBITDA and EPS. Our mobiles 
business remains central to our growth 
and continues to perform very strongly. 
Our infrastructure, international, 
Consumer and Small Business (C&SB) 
fixed line and health businesses also 
grew earnings. At the same time, there 
are aspects of our Enterprise fixed 
business that are experiencing 
headwinds. We remain disciplined on 
reducing our costs, particularly 
considering the external economic 
environment.

1.   Underlying EBITDA excludes guidance adjustments, and in FY23 and prior years also excludes net one-off nbn DA receipts less nbn net C2C. Guidance adjustments 
include material one-offs, such as mergers and acquisitions, disposals, impairments, spectrum, restructuring costs and such other items as determined by the Board 
and management.

2.  Underlying ROIC defined as NOPAT as a percentage of total capital, excluding net one-off nbn receipts and guidance adjustments (as defined above) less tax.

20

On the back of continued growth in the 
year, the Board resolved to pay a fully 
franked final dividend of 8.5 cents per 
share, bringing total dividends for the 
year to 17.0 cents and representing a 3.0 
per cent increase on the prior 
corresponding period. The final dividend 
is consistent with Telstra's policy to 
maximise the fully franked dividend and 
seek to grow it over time.

The positive progress in the year was 
reflected in Telstra's T25 scorecard, which 
showed the company was on track to 
deliver the majority of T25 objectives. In a 
few months’ time we will hit the halfway 
point in delivering our strategy and the 
response from customers tells us we are 
absolutely on the right path.

We continue to see the positive impact of 
product simplification, digitisation, 
answering consumer and small business 
calls in Australia, and bringing our retail 
stores in house. Our Strategic Net 
Promoter Score increased four points 
during the year, Episode Net Promoter 
Score is at historic highs and we achieved 
our strongest reputation result in 15 years. 
Australians are beginning to see a change 
in us, driven by improvements in customer 
experience, continued network leadership, 
and our strength in cyber security.

Telstra continues to lead the industry on 
stopping scams, and our Cleaner Pipes 
program is detecting and blocking more 
email, SMS and phone scams than ever 
before. We are now blocking more than 9 
million scam calls and around 20 million 
scam SMS each month. We have also 
taken steps to improve the way we collect 
and retain customer ID data to help 
reduce the risk of cybercrime for our 
customers.

As a result of customer experience 
improvements, customer complaints 
reduced to a record low in the year. 
Complaints from Telstra’s Consumer & 
Small Business customers to the 
Telecommunications Industry 
Ombudsman reduced by more than a 
third on the prior year, and 98 per cent of 
Telstra Enterprise billing disputes are now 
resolved within one billing cycle.

Full year results and operations review | Telstra Annual Report 2023

During the year significant progress on T25 also included:

• 5G population coverage reached the FY23 target of 85 per cent, and 41 per cent of 
mobile traffic was on 5G. Total mobile coverage at the end of FY23 was 2.72 million 
square kilometres, after adding 80,000 square kilometres in the last two years.

• Deals signed with Low Earth Orbit satellite providers OneWeb and Starlink mean 

Telstra will soon deliver new and improved services in regional and remote Australia.

• Construction was well underway on Telstra's new intercity fibre project, with strong 

interest from hyper-scalers, other operators, satellite providers and national 
enterprises.

• Absolute scope 1+2 emissions have now been reduced by 30 per cent from an FY19 
baseline – a great result towards the ambition to reduce absolute emissions by at 
least 50 per cent by 2030.

Results on a guidance basis1

Total income

Underlying EBITDA

Capex

Free cashflow after lease payments (FCFaL)

FY23

FY23 Guidance

$b

23.2

8.0

3.6

2.8

$b

23.0 to 25.0

7.8 to 8.0

3.5 to 3.7

2.6 to 3.1

Guidance 
versus 
reported 
results1

Total income

EBITDA

Free cashflow

FY23 
Reported 
results

FY23 
Adjustments

FY23 
Guidance 
basis

FY22 
Guidance 
basis

$m

23,245

7,862

851

$m

–

88

$m

$m

23,245

21,958

7,950

1,933

2,784

7,251

3,961

1.   These tables detail adjustments made to the reported results for the current period to reflect the 

performance of the business on the basis on which we provided guidance to the market, which excludes 
material one-offs, such as mergers and acquisitions, disposals, impairments, spectrum, restructuring costs 
and such other items as determined by the Board and management. A detailed reconciliation of our 
reported results to guidance can be found in the guidance versus reported results schedule. Underlying 
EBITDA excludes net one-off nbn DA receipts less nbn net C2C and guidance adjustments. Capex is 
measured on an accrued basis and excludes spectrum and guidance adjustments, externally funded capex, 
and capitalised leases. Free cashflow after lease payments defined as ‘operating cash flows’ less ‘investing 
cash flows’ less ‘payments for lease liabilities’, and excludes spectrum and guidance adjustments. Refer to 
the guidance versus reported results schedule. The adjustments within the tables in this schedule have 
been reviewed by our auditors.

Dividend
On 17 August 2023, the Directors of Telstra Group Limited resolved to pay a fully 
franked final dividend of 8.5 cents per share in line with the interim dividend for the 
first half of this financial year. The total dividend for FY23 is 17.0 cents per share 
representing a 3.0 per cent increase on the prior corresponding period. Shares will 
trade excluding entitlement to the final dividend from 30 August 2023 with payment 
to be made on 28 September 2023.

The total dividend represents a 102 per cent payout ratio on FY23 reported earnings 
per share and is in line with Principle 2 of our Capital Management Framework to 
‘maximise fully franked dividend and seek to grow over time’.

Other information
The following commentary is provided for statutory and management financial 
results. Consistent with information presented for internal management reporting 
purposes, the result of each segment is measured based on its EBITDA contribution. 
Refer to Note 2.1.1 in the Financial Report for further detail.

21

Segment performance

We report segment information on the same basis as our internal management 
reporting structure as at the reporting date. Segment comparatives reflect 
organisational changes that have occurred since the prior reporting period to present 
a like-for-like view.

Segment total income (including internal charges)

2%

15%

2%

31%

3%

15%

1%

50%

51%

30%

Telstra Consumer and Small Business

Telstra Enterprise

Networks, IT and Product

Telstra InfraCo

All Other

Total external income

FY23

$m

FY22

Change

$m

Telstra Consumer and Small Business (C&SB)1,2

12,619

11,978

%

5.4

11.2

37.7

3.8

7,929

7,132

413

300

3,775

3,638

552

572

(3.5)

Telstra Enterprise2

Networks, IT and Product2

Telstra InfraCo2

All Other2

Total management reported income

25,288

23,620

7.1

Transactions between segments

(2,043)

(1,575)

(29.7)

Total income (excluding finance income)

23,245

22,045

5.4

1. Includes one-off nbn DA and Connection in FY22.
2. Includes internal income.

Total income (excluding finance income) increased by 5.4 per cent to $23,245 million 
due to higher mobile services and hardware income, higher International income 
(including Digicel Pacific income following acquisition), and income growth across 
C&SB off-net fixed, Enterprise Network Applications and Services, Telstra InfraCo 
Fixed and Amplitel. Income growth was partly offset by declines across C&SB on-net 
fixed, Enterprise Data and Connectivity and Active Wholesale.

Total management reported income includes internal income between segments 
eliminated from Total income. Internal income increased by 29.7% to $2,043 million 
including new intercompany agreements post our corporate restructure related to 
internal charges for infrastructure, power and international capacity. Internal income 
comprised $1 million in Telstra C&SB, $125 million in Telstra Enterprise, $321 million in 
Networks, IT and Product, $1,426 million in Telstra InfraCo and $528 million in ‘All 
Other’.

22

Telstra Consumer and Small Business
Telstra Consumer and Small Business 
provides telecommunications, media and 
technology products and services to 
consumer and small business customers 
in Australia using mobile and fixed 
network technologies. It also operates 
contact centres, retail stores, a 
dealership network, digital channels, 
distribution systems and the Telstra Plus 
customer loyalty program in Australia.

Income increased by 5.4 per cent to 
$12,619 million including 9.5 per cent 
growth in mobile income. Mobile services 
revenue increased with growth in Average 
Revenue Per User (ARPU) and Services In 
Operation (SIOs) across mobile products, 
and higher mobile hardware revenue from 
increased sales volumes. Fixed product 
income was relatively stable, decreasing 
0.6 per cent, with growth in off-net 
revenue offset by decline in on-net 
revenue due to nbn migration.

Telstra Enterprise
Telstra Enterprise provides 
telecommunication services and 
advanced technology solutions for 
government and large enterprise and 
business customers in Australia and 
globally. It provides advanced technology 
solutions through Data and Connectivity 
(DAC) and Network Applications and 
Services (NAS) products such as unified 
communications, cloud, security, industry 
solutions and integrated services. It 
provides wholesale services outside of 
Australia, including voice and data, and 
provides telecommunication, media and 
technology products and services to 
consumer, business and government 
customers in the South Pacific through 
Digicel Pacific, the acquisition of which 
was completed on 13 July 2022.

Income increased by 11.2 per cent to 
$7,929 million including $719 million for 
Digicel Pacific. Domestic mobile income 
increased by 2.7 per cent including 
growth from Internet of Things (IoT) 
value-add applications. Domestic fixed 
revenue declined 2.5 per cent, with NAS 
revenue gains offset by declines in DAC. 
NAS revenue increased by 2.2 per cent 
due to growth in professional services, 
managed services and cloud including 
from Telstra Purple acquisitions in the 
prior period (Alliance Automation and 
Aqura Technologies), partly offset by 
calling applications legacy decline.

Networks, IT and Product
Networks, IT and Product consists of two 
operating segments: Global Networks 
and Technology and Product and 
Technology. Global Networks and 
Technology supports the other segments 
and their respective revenue generating 
activities by maintaining high level of 
reliability and security of our global 
network platforms and cloud 
infrastructure, maintains our networks, 

and is accountable for our network 
intelligence and automation. Product and 
Technology works with other functions to 
create and deliver products and solutions 
for our customers, builds and manages 
our digital platforms underpinning our 
customer digital experience, builds and 
manages software, and provides 
information technology services to all 
internal functions.

Income increased by 37.7 per cent to $413 
million including $105 million increase in 
internal income.

Telstra InfraCo
Telstra InfraCo provides 
telecommunication products and services 
delivered over Telstra networks to other 
carriers, carriage service providers and 
internet service providers, and provides 
other Telstra functions and wholesale 
customers with access to network 
infrastructure within Telstra InfraCo’s 
asset accountabilities. It operates the 
fixed passive network infrastructure 
including data centres, exchanges, poles, 
ducts, pits and pipes and fibre network. It 
designs and constructs fibre, exchanges 
and other infrastructure. It provides nbn 
co with long-term access to certain 
components of our infrastructure under 
the Infrastructure Services Agreement 
and operates the passive and physical 
mobile tower assets owned or operated 
by the Amplitel business.

Income increased by 3.8 per cent to 
$3,775 million due to growth in recurring 
nbn Definitive Agreement (DA) receipts 
in line with CPI, increased internal and 
external access charges, and growth in 
wholesale mobility. This was partly offset 
by expected declines from Fixed – Active 
Wholesale legacy products and 
commercial works supporting the nbn 
rollout.

All Other
Certain items of income and expense 
relating to multiple functions are 
recorded by our corporate areas and 
included in the ‘All Other’ category. This 
category also includes Global Business 
Services (GBS), Telstra Health and Telstra 
Energy generation and markets.

Income decreased by $20 million 
including a $263 million decline in one-off 
nbn DA and connection income as the 
nbn migration nears completion. Telstra 
Health income increased by $62 million 
to $305 million including organic growth 
and prior year MedicalDirector and 
PowerHealth acquisitions. Telstra Energy 
income increased by $47 million from 
energy generation revenue and fair value 
gains on energy firming derivatives. 
Internal income increased by $95 million 
post our corporate restructure.

Full year results and operations review | Telstra Annual Report 2023

Product performance

Product income breakdown (including internal income)

0%

2%

4%

10%

2%

3%

2%

10%

10%

2%

14%

40%

6%

2%

16%

40%

18%

19%

Mobile

Fixed – C&SB

Fixed – Enterprise

Fixed – Active Wholesale

International

InfraCo – Fixed

Amplitel (Towers)

One-off nbn DA & connection

Other

Product income

Mobile

Fixed – C&SB

Fixed – Enterprise

Fixed – Active Wholesale

International

InfraCo Fixed

Amplitel (Towers)

One-off nbn DA & connection

Other

FY23

$m

10,258

4,457

3,636

403

2,429

2,556

401

72

1,076

FY22

Change

$m

9,470

4,486

3,729

%

8.3

(0.6)

(2.5)

477

(15.5)

1,501

2,456

368

378

755

61.8

4.1

9.0

(81.0)

42.5

7.1

Total management reported income

25,288

23,620

Eliminations

(2,043)

(1,575)

(29.7)

Total income (excluding finance income)

23,245

22,045

5.4

Product EBITDA margins

Mobile

Fixed – C&SB

Fixed – Enterprise

Fixed – Active Wholesale

International

InfraCo – Fixed

Amplitel (Towers)

One-off nbn DA & Connection

Other

FY23

2H23

%

44.9

3.0

11.3

29.0

29.4

65.1

79.3

51.4

(0.8)

%

46.5

3.9

10.6

23.7

26.4

64.4

77.5

42.3

(1.7)

1H23

%

FY22

%

43.2

2.2

12.0

34.0

32.7

65.8

81.2

56.5

0.5

42.2

1.2

17.9

33.3

25.8

67.4

79.9

61.6

6.3

23

Mobile
Mobile income increased by 8.3 per cent 
to $10,258 million including 7.9 per cent 
services revenue growth and 12.1 per cent 
hardware growth. Growth in services 
revenue was achieved across all mobile 
sub-products. Retail mobile SIOs 
increased by 1.7 million to 22.5 million. 
We have 8.8 million postpaid handheld 
retail SIOs, an increase of 86,000 in the 
year.

Postpaid handheld services revenue 
increased by 6.9 per cent to $5,391 
million with a 1.0 per cent uplift in SIOs 
and a 5.4 per cent ARPU increase from 
$48.53 to $51.15 driven by price rises and 
higher international roaming.

Prepaid handheld revenue increased by 
16.5 per cent to $1,076 million with a 
247,000 increase in unique users and 9.4 
per cent increase in ARPU from increased 
usage and one-off revenue in the first 
half this year of $42 million from product 
migration. Mobile broadband revenue 
increased by 1.4 per cent to $664 million 
driven by 2.8 per cent uplift in ARPU to 
$18.53. Internet of Things (IoT) revenue 
increased by 5.6 per cent to $283 million 
with SIOs increasing by 1.4 million to 7.1 
million, and growth in value-add 
applications for Enterprise customers.

Wholesale revenue increased by 14.6 per 
cent to $353 million driven by ARPU 
growth and 298,000 increase in mobile 
unique users (including postpaid services 
in operation and prepaid unique users). 
Wholesale mobile unique users increased 
to 2.0 million from the continued 
popularity of Mobile Virtual Network 
Operator’s (MVNO) plans on the Telstra 
Wholesale mobile network.

Hardware, interconnect and other 
revenue increased by 9.8 cent to $2,473 
million largely due to higher hardware 
volumes.

Mobile EBITDA margin increased by 2.7 
percentage points to 44.9 per cent due to 
increased high-margin service revenue, 
hardware margin growth and cost-out; 
partly offset by increased costs 
associated with internal infrastructure 
and international roaming.

Fixed – Consumer and Small Business 
(C&SB)
Fixed – C&SB income decreased by 0.6 
per cent to $4,457 million impacted by 
nbn migration. Off-net fixed revenue, 
which is revenue from services for which 
we are a reseller, increased by 4.6 per 
cent to $3,295 million from ARPU growth 
and as customers continue to migrate 
onto the nbn network. On-net fixed 
revenue, which is revenue from services 
on the Telstra network, decreased by 29.4 
per cent to $331 million. C&SB bundles 
and standalone data ARPU increased by 
3.6% to $80.15 and SIOs declined by 
97,000 in the year to 3.4 million.

24

Consumer content and services revenue 
decreased by 1.5 per cent to $591 million 
including a decline in Foxtel from Telstra 
SIOs and revenue, partly offset by growth 
from our acquisition of a majority stake in 
Fetch TV this period. Business apps and 
services revenue decreased by 6.0 per 
cent to $158 million due to legacy 
product decline.

Fixed – C&SB EBITDA margin increased 
by 1.8 percentage points to 3.0 per cent 
with off-net fixed revenue growth and 
cost-out; partly offset by reduction in on-
net fixed, and consumer content and 
services revenue. Off-net nbn resale 
contribution margin increased by 3 
percentage points to over 8 per cent.

Fixed – Enterprise
Fixed – Enterprise income declined by 2.5 
per cent to $3,636 million with declines in 
DAC partly offset by gains in NAS. DAC 
income declined by 16.2 per cent to $801 
million driven by ARPU compression from 
competition, renewals and technology 
change. DAC SIOs reduced by 10.6 per 
cent or 19,000 mostly in legacy. Our 
T-Fibre and nbn Enterprise Ethernet 
customer base increased with positive 
momentum in second half net adds.

NAS income increased by 2.2 per cent to 
$2,835 million with growth in professional 
services, managed services, cloud 
applications and equipment sales, partly 
offset by decrease in calling applications 
due to ISDN planned exit and market 
shift from traditional voice calling 
applications to integrated video 
solutions.

Professional services revenue increased 
by 23.5 per cent to $542 million due to 
one-off infrastructure builds on large 
strategic contracts and Telstra Purple 
acquisitions in the prior period (Alliance 
Automation and Aqura Technologies). 
Managed services and maintenance 
revenue increased by 4.6 per cent to $772 
million due to an increase in large 
customers attaching cyber security 
services and service management. Cloud 
applications revenue increased by 11.5 
per cent to $311 million from growth in 
demand for partner cloud products 
including Amazon Web Services and 
Microsoft Azure. Equipment sales 
revenue increased by 3.8 per cent to $412 
million.

Fixed – Enterprise EBITDA margin 
declined by 6.6 percentage points to 11.3 
per cent due to DAC and NAS EBITDA 
margin declines, and an increased mix of 
lower margin NAS income. DAC EBITDA 
margin declined by 15.4 percentage 
points to 20.8 per cent due to revenue 
reduction and increased costs. NAS 
EBITDA margin declined by 2.9 
percentage points to 8.6 per cent due to 
calling applications legacy product 
decline, partly offset by growth in 
professional services, managed services 
and cloud.

Fixed – Active Wholesale
Fixed – Active Wholesale income 
declined by 15.5 per cent to $403 million 
impacted by ongoing migration to the 
nbn network and legacy product decline. 
Data and Connectivity revenue decreased 
by 8.9 per cent to $276 million reflecting 
decline in wideband products partly 
offset by growth in Telstra Wholesale 
Internet. Legacy calling and fixed revenue 
declined by 27.0 per cent to $127 million 
from continued legacy fixed product 
decline.

Fixed – Active Wholesale EBITDA margin 
decreased by 4.3 percentage points to 
29.0 per cent due to continued legacy and 
nbn revenue decline offset partly by cost-
out.

International
International income increased by 61.8 
per cent to $2,429 million including $719 
million for Digicel Pacific. We completed 
our Digicel Pacific on 13 July 2022. Digicel 
Pacific income was 2 per cent higher than 
proforma income in constant currency 
(CC) with growth in average mobile SIOs 
across all South Pacific markets.

Excluding Digicel Pacific, International 
income increased by 13.9 per cent to 
$1,710 million with growth in Data and 
Connectivity due to investment in 
infrastructure, inclusion of internal 
revenue of $113 million post corporate 
restructure, partly offset by expected 
declines in low margin legacy voice. 
International income increased by 2.3 per 
cent in CC excluding Digicel Pacific and 
internal revenue.

International EBITDA margin increased by 
3.6 percentage points to 29.4 per cent 
due to the inclusion of Digicel Pacific 
EBITDA margin of 46.8 per cent. 
Excluding Digicel Pacific, and internal 
revenue and costs post corporate 
restructure, International EBITDA margin 
increased by 0.8 percentage points in CC 
due to Data and Connectivity revenue 
growth.

InfraCo Fixed
InfraCo Fixed income increased by 4.1 per 
cent to $2,556 million. Recurring nbn DA 
income increased by 6.1 per cent to $987 
million reflecting CPI linked price 
increases. Recurring nbn DA income 
includes infrastructure services across 
ducts, racks and fibre provided to nbn co. 
External infrastructure revenue increased 
by 3.9 per cent to $266 million including 
$122m from disposal of legacy network 
assets. Internal infrastructure access 
revenue increased by 9.3 per cent to 
$1,067 million. Commercial and 
recoverable works revenue declined by 
19.7 per cent due to the initial nbn rollout 
nearing completion.

InfraCo Fixed income grew 7.6 per cent 
excluding commercial and recoverable 
works and legacy network disposals.

Full year results and operations review | Telstra Annual Report 2023

InfraCo Fixed EBITDA margin reduced by 
2.3 percentage points to 65.1 per cent 
reflecting a decline in commercial and 
recoverable works income, increased 
power and internal costs, and investment 
in asset maintenance and growth 
opportunities; partly offset by growth in 
recurring nbn DA and internal income.

Amplitel (Towers)
Amplitel income grew by 9.0 per cent to 
$401 million due to contracted growth, 
continued demand for new tower builds 
and 5G upgrades. Amplitel external 
revenue grew by 10.0 per cent to $66 
million.

Amplitel EBITDA margin reduced by 0.6 
percentage points to 79.3 per cent due to 
higher asset maintenance costs.

One-off nbn DA & connection
One-off nbn DA & connection income 
includes receipts from nbn co for 
disconnecting customers from our legacy 
network, and one-off income from 
customers to connect to the nbn network. 
Income decreased by 81.0 per cent to $72 
million as the nbn migration nears 
completion.

Other
Other income increased by 42.5 per cent 
to $1,076 million including external and 
internal product income. Other product 
external income increased by $84 million 
to $548 million including Telstra Health 
and Telstra Energy. Telstra Health income 
increased by $62 million to $305 million 
including organic growth and prior year 

MedicalDirector and PowerHealth 
acquisitions. Telstra Energy income 
increased by $47 million from energy 
generation revenue and fair value gains 
on energy firming derivatives.

Other product internal income increased 
by $237 million to $528 million post our 
corporate restructure.

Eliminations
Eliminations for internal income 
increased to $2,043m comprising $1,067 
million in InfraCo Fixed, $335 million in 
Amplitel, $113 million in International and 
$528 million in Other.

Expense performance

Operating expenses1

nbn payments

Non-nbn

Sales costs

Core

Other2

Fixed costs

Underlying

One-off nbn DA and nbn cost to connect

Guidance adjustments2

Total

FY23

$m

2,048

5,914

7,962

6,622

612

7,234

15,196

35

125

FY22

$m

2,081

5,448

7,529

6,663

106

6,769

14,298

145

315

15,356

14,758

 Change

$m

(33)

466

433

(41)

506

465

898

(110)

(190)

598

%

(1.6)

8.6

5.8

(0.6)

n/m

6.9

6.3

(75.9)

(60.3)

4.1

1.   The data in this table includes adjustments to historical numbers to reflect changes in sales and fixed costs. Core fixed costs include commissions.
2.  Other fixed costs include Telstra Health; and current and prior year acquisitions including Digicel Pacific, Alliance Automation and Aqura Technologies.
3.   Guidance adjustments include material one-offs, such as mergers and acquisitions, disposals, impairments, spectrum, restructuring costs and such other items as 

determined by the Board and management.

Underlying operating expenses $m

14,298

FY22

466

-41

-33

Sales costs– 
nbn payments

Sales costs – 
non-nbn

Fixed costs – 
core

Fixed costs – 
other

FY23

506

15,196

25

Operating expenses on a statutory reported basis
Our progress on achieving our productivity target is reported through the above 
operating expenses table. The detail below provides commentary on operating 
expenses as disclosed in our statutory accounts.

Operating expenses on 
a statutory reported basis

FY23

$m

FY22

Change

$m

Labour

3,967

3,620

Goods and services purchased

8,511

8,228

Net impairment losses on financial assets

90

98

Other expenses

Total

2,788

2,812

15,356

14,758

%

9.6

3.4

(8.2)

(0.9)

4.1

Labour
Total labour expenses increased by 9.6 per cent or $347 million to $3,967 million. 
Salary and associated costs increased by $351 million due to increased total direct 
full time staff equivalents (FTE), wage inflation as agreed in our Enterprise Agreement 
and insourcing of our retail stores. Total direct FTE increased by 9.9 per cent or 2,872 
to 31,761 largely due to acquisitions (including Digicel Pacific) and conversion of 
contact centre workforce from indirect to direct FTE.

Goods and services purchased
Total goods and services purchased increased by 3.4 per cent or $283 million to $8,511 
million. Cost of goods sold, which includes mobile handsets and accessories, tablets, 
mobile broadband hardware, modems and other fixed hardware, increased by 7.7 per 
cent or $205 million to $2,853 million mainly due to higher postpaid mobile hardware 
volumes and inclusion of Digicel Pacific hardware sales costs following acquisition. 
Network payments increased by 1.6 per cent or $51 million mostly due to inclusion of 
Digicel Pacific network payments following acquisition.

Other expenses
Total other expenses decreased by 0.9 per cent or $24 million to $2,788 million. 
Impairment losses (excluding net losses on financial assets) decreased by 10.4 per 
cent or $15 million including lower deferred commissions due to insourcing of our 
retail channel. Excluding impairment, other expenses decreased by $9 million due to 
cost reduction initiatives partly offset by higher energy costs and inclusion of Digicel 
Pacific other expenses following acquisition.

Total operating expenses increased by 4.1 
per cent to $15,356 million. Excluding 
Digicel Pacific, total operating expenses 
increased by 3.6 per cent. Adjusted for 
one-off nbn costs and guidance 
adjustments, underlying operating 
expenses increased by $898 million or 6.3 
per cent due to higher sales and fixed 
costs, including $382 million for Digicel 
Pacific.

Sales costs, which are direct costs 
associated with revenue and customer 
growth, increased by 5.8 per cent to 
$7,962 million. This included a $466 
million increase in non-nbn sales costs, 
associated with higher mobile hardware 
sales volumes, and including $126 million 
of Digicel Pacific sales costs.

Core fixed costs decreased by 0.6 per 
cent or $41 million with productivity gains 
partly offset by cost inflation (labour and 
non-labour including energy), and costs 
associated with onshoring of contact 
centres. Productivity gains included 
process simplification and improvement 
across back of house and support 
functions.

Other fixed costs increased by $506 
million including $256 million for Digicel 
Pacific, and fixed costs associated with 
prior year acquisitions such as Alliance 
Automation, Aqura Technologies, 
MedicalDirector and PowerHealth.

One-off nbn DA and nbn cost to connect 
declined by 75.9 per cent as the nbn 
migration nears completion.

Guidance adjustments for operating 
expenses decreased by $190 million 
mostly due to prior period transaction 
costs relating to InfraCo Towers (now 
Amplitel); and prior period transaction 
and integration costs related to our 
MedicalDirector and PowerHealth 
acquisitions.

26

Full year results and operations review | Telstra Annual Report 2023

Foreign currency impacts
For the purposes of reporting our 
consolidated results, the translation of 
foreign operations denominated in 
foreign currency to Australian dollars 
(AUD) increased our sales revenue by $71 
million. This foreign exchange impact was 
partly offset by an increase in expenses 
by $50 million across labour, goods and 
services purchased, and other expenses 
resulting in a favourable EBITDA 
contribution of $21 million.

increased by 22.8 per cent or $273 million 
due to the inclusion of Digicel Pacific and 
higher software amortisation associated 
with the exit of legacy systems. 
Depreciation of property, plant and 
equipment decreased by $148 million 
including net reduction from an 
assessment of useful lives and a subset 
of legacy copper assets being fully 
depreciated in the prior period. 
Depreciation of right-of-use assets 
decreased by $13 million.

Depreciation and amortisation
Depreciation and amortisation increased 
by 2.6 per cent or $112 million to $4,470 
million. Amortisation of intangible assets 

Net finance costs
Net finance costs increased by 26.9 per 
cent or $112 million to $529 million due to 
a $126 million increase in interest on 

borrowings and $9 million reduction in 
finance income; partly offset by a $23 
million net reduction in other financing 
items (as set out in note 4.4.3 in the 
Financial Report).

Interest on borrowings increased due to 
higher interest rates and higher average 
gross debt. Our average gross borrowing 
rate increased from 3.7 per cent to 4.6 
per cent reflecting higher market interest 
rates and higher average borrowing rates 
on the non-recourse borrowing facilities 
used to fund the majority of the 
consideration for the Digicel Pacific 
acquisition. Our borrowing portfolio is 
around 70 per cent fixed.

Cash flows

Operating expenses on a reported basis

Net cash provided by operating activities

Net cash used in investing activities

– Capital expenditure (before investments)

– Other investing cash flows

Free cashflow

Net cash used in financing activities

Net decrease in cash and cash equivalents

Cash and cash equivalents at the beginning of the period

Effects of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents

Cash and cash equivalents at the end of the period

FY23

$m

6,802

FY22

$m

7,249

(5,951)

(3,395)

(3,870)

(3,094)

(2,081)

851

(969)

(118)

1,040

10

932

(301)

3,854

(3,971)

(117)

1,125

32

1,040

Change

%

(6.2)

(75.3)

(25.1)

n/m

(77.9)

75.6

(0.9)

(7.6)

(68.8)

(10.4)

Free cashflow used in operating and 
investing activities was $851 million 
representing a decrease of $3,003 million 
due to reduction in net cash provided by 
operating activities and increase in net 
cash used in investing activities. 
Significant acquisitions included Digicel 
Pacific and Fetch TV in this period; and 
Alliance Automation, Aqura Technologies, 
MedicalDirector, PowerHealth and Fone 
Zone in the prior period.

Net cash provided by operating activities 
decreased by $447 million to $6,802 
million mainly due to a $1,653 million 
increase in payments to suppliers and 
employees, partly offset by a $1,320 
million increase in receipts from 
customers. The reduction in net cash 
provided by operating activities included 
higher reported EBITDA; offset by a $33 
million investment in working capital this 
period compared to a $923 million 

working capital benefit in the prior period 
from reduced receivables including lower 
handset sales.

Net cash used in investing activities 
increased by $2,556 million to $5,951 
million. This included a $1,717 million 
increase in payments for shares in 
controlled entities mostly due to the 
acquisition of Digicel Pacific. Payments 
for intangible assets increased by $478 
million including increased spend on 
software and spectrum renewals.

Accrued capital expenditure on a 
guidance basis was $3,597 million or 16.1 
per cent of sales revenue. This included 
approximately $100 million for Digicel 
Pacific and $300 million of strategic 
investment for the inter-city fibre and 
Viasat infrastructure projects.

Net cash used in financing activities 
decreased by $3,002 million to $969 

million. This decrease included an 
increase in net proceeds from borrowings 
of $3,840 million, $923 million of 
proceeds from the issue of equity-like 
securities to Export Finance Australia as 
part funding for the Digicel Pacific 
acquisition, and prior period payment of 
$1,350 million for share buy back; partly 
offset by prior period proceeds of $2,883 
million from disposal of a 49 per cent 
interest in our towers business (now 
Amplitel).

On a guidance basis, free cashflow after 
operating lease payments was $2,784 
million. Free cashflow after operating 
lease payments on a guidance basis 
excludes mergers and acquisitions 
($2,595 million including Digicel Pacific) 
and spectrum payments ($112 million); 
and includes lease payments ($774 
million).

27

Debt position

Our gross debt position was $15,350 
million comprising borrowings of $12,675 
million, lease liabilities of $3,191 million, 
partly offset by $516 million in net 
derivative assets.

Gross debt increased by 11.6 per cent or 
$1,590 million reflecting debt issuance of 
$3,534 million, $30 million of non-cash 
increase and net movement in lease 
liabilities, partly offset by debt 
repayments of $1,974 million including 
commercial paper (net). Debt issuance 
included 8-year €500 million Euro bond 
($837 million Australian dollar 
equivalent), 5-year $650 million 
Australian dollar bond, $904 million in 
revolving bank facilities (net); and $1,127 
million in non-recourse debt facilities 
entered into with the Australian 
Government through Export Finance 
Australia for the funding of the Digicel 
Pacific acquisition.

Net debt increased by 13.3 per cent or 
$1,698 million to $14,418 million 
reflecting the increase in gross debt and 
$108 million decrease in cash holdings.

Debt issuance

Euro bond

AUD bond

FY23

$m

Debt repayments

837

Euro bond

650

AUD bond

Revolving bank facilities (net)

904

Bank loan AUD

Debt facilities with 
Australian Government

1,127

Other loans

Bilateral bank and other loans

16

Commercial paper (net)

Total

3,534

Total

FY23

$m

1,248

500

150

61

15

1,974

Financial settings

FY23

Comfort zone

Debt servicing1

Gearing2

Interest cover3

1.8x

1.5x to 2.0x

44.7%

50% to 70%

12.8x

>7x

1.   Debt servicing ratio is calculated as net debt/EBITDA.
2.  Gearing ratio is calculated as net debt/total net debt plus equity.
3.   Interest cover is calculated as EBITDA/net interest on debt (excluding capitalised interest and non-cash 

accounting impacts within net finance costs).

We remain within our comfort zones for our credit metrics. Our debt servicing is 1.8 
times including impact from our acquisition of Digicel Pacific, gearing ratio is 44.7 per 
cent and interest cover is 12.8 times.

28

Financial position

Summary statement of financial position

Current assets

Non-current assets

Total assets

Current liabilities

Non-current liabilities

Total liabilities

Net assets

Total equity

Return on invested capital (%)

Return on average equity (%)

Full year results and operations review | Telstra Annual Report 2023

FY23

$m

6,733

38,296

45,029

10,092

17,121

27,213

17,816

17,816

7.9

12.5

FY22 Restated1

Change

$m

6,260

35,368

41,628

9,698

14,954

24,652

16,976

16,976

7.1

11.3

%

7.6

8.3

8.2

4.1

14.5

10.4

4.9

4.9

0.8pp

1.2pp

1.   The data in this table includes adjustments to historical liabilities, net assets and total equity. Refer to Note 1.7 in the Financial report for further detail.

Our balance sheet is in a strong position 
with net assets of $17,816 million. The 
acquisition of Digicel Pacific increased 
net assets by $1,058 million at acquisition 
date. Refer to Note 6.1.2(a) in the 
Financial Report for further detail on 
Digicel Pacific.

Current assets increased by 7.6 per cent 
to $6,733 million. Derivative financial 
assets increased by $143 million due to 
instruments maturing in the next 12 
months and valuation impacts offset by 
maturities. Trade and other receivables 
and contract assets increased by $142 
million due to increased trade receivables 
from contracts with customers including 
for Digicel Pacific. The allowance for 
doubtful debts in respect of all our trade 
and other receivables and contracts 
assets reduced by $17 million in the 
period. Prepayments increased by $93 
million including for Digicel Pacific and 
software licences. Current tax 
receivables increased by $135 million due 
to lower taxable profit and higher PAYG 
instalments compared to prior year. 

Inventories increased by $70 million 
including due to insourcing of Telstra 
branded retail stores and to mitigate 
supply chain issues. Cash and cash 
equivalent decreased by $108 million.

Non-current assets increased by 8.3 per 
cent to $38,296 million. The increase was 
mostly due to intangible assets 
increasing by $2,834 million due to 
acquisitions including Digicel Pacific. 
Property, plant and equipment increased 
by $484 million due to additions, 
including Digicel Pacific, exceeding 
depreciation expenses. Trade and other 
receivables and contract assets increased 
by $156 million consistent with current 
trade and other receivables. Derivative 
financial assets decreased by $179 
million mostly due to instruments 
maturing in the next 12 months and 
valuation impacts. Deferred contract 
costs decreased by $150 million due to a 
reduction in commissions paid and 
deferred following the insourcing of retail 
stores. Investments accounted for using 
the equity method decreased by $128 

million including reduction in fair value of 
investments held by Telstra Ventures 
recognised in other comprehensive 
income.

Current liabilities increased by 4.1 per 
cent to $10,092 million. Trade and other 
payables increased by $156 million 
including for Digicel Pacific, partly offset 
by payment of stamp duty in the period 
relating to Amplitel. Other provisions 
increased by $167 million including 
Digicel Pacific.

Non-current liabilities increased by 14.5 
per cent to $17,121 million. The increase 
was primarily due to borrowings 
increasing by $1,721 million including 
non-recourse debt used for funding the 
acquisition of Digicel Pacific. Deferred 
tax liabilities increased by $434 million 
due to the inclusion of deferred tax 
liabilities recognised by Digicel Pacific 
and resulting business combination 
adjustments. Contract liabilities and 
other revenue received in advance 
increased by $146 million including 
Digicel Pacific.

29

Board of 
Directors

Key

B Board

A Audit and Risk Committee

N Nomination Committee

P People and Remuneration Committee

Denotes Chairman/Chair of Board/Committee

Denotes member of Board/Committee

Denotes previously Chairman of Committee (2009-2016)

Non-executive Director since July 2008, Chairman effective 27 April 2016 and last re-elected on 13 October 
2020.

John has extensive experience in international transportation and logistics, with more than two decades 
in senior positions with some of the world’s largest transport and infrastructure companies. He has lived 
or worked in 13 countries over this time. From 2011 to 2016 John was Chief Executive Officer of Asciano, 
Australia’s largest ports and rail operator. Prior to this, John spent 15 years with DHL Express, a US$20b 
company employing over 140,000 people in 220 countries, serving as the global Chief Executive Officer from 
2005 to 2009.

Prior to DHL, John spent ten years with the TNT Group, with four years from 1991 to 1994 as Chief Executive 
Officer of TNT Express Worldwide based in the Netherlands.

Other listed company directorships (past three years)
Chairman, Brambles Limited (Joined 2019, Chair from 2020). Director, Brookfield Infrastructure Partners L.P 
(from 2021 and previously 2017–2020) and Treasury Wine Estates Limited (from 1 May 2023).

Other directorships and appointments
Chair, Australian National Maritime Museum (Joined 2016 and Chair from 2019).
Senior Advisor – Toll Holdings Pty Ltd (from July 2022).
UNSW Business School Advisory Council Member (from 2005).
Former – Chairman, Toll Holdings Pty Ltd (2017–2022) and the US National Foreign Trade Council in 
Washington (2008–2010).
Member, UNICEF Task Force on Workplace Gender Discrimination and Harassment (2018-2019).

Vicki Brady became the CEO and Managing Director of Telstra, Australia’s largest telecommunications 
company, on 1 September, 2022.

Vicki joined Telstra in 2016 and was most recently Chief Financial Officer and Strategy & Finance Group 
Executive. In this role, Vicki guided the company’s financial performance and reporting, led the development 
of and progress against its corporate strategy, and oversaw its risk and internal audit capabilities, with the aim 
of delivering shareholder value over the long term.

Before this, Vicki was head of Telstra’s Consumer & Small Business function. In this role she led a business 
unit with $14.6 billion of income and was one of the architects of the T22 and T25 strategies. She has also 
held roles as Group Managing Director, Sales & Service and Group Managing Director, Consumer. Before 
working at Telstra, Vicki gained extensive executive leadership experience in telecommunications and services 
companies in Australia and internationally, working for organisations including Optus, SingTel and KPMG.

Vicki has a Bachelor of Commerce from the Australian National University and a Master of Science in 
Management from Stanford University’s Graduate School of Business.

She is a member of the Groupe Speciale Mobile Association (GSMA) board; Patron, on behalf of Telstra, of the 
National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Art Awards (NATSIAA); a member of the Institute of Chartered 
Accountants ANZ and is a Graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors.

John P Mullen
BSc

B   N   P

Vicki Brady
MScM (Stanford GSB), 
BCom (ANU), CA

B

30

Board of Directors | Telstra Annual Report 2023

Non-executive Director appointed on 15 February 2019 and last re-elected on 11 October 2022.

Eelco has almost 35 years of telecommunications experience at Dutch-based landline and mobile 
telecommunications company, KPN, where he was CEO for seven years until April 2018.

Eelco started his career in Finance at KPN before becoming responsible for several businesses including 
Carrier Services, Corporate Networks and Network Operations. In 2006 he was appointed a member of the 
KPN Board of Management, where he was consecutively responsible for the Fixed Division, Business Market – 
Wholesale – Operations and Mobile International. He was appointed CEO in April 2011.

From 2011 to 2017 Eelco was co-chairman of the Dutch National Cyber Security Council an advisory body of 
the Dutch government. He was also a Director for the international association GSMA from 2017 to April 2018.

Other listed company directorships (past three years)
Director, OTE Group (from 2019). Former – Member of the Supervisory Board of Post NL (2017–2021) and 
Signify NV (2017–2022).

Other directorships and appointments
Member of the Supervisory Boards of Koninklijke VolkerWessels N.V (from 2019) and Fairphone (from 2020). 
Board Advisor, Glasfaser Plus (from April 2022), Glow Financial Services (from June 2022) and Spotzer Digital 
(from April 2023). Advisor, Reggeborgh Groep BV (from 2018).

Non-executive Director appointed on 17 February 2023.

Maxine is an experienced ASX top-20 director with over 20 years Board experience in some of Australia’s most 
high-profile companies.

Maxine has a diverse background with strong experience in the corporate advisory, finance and regulatory 
sectors. She has a strong customer perspective and is particularly focused on the changing nature of 
customer expectations.

Maxine is a former Managing Director of Investment Banking at Investec Bank (Australia) Limited. She also 
practised as a corporate lawyer with Freehill Hollingdale & Page (now Herbert Smith Freehills) and spent 
several years as a lecturer in the Faculty of Law at both the University of NSW and the University of Sydney.

Other listed company directorships (past three years)
Director, Woolworths Group Limited (from December 2020), Qantas Airways Limited (from August 2013) and 
Origin Energy Limited (from November 2013). Former – Director, Orica Limited (April 2013–December 2022).

Other directorships and appointments
Member of the University of NSW Council.

Non-executive Director appointed on 11 May 2018, last re-elected on 12 October 2021.

Roy has more than 30 years of direct telecommunications experience. Most recently he was Executive Vice 
President, Chief Strategy Officer for Verizon Communications and has held leadership positions with other 
leading firms including Motorola, Grande Communications, Sprint-Nextel and AirTouch. Roy’s last six years 
with Verizon included almost five as head of strategy responsible for the development and implementation of 
Verizon’s overall corporate strategy, including business development, joint ventures, strategic investments, 
acquisitions and divestitures.

Roy has been a Director for international industry association GSMA and is a former chair of the Chief 
Strategy Officers Group including 25 global strategists from the world’s leading wireless carriers.

Other listed company directorships (past three years)
Director, Intelsat (from March 2022) and Digital Turbine Inc (from 2018). Board of Advisors, Accenture 
Luminary (from 2021). Former – Director, Saudi Telecom (2018–2021) and Boingo Wireless, Inc (2019–2021).

Other directorships and appointments
Non-executive Partner, FTI Consulting Group/Delta Partners. Senior advisor Tillman Global Holdings LLC. 
Board Advisor, LotusFlare (from 2019).

Non-executive Director appointed on 12 April 2016 and last re-elected on 11 October 2022.

Craig is a highly regarded business leader with more than 20 years’ experience in financial services, pan-Asian 
business activities and strategic advice for government and major companies. Craig was Chief Executive 
Officer and Managing Director of AMP from 2008 to 2013 and held various roles at AMP in a 13-year career 
including Managing Director of AMP Financial Services, Managing Director for AMP Bank and head of 
Corporate Strategy and M&A.

Previously he was at Colonial Mutual Group from 1991 to 2000, including Managing Director for EON CMB Life 
Insurance in Malaysia and senior roles in Group Strategy, M&A and Finance. He has also served as a member 
of the Federal Government’s Financial System Inquiry in 2014 and the Consumer and Financial Literacy 
Taskforce.

Other listed company directorships (past three years)
Director, Westpac (2015–2021).

Other directorships and appointments
Chair, ISO Blockchain Standards Committee (from 2017) and The Australian Ballet (Joined 2014, Chair from 
2015). Director, MLC Life Insurance (from March 2023), Lion Pty Limited and Lion Global Craft Beverages Pty 
Limited (from 2021).

31

Eelco Blok
MS, BBA

B   N

Maxine Brenner
BA, LLB

B   A   N

Roy H Chestnutt
BSc, BA, MBA

B   A   N

Craig W Dunn
BCom, FCA

B   A   N

Ming Long AM
BEc, LLB, MBA, FCA, GAICD

B   A   P   N

Bridget Loudon
BCom (University College Galway)

B   P   N

Elana Rubin AM
BA (Hons), MA, SF Fin, FAICDLife

B   P   N

Non-executive Director effective 1 January 2023.

Ming is an experienced director with over a decade of board experience in areas including real estate, 
infrastructure, funds and investment management and financial services. She also has a wealth of experience 
in sustainability and diversity.

Ming has held senior executive and leadership positions in listed and private equity owned organisations 
leading complex multi-year strategies to transform companies, as well as experience in corporate 
restructuring. She is passionate about helping Australia drive better economic, social and environmental 
outcomes.

Ming has played an influential role in industry leadership in Australia and is on the steering committee for 
the Australian Institute of Company Directors Climate Governance Initiative and is a member of the ASIC 
Corporate Governance Consultative Panel. In 2020, she was awarded a Member of the Order of Australia for 
her significant service to the financial and real estate sectors, and to diversity and inclusion.

Other directorships and appointments
Director, IFM Investors (from 2022), QBE Insurance (Auspac) (from 2019), Committee for Economic 
Development of Australia (CEDA) (from 2019) and Chair of the Diversity Council Australia Limited (from 2017). 
Previously Chair of AMP Capital Funds Management Limited.

Non-executive Director appointed on 14 August 2020 and elected on 13 October 2020.

Bridget is Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Expert360. Expert360 is Australia’s number one skilled talent 
platform, using sophisticated vetting and matching technology to connect more than 1000 companies with 
more than 30,000 elite consultants, project managers, data analysts and developers. Expert360 has been 
recognised as a game-changing platform by, among others, Harvard Business Review and the Economist.

Prior to founding Expert360 in 2013, Bridget worked as a management consultant for Bain & Co in Sydney. At 
Bain, Bridget was part of teams that advised ASX 50 leaders on strategy and transformation across a range of 
industries such as Retail, Consumer, Mining and Education.

Bridget is a leader in how organisations transform themselves to capture the opportunities presented by 
developments in technology. She has passion for solving customer problems and an impressive desire to 
create positive outcomes for society using technology.

Other directorships and appointments
Director, Expert 360 Pty Ltd (from 2013) and E360 Holdings Pty Ltd (from 2019).

Non-executive Director appointed on 14 February 2020 and elected on 13 October 2020.

Elana has more than 20 years Board experience across the financial service sector, including superannuation 
and funds management as well as the fintech, property, infrastructure and government sectors. Her executive 
career spanned industrial relations, social and economic policy and superannuation.

Elana is adept at working in consumer facing organisations with a strong customer focus and can balance 
commercial interests with the complex requirements of regulated sectors.

Elana has strong risk management and regulatory experience, having worked in highly regulated sectors 
including as Chair of AustralianSuper, one of Australia’s largest and innovative super funds, and Chair of 
Victorian WorkCover Authority, a highly regarded regulator and workplace injury insurer.

Other listed company directorships (past three years)
Director, Dexus Funds Management Limited (from September 2022), Slater and Gordon Limited (from 2018. 
Acting Chair from August–November 2021). Former – Director, Afterpay Limited (2017–2022, Chair 2020–
2022).

Other directorships and appointments
Chair, Australian Business Growth Fund (ABGF) (from March 2023) and Victorian Managed Insurance 
Authority (from 2016). Director, Reserve Bank of Australia (from 31 August 2023).

Non-executive Director elected on 16 October 2018, last re-elected on 12 October 2021.

Niek Jan has almost 20 years direct telecommunications experience, with the first part of his career focusing 
on brand and category management in a range of businesses including consumer goods and retail. Most 
recently he was a member of the Deutsche Telekom Board of Management, where he was responsible for fixed 
line and mobile communications in Germany. Niek Jan has held leadership positions with other leading firms 
including Ben Nederland, later T-Mobile Netherlands, a challenger mobile brand, where he was the Chairman 
of the Managing Board.

At Deutsche Telekom he led the merger of mobile and fixed line business, laying the foundation for making 
Deutsche Telekom the leading operator in converged services. He also led a major network modernisation 
program with the establishment of a new IP core, and high 4G network investments.

Niek Jan van Damme
Drs.

B   P   N

Other directorships and appointments
Chairman of the Supervisory Board, NGN Fiber Network (from February 2022). Chairman, Infrafibre Germany 
GmbH (Director from November 2021, Chairman from January 2023). Director, Connectivitree Corporation 
(from June 2023). Board Advisor, Glow Financial Services Ltd (from May 2022) and LotusFlare (from 
November 2020).

32

Senior 
management 
team

Vicki Brady
Chief Executive Officer

Brendon Riley
CEO, Telstra InfraCo

Vicki became the CEO and Managing Director of Telstra on  
1 September 2022. As the head of Telstra, she leads T25, 
Telstra’s strategy for sustainable growth which is designed to 
create exceptional customer experiences our customers can 
count on; lead network and technology solutions that deliver  
our future; deliver sustained growth and value for shareholders; 
and create the place where people want to work.

Michael Ackland
Chief Financial Officer & Group Executive, Strategy & Finance

Michael became CFO on 1 September 2022 after leading 
Telstra’s Consumer & Small Business for four years. He is 
responsible for guiding the company’s financial performance, 
reporting and progress against its corporate strategy. He also 
oversees risk and internal audit capabilities ensuring we deliver 
shareholder value long term.

Brendon became the CEO of Telstra InfraCo on 1 October 2018. 
Telstra InfraCo is responsible for managing, developing and 
growing Telstra’s significant portfolio of infrastructure assets 
within Australia. This includes Amplitel, our mobile tower 
business, which is 51% owned by Telstra. Brendon is also 
responsible for Telstra Wholesale which provides both fixed and 
mobile services to domestic and international wholesale 
customers.

Dean Salter
Group Executive, Global Business Services

Dean is responsible for Global Business Services (GBS) which 
brings together shared services such as assurance, activation, 
billing, property, procurement and people services to improve 
customer service, efficiency and service levels across the 
company.

Kim Krogh Andersen
Group Executive, Product & Technology

Kim joined Telstra in January 2020 as Group Executive, Product & 
Technology (P&T). P&T is responsible for creating and delivering 
products and solutions for customers across all segments both 
domestically and internationally. It has accountability for 
product strategy, lifecycle, and profitability, as well as Telstra’s 
strategic partner management, and technology and innovation 
where products are incubated and brought to scale. P&T is also 
accountable for Telstra's Software Engineering & IT and Data & 
AI functions and accelerating Telstra’s digital leadership.

David Burns
Group Executive, Enterprise

David, as Group Executive Enterprise, is responsible for 
delivering connectivity, platforms, applications and tailored 
industry solutions to Telstra’s enterprise and government 
customers. Enterprise is also responsible for Telstra’s 
international operations,, the largest subsea cable network in 
the Asia Pacific region, and Digicel Pacific.

Lyndall Stoyles
Group General Counsel and Group Executive, Sustainability, 
External Affairs & Legal

Lyndall is Telstra’s Group General Counsel and Group Executive 
for the Sustainability, External Affairs and Legal team which is 
responsible for providing advice to Telstra’s Board and CEO as 
well as providing legal counsel, policy advice, stakeholder 
management and community programs across government 
relations, regulatory, risk compliance, sustainability and regional 
affairs.

Kathryn van der Merwe
Group Executive, People, Culture & Communications

Kath joined Telstra in July 2023 and is a highly regarded people 
and transformation leader with a track record of strengthening 
organisational culture and capability. People, Culture & 
Communications (PC&C) focus on our people so they can deliver 
great outcomes for our customers through building the 
capabilities and culture required to deliver T25. PC&C is also 
responsible for improving Telstra’s reputation.

Nikos Katinakis
Group Executive, Global Networks & Technology

Brad Whitcomb
Group Executive Consumer & Small Business

Nikos leads Global Networks & Technology which is responsible 
for ensuring Telstra delivers and operates next generation 
network technologies to create one of the largest, smartest, 
safest and most reliable networks in the world. This includes 
Telstra’s cyber security capabilities, private and public cloud 
infrastructure, identifying and deploying new technology, such 
as those related to 5G and Edge Compute, and delivering 
network automation and orchestration capabilities to provide 
exceptional experiences for customers.

Brad joined Telstra in January 2023 and leads Consumer & Small 
Business (C&SB), which is responsible for creating and 
delivering exceptional customer experiences for our consumer 
and small business customers across our retail, contact centre 
and digital channels. Brad has accountability for driving growth 
from our core business for those customer segments, and also 
leads the Telstra Plus customer loyalty program and Telstra 
brand and marketing activity.

33

Sustainability

Our goal is to embed social and environmental considerations into our 
business in ways that create value for the company and our stakeholders.

Our approach

For Telstra, doing business responsibly 
means doing the right thing – for our 
customers, our people and the 
communities we serve. We believe every 
company has a responsibility to operate 
sustainably and actively consider the 
impact it creates for customers, 
communities and the environment. This is 
why ‘doing business responsibly’ is one of 
the pillars in our T25 strategy and the 
foundation of our refreshed sustainability 
strategy.

Our purpose is to build a connected 
future so everyone can thrive. This 
underpins our belief that Telstra has a 
real opportunity to play a leadership role 
in creating a more sustainable and 
inclusive world. Technologies like 
machine learning, data and artificial 
intelligence, IoT and high-speed networks 
can help address many of the challenges 
our world is facing – especially as they all 
work together to increase their impact.

Telstra is at the heart of this, providing 
the foundational connectivity and 
innovative solutions that enable us and 
our customers to actively contribute to 
addressing local and global challenges.

We are harnessing technology to create  
a better digital world and minimise our 
impact on the planet, as well as helping 
our customers and Australia do the same. 
A healthier planet and more inclusive 

world are our two most ambitious goals 
and are grounded in our commitment to 
doing business responsibly.

At Telstra, we're managing sustainability by:
• Doing business responsibly – delivering 

on our commitment to do business 
responsibly and being transparent, 
ethical and accountable, wherever we 
operate. We recognise that the long-
term success of our company depends 
on maintaining the trust of our 
customers, community and partners, 
not just within our own operations but 
also across our broader supply chains.

• Creating a better digital world – 

technology connects us all. We are 
working to create a better digital world 
by leveraging our advanced network  
and technology capabilities to connect 
people and support them to access  
the skills and tools to get the most  
out of their tech and stay safe online.
• Sustaining our planet – we take bold 
climate action, protect nature and 
biodiversity and contribute to a circular 
economy. We work with our customers 
and suppliers to minimise the impact of 
climate change and enable the 
transition to a low-carbon future.

In FY23, we have been trialling new ways 
of embedding sustainability into our 
business, our decision making and our 
culture. We know that building 
organisational resilience and capacity to 
respond to emerging challenges will 

position us well to anticipate and manage 
the future risk landscape more 
effectively. It accelerates innovation by 
driving the development of new products, 
services and solutions that lead to new 
customers and market opportunities.  
As a purpose driven organisation, it helps 
attract and retain the best talent, builds 
our reputation and strengthens our 
stakeholder relationships.

For a detailed overview of our approach 
and progress in relation to each of these 
three strategic pillars, please see our 
2023 Bigger Picture Sustainability 
Report, available online at telstra.com/
sustainability/report.

Our commitment to respect and support 
human rights is aligned to the UN Guiding 
Principles on Business and Human Rights 
and detailed information regarding how 
we manage human rights risk is contained 
in our annual 2023 Human Rights and 
Modern Slavery Act Statement, available 
online at telstra.com/sustainability/
report.

We have aligned our reporting with the 
recommendations of the Task Force on 
Climate-related Financial Disclosures 
(TCFD) and will continue to enhance our 
climate-related disclosures to reflect our 
response to the impacts of climate 
change. Further information is provided  
in the Understanding our climate risks 
section of this report.

34

We are changemakersWe are better togetherHarnessing our technology to create a more sustainable and inclusive worldWe careWe make it simpleOur purposeand valuesOur commitmentSustainabilitypillarsTo build a connected future so everyone can thriveOur sustainability strategySustaining our planetCreating a better digital worldFair and transparent productsEthical supply chainLeading conduct and governanceOur peopleDoing business responsiblyOur foundationConnecting regional and remote communitiesBuilding responsible tech skillsAdvancing online safety, privacy and securitySupporting people in vulnerable circumstancesTaking bold climate actionProtecting nature and biodiversityProgressing a circular economyEnabling the transition for our customersUnderstanding 
our climate risk

Since 2020, Telstra has aligned its climate-related disclosures with the 
recommendations of the Task force on Climate-related Financial Disclosures 
(TCFD)1, which cover four thematic areas: governance, strategy, risk 
management, and metrics and targets.

Forward-looking statements
This section includes forward-looking 
statements which are provided as a 
general guide only. They reflect 
expectations which involve risks, 
uncertainties and other factors which 
may be beyond Telstra’s control, many of 
which are described in the following parts 
of this section: “Strategy” and “Metrics 
and Targets”.

Investors should not place undue reliance 
on the forward-looking statements, and 
to the maximum extent permitted by law, 
Telstra gives no representation, warranty 
or other assurance in connection with, 
and disclaims all responsibility for, the 
currency, accuracy, reliability and 
completeness of any forward-looking 
statements.

Due to the inherent uncertainty and 
limitations in measuring or quantifying 
greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions under 

the calculation methodologies used in 
the preparation of such data, all GHG 
emissions data or references to GHG 
emissions volumes (including ratios or 
percentages) in this report are estimates. 
The accuracy of Telstra’s GHG emissions 
data and other metrics may be impacted 
by factors, including inconsistent data 
availability, a lack of common definitions 
and standards for reporting climate-
related information, quality of historical 
emissions data, reliance on assumptions 
and changes in market practice. These 
factors may impact Telstra’s ability to 
meet commitments and targets or cause 
Telstra’s results to differ materially from 
those expressed or implied in this report. 
There may also be differences in the 
manner that third parties calculate or 
report GHG emissions data compared to 
Telstra, which means that third party 
data may not be comparable to our data.

In FY23 Telstra finalised the acquisition of 
Digicel Pacific. Telstra is working to 
determine the necessary actions to 
incorporate Digicel Pacific in its existing 
climate scenario analysis, climate risk 
financial quantification, adaptation 
planning, emissions reduction plans and 
to gather the relevant activity data to 
calculate Digicel Pacific’s scope 1, 2 and 
3 emissions profile in line with the GHG 
Protocol so that Digicel Pacific can be 
integrated into emissions disclosures and 
targets. The disclosures in this report in 
relation to the matters noted above do 
not include Digicel Pacific unless 
otherwise stated.

See the forward-looking statements 
disclaimer at the front of this report for 
more information.

1. https://assets.bbhub.io/company/sites/60/2021/10/
FINAL-2017-TCFD-Report.pdf.

35
35

Governance

Our approach to climate risk governance
Telstra recognises that climate change poses both risks and opportunities for how we do business, including how we best meet the 
needs of the customers and communities we serve, and continue to deliver shareholder value. We have implemented a governance 
model that enables our Board to have oversight of environment, social, and governance (ESG) issues including climate-related 
issues and have defined management responsibilities for assessing and managing those issues. Roles and responsibilities for 
overseeing, assessing, and managing climate-related issues include:

Telstra Board

Oversees Telstra Group's approach to ESG and monitors its performance, including approving key external 
environmental targets and disclosures under the TCFD framework.

Audit and Risk 
Committee (ARC)

Review significant developments in the areas of corporate governance and ESG relevant to the ARC's 
responsibilities. Also reviews and monitors Telstra Group's ESG performance and considers significant issues 
relating to ESG, including:
• reviewing reports from management on climate-related risks and the risk management plans which 

management has put in place to deal with those risks

• making recommendations to the Board on key external environmental targets and disclosures under the 

TCFD framework

• overseeing other selected external environmental disclosures.

CEO Leadership 
Team (CEOLT)

The CEO, together with the senior leadership team including the CFO (together the CEOLT) is responsible 
for management decisions and oversight in relation to Telstra Group's sustainability strategy (including 
environment).

Sustainability 
Executive

Chairs the Environment Executives Group and provides day-to-day management of climate-related activity, 
risks and opportunities.

Environment 
Executives Group

• Provides leadership on Telstra's environmental ambition, determining key priorities.
• Executes management decisions on environment-related matters, including making recommendations to the 

CEOLT.

Other governance 
forums

Provide leadership and governance in relation to specific elements of Telstra's environment strategy, such as 
our climate and circular economy targets.

Working groups

• Deliver on our commitments and identify, assess and monitor environmental (including climate-related) risks 

and opportunities which may impact our business.

• Provide updates to the Sustainability Executive, Environment Executives Group and other Governance 

forums on the status and management of commitments, risks and opportunities relating to our environment 
strategy.

Roles and responsibilities in relation to climate-related issues

Our Corporate Governance Statement at 
telstra.com.au/aboutus/investors/
governance-at-telstra/documents-
charters provides an overview of Board, 
Executive and management roles and 
responsibilities as they relate to risk 
management, including climate-related 
risks.

Board accountability of climate-
related issues
The Board reviews our environment 
strategy annually, including climate-
related issues, risks, opportunities and 
progress against our targets and metrics. 

Our Audit and Risk Committee (ARC) 
receives twice yearly environment risk 
updates, including summaries of 
performance against our environment 
strategy targets. The ARC also receives 
regular updates on key cross company 
risks, which includes consideration of 
climate-related risks. These reviews and 
updates are used by the Board and ARC 
to monitor and oversee progress against 
our climate goals and targets for 
addressing climate-related issues.

In FY23, key climate-related topics 
presented to the Board and ARC for their 

strategic governance and oversight 
included: performance against climate 
targets and business activities to support 
achievement of those targets, carbon 
credits, external policy changes and 
potential legal risks, emerging climate-
related disclosure standards and 
frameworks, physical and transition 
climate risks and opportunities, our 
climate disclosures aligned to TCFD 
recommendations, our National 
Greenhouse gas and Energy Reporting 
(NGER), and the evolution of our 
environment strategy and overarching 
sustainability strategy.

36

Understanding our climate risk | Telstra Annual Report 2023

Management accountability of 
climate-related issues
Telstra has assigned management roles 
related to assessing and managing 
climate-related issues, as outlined above 
in the figure titled Roles and 
responsibilities in relation to climate-
related issues on page 36.

Climate-related issues are managed and 
monitored via our governance and 
environment risk forums under the 
direction of the CEO Leadership Team 
(CEOLT) and Environment Executives 
Group (EEG). Material climate-related 
issues or elevated climate-related risks 
which have the potential to put our 
environment commitments at risk are 
escalated to CEOLT or CEOLT members 
via regular quarterly or ad hoc briefings 
and communicated to the ARC and/or 
Board.

The Sustainability Centre of Expertise 
(CoE) has accountability for the design 
and delivery of our sustainability 
strategy. The Sustainability CoE reports 
directly to the Sustainability Executive, 
with a remit that also includes helping 
guide execution across the organisation, 
preparing our sustainability disclosures, 
managing priority sustainability 
initiatives, and working across business 
functions to provide sustainability 
subject matter expertise.

In FY23 we further matured the reporting, 
management, and mitigation of climate-
related risks. Areas of focus included:

• linking remuneration for most of our 

employees to our scope 1+2 emissions 
reduction target

• integrating climate-related issues into 

annual planning

• enhancing due diligence requirements 

for our carbon credit purchases

• progress against and risk mitigations for 

our climate commitments

• further embedding of climate into 
business processes (such as our 
shadow carbon price)

• reviewing external developments across 
climate-related policy, legal/regulatory 
requirements, science, and markets, 
and

• continuing to improve the power 

resilience of our network to mitigate 
climate impacts.

Strategy

Integrating climate into our corporate 
strategy
At Telstra we typically set our corporate 
strategy in three-to-five-year cycles, 
reflective of the shifting nature of our 
industry. This approach provides the 
flexibility we require to respond to the 
changing needs of our customers, 
business, and external stakeholders. For 
the same reasons, this strategic cadence 
also applies to our sustainability strategy 
(which includes addressing climate 
change).

Given our infrastructure assets often 
have long lifespans, our assessment of 
the physical impacts of climate change 
on our assets and longer-term climate 
transition risks and opportunities covers a 
longer period than our defined corporate 
strategy. The design and stress-testing of 
our planning, business strategy and 
product development cycles therefore 
consider multiple time horizons.

Climate is included in our company’s T25 
strategy through the Responsible 
business pillar. However, climate is also 
relevant to other T25 pillars including 
Customer experience, Network and 
technology, and Growth and value. Two 
of our climate commitments are part of 
the T25 scorecard2, which tracks our 
progress towards delivery of T25. 
Beneath this, climate actions are 
integrated into our sustainability 
strategy, which includes an ambition to 
“harness our technology to create a more 
sustainable and inclusive world”. Our 
climate focus includes taking bold 
climate action through driving down 
emissions in our own business and the 
wider economy, adapting to climate 
impacts by improving our network 
resilience, and enabling the transition to 
a low carbon economy through the 
products, services, and solutions we 
deliver for our customers.

Our climate-related risks and 
opportunities and scenario analysis
To aid our short- and long-term planning, 
we undertake scenario analysis to 
understand how our exposure to climate-
related risk and opportunities may 
change over time. We recognise our 
business, assets, people, and the 
communities we serve are exposed to 
both physical (acute and chronic3) and 

transition climate-related risks and 
opportunities. We consider both types of 
climate-related issues in our scenario 
analysis. The assessment also includes 
the potential impact of these risks over 
short (<3 years), medium (3-10 years) and 
long term (>10 years) time horizons. We 
have assessed the impacts of these risks 
under three different climate scenarios:

• Accelerated Action, where global 

collaboration works to limit heating 
below 2oC4,

• Divided World, which assumes global 
heating will increase between 2-3oC, 
and

• Changed Climate, with global heating 

rising to greater than 4oC.

The outcomes of this scenario analysis 
are detailed in the Physical risks and 
Transition risks tables on pages 38 and 
39. The results cover acute and chronic 
physical climate risks identified and 
assessed within our Australian operations 
(where the majority of our infrastructure 
assets are located) and transition risks 
across our global operations. The severity 
of risk is assessed based on the potential 
financial impact to our business. Further 
details of our methodology and full 
results, including the processes used to 
determine which risks and opportunities 
could have a material financial impact, 
can be found in our Climate Change 
Report 2022 at telstra.com.au/content/
dam/tcom/about-us/community-
environment/pdf/Telstra-Climate-
Change-report-2022-Accessible.pdf.

In FY23 we finalised the acquisition of 
Digicel Pacific and are working to 
integrate and expand our understanding 
of its physical and transition risk 
exposure. With thousands of above 
ground infrastructure assets spread 
across a broad range of locations, many 
with challenging access considerations, 
network resilience in the face of our 
changing climate is a key risk. At present 
we are undertaking a gap analysis to 
determine the necessary actions to 
incorporate Digicel Pacific into our 
existing climate scenario analysis, 
climate risk financial quantification, 
adaptation planning and emissions 
reduction plans.

2.   1) Enabling renewable energy generation equivalent to 100 per cent of our consumption by 2025 and, 2) Reducing absolute emissions by at least 50 per cent by 2030 

(from a FY19 baseline).

3.   Acute climate-related risks relate to discrete events such as a tropical cyclone or bushfire. Chronic climate-related risks are those associated with long-term changes to 

climate trends, such as increasing average annual temperatures or rising sea levels.

4.   All temperature changes refer to the level of global mean surface temperature increase experienced by 2100 above pre-industrial levels.

37

Physical risks

Risk factor

Risk summary

Current

2030

2050

2030

2050

2030

2050

Inherent 
risk5

Accelerated 
Action (<2°C)

Divided World 
(2-3°C)

Changed 
Climate (>4°C)

Acute: 
Bushfires

Acute: 
Flooding

Acute: 
Cyclones

Increase in bushfires – increase in frequency 
and severity of bushfires leading to 
infrastructure damage loss, extended service 
disruption, and reputational impact

High

Increase in flooding – increase in flooding 
frequency and severity leading to infrastructure 
damage loss, extended service disruption, and 
reputational impact

Medium

Increase in cyclones – increase in cyclone 
severity leading to coastal infrastructure 
damage loss and/or extended service disruption

Medium

---

---

---

---

---

Chronic: 
Sea level rise

Rising sea levels – increase in sea levels 
leading to coastal inundation and damage to 
low-lying infrastructure increasing costs for 
relocation or repair

Medium

---

---

---

Chronic: 
Temperature

Increase in annual average temperature – 
increase in maintenance requirements and 
associated costs

Medium

Increase in annual average temperature – 
higher energy costs from increased heat load

Medium

Chronic: 
Precipitation

Increase in precipitation – increase in 
maintenance requirements and associated 
costs

Medium

---

---

---

---

Health and 
welfare

Acute Risk: Potential injury or death – of 
staff, contractors, or community members 
associated with acute physical climate events, 
the emergency response, and restoration of 
telecommunications service

High

Chronic Risk: Work restrictions to avoid heat 
morbidity – increased exposure to heat stress 
conditions requires more frequent breaks or 
prolongs essential work resulting in lost 
productivity, greater risk of prolonged service 
disruption, and inability to perform scheduled 
maintenance

Medium

Compound risk of multiple events – increase 
in number of backup power options required and 
self-insurance costs

Medium

Compounding 
risks

Compound risk of multiple events – 
prolonged repair times due to site accessibility, 
resource availability and safety issues

Medium

Compound risk of multiple events – supply 
chain disruptions to purchased products and 
services

Medium

Physical risks

Risk rating:

Critical

High

Medium

Low

Risk trend:

Increasing

--- Unchanged

Decreasing

5.   The inherent risk rating takes account of the likelihood (probability and frequency) and consequence (both tangible and intangible) or a risk occurring. Consequences 

consider financial, customer, health, safety, wellbeing, and environment, legal, regulatory and third party, reputation, and data impacts. When determining inherent risk 
exposure both quantitative and qualitative inputs are used including business history and experiences, industry information, relevant incident data, market insights, and 
independent subject matter expertise.

38
38

Understanding our climate risk | Telstra Annual Report 2023

Transition risks

Risk factor

TCFD Risk 
classification Risk summary

Inherent 
risk5

Accelerated 
Action (<2°C)

Divided World 
(2-3°C)

Changed 
Climate (>4°C)

Current

2030

2050

2030

2050

2030

2050

Change in policy and 
regulations – increasing 
compliance and regulatory 
requirements for our products 
and services, particularly as the 
physical impacts of climate 
change become more frequent 
and extreme, leading to 
increased cost

Carbon credit price increases 
– increase in carbon credit price 
to meet our carbon neutral 
Climate Active certification, and 
potential scarcity of high-quality 
credits that meet our criteria

Low carbon technology 
upgrades – products and 
services substituted or phased 
out before reaching maturity

Uncertainty of new 
technologies – large capital 
outlays with potential for 
unsuccessful investment returns

Community reliance on 
continuity of services – 
inability to meet service 
demands, particularly in the face 
of physical climate impacts, 
leading to negative customer 
experiences and potential 
market share loss

Changing consumer 
preferences – changes in 
demand for existing offerings 
requiring quick pivots to new 
offerings reducing competitive 
advantage and leading to market 
share loss

Price pass through – rise in 
supply chain pass through costs 
from an increase in carbon taxes

Costs to maintain ESG 
reputation – inability to meet 
ESG targets and rising 
expectations of ESG 
performance leading to negative 
brand perceptions and erosion of 
brand value

Policy and 
regulation

Policy and 
legal

Carbon 
credits

Policy and 
legal

Substitution Technology

New 
technologies

Technology

Customer 
expectations

Market

Consumer 
preferences

Market

Carbon 
taxation

Market

Brand and 
reputation

Reputation

Transition risks

High

---

---

Medium

Medium

---

---

Medium

---

---

---

---

---

---

High

---

---

Medium

---

---

---

Low

---

---

---

High

---

---

Risk rating:

Critical

High

Medium

Low

Risk trend:

Increasing

--- Unchanged

Decreasing

39
39

Our resilience to a changing climate
As part of our scenario analysis process, 
we have completed a top-down financial 
quantification of the impacts of 
bushfires, cyclones, coastal inundation, 
urban flash flooding and increasing 
temperatures on our above ground assets 
in Australia. We have also explored the 
operational impacts of chronic heat on 
our people. We found the materiality of 
the financial impact will depend on how 
events manifest in the future, including 
their timing, location, and magnitude.

Physical risk resilience
The increase in bushfire and flood 
frequency and severity, and the health, 
safety and wellbeing of our staff, 
contractors, and community members, 
represent the highest short term risk 
areas when assessing our climate 
physical risks. One example is the Black 
Summer bushfires in 2019-2020 which 
caused significant disruption to our 
assets and services. Further information 
about the impact of those bushfires on 
our business is available in the Bigger 
Picture 2020 Sustainability Report at 
telstra.com.au/sustainability/
report#2020.

We found that over 306 per cent of our 
above ground assets are currently 
exposed to at least one climate hazard. 
Under the Changed Climate scenario 
(greater than 4°C rise above pre-
industrial levels) this increases to over 50 
per cent in 2050. The most common 
hazard exposure was to chronic 
temperature7 increase, however its 
impact to our operations is low.

In financial terms, we found the cost of 
asset loss and service disruption between 
now and 2030 under all three scenarios 
would average $44 million per annum, 
noting exposure will be non-linear. 
Between FY30 and FY50 the financial 
impact ranged from $50 million per 
annum in the Accelerated Action scenario 
to $86 million per annum in the Changed 
Climate modelling. Full details of our 
climate risk scenario analysis are 
available in the 2022 Climate Change 
Report at telstra.com.au/content/ 
dam/tcom/about-us/community-
environment/pdf/Telstra-Climate-
Change-report-2022-Accessible.pdf.

We found costs associated with service 
disruption had a greater material impact 
than asset damage in instances of acute 
events. In addition, while our network has 
inherent redundancy, the mains 
electricity network, on which we are 
reliant, may not. These findings have 
given clearer direction to our operations 
teams who continue to work on improving 
the power resilience of our network to 
reduce service disruption, including 

building climate considerations into the 
design and construction of future assets.

While the current average impact per 
annum is not financially material, it is 
possible that the consequences of a 
particular event or multiple events in a 
given year could be material. Analysis in 
FY23 also shows that impacts from the 
chronic increase in temperature to our 
infrastructure (such as replacing failed 
equipment or providing additional 
cooling) and staff (for example, heat 
related illness) are not operationally or 
financially material, however we continue 
to refine our data capture processes and 
update findings accordingly.

Analysis of our key global suppliers found 
that our supply chain is vulnerable to 
disruption from the physical impacts of 
climate change now and into the future. 
There are locations and products where 
this risk is concentrated. We mitigate 
these impacts by requiring our suppliers 
to have business continuity plans, having 
backup suppliers in different locations, 
and holding critical stock on hand.

We will continue to revisit and update our 
physical risk scenario analysis as our 
network, business, or the availability of 
climate data changes. At present we are 
awaiting the Australia-specific climate 
model data which accompanies the 
Intergovernmental Panel on Climate 
Change’s (IPCC) sixth assessment report 
(AR6) and will incorporate these datasets 
if there has been a material change to the 
observed trends.

Transition risk resilience
Our current scenario analysis found our 
exposure to impacts from transition risks 
is at its highest in the short to medium 
term as the global community 
accelerates action towards a 
decarbonised economy. At Telstra we 
believe these challenges also present 
opportunities for sustainable business 
growth. However, to better understand 
the challenges we face in the short to 
medium-term, we will be updating our 
transition risk assessment in FY24 to 
include a future scenario which limits 
global heating to 1.5oC above pre-
industrial levels by the end of the 
century.

Through our own journey of embedding 
climate risk into our operational 
processes we have identified 
opportunities for telecommunications 
and technology products which support 
the transition to a low carbon world. More 
information can be found in our Enabling 
Positive Climate Action report at telstra.
com.au/content/dam/tcom/about-us/
community-environment/pdf/enabling-
positive-climate-action-report.pdf.

The nature of our business means we are 
experienced in tactical prioritisation and 
embracing of new and emerging 
technologies and trends, mitigating our 
risk to disruptive technology or market 
shifts. Our relatively short duration 
planning enables flexibility, enhancing 
our ability to respond to changing 
consumer preferences, stay ahead of 
regulatory expectations, and pivot 
service offerings to better meet the 
needs and values of our customers. As an 
example of transition risk resilience, while 
our gross energy costs have increased 
significantly during FY23, this has been 
largely offset at an EBITDA level through 
our Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs). 
For more information on energy costs see 
the Strategy and performance and Full 
year results and operations review 
sections.

When stress-testing our business 
resilience against the three future climate 
scenarios we found we are resilient now 
and into the future. Inherent redundancy 
within our network helps to minimise 
service disruption from physical impacts. 
Additionally, our relatively short duration 
planning cycles allow us to adapt quickly 
to regulatory change and leverage the 
opportunities of a decarbonising 
economy.

How climate informs our business 
planning
The findings of the scenario analysis 
highlighted our need to focus our climate 
action planning on:
• building power resilience across our 

network

• achieving tangible emissions reduction
• enabling the transition to a low carbon 
economy for our customers and supply 
chain.

This has informed the objectives of the 
Sustaining our planet pillar in our 
sustainability strategy.

Remuneration for our executives and the 
majority of our global employees includes 
a variable component linked to 
performance against a range of personal 
and company objectives. Company 
objectives are aligned to selected T25 
objectives and in FY23 included absolute 
scope 1+2 emissions reduction. In 
addition, executives and staff with 
climate-related accountabilities have 
climate-related outcomes incorporated in 
their personal objectives and hence 
variable remuneration tied to climate-
related outcomes.

To ensure we are funding programs which 
reduce emissions, emissions reduction 
potential is now a criterion in annual 
budget planning for discretionary 
initiatives. Since FY19 we have invested 
over $75 million in emissions reduction 

6.  This figure was first disclosed in the FY22 Climate Change Report. There has been no material change to our Australian above ground assets in FY23.
7.  An asset was determined to be at risk if it experienced greater than 30 days per year above 35oC.

40
40

Understanding our climate risk | Telstra Annual Report 2023

programs across our networks and 
infrastructure, including over $49 million 
in FY23 which will deliver over 
100,000tCO2e annualised emissions 
reduction. In addition to decarbonisation, 
these projects have also reduced our 
operational costs through reducing our 
annual energy, maintenance, and carbon 
credit expenses. These initiatives only 
reflect the specific investment in 
emissions reduction activities and do not 
include broader investment to upgrade 
our network, which also delivers 
emissions reduction benefits. We plan to 
disclose our detailed decarbonisation 
transition plan as part of our FY24 
reporting.

In FY23 we have also embedded a climate 
risk screening process for potential 
merger or acquisition candidates. More 
information can be found in the Risk 
Management section.

To minimise our transition risk exposure, 
product teams are leveraging circular 
economy principles to design out 
emissions and waste streams, and our 
operations teams are looking to utilise 
new and emerging technologies to deploy 
a net-zero emissions network of the 
future. Further information regarding 
these programs can be found in our 
Bigger Picture 2023 Sustainability Report 
at telstra.com.au/sustainability#Reports.

Risk Management

Identifying and assessing climate-
related risks
Guidance on climate risk appetite, 
prioritisation and ambition is sought from 
the Board, ARC, CEOLT, Sustainability 
Executive, EEG members and other 
Executives with relevant climate-related 
accountabilities. Our risk registers are 
reviewed and updated regularly, and all 
risks are reviewed at least yearly.

The significance of a climate-related risk 
is determined based upon our Enterprise 
Risk Exposure Matrix which identifies, 
assesses, and manages business risks 
through a five-step process aligned to 
international standard ISO 31000:2018. 
This process assesses our overall 
exposure across a range of risk areas 
including environment (which contains 
climate considerations). We use this 
approach when considering both existing 
and emerging climate-related risks, such 
as emerging regulatory requirements.

New and emerging climate-related risks 
are typically first identified from regular 
monitoring of external drivers, such as 
electricity grid emissions factors or 
legislative reform, or triggered by specific 
internal processes, such as monitoring 
progress towards our climate 
commitments. We also conduct a 
sustainability materiality assessment 
each year using a survey of internal and 

external stakeholders, which identifies 
and prioritises topics of greatest 
significance from both a community 
impact and financial risk perspective.

Managing climate-related risks
When managing our climate-related risks, 
we draw upon our overall risk 
management approach. We consider the 
likelihood of a risk occurring and the 
consequence if it did. We then ensure we 
take action to operate within our risk 
appetite or adapt to the risk where we 
cannot mitigate it fully.

In FY23, three of our key risk 
management activities included 
developing a climate risk screening 
process for mergers and acquisitions, 
improving our network power resilience, 
and ensuring our carbon credit due 
diligence is robust.

Assessing climate risk for mergers and 
acquisitions
In FY23 we have incorporated a staged 
screening mechanism into our mergers 
and acquisitions process to review 
possible merger/acquisition candidates 
for impacts to our emissions reduction 
target and a range of physical and 
transition climate-related risks. Initial 
screening and subsequent risk profiling is 
based on factors including industry type, 
location, and scale of operations. This 
test is applied prior to a non-binding 
indicative offer and, depending on the 
risk rating outcome, will determine if a 
more detailed assessment is required. For 
candidates with a climate risk rating of 
medium or high, further review and 
assessment will be carried out during due 
diligence to determine estimated costs 
for mitigation and adaptation measures. 
These cost impacts, alongside risk 
mitigation plans, will inform the 
investment decision and be considered as 
part of the business case.

Network resilience
The scenario analysis highlighted that 
while our network is resilient to acute and 
chronic physical climate-related risks, we 
are reliant upon the mains electricity 
network having a similar level of 
resilience. To mitigate this exposure our 
operations teams have worked to improve 
the power resilience at high priority sites 
through the deployment of extended 
battery backup, and piloting of automatic 
transfer units (ATUs) which automatically 
switch our assets to backup generation, if 
deployed, when a mains electricity 
outage is detected.

We have incorporated both the insights 
and underlying climate data from our 
scenario analysis into our network 
resilience and adaptation plans. Our 
infrastructure assets will likely be 
exposed to the same acute and chronic 
physical climate hazards now and into 
the future. However, the nature of the 
exposure and impact may change in time. 

Through embedding future climate risk 
data into our existing systems, we have:

• assessed the risk exposure of network 

sites to fire, flood, and cyclones

• tested infrastructure design standards 

to improve resilience

• revised the standards of backup power 

systems with the aim of providing 
longer duration power reserves to sites 
deemed at risk

• prioritised lifecycle funding to those 

sites assessed at risk.

Carbon credits
As we see accelerated action towards a 
low carbon economy, there is increasing 
scrutiny upon the climate actions of 
organisations and, in particular, the use 
of carbon credits and green claims.

We believe that carbon credit criteria and 
standards are critical to ensure the 
environmental integrity and liquidity of 
carbon credits and markets. We have 
developed a governance framework to 
manage risks associated with the 
purchase of carbon credits towards our 
carbon neutral commitment. This 
framework is underpinned by corporate 
policies and carbon principles, an 
assessment framework and approval 
process for credit purchases. Our 
framework for project assessment 
exceeds the global standards for quality 
carbon credits in the voluntary market. 
When sourcing carbon credits our 
overarching objectives include:

• robust determination of the project’s 
emissions impact (additionality) and 
governance around the carbon credit 
program

• avoiding double counting of emissions 

reduction

• addressing non-permanence and carbon 

leakage issues

• alignment to Telstra corporate policies, 

commitments, and brand

• enhancing adoption of low, zero or 
negative emissions technology and 
practices

• improving environmental and social 

impact.

Telstra’s carbon credit assessment 
framework considers both risks 
associated with the project proponent 
and project partner aligned to our 
supplier governance framework. Applying 
this framework, Telstra has assessed 
hundreds of carbon credit projects with 
only a small number of projects meeting 
our due diligence criteria.

Our carbon credits have been sourced 
from projects that avoid, reduce, or 
remove greenhouse gas emissions. All 
credits purchased exceed the Australian 
Government’s Climate Active program 
guidelines and our annual product 
disclosure statements provide details 
around our portfolio and the projects, as 
well as page 43 below.

41
41

We are reviewing the language we use in 
relation to our carbon neutral 
certifications and carbon offsetting 
programs, to increase transparency and 
help consumers understand the actions 
we are taking, both to reduce our 
emissions by 50 per cent by 2030 and 
offset our remaining emissions.

Metrics and targets

The concentration of greenhouse gases in 
the atmosphere is the driver of climate 
change. As a result, our greenhouse gas 
emissions across scopes 1, 2, and 38 are 
our most important metric. Emissions 

reduction is our most significant climate 
target and energy and emissions volumes 
underpin our two other climate targets.

In 2020 we set three climate-related 
goals as part of our commitment to 
sustainability:

• reduce our absolute emissions9 by at 

least 50 per cent by 2030 (from a FY19 
baseline)

• enable renewable energy generation 

equivalent to 100 per cent of our 
consumption by 2025

• to be carbon neutral in our operations 

from 2020.

In 2021 we extended our 50 per cent 
emissions reduction target that focused 
on scope 1+2 emissions to also include 
our scope 3 emissions. Our carbon 
neutral commitment focuses on first 
reducing emissions aligned to this target 
then fully offsetting the residual 
emissions related to our business on our 
journey to net zero emissions.

Our emissions
Our reported emissions are those of 
Telstra Group, including both our 
domestic and international operations. 
These emissions are calculated according 
to Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Protocol 
methodology10.

Telstra’s emissions 
(tCO2e11)

FY19

FY20

FY21

FY22

FY23

Scope 1 total

47,204

36,905

33,085

31,869

30,738

Scope 2 total

1,259,292

1,210,145

1,130,584

1,092,011

879,870

Reduction since  
FY19

30% across  
scope 1+2 combined

Scope 3 total12

2,601,807

2,299,132

1,799,820

1,793,312

1,865,812

28%

 Telstra greenhouse gas emissions

8.   Scope 1 and 2 emissions are those associated with the fuels (such as natural gas, petrol, or diesel) and grid electricity we use directly as part of our operations. Scope 3 

emissions are the indirect upstream and downstream emissions from value chain activities.

9.   Covers scopes 1, 2, and 3. Target was extended to include scope 3 in 2021.
10.  Full details of our emissions profile can be found in the Bigger Picture 2023 Sustainability Report Data Pack at telstra.com.au/sustainability#Reports.
11. Tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent.
12.   In preparing our FY23 reporting we identified that the emissions associated with joint ventures and associated investments were not being captured in our reporting of 
scope 3 emissions, in addition we identified an instance of duplicated emissions within scope 3 category 15. Both these anomalies have been rectified and the updates 
applied to previous years’ data. As a result, the figures listed here differ from those reported in previous years.

42
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Understanding our climate risk | Telstra Annual Report 2023

The Digicel Pacific acquisition (which 
closed in FY23) has been excluded from 
Telstra’s emissions reporting and targets 
in FY23 as we have not yet been able to 
compile timely and quality environment 
data that aligns to the GHG Protocol. A 
detailed program of work has been 
launched to align environment data 
processes and controls with the aim to 
quantitatively disclose the Digicel Pacific 
impact in our FY24 reporting.

Reduce our absolute emissions by at 
least 50 per cent by 2030 (from an FY19 
baseline)
In 2020, we set a target to reduce our 
global absolute scope 1+2 emissions by 
50 per cent by 2030 (from a FY19 
baseline). We extended this target to 
include our scope 3 emissions in 
December 2021. Our targets have been 
validated by the Science Based Targets 
Initiative (SBTi) as consistent with the 
level of decarbonisation required to keep 
global temperature increase below 1.5oC 
compared to pre-industrial levels.

We track performance against our 
combined scope 1+2 emissions and scope 
3 emissions separately, requiring a 50 per 
cent reduction by 2030 in each of these 
categories. We calculate our emissions 
according to GHG Protocol and report 
progress via our Bigger Picture 2023 
Sustainability Report.

We model and update our scope 1+2 
emissions target trajectory to 2030 
regularly, taking account of actual 
monthly scope 1+2 emissions, emissions 
reduction project performance, 
anticipated business growth, and a range 
of grid decarbonisation scenarios from 
the Australian Energy Market Operator 
(AEMO) Integrated System Plan.

Since FY19 we have reduced scope 1+2 
emissions by 30 per cent, ahead of the 
trajectory required to reach our FY30 
target. We have also performed strongly 
in reducing scope 3 emissions by 28 per 
cent since FY19. However, there is still 
some risk to our scope 3 target while we 
work through impacts and 
decarbonisation opportunities from the 
acquisition of Digicel Pacific. In 2022 we 
noted that we were assessing the impact 
of retail energy growth in relation to our 
scope 3 emissions reduction target. The 
scaling of our retail energy products has 
since been paused. If we make a decision 
to scale our energy retail products, we 
will communicate any material impacts 
to our scope 3 target.

Each year Telstra reports to the Carbon 
Disclosure Project (CDP) to track our 
progress and performance of climate-
related issues against the global index. 
We use this metric as a barometer of our 
performance and in FY23 received an ‘A’ 
Leadership rating for our CDP 
submission, placing us among the top 

two per cent of respondents globally. We 
use the insights from our CDP submission 
to focus attention on areas to improve 
management of climate-related issues.

The emissions of our suppliers represent 
a significant portion of our scope 3 
emissions. Climate considerations are 
embedded in our supplier contracts via 
Telstra’s Supplier Code of Conduct. 
Through our Sustainability Champions 
Network, we support our suppliers to 
measure their emissions, set meaningful 
targets, and disclose to CDP, and in FY23 
we were recognised by the CDP as a 
supplier engagement leader. We monitor 
our progress, influence, and reach 
through a range of metrics. Two of these 
metrics include 1) the number of our 
suppliers that also provide climate-
related data to CDP, both as a total 
number of suppliers and as a percent of 
our total supplier spend; and 2) the 
number of our top suppliers with 
emissions reduction targets, including 
those with contract clauses requiring 
emissions reduction.

Enable renewable energy generation 
equivalent to 100 per cent of our 
consumption by 2025
As one of Australia’s largest electricity 
users, in 2020 we set a target to enable 
renewable energy generation equivalent 
to 100 per cent of our consumption by 
2025. To meet this target, we are 
underwriting the development of new 
Australian renewable generation capacity 
such as solar parks and wind farms to 
accelerate the decarbonisation of the 
electricity grid for all users through long-
term renewable energy contracts. By the 
end of FY23, the operational output of 
projects we support was equivalent to 30 
per cent of our consumption.

We recently signed a Power Purchase 
Agreement (PPA) for the new Munna 
Creek Solar Farm near Gympie in 
Queensland. That agreement is expected 
to deliver at least 124GWh annually once 
it becomes fully operational. As a result, 
we have now contracted renewable 
energy generation equivalent to over 80 
per cent of our consumption.

There is a risk that the operational output 
of those projects will not reach the 
equivalent of 100 per cent of our 
consumption by the end of 2025. At this 
stage we believe it is more likely than not 
that the target will be achieved by that 
date. However, utility-scale renewable 
projects have long lead times to become 
operational, with complexity in planning, 
construction, and grid connection. More 
recently, these factors (especially supply 
chain issues) have been exacerbated by 
COVID-19 and the Ukrainian conflict. Our 
target is based on long term financial 
commitments that support the build of 
new renewable energy sites, with a 

lasting and additive impact on the 
decarbonisation of Australia’s electricity 
grid for all users. We do not plan to 
change the principles or parameters for 
our renewable energy investments in 
response to these challenges. To help 
mitigate the risk to this target we will 
continue to implement projects which 
reduce our energy consumption.

We are also executing initiatives (and 
investigating opportunities) to improve 
the capacity of the electricity grid and 
the market to absorb more renewable 
electricity.

Carbon neutral in our operations from 
2020
Telstra has been certified carbon neutral 
(by fully offsetting our residual emissions 
after achieving emissions reduction 
across our global operations) by Climate 
Active since 2020. Our investment in 
carbon credits complements our focus on 
decarbonising our operations, the 
electricity grid, and the economy. Our 
carbon neutral certifications include 
organisation and selected product and 
services. During FY23 Telstra-branded 
consumer (pre- and post-paid), small 
business and enterprise mobile plans and 
mobile broadband plans were also 
certified carbon neutral.

We achieve carbon neutral certification 
by following Climate Active standards 
which require Telstra to measure the 
emissions of our business, reduce our 
emissions then surrender carbon credits 
to offset any remaining emissions on our 
pathway to net zero.

In FY23, to maintain the Telstra Group’s 
carbon neutral certifications we 
purchased approximately 2.26 million 
carbon credits with over 99 per cent from 
wind, solar and energy efficient 
manufacturing processes in India, and 
the remaining volume from savanna 
burning projects in Australia.

Telstra is working not just to acquire 
carbon credits but to improve the supply 
of Australian Carbon Credit Units 
(ACCUs) through our investments and 
partnerships in carbon sequestration, 
such as our carbon farm pilot in 
Yarrowyck, NSW.

More information about our due diligence 
arrangements and carbon credit portfolio 
can be found in the earlier Risk 
Management section, in our Bigger 
Picture 2023 Sustainability Report at 
telstra.com.au/sustainability#Reports 
and our carbon neutral website at telstra.
com.au/exchange/carbon-neutral.

For further information about our 
climate-related risks, opportunities and 
progress please refer to our Bigger 
Picture 2023 Sustainability Report at 
telstra.com.au/sustainability#Reports.

43
43

Governance 
at Telstra

We are committed to excellence in 
corporate governance, transparency 
and accountability. This is essential 
for the long-term performance and 
sustainability of our company, and 
to protect and enhance the interests 
of our shareholders and other 
stakeholders.

Our governance arrangements and practices play an integral 
role in supporting our business and helping us deliver on our 
strategy.

They provide the structure through which our strategy and 
business objectives are set, our performance is monitored, and 
the risks we face are managed.

They include a clear framework for decision making and 
accountability across our business and provide guidance on the 
standards of behaviour we expect of each other.

Telstra complies with the fourth edition of the ASX Corporate 
Governance Council’s Corporate Governance Principles and 
Recommendations, and we review our governance practices in 
light of current and emerging corporate governance 
developments of relevance to our company, and to reflect 
market practice, expectations and regulatory changes as 
appropriate.

Our 2023 Corporate Governance Statement, which provides 
more information about governance at Telstra and summarises 
our governance arrangements and practices during FY231, can 
be found on our website at telstra.com/governance.

t
n
e
d
n
e
p
e
d
n

I

e
c
i
v
d
a
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a
e
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n
a
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u
s
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a

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g
a
n
a
m
k
s
i
r
d
n
a
y
g
e
t
a
r
t
S

Shareholders and stakeholders

Telstra Group Limited Board

Audit & Risk 
Committee

People & 
Remuneration 
Committee

Nomination 
Committee

CEO

CEO Leadership Team

Our People

Policies, systems and processes

Key

Delegation, oversight

Accountability, reporting

P
u
r
p
o
s
e

,

v
a
l
u
e
s
a
n
d
c
u
l
t
u
r
e

Our governance 
framework includes:

• open, clear and timely 

communications with our 
shareholders

• a skilled, experienced, 

diverse and independent 
Board, with a Board 
Committee structure suited 
to our needs

• clear delegation, decision 
making and accountability 
frameworks

• robust systems of risk 

management and assurance

• Telstra Values and Telstra 

Group Code of Conduct and 
policy framework which 
explain what we stand for as 
an organisation and how we 
will conduct ourselves as 
we work together to deliver 
our strategy.

1.    On 31 October 2022, Telstra Group Limited became the new listed head entity of the Telstra Group following implementation of the top hat component of the scheme of 

arrangement between Telstra Corporation Limited and its shareholders. Telstra Group Limited has substantially the same corporate governance framework and 
arrangements as Telstra Corporation Limited had when it was the listed head entity of the Telstra Group.

44

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Directors' 
Report

45

Directors' 
Report

In accordance with a resolution of the Board, the Directors present their 
report on the consolidated entity (Telstra Group) consisting of Telstra Group 
Limited (Telstra) and the entities it controlled at the end of, or during, the 
year ended, 30 June 2023. Financial comparisons used in this report are of 
results for the year ended 30 June 2023 compared with the results for the 
year ended 30 June 2022.

The historical financial information included in this Directors’ Report has 
been extracted from the audited Financial Report accompanying this 
Directors’ Report.

Principal activity

Our principal activity during the financial year was to provide 
telecommunications and information services for domestic and 
international customers. There has been no significant change 
in the nature of this activity during the year.

Review and results of operations

Information on the operations and financial position for the 
Telstra Group is set out in the Operating and Financial Review 
(OFR), comprising the Chairman and CEO’s message, FY23 
Financial performance, FY23 highlights, Strategy and 
performance, Our material risks, Outlook and Full year results 
and operations review sections accompanying this Directors’ 
Report.

Dividend

The objectives of our Capital Management Framework are to 
maximise returns for shareholders, maintain financial strength 
and retain financial flexibility. The objectives of our Capital 
Management Framework are supported by the following 
principles:

• Committed to balance sheet settings consistent with an A 

band credit rating

• Maximise fully franked dividend and seek to grow over time1

• Ongoing business-as-usual capex of circa $3 billion per 

annum excluding spectrum2

• Invest for growth and return excess cash to shareholders.

On 16 February 2023, the Directors resolved to pay a fully 
franked interim dividend for the financial year 2023 of 8.5 cents 
per share.

On 17 August 2023, the Directors resolved to pay a fully franked 
final dividend for the financial year 2023 of 8.5 cents per share 
($982 million). The record date for the final dividend will be 31 
August 2023, with payment to be made on 28 September 2023. 
Shares will trade excluding entitlement to the final dividend on 
30 August 2023.

Further information regarding the financial year 2023 dividends 
is set out in the Full year results and operations review 
accompanying this Directors’ Report.

The Board determined that the Dividend Reinvestment Plan 
(DRP) will continue to operate for the final dividend for the 
financial year 2023. The election date for participation in the 
DRP is 1 September 2023.

Dividends paid during the year were as follows:

Dividend

Date 
resolved

Date 
paid

Fully 
franked 
dividend 
per share

Total 
dividend 
($m)

Total final 
dividend for 
the year ended 
30 June 2022

Total interim 
dividend for 
the year ended 
30 June 2023

11 Aug 
2022

21 Sep 
2022

8.5 cents

982

16 Feb 
2023

31 Mar 
2023

8.5 cents

982

1.  The dividend is subject to no unexpected material events and is subject to Board discretion having regard to financial and market conditions, business needs and maintenance of 

financial strength and flexibility consistent with the Telstra Group's capital management framework.

2. Capex is measured on an accrued basis and excludes spectrum and guidance adjustments, externally funded capex, and capitalised leases.

46

Significant changes in the state of affairs

During the reporting period, Telstra Corporation Limited 
implemented a scheme of arrangement (Scheme) to support 
the restructure of the Telstra Group (Restructure) first 
announced in November 2020. The Restructure was an internal 
legal reorganisation and did not, by itself, result in any 
immediate change to the underlying assets or business 
activities of the Telstra Group.

The Scheme was comprised of two components: the top hat 
component which established the Telstra Entity as the parent 
entity of the Telstra Group, and the business restructure 
component which was used to transfer certain assets and 
liabilities within the Telstra Group. The Restructure also 
involved certain other steps in addition to the Scheme.  
While these steps were completed over a period of time,  
for accounting purposes, all the steps should be considered 
together as they were undertaken in contemplation of the 
Restructure as a whole.

The top hat component of the Scheme was implemented on  
31 October 2022 and the business restructure component of  
the Scheme was implemented on 1 January 2023.

On implementation of the top hat component, all of the shares 
in Telstra Corporation Limited (11,554,427,353 in total) were 
transferred to the Telstra Entity in exchange for the issue of 
11,554,427,353 shares in Telstra Group Limited to eligible Telstra 
Corporation Limited shareholders under the Scheme, and 
Telstra Group Limited became the parent entity of Telstra 
Corporation Limited and its controlled entities.

On 31 October 2022, Telstra Group Limited became the new 
head entity of the Australian tax consolidated group.

On 30 November 2022, Telstra Group Limited became the 
sponsoring employer in our Telstra Superannuation Scheme.

On 1 January 2023, the final steps of the Restructure (including 
the business restructure component of the Scheme) were 
completed. Those steps involved Telstra Corporation Limited 
transferring the retail and active wholesale business assets  
and liabilities and related investments to Telstra Limited, and 
the international business assets and liabilities and related 
investments to Telstra International Holdings Pty Ltd and its 
controlled entities. Telstra Corporation Limited also transferred 
its interest in Telstra Towerco No.2 Pty Ltd, being the wholly-
owned entity which holds an interest in the Amplitel towers 
business and related investments, to Telstra Group Limited. 
Following the Restructure, Telstra Corporation Limited 
continues to operate our passive fixed infrastructure business 
and service our nbn Definitive Agreements.

The businesses and investments transferred between Telstra 
Corporation Limited and Telstra Group Limited or other  
entities within the Telstra Group under the Restructure did  
not result in business combinations for accounting purposes. 
Accordingly, the Restructure was accounted for as an internal 
reorganisation, i.e. assets and liabilities transferred were 
recognised at their existing values in the statement of financial 
position. From the Telstra Group perspective, the internal 
reorganisation transfers eliminate on consolidation, i.e. they  
do not impact the Telstra Group financial results.

Accordingly, the consolidated financial statements have  
been presented as a continuation of the existing financial 
performance and financial position of the Telstra Group.  
As such, as at and for the period ended 30 June 2023, the 
consolidated financial statements of the Telstra Group include 
the historical financial information of the Telstra Group for both 
the period before and after the Restructure.

Refer to notes 1.2, 6.1 and 7.3 of the 2023 financial report for 
further details about the Restructure.

Directors’ Report | Telstra Annual Report 2023

Business strategies, prospects and likely 
developments

The OFR sets out information on Telstra’s business strategies 
and prospects for future financial years, and refers to likely 
developments in Telstra's operations and the expected results 
of those operations in future financial years. Information in the 
OFR is provided to enable shareholders to make an informed 
assessment of the business strategies and prospects for future 
financial years of the Telstra Group. Detail that could give rise 
to likely material detriment to Telstra (for example, information 
that is commercially sensitive, is confidential or could give a 
third party a commercial advantage) has not been included. 
Other than the information set out in the OFR, information 
about other likely developments in Telstra's operations and the 
expected results of those operations in future financial years 
has not been included.

Events occurring after the end of the financial year

The Directors are not aware of any matter or circumstance  
that has arisen since the end of the financial year that, in their 
opinion, has significantly affected, or may significantly affect  
in future years, Telstra’s operations, the results of those 
operations or the state of Telstra’s affairs, other than the final 
dividend for the financial year 2023 and that the DRP will 
operate in respect of that dividend.

Refer to note 7.5, Events after reporting date, of the 2023 
Financial Report for details.

Details of Directors and executives

Changes to the Directors of the parent entity of the Telstra 
Group (i.e. Telstra Corporation Limited prior to 31 October 2022 
and Telstra Group Limited on and from 31 October 2022) during 
the financial year and up to the date of this report were:

• Andrew R Penn (MBA (Kingston), AMP (Harvard), FCCA, 

HFAIPM) retired as Managing Director and Chief Executive 
Officer on 31 August 2022. Mr Penn joined the Board in May 
2015.

• Vicki Brady commenced as Managing Director and Chief 

Executive Officer on 1 September 2022.

• Nora L Scheinkestel (LLB (Hons), PhD, FAICD) retired as a 

non-executive Director on 11 October 2022. Dr Scheinkestel 
joined the Board in August 2010 and was a member of the 
Audit & Risk Committee (previously Chairman Audit & Risk 
Committee 2012-2019), the Nomination Committee and the 
People & Remuneration Committee.

• Ming Long joined as a non-executive Director on 1 January 

2023.

• Maxine Brenner joined as a non-executive Director on 17 

February 2023.

Information about our Directors and Senior Executives is 
provided as follows:

• names of our current Directors and details of their 

qualifications, experience, special responsibilities, periods of 
service and directorships of other listed companies are set out 
in the Board of Directors section accompanying this 
Directors’ Report

• details of Director and Senior Executive remuneration are set 

out in the Remuneration Report, which forms part of the 
Directors’ Report.

47

Board and Committee meeting attendance

Details of the number of meetings held by the Board and its Committees during financial year 20232, and attendance by Board 
members, are set out below:

Board

Audit and Risk

Nomination

People and 
Remuneration

Committees6

a

12

10

2

12

4

12

12

6

12

12

3

12

b

11

10

2

12

4

12

12

6

12

12

3

12

a

–

–

–

–

3

10

10

5

–

4

3

–

b

(5)

(8)

(2)

(2)

3

10

10

5

(2)

6 (2)

3

(2)

a

6

–

–

6

2

6

6

3

6

6

1

6

b

6

(5)

(1)

6

2

6

5

3

5

6

1

6

a

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

1

2

4

2

4

b

(1)

(3)

(1)

–

–

–

–

1

1

4

2

4

John Mullen

Vicki Brady3

Andrew R Penn4

Eelco Blok

Maxine Brenner3

Roy H Chestnutt

Craig W Dunn

Ming Long3

Bridget Loudon5

Elana Rubin

Nora L Scheinkestel4

Niek Jan van Damme

Total number of meetings held

12

10

6

4

Column a: number of meetings held while a member. Column b: number of meetings attended.
1.   Committee meetings are open to all Directors to attend. Where a Director has attended a meeting of a Committee of which he or she was not a member, this is 

indicated by ( ).

2.   The details of the number of meetings held by the Board and its Committees and attendance by Board members are reflective of Board and Committee meetings of 

Telstra Corporation Limited prior to 31 October 2022 and Telstra Group Limited on and from 31 October 2022.

3.   Vicki Brady commenced as Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director on 1 September 2022, Ming Long joined as a non-executive Director on 1 January 2023, 

and Maxine Brenner joined as a non-executive Director on 17 February 2023.

4.   Andrew R Penn retired as Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director on 31 August 2022. Nora L Scheinkestel retired as a non-executive Director on 11 October 

2022.

5.   The Board granted Bridget Loudon leave of absence from 1 May to 30 June 2023.
6.   From time to time the Board establishes ad hoc committees to support the Board in carrying out its responsibilities. Details of those ad hoc committees have not 

been included in the table.

Director shareholdings in Telstra

Group Company Secretary

Sue Laver BA, LLB (Hons) (Monash), GAICD, FGIA
Sue was appointed Company Secretary of Telstra Corporation 
Limited effective 1 February 2018 and of Telstra Group Limited 
effective 31 May 2021.

Sue is a senior legal and governance professional with over  
20 years’ experience advising senior management and boards. 
Sue reports to the board and her duties include continuous 
disclosure compliance, corporate governance and 
communication with Telstra’s around 1.2 million shareholders.

Sue joined Telstra in 1997 and has served in senior legal roles 
throughout the company including as Deputy Group General 
Counsel, and General Counsel roles across the company 
including: Dispute Resolution, HR, Finance, Risk and 
Compliance, Media and Telstra Country Wide.

She holds a Bachelor of Laws (Hons) and a Bachelor of Arts 
from Monash University.

Details of Directors’ shareholdings in Telstra as at 17 August 
2023 are shown in the table below:

Director

John P Mullen

Vicki Brady2

Eelco Blok

Maxine Brenner

Roy H Chestnutt

Craig W Dunn

Ming Long

Bridget Loudon

Elana Rubin

Niek Jan van Damme

Number of shares held1

126,159

771,888

75,000

–

70,000

70,073

51,589

12,500

67,961

77,000

1.    The number of shares held refers to shares held either directly or indirectly by 
Directors as at 17 August 2023. Shares in which the Director does not have a 
relevant interest, including shares held by the Directors’ related parties 
(including relatives), are excluded. Refer to the Remuneration Report tables for 
total shares held by Directors and their related parties directly, indirectly or 
beneficially as at 30 June 2023.

2.  Vicki Brady also holds 760,902 Performance Rights.

48

Directors’ Report | Telstra Annual Report 2023

(b) Energy and greenhouse emissions
In Australia, Telstra is subject to the reporting requirements of 
the National Greenhouse and Energy Reporting Act 2007, which 
requires Telstra to report its annual Australian greenhouse gas 
emissions, energy consumption and energy production. Telstra 
has implemented systems and processes for the collection and 
reporting of data and has, in accordance with our obligations, 
reported to the Clean Energy Regulator on an annual basis.  
The next report is due on 31 October 2023 and will again be 
supported with an independent assurance report.

In the United Kingdom, Telstra is subject to the Energy Savings 
Opportunity Scheme (ESOS) Regulations 2014. Telstra qualifies 
for ESOS and must carry out energy savings assessments every 
four years. These assessments are audits of the energy used  
by our buildings, network facilities and transport to identify 
cost-effective energy saving measures. Telstra has met its 
obligations under ESOS for all compliance periods to date, 
being those first two compliance periods ended 5 December 
2015 and 5 December 2019.

For more information on environmental performance, including 
environmental regulation, refer to the 2023 Sustainability 
Report, which is available from 1 September 2023 online at 
telstra.com/sustainability/report.

Non-audit services

During the financial year 2023, Telstra’s auditor, Ernst & Young 
(EY), has been engaged on assignments additional to its 
statutory audit duties. Details of the amounts paid or payable 
to EY for audit and non-audit services provided during the 
financial year are detailed in note 7.1 to the financial statements 
in our 2023 Financial Report.

The Directors are satisfied, based on advice provided by the 
Audit & Risk Committee, that the provision of non-audit 
services during the financial year 2023 is consistent with the 
general standard of independence for auditors imposed by the 
Act and that the nature and scope of each type of non-audit 
service provided did not compromise the auditor independence 
requirements of the Act for the following reasons:

• all EY engagements, including non-audit services, were 

approved in accordance with the external auditor services 
policy adopted by Telstra and subject to confirmation by EY 
that the provision of these services does not compromise 
auditor independence;

• the external auditor services policy clearly identifies 

prohibited services, which include reviewing or auditing the 
auditor’s own work or EY partners or staff acting in a 
managerial or decision-making capacity for Telstra; and

• the provision of non-audit services by EY is monitored by the 
Audit & Risk Committee via periodic reporting to the Audit & 
Risk Committee.

A copy of the auditor’s independence declaration is set out in 
the Auditor’s Independence Declaration to the Directors of 
Telstra Group Limited and forms part of this report.

Directors’ and officers’ indemnity and insurance

(a) Constitution
Telstra’s constitution contains permissive provisions allowing  
it to indemnify, to the maximum extent permitted by law:

• certain officers of Telstra and its related bodies corporate 

(Telstra Officers), for any liability and legal costs which they 
may incur in that capacity;

• certain employees of Telstra and its related bodies corporate 
(Telstra Employees), for any liability which they may incur in 
that capacity; and

• Telstra Officers and Telstra Employees, for any liability which 
they may incur as a director or other officer of a company that 
is not related to Telstra.

(b) Deeds of indemnity
Telstra has also executed deeds of indemnity in favour of past 
and present (amongst others):

• directors, secretaries, senior managers and public officers of 

Telstra and its wholly owned controlled subsidiaries;

• certain directors, secretaries, senior managers and other 

specified positions of Telstra’s partly-owned companies; and

• certain Telstra Group directors, employees and other persons 

that act as nominee directors or secretaries, or in other 
positions (at Telstra’s request) for entities or industry 
associations,

in each case as permitted under Telstra’s constitution and the 
Corporations Act 2001 (the Act).

The deeds in favour of Directors of Telstra also give Directors 
certain rights of access to Telstra’s books and require Telstra  
to use best endeavours to maintain insurance cover for the 
Directors.

(c) Directors’ and officers’ insurance
Telstra maintains directors' and officers' insurance policies that, 
subject to some exceptions, provide worldwide insurance cover 
to past, present and future directors, secretaries and officers 
and certain employees of Telstra and its subsidiaries and, in 
certain limited circumstances, other entities. Telstra has paid 
the premiums for these policies. The directors' and officers' 
insurance policies prohibit disclosure of the premiums payable 
under the policies and the nature of the liabilities insured.

Environmental regulation and performance

Telstra, as a minimum, seeks to be compliant with all applicable 
environmental laws and regulatory obligations relevant to its 
operations. Where instances of non-compliance may occur, 
Telstra has procedures requiring that internal investigations are 
conducted to determine the cause of the non-compliance and 
to ensure that any risk of recurrence is minimised. Telstra’s 
procedures further require that the relevant government 
authorities are notified of any environmental incidents (where 
applicable) in compliance with statutory requirements. Telstra 
complies with notices issued by government authorities and 
regulators.

(a) Prosecutions or convictions
Telstra has not been prosecuted for, or convicted of, any 
significant breaches of environmental regulation during the 
financial year.

49

Message from the 
People and Remuneration 
Committee Chair

Dear fellow shareholders,

On behalf of your company’s 
People and Remuneration 
Committee, I am pleased 
to present Telstra’s FY23 
Remuneration Report.

FY23 is the first year of delivery against 
our T25 strategy to improve customer 
experience, build sustainable growth, 
enhance our reputation, and further 
invest in our network and technology 
leadership. The Board continues to 
balance this strategic momentum and 
the interests of shareholders while 
motivating and retaining the best 
management talent that we can attract.

While the Remuneration Report focuses 
on the remuneration of our senior 
management, the People and 
Remuneration Committee has spent 
much time overseeing the significant 
investment in talent and skills 
enhancement in our company that 
underpins our T25 strategy. We have 
focused on promoting an environment 
that is inclusive, accessible and 
supportive and have elevated employee 
engagement and culture to support these 
ambitions.

Senior Executive changes in FY23
During the year our previously announced 
changes to our Senior Executive team 
took effect with the departure of Andrew 
Penn, our former CEO, and Alex 
Badenoch, our former Group Executive 
Transformation, Communications and 
People. We are very grateful for their 
leadership in their time at Telstra. Other 
changes were the promotion of Vicki 
Brady to CEO, Michael Ackland to CFO 
and the commencement of Brad 
Whitcomb as Group Executive Consumer 
and Small Business (C&SB). We were also 
very pleased to appoint two new non-
executive directors to our board, Ming 
Long and Maxine Brenner, and thank Nora 
Scheinkestel who retired from the Board 
in October 2022 for her significant 
contribution throughout her time on the 
Board. Further details on these changes 
are provided in the Key Management 
Personnel Section of our Remuneration 
Report.

FY23 executive remuneration 
outcomes
Telstra’s Executive Variable 
Remuneration Plan (EVP) is designed to 
ensure a significant portion of 
remuneration is variable and at-risk. 
Individual outcomes under the EVP 

depend on performance against primary 
performance measures (comprising 
financial, customer, and strategic 
measures) and the Performance Rights 
component is also subject to a secondary 
performance measure (being Telstra’s 
Relative Total Shareholder Return (RTSR) 
performance condition).

As we noted in our last Remuneration 
Report, in FY23 the percentage of 
variable remuneration payable at target 
(200%) and maximum performance 
(300%) was aligned for the CEO and the 
Group Executives (GEs), and Individual 
EVP Outcomes were determined by 
multiplying the EVP Scorecard Outcome 
by a percentage, based on each Senior 
Executive's individual performance. Of 
course, the Board continues to have 
complete discretion in determining the 
final outcomes. Further details are 
provided in Section 2.3 of our 
Remuneration Report.

The FY23 primary performance measures 
and targets were selected by the Board to 
ensure that the CEO and GEs delivered 
against the first year of our T25 strategy, 
and their rewards are directly linked to 
individual contribution, company 
performance and long-term shareholder 
value creation. The key remuneration 
outcomes under the FY23 EVP include:
• The CEO’s Individual EVP Outcome was 

75.0% of the maximum opportunity.

• The average Individual EVP Outcome for 

all other Senior Executives (i.e. 
excluding the CEO) was 62.1% of the 
maximum opportunity.

Positive outcomes were achieved across 
many of the financial and non-financial 
primary performance measures for FY23 
demonstrating strong delivery against 
our FY23 Corporate Plan and T25 
strategy. The Board determined that the 
primary performance measure outcomes 
and the EVP Scorecard Outcome would 
be driven by the results achieved and no 
adjustments were made. Further detail 
regarding the key FY23 remuneration 
outcomes for the CEO and other Senior 
Executives and our non-executive 
director fees is provided in our 
Remuneration Report that follows this 
letter.

Vesting of the FY19 EVP Performance 
Rights was assessed over the five year 
performance period of 1 July 2018 to 30 
June 2023 against the RTSR metric. The 
FY19 EVP Performance Rights vested at 
100% based on RTSR at the 93rd 
percentile relative to the peer group over 
the performance period. Further details 
are provided in Section 2.4 of our 
Remuneration Report.

Diversity, Equity and Inclusion
Telstra recognises that strong diversity, 
equity and inclusion at work drives strong 
performance. We remain committed to 
addressing barriers to achieving greater 
diversity, equity and inclusion and 
encourage you to read about our 
initiatives in our 2023 Corporate 
Governance Statement when it is 
released on 1 September 2023.

This year, we were proud to extend our 
parental leave provisions to non-
executive directors. Bridget Louden was 
the first Telstra non-executive director to 
access paid parental leave and we look 
forward to this provision supporting 
greater diversity of non-executive 
directors in the future.

Looking ahead
In FY24 we were delighted to welcome 
our new Group Executive People, Culture 
and Communications, Kathryn van der 
Merwe, who commenced on 3 July 2023.

The Board conducts a market review of 
Senior Executive remuneration and Board 
fees on an annual basis and there will be 
some increases in FY24. Further details 
are provided in Sections 3.1(a) and 4.2 of 
our Remuneration Report.

We continue to provide market leading 
transparency and disclosure on our 
remuneration framework and targets for 
the coming year. These are disclosed in 
Section 4 of our Remuneration Report. 
This provides our shareholders with 
meaningful information to assess the 
suitability of our remuneration targets 
and outcomes. In setting performance 
measures for FY24, the Board sought to 
ensure the targets were robust and 
sufficiently demanding, considering the 
key deliverables and milestones outlined 
in our T25 strategy, planned financial 
outcomes contained within our FY24 
Corporate Plan and FY24 guidance (as 
announced on 17 August 2023).

I especially want to take this opportunity 
to thank every Telstra employee for the 
great job you have done delivering the 
first year of our T25 strategy and 
positioning Telstra strongly for future 
growth. On behalf of the People and 
Remuneration Committee, I would also 
like to thank you for your support as a 
Telstra shareholder and invite you to read 
the full report in detail.

Elana Rubin
People and Remuneration Committee 
Chair

50

Remuneration 
Report

This audited report details the 
remuneration framework and outcomes for 
Key Management Personnel of Telstra for 
the year ended 30 June 2023 (FY23).

51
51

Remuneration at Telstra and FY23 Remuneration Outcomes – Key Highlights

The following table includes the key highlights and remuneration outcomes for FY23.

Key area of focus

Highlights / Details

Remuneration 
structure

The following changes were made to the EVP in FY23:
• The threshold EVP opportunity for GEs was increased from 90% to 100% of Fixed Remuneration. The at-target EVP 

opportunity for GEs was increased from 180% to 200% of Fixed Remuneration. This aligns with the CEO’s threshold and 
at-target EVP opportunity of 100% and 200% of Fixed Remuneration respectively. The maximum EVP opportunity of 
300% of Fixed Remuneration for all Senior Executives remains unchanged.

• We adjusted the way in which the Individual EVP Outcome is determined to better reflect market practice and using an 
approach that is more consistent with how we determine variable remuneration for other employees under our Short-
Term Incentive (STI) plan.

  –  The Individual EVP Outcome for each Senior Executive is now determined by multiplying the EVP Scorecard Outcome 

by a percentage reflecting the executive’s individual performance relative to their peers in the executive team.
  –  For each Senior Executive assessed with a performance rating of 3 (on our 1 to 5 scale), this percentage was in the 

range 90% to 110%. For those with a performance rating of 4 or 5, the percentage used was higher – as was appropriate 
to reflect their relative individual performance.

In all cases, the maximum possible Individual EVP Outcome is 300% of the executive’s Fixed Remuneration.

The Board continues to have complete discretion in determining the EVP Scorecard Outcome, each executive’s multiplier 
and therefore each executive’s Individual EVP Outcome. In determining any adjustments to the Individual EVP Outcomes 
in accordance with its decision framework, the Board considers (among other things) any material risk events identified, 
the severity of their impact, and the executive’s accountability for the event.

The FY23 EVP scorecard aligned with the Company’s T25 Strategy. Refer to Section 2.2 for detail on the metrics and 
outcomes in FY23.

The Individual EVP Outcomes for FY23 were as follows:

Individual EVP 
Outcomes for 
FY23

CEO

Other Senior Executives (average)

Individual EVP Outcomes (% of maximum)

75.0%

62.1%

Each Senior Executive’s Individual EVP Outcome for FY23 was determined having regard to the EVP Scorecard Outcome, 
their at-target EVP opportunity and their individual performance and was ultimately at the discretion of the Board.

The Board determined the EVP Scorecard Outcome following an assessment of Telstra’s performance against the primary 
performance measures under the FY23 EVP. Positive outcomes were achieved across many of the financial and non-
financial measures demonstrating strong delivery against our FY23 Corporate Plan and T25 strategy. Further details on the 
EVP Scorecard Outcome can be found in Section 2.2.

The form in which Senior Executives receive their Individual EVP Outcome for FY23 is:

Award

25% Cash

Timing and conditions

Payable in September 2023.

35% Restricted Shares

25% eligible to vest each year over 4 years through to 30 June 2027, subject to a 
continuing employment condition.

40% Performance Rights

Only vest at the end of FY27 if a Relative Total Shareholder Return (RTSR) performance 
condition and continuing employment condition are achieved.

Refer to Section 2.1 for further information.

Fixed 
Remuneration

Apart from Fixed Remuneration changes on promotion for the CEO and CFO, there have been no Fixed Remuneration 
increases for Senior Executives during FY23 except to reflect the increase in legislated Superannuation Guarantee 
contributions from 1 July 2022 (refer to Section 2.1(b) for further information).

Non-executive 
director fees

As described in our FY22 Remuneration Report, the Chair and non-executive Director annual base fees, which had not 
changed since 2014 and 2012 respectively, increased by 1.9% and 2.1% respectively from 1 October 2022. The People and 
Remuneration Committee member fee had not changed since 2017 and, from 1 October 2022, increased by 1.8%.

Refer to Section 3 for information regarding remuneration paid to non-executive Directors in FY23 and planned increases 
for FY24.

52

Remuneration Report | Telstra Annual Report 2023

Key area of focus

Highlights / Details

FY19 EVP 
Performance 
Rights RTSR 
outcome

The RTSR performance condition for the Performance Rights awarded under the FY19 EVP was tested following the end of 
the performance period on 30 June 2023. The result and vesting outcome are detailed below and the Performance Rights 
fully vested. Refer to Section 2.4 for further information.

Performance Condition

Telstra’s 
Percentile Rank

% of Performance 
Rights vested

RTSR – ASX100 (excluding resource companies) 
as at 1 July 2018

93rd percentile

100%

Key Management Personnel (KMP) covered in this report

Telstra’s KMP are assessed each year and comprise the Directors of Telstra and the Senior Executives. The term “Senior Executives” 
refers to the CEO and those executives with authority and responsibility for planning, directing and controlling the activities of Telstra 
and the Group, directly or indirectly. Each KMP held their position for the whole of FY23, unless stated otherwise.

Non-executive Directors

Senior Executives

Current

John P Mullen

Eelco Blok

Maxine Brenner (from 17 February 2023)

Roy H Chestnutt

Craig W Dunn

Ming Long (from 1 January 2023)

Bridget Loudon

Elana Rubin

Niek Jan van Damme

Former

Nora L Scheinkestel 
(retired 11 October 2022)

Current

Vicki Brady

KMP Position

Chief Financial Officer and Group Executive (GE) Strategy and 
Finance (CFO) until 31 August 2022 and Chief Executive Officer & 
Managing Director (CEO) from 1 September 2022

Michael Ackland

GE Telstra Consumer & Small Business (C&SB) until 31 August 
2022 and CFO from 1 September 2022

Kim Krogh Andersen

GE Product & Technology (P&T)

David Burns

GE Telstra Enterprise (TE)

Nikos Katinakis

GE Global Networks & Technology (GN&T)

Brendon Riley

Dean Salter

GE and CEO Telstra InfraCo

GE Global Business Services (GBS)

Brad Whitcomb

GE C&SB from 16 January 2023

Former

Andrew Penn

CEO until 31 August 2022

Alex Badenoch

GE Transformation, Communications & People (TC&P) until 23 
December 2022

53

Table of contents

1. Policy

  1.1  Remuneration policy, strategy and governance

2.  Senior Executive remuneration

  2.1  FY23 Remuneration structure

  2.2  FY23 EVP Scorecard Outcome

  2.3   Individual performance and the exercise of Board discretion in determining Individual EVP Outcomes

  2.4  FY19 EVP Performance Rights RTSR Outcome

  2.5  Detailed remuneration and interests in Telstra shares

3.  Non-executive Director remuneration

  3.1  FY23 Fee structure

  3.2  Detailed remuneration and interests in Telstra shares

4. Looking forward to FY23

  4.1  Senior Executive Leadership Changes

  4.2  FY24 Senior Executive Remuneration Framework

  4.3  FY24 EVP Performance Measures and Targets

5. Glossary

54

Remuneration Report | Telstra Annual Report 2023

1.0 Policy

1.1 Remuneration policy, strategy and governance
Our remuneration policy and framework are designed to support our strategy and reinforce our culture and values. Further detail 
on our strategy is provided in this Annual Report under Strategy and Performance.

Our governance framework for determining Senior Executive remuneration includes the aspects outlined below.

(a) The People and Remuneration Committee

Audit & Risk 
Committee

Telstra Board

People & 
Remuneration 
Committee

Nomination 
Committee

The People and Remuneration 
Committee assists the Board in 
discharging its responsibilities on matters 
relating to remuneration, people, culture, 
conduct and diversity and consists only 
of independent non-executive Directors.

Our People

Among other things, the Committee:

Reviews Telstra’s 
overall remuneration 
framework and makes 
recommendations 
to the Board on 
non-executive Director 
and Senior Executive 
remuneration

Monitors that 
Telstra’s remuneration 
arrangements and 
outcomes encourage 
employees to pursue 
Telstra’s strategy 
without rewarding 
conduct that is 
contrary to Telstra’s 
values or risk appetite

Reviews selected 
people related 
risks and the risk 
management plans in 
place and monitors 
whether Telstra is 
operating within its 
risk appetite

Monitors the culture 
within Telstra and 
the effectiveness 
of management’s 
initiatives to instil 
and reinforce Telstra’s 
Values and compliance 
with Telstra’s Code 
of Conduct

Reviews Senior 
Executive succession 
plans and talent 
development plans

The Chair of the Audit and Risk Committee attends certain 
People and Remuneration Committee meetings. This provides 
an overview of the key issues considered by the Audit and Risk 
Committee that are likely to be relevant to the People and 
Remuneration Committee in assessing the remuneration 
outcomes for the CEO and the performance and remuneration 
outcomes for other Senior Executives. Information and papers 
considered by a Committee are also provided to other 
Committees and the Board as relevant.

Further detail about the People and Remuneration Committee 
and its responsibilities is provided in our Corporate Governance 
Statement and in the People and Remuneration Committee 
Charter, both of which are available at telstra.com/governance.

(b) Remuneration reviews
As part of its role, the People and Remuneration Committee 
reviews and recommends CEO and other Senior Executive 
remuneration packages that achieve a balance between fixed 
and variable pay, reflecting appropriate short and long-term 
performance objectives.

The People and Remuneration Committee has an established 
set of principles it follows in making recommendations on 
Senior Executive remuneration. Either at the time of a Senior 
Executive’s appointment or as a part of an annual or ad-hoc 
remuneration review, the People and Remuneration Committee 
will consider a range of factors in making remuneration 
recommendations. Those considerations include internal and 
external relativity for roles of a similar size and complexity, any 
proven and persistent high performance and/or any notable 
increase in experience and contribution.

The People and Remuneration Committee reviews and makes 
recommendations to the Board (for final approval) on:

• the CEO’s fixed and variable remuneration (having regard to 

the Board’s assessment of the CEO’s performance); and

• the fixed and variable remuneration and performance 

outcomes of other Senior Executives (having regard to the 
CEO’s assessment of their performance).

(c) Incentive design and performance assessment
The People and Remuneration Committee oversees the setting 
of measures and targets to encourage performance and 
behaviour that is aligned to Telstra’s values, including the 
primary performance measures for the EVP. The Board 
determines the EVP Scorecard Outcome by assessing 
performance against each primary performance measure. The 
EVP Scorecard Outcome is multiplied by a percentage based on 
the relevant Senior Executive’s individual performance to 
determine the Senior Executive’s Individual EVP Outcome. The 
Board also has discretion to adjust an outcome to ensure there 
are no windfall gains or losses. Refer to Section 2.1(c) for 
further information.

(d) Board decision framework
The Board has a decision framework to provide guidance in 
exercising its discretion on variable remuneration outcomes and 
to provide greater consistency in remuneration adjustments. 
The framework was considered in determining the Individual 
EVP Outcomes under the FY23 EVP.

(e) Engagement with consultants
During FY23, Telstra did not seek a remuneration 
recommendation from a remuneration consultant in relation to 
any of our KMP.

55

(f) Engagement with shareholders and stakeholders
The Chair of the Board and the Chair of the People and Remuneration Committee engage throughout the year with stakeholders to 
seek feedback and consider opportunities to further enhance the effectiveness of our reward structure, with a commitment to 
align the interests of all executives with the generation of long-term shareholder value. During FY23, numerous meetings were 
held with shareholders and shareholder advisory organisations.

(g) Share ownership policies
Telstra has in place share ownership policies which apply to the Senior Executives and non-executive Directors of Telstra. The 
intent of these policies is to align the interests of the CEO, GEs and non-executive Directors with the interests of our shareholders.

The recently appointed CEO has five years to meet the shareholding requirement under our policy. Those Senior Executives who 
have held a Group Executive position for at least five years have met the shareholding requirement as at 30 June 2023. For 
information on Senior Executives’ interests in Telstra shares refer to Section 2.5(e).

All non-executive Directors who have been on the Board for 5 years or more have met their minimum shareholding requirement 
with the exception of two Directors (including the Chair) who marginally fell below the requirements due to a small increase in the 
Director base fee in October 2022. The two Directors have confirmed that they will address this as soon as they are permitted to 
purchase shares in accordance with Telstra’s Securities Trading Policy. Directors' shareholdings as at 17 August 2023 are set out in 
the Directors' Report.

The requirements of our share ownership policies are summarised below:

Summary of requirements under the share ownership policies

Position

CEO

Minimum holding requirement within 5 years of appointment to the position

200% of Fixed Remuneration

Group Executives

100% of Fixed Remuneration

Chair of the Board

200% of the annual non-executive Director base fee

Non-executive Directors

100% of the annual non-executive Director base fee

The following outlines how various Telstra securities are valued in calculating a person’s shareholding for the purpose of the policies:

How Telstra securities are valued under the policies

Position

CEO and GEs

Securities

Basis of valuation under the policies

Ordinary shares purchased on-market

Acquisition price

Restricted Shares

The volume weighted average price of Telstra shares used 
to determine the number of Restricted Shares granted 
under the relevant employee equity plan

Performance Rights

Not included

Any shares granted upon vesting of 
Performance Rights

Telstra’s closing share price on the date that the 
Performance Right vests

Chair and Non-executive Directors

Ordinary shares purchased on-market

Acquisition price

Senior Executives must obtain Board or, in certain circumstances, CEO or Chair approval before they sell Telstra shares if they have 
not yet met their minimum holding requirement. Progress towards the minimum holding requirement is monitored on an ongoing 
basis.

(h) Securities Trading Policy
All KMP must comply with Telstra’s Securities Trading Policy, which includes a requirement that Telstra securities can only be 
traded during specified trading windows and with prior approval. KMP must also consider how any proposed dealing in Telstra 
securities could be perceived by the market and must not deal if the proposed dealing could be perceived as taking advantage of 
their position in an inappropriate way. They are also prohibited from entering into any hedging arrangement that limits the 
economic risk of holding Telstra securities (including those held under Telstra equity plans). This helps align our KMP’s interests 
with shareholders’ interests. KMP are required to confirm on an annual basis that they comply with our Securities Trading Policy, 
which assists in monitoring and enforcing our policy. Our Securities Trading Policy is available at telstra.com/governance.

56

Remuneration Report | Telstra Annual Report 2023

(i) Clawback (Malus) Policy
A Clawback Committee oversees the application of the Clawback (Malus) policy. This policy applies to all employees at Telstra 
and sets out the process that is followed to put the Board in a position to determine, before securities vest, whether a clawback 
event has occurred and whether to lapse or forfeit unvested Performance Rights, Restricted Shares and Cash Rights. The 
Clawback Committee meets quarterly and reports to the People and Remuneration Committee twice a year. The Clawback 
Committee is comprised of the GE People, Culture and Communications (previously the GE TC&P), the CFO, the GE Sustainability, 
External Affairs and Legal (SEAL) and the Chief Risk Officer. The People and Remuneration Committee subsequently makes 
recommendations to the Board as to whether to exercise its discretion to claw back any unvested equity. A member of the 
Clawback Committee is prohibited from being involved in a Clawback Committee recommendation in connection with any awards 
they hold. If the whole Committee has a conflict of interest, the investigation team bypasses the Committee and takes their 
recommendations directly to the CEO, the People and Remuneration Committee Chair and/or the Chair of the Telstra Board, as 
appropriate.

Following the Clawback Committee’s review and recommendations, no clawback of unvested securities held by Senior Executives 
was recommended or approved during FY23.

2.0 Senior Executive remuneration

2.1 FY23 Remuneration Structure
The following diagram illustrates the remuneration framework that applied to our Senior Executives during FY23.

Attract, motivate 
and retain highly 
skilled people

Support our strategy 
and reinforce our culture 
and values

Link financial reward 
outcomes to employee 
contribution and 
company performance

Align to long term 
shareholder value 
creation

Fixed Remuneration

EVP

Cash

Equity

Base salary
+
Superannuation

Each Senior Executive’s Individual EVP Outcome was determined having regard to the EVP Scorecard 
Outcome (based on Telstra’s performance against customer, strategic, and financial priorities), 
their target EVP opportunity and their individual performance, and was ultimately at the discretion 
of the Board

Set taking into account both 
internal and external relativity 
for roles of a similar size and 
complexity, any proven and 
persistent high performance 
and/or a notable increase in 
experience and contribution

25% of the FY23 
Individual EVP Outcome is 
provided in cash

35% of the FY23 Individual EVP 
Outcome is deferred as 
Restricted Shares over four 
years with 25% eligible to vest 
each year following the end of 
the Initial Performance Period

40% of the FY23 Individual EVP 
Outcome is allocated in 
Performance Rights, which are 
subject to a 5-year Relative 
Total Shareholder Return 
(RTSR) performance condition

May be forfeited or lapsed if employment ceases other than for a 
Permitted Reason or a clawback (malus) event occurs

Internally consistent and 
market competitive
base reward

Recognises sustainable performance in the medium to longer term

Rewards annual 
performance, providing 
specific focus on strategic 
priorities

Recognises the criticality of 
strategic non-financial 
measures as drivers of 
longer-term value creation

Focuses on achieving 
longer-term superior 
performance for 
stakeholders

(a) FY23 Remuneration mix for Senior Executives
The graph below shows the FY23 remuneration mix for Senior Executives expressed as a percentage of Fixed Remuneration (FR).

100%
Fixed Remuneration

50%
EVP Cash1

70%
EVP Restricted Shares1

80%
EVP Performance Rights1

Individual EVP Outcome at Target = 200% of Fixed Remuneration comprised of:

Total Equity = 150% of Fixed Remuneration

1.   The percentages shown are calculated from the 25% Cash, 35% Restricted Share and 40% Performance Right components of the FY23 EVP multiplied by the FY23 EVP 

target opportunity of 200% of Fixed Remuneration.

57

(b) Current Senior Executive Fixed Remuneration and contract details
The following table summarises the Fixed Remuneration and notice and termination payment provisions that apply under the 
ongoing service contracts for current Senior Executives as of 17 August 2023.

Name

Vicki Brady

Title

CEO

Fixed 
Remuneration

Notice 
period

Termination 
payment

$2,390,0001

6 months

6 months

Michael Ackland

CFO

$1,250,0002

6 months

6 months

Kim Krogh Andersen GE P&T

$1,101,2053

6 months

6 months

David Burns

GE TE

$1,151,2053

6 months

6 months

Nikos Katinakis

GE GN&T

$1,101,2053

6 months

6 months

Brendon Riley

GE & CEO Telstra InfraCo

$1,401,2053

6 months

12 months4

Dean Salter

GE GBS

$951,2053

6 months

6 months

Brad Whitcomb

GE C&SB

$1,151,205

6 months

6 months

1.  As announced on 30 March 2022, Vicki Brady’s Fixed Remuneration increased to $2,390,000 when she commenced as CEO on 1 September 2022.
2.  As disclosed in our FY22 Remuneration Report, Michael Ackland’s Fixed Remuneration increased to $1,250,000 when he commenced as CFO on 1 September 2022.
3.  Senior Executive Fixed Remuneration increased by $1,205 on 1 July 2022 to reflect the legislated increase in Superannuation Guarantee Contribution from 10% to 10.5%.
4.   Brendon Riley has a 12-month termination payment clause in his contract that was negotiated upon commencing employment at Telstra in February 2011. Telstra’s 

current policy is to provide for a six-month termination payment in executive contracts.

Upon notice being given, Telstra can require a Senior Executive to work through the notice period or may terminate employment 
immediately by providing payment in lieu of notice, or a combination of both. Any payment in lieu of notice is calculated based on 
the Senior Executive’s Fixed Remuneration as at the date of termination.

There is no termination payment if termination is for serious misconduct or redundancy (unless the severance payment under 
Telstra’s redundancy policy would be less than the termination payment, in which case the termination payment applies instead).

(c) FY23 Executive Variable Remuneration Plan (EVP) structure
The Senior Executives participated in the FY23 EVP. The construct of the FY23 EVP is illustrated in the diagram below:

EVP Equity Allocated 
(75%)

EVP Cash Paid 
(25%)

FY23 
Results 
Release

2023 
AGM

Restricted Shares 
(1st tranche)
End of restriction 
30 June 2024

Restricted Shares 
(2nd tranche)
End of restriction 
30 June 2025

Restricted Shares 
(3rd tranche)
End of restriction 
30 June 2026

Restricted Shares 
(4th tranche)
End of restriction 
30 June 2027

Restricted 
Shares – T1

Restricted 
Shares – T2

Restricted 
Shares – T3

Restricted 
Shares –T4

Performance Rights

FY23 EVP Performance Rights RTSR Performance Period
1 July 2022 to 30 June 2027

Performance Rights
Final RTSR Test 
30 June 2027

FY23 EVP Initial 
Performance 
Period
1 July 2022 to 
30 June 2023

FY23

FY24

FY25

FY26

FY27

FY28

Jul

Jun

Aug

Oct

Nov

Jun

Jul

Jun

Jul

Jun

Jul

Jun

Jul

At the 2023 AGM to be held on 17 October 2023, we will seek shareholder approval for the Restricted Shares and Performance 
Rights to be allocated to Vicki Brady under the FY23 EVP

58

The table below outlines the key features of the FY23 EVP.

Remuneration Report | Telstra Annual Report 2023

FY23 EVP 
design 
attributes

EVP 
Reward 
opportunity

Initial 
Performance 
Period

Calculation 
of Individual 
EVP 
Outcomes

Detail

As a % of Fixed Remuneration

Threshold

Target

Maximum

100%

200%

300%

1 year (1 July 2022 to 30 June 2023)

Overview
Each Senior Executive’s Individual EVP Outcome for FY23 is set out in Section 2.5(c).

The CEO and each Group Executive’s Individual EVP Outcome was determined by the Board taking into consideration their ‘at 
target’ EVP reward opportunity, the EVP Scorecard Outcome, their individual performance (in the case of the GEs including their 
performance relative to each other) and other factors in accordance with its decision framework including any material risk events 
identified, the severity of their impact, and the executive’s accountability for the matter.

At Target EVP Reward Opportunity

Calculating Individual EVP Outcome

FR
$

X

Target 
EVP 
Opportunity 
%

=

Target 
EVP 
Opportunity 
$

X

Primary 
Performance 
Measures

Financial

Customer

Strategic

Each primary 
performance 
measure 
outcome and 
total scorecard 
outcome 
subject to 
Board 
discretion

=

EVP 
Scorecard 
Outcome 
%

Multiplier 
used to 
differentiate 
individual 
performance 
and subject to 
Board 
discretion

=

Individual 
EVP 
Outcome

EVP Scorecard Outcome
The EVP Scorecard Outcome was determined by the Board following an assessment of Telstra’s performance against the primary 
performance measures (described in detail below) during the 2023 financial year (referred to as the Initial Performance Period).

The primary performance measures operated independently, and each measure was given a weighting and defined threshold, 
target and maximum performance level. If performance fell between any of those levels, the outcome was determined 
proportionately commensurate with the following range.

Metric Performance Range

Threshold

Target

Max

Senior Executive Performance Outcome

50%

100%

150%

The Board had discretion to adjust the outcome against each primary performance measure to ensure there were no windfall gains 
or losses. No adjustments were approved by the Board in FY23.

The Board also had discretion to adjust the overall EVP Scorecard Outcome if it was considered to be appropriate when taking into 
account matters including Telstra’s performance, customer experience and shareholder expectations. Such adjustment was not 
considered appropriate for FY23.

The EVP Scorecard Outcome was then multiplied by a percentage based on the Senior Executive’s individual performance, to 
determine each Senior Executive’s Individual EVP Outcome. Refer to Section 2.3 for further information on discretion exercised in 
determining FY23 Individual EVP Outcomes.

59

FY23 EVP 
design 
attributes

Detail

Primary 
performance 
measures

The primary performance measures outlined below were selected for FY23 because they provide the critical link between 
delivering Telstra’s T25 strategy and Telstra’s Corporate Plan and increasing shareholder value. The Board believes that the 
strategic, customer and financial measures directly demonstrate the delivery of critical components of the T25 strategy and are 
fundamental key drivers of long-term value creation.

To assist shareholders’ understanding of these measures and their relevance to Telstra’s performance, further information on each 
measure is provided below.

Refer to Section 2.2 for the threshold, target and maximum for each measure and their weightings.

Measure and metric

Rationale for why chosen

Primary Performance Measures

Total Income
Telstra External Income 
(excluding finance income)

• Key indicator of financial performance.
• Ensures continued focus on customer retention and growth.
• Aligns to the growth and value pillar of our T25 scorecard.

Underlying EBITDA
Underlying EBITDA is Earnings Before 
Interest, Tax, Depreciation & 
Amortisation, and excludes net one-off 
nbn DA receipts less nbn net C2C, one-
off restructuring costs and guidance 
adjustments

Free Cash Flow (FCF)
Free Cash flow after lease payments 
defined as ‘operating cash flows’ less 
‘investing cash flows’, less ‘payments for 
lease liabilities, and excludes spectrum 
and guidance adjustments

Underlying Return on 
Invested Capital (ROIC)
Total NOPAT (net operating profit after 
tax) less guidance adjustments after 
tax, less net nbn one-off earnings after 
tax, divided by Average Invested Capital

Episode NPS
Measures our customer experience from 
feedback on each transaction using a 
Net Promoter Score (NPS)

• Key indicator of financial performance.
• Ensures appropriate focus on profit and cost to deliver.
• A strong indicator of underlying company profitability.
• Aligns to the growth and value pillar of our T25 scorecard.

• Key indicator of financial performance.
• Appropriate for a capital-intensive business and critical in managing the 
company’s ability to pay a dividend and maintain balance sheet strength.

• Aligns to the growth and value pillar of our T25 scorecard.

• Key indicator of financial performance.
• Aligns to the growth and value pillar of our T25 scorecard.

• Focuses leaders on continuously improving the customer service experience, 

driving both customer attraction and retention.

• Underpins company-wide improvement programs focused on improving our 

operational excellence by identifying and eliminating the causes of 
unnecessary customer effort and pain points.

• Aligns to the customer experience pillar of our T25 scorecard.

RepTrak
Measures our reputation score on the 
RepTrak index

• Includes the sentiment of customers and non-customers, but also provides a 
broader, more holistic measure which picks up on all the drivers of company 
reputation.

• Focuses leaders on the Company’s reputation in the community, with 

customers and prospective customers, and with prospective employees, 
driving both customer and employee attraction and retention.
• Aligns to the responsible business pillar of our T25 scorecard.

Responsible Business
Our % reduction in absolute scope 1 + 2 
greenhouse gas emissions from our FY19 
baseline (excludes Digicel Pacific)

• These are reductions in the emissions caused by the fossil fuels and grid 

electricity we use. Inclusion of this metric in our scorecard leans into Telstra’s 
contribution to addressing this pressing issue and specifically recognises 
broad community concern on our changing environment.

• Aligns to the responsible business pillar of our T25 scorecard.
• Excludes Digicel Pacific which was acquired during FY23.

Digital Leadership
% achievement of our target build of 
Application Programming Interfaces 
(APIs)

• This measure focuses our executives on enablers of Digital Leadership that 

will halve our new product time to market by building a 100% API-first 
architecture for customer management and product development.

• It will drive fundamental and significant change in the way we work, improving 

offerings to customers whilst reducing cost.

• Aligns to the digital leadership pillar of our T25 scorecard.

People, Capability & 
Engagement
Maintain employee engagement in the 
high performing norm

• Focusses leaders on our employee engagement and the importance of 

employees as stakeholders.

• Supports our ability to have both the key leadership and technical talent 

required to deliver on our ambitious strategy.

• Aligns to the new ways of working pillar of our T25 scorecard.

)
%
0
6
(

i

l
a
c
n
a
n
F

i

)
%
5
2
(

r
e
m
o
t
s
u
C

i

)
%
5
1
(
c
g
e
t
a
r
t
S

To assess the primary performance measures, the Board reviewed the Group’s results, including the financial statements which 
are audited by Ernst & Young (EY), our external auditor. It also reviewed other work undertaken by EY on performance against the 
primary performance measures. Refer to Section 2.2 for further information.

60

 
 
 
Remuneration Report | Telstra Annual Report 2023

FY23 EVP 
design 
attributes

Detail

EVP outcome 
– cash vs 
equity 
balance

A Senior Executive’s Individual EVP Outcome is provided as a combination of cash (25%), Restricted Shares (35%) and 
Performance Rights (40%) which are subject to a Relative Total Shareholder Return (RTSR) performance condition. This results in 
a 25:75 ratio of cash to equity. On vesting of a Performance Right, the holder receives a share or, at Telstra’s discretion, a cash 
amount equivalent to the value of a share at vesting.

Equity 
allocation 
methodology

Individual EVP Outcome Components

25% Cash

Equity Allocation Calculation 
(face value methodology)

35% Restricted Shares (pro-rata vesting over 4 years)

No. of Restricted Shares allocated

40% Performance Rights (subject to 5 year RTSR 
Performance Condition)

÷

5 Day 
VWAP

=

No. of Performance Rights allocated

The number of Restricted Shares and Performance Rights to be allocated to a Senior Executive is based on the dollar value of 
their Individual EVP Outcome, multiplied by 35% for Restricted Shares and 40% for Performance Rights, and then divided by the 
five day volume weighted average price (VWAP) of Telstra shares commencing on the day after the FY23 results announcement 
(i.e. a face value allocation methodology).

Issue/exercise 
price

As the Restricted Shares and Performance Rights form part of a Senior Executive’s variable remuneration, no amount is payable 
by the Senior Executive on grant of the Restricted Shares or on grant or vesting of the Performance Rights. Both the Restricted 
Shares and any shares to be provided on the vesting of Performance Rights will be purchased on-market.

Restriction 
and 
performance 
periods for 
equity

Restricted Shares
Restricted Shares will be eligible to vest in four equal tranches, with 25% eligible to vest each year for the four years following 30 
June 2023 (being the end of the Initial Performance Period). i.e. on 30 June 2024, 30 June 2025, 30 June 2026, and 30 June 2027.

Performance Rights
The Performance Rights are subject to an RTSR performance condition, tested over a five-year performance period from 1 July 
2022 to 30 June 2027. Refer to the secondary performance measures section outlined below for further information.

In certain limited circumstances, such as a takeover event where 50% or more of shares of the Telstra group’s head entity are 
acquired, the Board may exercise discretion to accelerate vesting of the Performance Rights and accelerate the end of the 
Restriction Periods for the Restricted Shares.

Secondary 
performance 
measures

In addition to the primary performance measures (which are assessed over the one year period to 30 June 2023) the Performance 
Rights component of each Senior Executive’s Individual EVP Outcome only vests if, and to the extent that, the RTSR performance 
condition is satisfied at the end of the five year performance period on 30 June 2027. Any Performance Rights that vest following 
the testing of the RTSR performance condition will be automatically exercised following the release of Telstra’s annual results for 
FY27 and any Performance Rights that do not vest following the testing will lapse (and expire) at that time. This means Senior 
Executives have a double hurdle in relation to the Performance Right component of their Individual EVP Outcome, with 
performance measured over both the Initial Performance Period and the five-year RTSR Performance Period.

RTSR measures the performance of a Telstra share (including the value of any cash dividends and other shareholder benefits paid 
during the RTSR Performance Period) relative to the performance of ordinary securities issued by the other entities in the 
comparator group (being entities in the S&P / ASX100 index as at 1 July 2022 (excluding resources companies)) over the RTSR 
Performance Period.

The Board believes that RTSR is an appropriate secondary performance measure because it links executive reward to Telstra’s 
share price and dividend performance relative to entities in the comparator group over the long-term. This reinforces the ultimate 
focus on shareholder value creation and helps align actual pay outcomes with returns delivered to long-term shareholders.

Under the RTSR performance condition, the number of Performance Rights that vest will be determined as follows:

RTSR Ranking

Below the 50th percentile

At the 50th percentile

Vesting

0%

50%

Between 50th and 75th percentiles

Straight-line vesting from 50% to 100%

At the 75th percentile or above

100%

Both the starting price and end price for the purpose of calculating Telstra’s RTSR are the average of Telstra’s daily closing share 
price over the 30 day period to 30 June of the relevant year. The starting price that will be used to determine Telstra’s RTSR at the 
end of the RTSR Performance Period for the FY23 EVP is $3.87.1

1.   As a result of the Restructure, Telstra’s RTSR performance over the RTSR Performance Period for the FY23 EVP Performance Rights (and for all other Performance 
Rights on issue) will take into account Telstra Corporation Limited’s performance up until 31 October 2022 (the date it was replaced by Telstra Group Limited as the 
parent entity of the Telstra Group) and Telstra Group Limited’s performance after that time.

61

FY23 EVP 
design 
attributes

Dividends

Leavers

Detail

Restricted Shares
Participants receive dividends on Restricted Shares during the Restriction Periods consistent with other Telstra shareholders. This 
is appropriate because these Restricted Shares do not have any further performance conditions. The intent is to mirror the 
experience of shareholders while deferring the remuneration so that it can be more easily subject to forfeiture if the Participant 
ceases employment other than for a Permitted Reason or clawback.

Performance Rights
No dividends are paid on Performance Rights prior to vesting. For any Performance Rights that ultimately vest following 
satisfaction of the RTSR performance condition, a cash payment equivalent to the dividends paid by Telstra during the period 
between allocation of the Performance Rights and vesting will be made at or around the time of vesting, subject to applicable 
taxation (Dividend Equivalent Payment).

Before the Restricted Shares and Performance Rights are allocated
If a Senior Executive ceases employment for a Permitted Reason, the Senior Executive is eligible for a pro-rata Individual EVP 
Outcome based on the proportion of time they were employed during FY23. The Senior Executive will receive the cash component 
of their pro-rata Individual EVP Outcome. The Senior Executive will receive a grant of Cash Rights (or, at the Board’s discretion, 
cash, if the Senior Executive ceases employment due to death, total and permanent disablement or certain medical conditions) in 
lieu of Performance Rights and Restricted Shares. On vesting, a Cash Right entitles the executive to a cash payment equivalent to 
the value of a Telstra share at the end of the applicable Restriction Period or the RTSR Performance Period (as applicable). A Cash 
Right granted in lieu of a Restricted Share also entitles the Senior Executive to receive an amount equal to dividends paid on 
Telstra shares between the date the Cash Right is allocated and the end of the applicable Restriction Period, at or around the 
same time that Telstra pays the dividend. A Cash Right granted in lieu of a Performance Right entitles the Senior Executive, if the 
Cash Right vests, to receive an amount equivalent to dividends paid on Telstra shares between allocation and vesting of the Cash 
Right after the end of the RTSR Performance Period. Where the Senior Executive receives Cash Rights, there is no change to the 
Restriction Periods, the RTSR Performance Period or the RTSR performance condition. If the Senior Executive ceases employment 
for any other reason, their EVP entitlement is forfeited. This ensures equal treatment for all executives and that departing 
executives continue to make decisions that are aligned to the long-term interests of our shareholders.

After the Restricted Shares and Performance Rights are allocated
If a Senior Executive ceases employment for a Permitted Reason after the Restricted Shares and Performance Rights have been 
allocated, those Restricted Shares and Performance Rights will remain on foot. There is no change to the Restriction Periods, the 
RTSR Performance Period, or the RTSR performance condition. If the Senior Executive ceases employment for any other reason, 
their Restricted Shares and Performance Rights are forfeited.

Clawback 
(malus)

The Board has discretion to clawback Performance Rights and Restricted Shares if certain clawback events occur before the 
Performance Rights vest or the Restricted Shares are transferred to the Senior Executive following the end of the applicable 
Restriction Period. Clawback events include fraud, dishonesty, gross misconduct or material breach of obligations by the Senior 
Executive or behaviour that brings Telstra into disrepute or may negatively impact Telstra’s long-term financial strength. It also 
includes where the Senior Executive causes a significant deterioration in Telstra’s financial performance or negatively impacts 
Telstra’s standing, reputation or relationship with its key regulators, where the financial results that led to the Performance Rights 
or Restricted Shares being granted are subsequently shown to be materially misstated, where the Senior Executive fails to fulfil 
responsibilities under Telstra’s risk management framework resulting in a material breach of Telstra’s risk management framework, 
or where the Board determines that the Performance Rights or Restricted Shares are an inappropriate benefit.

62

Remuneration Report | Telstra Annual Report 2023

(d) Financial performance
The table below provides a summary of Telstra’s key financial results over the past five financial years.

Financial performance1

Earnings

Total Income

EBITDA

Net Profit2

Shareholder Value

Share Price ($)3

Total Dividend Paid Per Share (cents)4

FY23
$m

FY22
$m

23,245

22,045

7,862

1,928

4.30

17.0

7,256

1,688

3.85

16.0

FY21
$m

23,132

7,638

1,857

3.76

16.0

FY20
$m

26,161

8,905

1,819

3.13

16.0

FY19
$m

27,807

7,984

2,154

3.85

19.0

1.   For the year ended 30 June 2023, Telstra’s financial results include the historical financial information of the Telstra Group for both the period before and after the 
Restructure. Refer to Note 1.2 to the financial statements in the Financial Report for further information about the Restructure. The results for FY19 – FY22 are the 
consolidated results of Telstra Corporation Limited and its controlled entities when Telstra Corporation Limited was the parent entity of the Telstra Group before the 
Restructure. These results are not fully comparable due to changes in the accountings standards over the periods. For more details, refer to Note 1.5 to the financial 
statements in the 2020 Annual Report in relation to the adoption of AASB16: ‘Leases’. Prior periods have not been restated for matters referred to in Note 1.7 to the 
financial statements.

2.   Net Profit attributable to equity holders of the Telstra entity includes results from continuing and discontinued operations.
3.   Share prices are as at 30 June for the respective year. The closing share price for FY18 was $2.62.
4.   We paid dividends to holders of Telstra’s ordinary shares twice each year over the past five financial years, an interim and a final dividend. The amounts included in this 
table relate to dividends paid during the financial year. Therefore, for each respective year, the amount includes the dividend paid for the previous year final dividend 
and the current year interim dividend. Refer to Note 4.2 to the financial statements in the Financial Report for further information about dividends paid in FY23.

(e) Historical Individual EVP Outcomes relative to the Telstra share price
The graph below provides a useful comparison of performance and shows the average Individual EVP Outcomes for FY19 through 
to FY23 as a percentage of the target opportunity, relative to the performance of Telstra’s share price over the past five years. For 
the purposes of the graph, Telstra means Telstra Corporation Limited up until 31 October 2022 (the date it was replaced by Telstra 
Group Limited as the head entity of the Telstra group) and Telstra Group Limited after that time.

)
$
(
e
c
i
r
P
e
r
a
h
S
a
r
t
s
l
e
T

5

4.5

4

3.5

3

2.5

2

111.8%

43.6%

29.1%

39.1%

96.6%

96.2%

96.9%

100%

120%

81.9%

32.8%

28.7%

20.4%

38.6%

33.8%

24.2%

38.5%

33.7%

38.8%

33.9%

24.0%

24.2%

1
t
e
g
r
a
T
f
o
%
P
V
E

80%

60%

40%

20%

0%

FY19 EVP
30/06/2019

FY20 EVP
30/06/2020

FY21 EVP
30/06/2021

FY22 EVP
30/06/2022

FY23 EVP
30/06/2023

Telstra Share Price

Cash

Restricted Shares

Performance Rights (RTSR)

1.   The average Individual EVP outcomes as a percentage of target is shown for all Senior Executives (including the CEO and former Senior Executives) for the relevant 

period. There have been changes to the EVP structure over this period including to the relative proportions of cash, Restricted Shares and Performance Rights.

63

 
 
 
 
 
 
2.2 FY23 EVP Scorecard Outcome
The Board evaluated Telstra’s performance against the primary performance measures. The threshold, target and maximum levels 
for each measure (as outlined in our 2022 Remuneration Report) were set to be robust and appropriately demanding, taking into 
account the key deliverables and milestones outlined in our T25 strategy, planned financial outcomes contained within our 
Corporate Plan and FY23 guidance as announced on 11 August 2022. The changes to the EVP scorecard in FY23 were described in 
our FY22 Remuneration Report. The levels for all financial measures were determined in line with market guidance, with each 
target level approximating the midpoint of that guidance and each maximum level equal to or above the maximum guidance 
range. It remains the Board’s view that the levels were robust and demanding in the face of an exceptionally challenging market.

Measures

Weighting

Targets and Performance Outcomes

Additional information

Weighted Result

(% of Target)

$23,000m

$23,953m

$25,000m

Total Income ($m)
is Telstra External Income excluding 
finance income

15%

$23,245m

auditor, EY.

9.4%

There have been no adjustments to the actual results included for the EVP scorecard outcome.

Assessed performance on this measure was therefore $23,245m, which was between the FY23 EVP threshold and target.

Threshold

Target

Max

Total Income of $23,245m was reported by Telstra for FY23. The calculation of this result was audited by our external 

50%

100%

150%

63%

$7,800m

$7,954m

$8,050m

Threshold

50%

Target

$7,950m

100%

99%

Max

150%

$2,600m

$2,760m

$3,100m

Threshold

50%

7.7%

Threshold

50%

+38

Threshold

Target

$2,784m

100%

104%

8.0%

Target

Max

150%

8.2%

Max

8.1%

100%

150%

125%

+40

Target

50%

100%

+42

Max

+43

150%

150%

The overall Episode NPS is a weighted calculation of survey results from Telstra business segments – 65% Consumer and 

Small Business (combined calculation) and 35% Enterprise (Telstra Enterprise Australia only).

At the end of FY23 our Episode NPS was +43, which was above the FY23 EVP maximum. The calculation of this result was 

22.5%

reperformed by our external auditor, EY.

This result is largely an outcome of the ongoing focus across the business on digitisation, simplification and customers. 

Migration of customer sales onto our strategic stack has meant our people and customers benefit from faster and improved 

support using the latest tools and simplified processes. This has improved straight through processing and reduced cycle 

times, resulting in increased NPS and reduced complaints.

Underlying EBITDA of $7,950m was reported by Telstra for FY23. The calculation of this result was reviewed by our external 

auditor, EY.

14.8%

There have been no adjustments to the actual results included for the EVP scorecard outcome.

Assessed performance on this measure was therefore $7,950m, which was between the FY23 EVP threshold and target.

FCF on a guidance basis of $2,784m was reported by Telstra for FY23. The calculation of this result was reviewed by our 

external auditor, EY.

15.5%

There have been no adjustments to the actual results included for the EVP scorecard outcome.

Assessed performance on this measure was therefore $2,784m, which was between the FY23 EVP target and maximum.

Underlying ROIC of 8.1% was reported by Telstra for FY23. The calculation of this result was reperformed by our external 

auditor, EY.

18.8%

There have been no adjustments to the actual results included for the EVP scorecard outcome.

Assessed performance on this measure was therefore 8.1%, which was between the FY23 EVP target and maximum.

Underlying EBITDA ($m)
is Earnings Before Interest, Tax, Depreciation & Amortisation, 
and excludes net one-off nbn DA receipts less nbn net C2C, 
one-off restructuring costs and guidance adjustments

Free Cash Flow ($m)
Free Cash flow after lease payments defined as 
‘operating cash flows’ less ‘investing cash flows’, 
less ‘payments for lease liabilities, and excludes spectrum 
and guidance adjustments

Underlying Return on Capital
Total NOPAT less guidance adjustments after tax, 
less net nbn one-off earnings after tax, 
divided by Average Invested Capital

Episode NPS
Measures our customer experience from feedback 
on each transaction using a Net Promoter Score

15%

15%

15%

15%

64

Remuneration Report | Telstra Annual Report 2023

The Board maintained absolute discretion to ensure the EVP Scorecard Outcome was appropriate, taking into account matters 
including Telstra’s performance, customer experience and shareholder expectations. The Board determined that the primary 
performance measure outcomes and the EVP Scorecard Outcome for FY23 would be driven by the results achieved. No 
adjustments were made.

The EVP Scorecard Outcome for FY23 was 93.7% of the target opportunity (62.5% of maximum).

Measures

Weighting

Targets and Performance Outcomes

Weighted Result
(% of Target)

Additional information

Total Income ($m)

is Telstra External Income excluding 

finance income

15%

$23,245m

Total Income of $23,245m was reported by Telstra for FY23. The calculation of this result was audited by our external 
auditor, EY.

9.4%

There have been no adjustments to the actual results included for the EVP scorecard outcome.

Assessed performance on this measure was therefore $23,245m, which was between the FY23 EVP threshold and target.

Underlying EBITDA of $7,950m was reported by Telstra for FY23. The calculation of this result was reviewed by our external 
auditor, EY.

14.8%

There have been no adjustments to the actual results included for the EVP scorecard outcome.

Assessed performance on this measure was therefore $7,950m, which was between the FY23 EVP threshold and target.

FCF on a guidance basis of $2,784m was reported by Telstra for FY23. The calculation of this result was reviewed by our 
external auditor, EY.

15.5%

There have been no adjustments to the actual results included for the EVP scorecard outcome.

Assessed performance on this measure was therefore $2,784m, which was between the FY23 EVP target and maximum.

Underlying ROIC of 8.1% was reported by Telstra for FY23. The calculation of this result was reperformed by our external 
auditor, EY.

18.8%

There have been no adjustments to the actual results included for the EVP scorecard outcome.

Assessed performance on this measure was therefore 8.1%, which was between the FY23 EVP target and maximum.

22.5%

The overall Episode NPS is a weighted calculation of survey results from Telstra business segments – 65% Consumer and 
Small Business (combined calculation) and 35% Enterprise (Telstra Enterprise Australia only).

At the end of FY23 our Episode NPS was +43, which was above the FY23 EVP maximum. The calculation of this result was 
reperformed by our external auditor, EY.

This result is largely an outcome of the ongoing focus across the business on digitisation, simplification and customers. 
Migration of customer sales onto our strategic stack has meant our people and customers benefit from faster and improved 
support using the latest tools and simplified processes. This has improved straight through processing and reduced cycle 
times, resulting in increased NPS and reduced complaints.

65

$23,000m

$23,953m

$25,000m

Threshold

Target

Max

50%

100%

150%

63%

$7,800m

$7,954m

$8,050m

$2,600m

$2,760m

$3,100m

Target

$7,950m

100%

99%

Target

$2,784m

100%

104%

8.0%

Target

Threshold

50%

Threshold

Threshold

50%

7.7%

50%

+38

100%

150%

8.1%

125%

Threshold

+40

Target

50%

100%

Max

150%

Max

150%

8.2%

Max

+42

Max

+43

150%

150%

Underlying EBITDA ($m)

15%

is Earnings Before Interest, Tax, Depreciation & Amortisation, 

and excludes net one-off nbn DA receipts less nbn net C2C, 

one-off restructuring costs and guidance adjustments

Free Cash Flow ($m)

Free Cash flow after lease payments defined as 

‘operating cash flows’ less ‘investing cash flows’, 

less ‘payments for lease liabilities, and excludes spectrum 

and guidance adjustments

Underlying Return on Capital

Total NOPAT less guidance adjustments after tax, 

less net nbn one-off earnings after tax, 

divided by Average Invested Capital

Episode NPS

Measures our customer experience from feedback 

on each transaction using a Net Promoter Score

15%

15%

15%

Measures

Weighting

Targets and Performance Outcomes

Weighted Result

(% of Target)

Additional information

63.6

Threshold

63.8

Target

64.5

Max

RepTrak
Measures our reputation score 
on the RepTrak index

10%

63.5

100%

150%

50%

0%

17%

Threshold

20%

Target

50%

100%

23%

Max

30%

150%

150%

88%

FY23 target 
build 
achieved
100%

FY23 target build achieved 
and first product using APIs 
being in market
100%

Threshold

Target

Max

88.6%

50%

53%

80

100%

150%

Threshold

Target

82

84

Max

80

50%

50%

100%

150%

Total

% of Target

93.7%

% of Max

62.5%

Telstra’s FY23 annual RepTrak Reputation Score was 63.5, measured as the average of four quarters. 

The calculation of this result was reperformed by our external auditor, EY.

Our performance on this measure has been climbing steadily since Q1 and in Q4 we achieved our highest 

0.0%

results in 15 years. This improvement was achieved despite a decline of -0.8 points in the year-on-year 

average of the RepTrak Benchmark 60 (an index of the largest 60 brands in Australia by revenue and 

market presence).

Despite strong second half results, our overall annual average was below the FY23 EVP threshold.

7.5%

2.6%

Telstra’s FY23 Responsible Business score was a 30% reduction in absolute scope 1 +2 greenhouse 

gas emissions from our FY19 baseline. The calculation of this result was reperformed by our external 

auditor, EY.

The assessed performance on this measure was above the FY23 EVP maximum.

Our FY23 result of a 30% reduction was driven from grid decarbonisation (reducing emissions from 

Australian grid electricity consumption) and Telstra's equipment decommissioning and energy 

efficiency programs.

Excludes Digicel Pacific which Telstra acquired during FY23.

Telstra’s FY23 Digital Leadership score was 88.6%. The calculation of this result was reperformed by 

our external auditor, EY.

The assessed performance on this measure was between the FY23 EVP threshold and target.

During the year we completed 31 of 35 APIs required to support the launch of Adaptive Networks – 

SD-WAN (software-defined wide area network). The remaining four APIs are scheduled for delivery in 

FY24 and we expect the launch of Adaptative Networks during 2024.

The employee engagement result for the last quarter of FY23 was 80. The calculation was reperformed 

by our external auditor, EY.

The assessed performance on this measure was at the FY23 EVP threshold.

2.5%

Our employee engagement score of 80 places us above the 75th percentile for engagement (a score of 

79), but two points below our target, being in the 90th percentile of global companies (a score of 82).

In FY23, company-wide and function-wide action plans were introduced to tackle the main opportunity 

areas raised by our employees. The actions in these plans were influenced by previous Experience Pulse 

surveys. An example is our commitment to improving how we support people to build unique and fulfilling 

careers. We are investing in AI-driven talent technology that delivers clear career paths and promotes job 

mobility and upskilling.

Responsible Business
Our % reduction in absolute scope 1 + 2 greenhouse 
gas emissions from our FY19 baseline 
(excludes Digicel Pacific)

Digital Leadership
% achievement of our target build of 
Application Programming Interfaces

People Capability 
& Engagement
Maintain employee engagement in the 
high-performing norm (90th percentile)

5%

5%

5%

66

Measures

Weighting

Targets and Performance Outcomes

Weighted Result
(% of Target)

Additional information

Remuneration Report | Telstra Annual Report 2023

RepTrak

Measures our reputation score 

on the RepTrak index

10%

63.5

100%

150%

63.8

Target

20%

Target

63.6

Threshold

50%

0%

17%

Threshold

88%

88.6%

50%

53%

80

80

50%

50%

Responsible Business

5%

Our % reduction in absolute scope 1 + 2 greenhouse 

gas emissions from our FY19 baseline 

(excludes Digicel Pacific)

50%

100%

Digital Leadership

% achievement of our target build of 

Application Programming Interfaces

People Capability 

& Engagement

Maintain employee engagement in the 

high-performing norm (90th percentile)

5%

5%

FY23 target 

build 

achieved

100%

FY23 target build achieved 

and first product using APIs 

being in market

100%

Threshold

Target

Max

100%

150%

82

Threshold

Target

100%

150%

64.5

Max

23%

Max

30%

150%

150%

84

Max

Total

Telstra’s FY23 annual RepTrak Reputation Score was 63.5, measured as the average of four quarters. 
The calculation of this result was reperformed by our external auditor, EY.

0.0%

Our performance on this measure has been climbing steadily since Q1 and in Q4 we achieved our highest 
results in 15 years. This improvement was achieved despite a decline of -0.8 points in the year-on-year 
average of the RepTrak Benchmark 60 (an index of the largest 60 brands in Australia by revenue and 
market presence).

Despite strong second half results, our overall annual average was below the FY23 EVP threshold.

7.5%

2.6%

Telstra’s FY23 Responsible Business score was a 30% reduction in absolute scope 1 +2 greenhouse 
gas emissions from our FY19 baseline. The calculation of this result was reperformed by our external 
auditor, EY.

The assessed performance on this measure was above the FY23 EVP maximum.

Our FY23 result of a 30% reduction was driven from grid decarbonisation (reducing emissions from 
Australian grid electricity consumption) and Telstra's equipment decommissioning and energy 
efficiency programs.

Excludes Digicel Pacific which Telstra acquired during FY23.

Telstra’s FY23 Digital Leadership score was 88.6%. The calculation of this result was reperformed by 
our external auditor, EY.

The assessed performance on this measure was between the FY23 EVP threshold and target.

During the year we completed 31 of 35 APIs required to support the launch of Adaptive Networks – 
SD-WAN (software-defined wide area network). The remaining four APIs are scheduled for delivery in 
FY24 and we expect the launch of Adaptative Networks during 2024.

The employee engagement result for the last quarter of FY23 was 80. The calculation was reperformed 
by our external auditor, EY.

The assessed performance on this measure was at the FY23 EVP threshold.

2.5%

Our employee engagement score of 80 places us above the 75th percentile for engagement (a score of 
79), but two points below our target, being in the 90th percentile of global companies (a score of 82).

In FY23, company-wide and function-wide action plans were introduced to tackle the main opportunity 
areas raised by our employees. The actions in these plans were influenced by previous Experience Pulse 
surveys. An example is our commitment to improving how we support people to build unique and fulfilling 
careers. We are investing in AI-driven talent technology that delivers clear career paths and promotes job 
mobility and upskilling.

% of Target

93.7%

% of Max

62.5%

67

2.3 Individual performance and the exercise of Board 
discretion in determining Individual EVP Outcomes
The EVP Scorecard Outcome (outlined above) was an input into 
each Senior Executive’s Individual EVP Outcome. As outlined in 
Section 2.1, each Senior Executive’s Individual EVP Outcome 
was determined taking into consideration the EVP Scorecard 
Outcome, their “at target” EVP reward opportunity and their 
performance (including, in the case of the GEs, their 
performance relative to each other). The Individual EVP 
Outcome for each Senior Executive was determined by 
multiplying the EVP Scorecard Outcome by a percentage 
reflecting each participant’s individual performance relative to 
their peers in the executive team. For each Senior Executive 
with a performance rating of 3 (on our 1 to 5 scale), this 
percentage was in the range 90% to 110%. For those with a 
performance rating of 4 or 5, the percentage used was higher to 
reflect their relative individual performance. In all cases the 
maximum possible Individual EVP Outcome, including both 
company performance (the EVP Scorecard Outcome) and 
individual performance (from the multiplier percentage), will 
always be 300% of the individual’s Fixed Remuneration.

The Board also had discretion, in determining a Senior 
Executive’s Individual EVP Outcome, to take into account 
factors in accordance with its decision framework such as any 
material risk events identified, the severity of their impact and 
the executive’s accountability for the matter.

At the end of the 2023 financial year:

• the CEO’s individual performance was assessed by the Board 

in accordance with the annual performance evaluation 
process for the CEO, taking into account a range of 
considerations including her individual scorecard 
performance, leadership behaviour and conduct and effective 
application of risk management practices; and

• each Group Executive’s individual performance was assessed 

by the CEO in accordance with an annual performance 
evaluation process, taking into account a range of 
considerations including the Group Executive’s individual 
scorecard performance, leadership behaviour and conduct, 
effective application of risk management practices and 
performance relative to the other GEs. The CEO’s 
recommended assessment for each Group Executive was 
provided to the People and Remuneration Committee for 
endorsement, and then to the Board for approval.

Please refer to Table 2.5(c) for the FY23 Individual EVP 
Outcomes.

2.4 FY19 EVP Performance Rights RTSR Outcome
Performance Rights that were awarded under the FY19 EVP and 
allocated in November 2019, were subject to an RTSR 
performance condition measured over a five year performance 
period from 1 July 2018 to 30 June 2023. The Performance 
Rights were only to vest if Telstra’s RTSR ranked at the 50th 
percentile or greater against a comparator group comprising 
the ASX100 (excluding resource companies) as at 1 July 2018 
over the performance period. Each Performance Right that 
vested following testing of the performance condition entitled a 
Senior Executive to one Telstra share (or, at Telstra’s discretion, 
a cash amount equal to the value of one Telstra share).

The RTSR performance condition for the Performance Rights 
was tested following the conclusion of the performance period 
on 30 June 2023 and the results and vesting outcome are 
detailed below. The results were calculated by an external 
provider.

FY19 EVP Vesting Outcomes1

Test 
date

30 June 
2023

Performance 
Condition

Percentile 
Rank

Vesting

RTSR measured against 
the ASX100 (excluding 
resource companies) as 
at 1 July 2018

93rd 
Percentile

100%

1.   As a result of the Restructure, Telstra’s RTSR performance over the performance 
period took into account Telstra Corporation Limited’s performance up until 31 
October 2022 (the date it was replaced by Telstra Group Limited as the parent 
entity of the Telstra Group) and Telstra Group Limited’s performance after that 
time.

The Board had discretion to remove companies from the 
comparator group in circumstances such as acquisitions, 
insolvency and de-listings. The Board exercised its discretion 
under the FY19 EVP terms to remove the following companies 
from the comparator group prior to the calculation of the 
vesting results.

FY19 EVP Peer Group Removals

Company removed 
from the Peer Group

Investa Office Fund

Reason 
for removal

Acquisition

Spark Infrastructure Group

Merger

Healthscope

Duluxgroup

Acquisition

Acquisition

TPG Telecom Limited

Merger

Coca-Cola Group Limited

Acquisition

Ausnet Services Limited

Sydney Airport

Cimic Group Limited

Pendal Group Limited

Crown Resorts

Merger

Merger

Acquisition

Acquisition

Acquisition

2.5 Detailed remuneration and interests in Telstra shares
The tables in this section disclose Senior Executive information 
and only represent their time as Senior Executives.

(a) Actual pay which crystallised in FY23 for Senior 
Executives
As a general principle, the Australian Accounting Standards 
require the value of share-based payments to be calculated at 
the time of grant and to be expensed over the performance 
period and applicable service period. This may not reflect what 
Senior Executives actually received or became entitled to 
during the year.

The tables in this section are voluntary disclosures and are not 
prepared in accordance with Australian Accounting Standards. 
They are designed to provide greater transparency for 
shareholders on the pay and benefits the Senior Executives 
actually received, or became entitled to receive, during FY23 
while they were a Senior Executive.

Senior Executives receive a significant portion of their variable 
remuneration in the form of equity. The value they actually 
receive from that variable remuneration is tied directly to 
Telstra’s share price performance and whether the variable 
remuneration vests. We believe this demonstrates that our 
reward framework effectively aligns with our shareholders’ 
interests and demonstrates the linkage between pay and 
performance.

68

Remuneration Report | Telstra Annual Report 2023

The statutory tables for Senior Executive remuneration can be found in Sections 2.5(b) to (e).

The following table details the actual remuneration Vicki Brady (the CEO from 1 September 2022) received, or became entitled to 
receive, during FY23 in comparison to FY22. The increase in actual remuneration received by Vicki Brady reflects the fact that she 
was CFO in FY22 and promoted to the CEO role on 1 September 2022 on the Fixed Remuneration of her predecessor. The increase 
in Vicki Brady’s Fixed Remuneration on promotion increased the dollar value of her variable remuneration (EVP) at target. Her 
leadership performance in FY23 and strong delivery of the first year of our T25 strategy is reflected in her FY23 EVP award. As 
flagged last year, the new EVP methodology is designed to deliver a higher level of reward at higher levels of individual 
performance. The value of equity increased year on year due to the vesting of performance rights under the FY19 EVP and more 
Restricted Shares (relating to variable remuneration earned in prior financial years) became unrestricted in FY23 relative to FY22 . 
Restricted Shares under Tranche 3 of the FY20 EVP, Tranche 2 of the FY21 EVP and Tranche 1 of the FY22 EVP became unrestricted 
on 30 June 2023. In addition, equity in FY23 is valued at a five year high of $4.30 per share. In FY22 it was valued at $3.85 per share.

Name

Vicki Brady CFO/CEO

CFO

Year

2023

20221

Individual 
EVP 
Outcome 
payable as 
cash
($000)2

Value of EVP 
Restricted 
Shares that 
became 
unrestricted 
($000)3,4

Value of EVP 
Performance 
Rights and 
other rights 
that vested 
($000)3,5

Fixed 
Remuneration
($000)

2,164

 1,200

1,231

570

637

381

359

–

Total
($000)

4,391

2,151

1.   As reported in our 2022 Remuneration Report.
2.   For FY23, amount relates to the cash component of the FY23 EVP, earned in FY23 and payable in September 2023. For FY22, the amount relates to the cash component 

of the FY22 EVP, earned in FY22 and paid in September 2022.

3.   Equity in this table has been valued based on Telstra’s share price at 30 June for each respective year. For FY23 this price is $4.30 and for FY22 this price is $3.85.
4.   Amount relates to the value of variable remuneration earned in prior financial years which was provided as Restricted Shares. For the amount reported for FY23, the 

Restriction Period for these shares ended on 30 June 2023 and relates to Tranche 3 of the FY20 EVP, Tranche 2 of the FY21 EVP and Tranche 1 of the FY22 EVP. For the 
amount reported for FY22, the Restriction Period for these shares ended on 30 June 2022 and relates to the Tranche 2 of the FY20 EVP and Tranche 1 of the FY21 EVP.

5.  The outcome of the FY19 EVP was that 100% of the Performance Rights vested.

The following table details the actual remuneration Senior Executives (other than the CEO) received or became entitled to receive 
during FY23.

Fixed 
Remuneration
($000)

Individual 
EVP Outcome 
payable as cash
($000)1

Value of EVP 
Restricted 
Shares that 
became 
unrestricted 
($000)2,3

Value of EVP 
Performance 
Rights that 
vested
($000)2,4

1,208

1,076

1,126

1,076

1,376

926

519

703

511

432

511

670

437

240

605

442

568

541

731

197

–

870

–

873

706

1,177

–

–

Name

 Michael Ackland

 Kim Krogh Andersen

 David Burns

 Nikos Katinakis

 Brendon Riley

 Dean Salter

 Brad Whitcomb

Total
($000)

3,386

2,029

2,999

2,834

3,954

1,560

759

The table only includes Senior Executives (other than the CEO) who held that position as at 30 June 2023.
1.  Amount relates to the cash component of the FY23 EVP, earned in FY23 and payable in September 2023.
2.  Equity in this table has been valued based on the Telstra closing share price on 30 June 2023 of $4.30.
3.   Amount relates to the value of Restricted Shares awarded under the FY20 (Tranche 3), FY21 (Tranche 2) and FY22 (Tranche 1) EVPs which were earned in a previous 

year, but subject to a Restriction Period ending 30 June 2023.

4.  The outcome of the FY19 EVP was that 100% of the Performance Rights vested.

69

(b) Senior Executive remuneration (main table)
The table below has been prepared in accordance with the requirements of the Corporations Act and the relevant Australian 
Accounting Standards and relates only to the periods that the person was a Senior Executive. The figures provided under the 
equity settled share-based payments columns are based on accounting values and do not reflect actual payments received by 
Senior Executives. As continuing employment conditions and/or performance conditions apply, not all Restricted Shares, 
Performance Rights and Cash Rights may vest.

Short term 
employee benefits

Post–
employment 
benefits

Termination 

Benefits

Other long term benefits

Share–based payments

Accounting value (at risk)($)8

Salary & fees 
($000)1

EVP cash 
($000)2

Non–monetary 
benefits 
($000)3

Other 
($000)4

Superannuation 
($000)5

Termination 

benefits ($000)6

Accrued 

leave benefits 

($000)7

Restricted 

 Performance 

rights 

($000)10

 Cash Rights 

($000)11

Total 

($000)

2,164

1,176

1,208

1,100

1,076

1,025

1,126

1,126

1,076

1,076

1,376

1,376

926

926

519

–

400

2,366

437

906

10,308

11,077

1,231

570

703

600

511

431

432

440

511

410

670

553

437

375

240

–

228

1,113

210

495

5,173

4,987

50

33

–

1

4

120

10

3

18

31

45

38

10

1

7

–

18

43

–

2

162

272

41

(20)

24

54

21

15

(35)

(19)

(51)

-

(16)

(46)

(4)

21

111

–

(6)

(26)

28

(5)

113

(26)

25

24

25

24

25

24

25

24

25

24

25

24

25

24

13

–

6

24

19

24

213

216

Dividend 

Equivalent 

Payment 

Accrual 

($000)

shares 

($000)9

1,025

110

69

124

81

66

31

123

85

112

76

160

110

23

5

–

–

54

198

58

84

830

739

618

786

605

596

482

598

544

614

520

828

713

415

258

62

–

111

1,220

785

532

5,820

5,492

543

321

411

309

244

169

360

296

350

274

484

411

138

76

18

–

152

1,439

703

313

3,403

3,608

59

30

31

28

27

27

28

28

27

27

35

35

23

23

13

–

10

59

11

23

264

280

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

838

838

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

978

1,965

225

–

1,203

1,965

5,248

2,821

3,312

2,802

2,570

2,324

2,667

2,527

2,682

2,438

3,607

3,214

1,993

1,709

983

–

1,951

8,401

3,314

2,374

28,327

28,610

Name 
and title

Vicki Brady
CEO

Michael Ackland
CFO

Kim Krogh 
Andersen
GE P&T

David Burns
GE TE

Nikos Katinakis
GE G&NT

Brendon Riley
GE & CEO InfraCo

Dean Salter
GE GBS

Brad Whitcomb
GE C&SB

Andrew Penn
Former CEO

Alex Badenoch
Former GE TC&P

Total current 
and former KMP

Year

2023

2022

2023

2022

2023

2022

2023

2022

2023

2022

2023

2022

2023

2022

2023

2022

2023

2022

2023

2022

2023

2022

In the table above, EVP Cash, Restricted Shares, Performance Rights and Cash Rights are dependent on the satisfaction of performance conditions (an overview of those 
performance conditions is included above in Section 2.1(c)). All other items are not related to performance.
1. 

 Includes salary and salary sacrifice benefits (excluding salary sacrifice superannuation which is included under Superannuation), and where applicable is adjusted for 
leave without pay. Andrew Penn entered into a consultancy agreement to provide ongoing advice and guidance to Telstra for 6 months following his retirement (until 30 
March 2023) and received fees of $10,000 per month. As he was no longer KMP following his retirement, these fees are not included in the table above.

2.   For FY23, the amounts relate to performance in FY23 under the FY23 EVP, which will be paid in September 2023. For FY22, the amounts relate to cash amounts paid for 

performance in FY22 under the FY22 EVP. Those cash amounts were paid in September 2022.

3.   Includes the cost of personal use of Telstra products and services, the provision of car parking and where applicable, benefits in accordance with Telstra’s relocation 
policy for those executives who were repatriated or relocated to Australia in recent years. Where applicable, the value of non-monetary benefits has been grossed up 
for FBT by the relevant FBT rates.

4.   Includes the net movement of annual leave entitlement balance and, for Brad Whitcomb a sign on payment of $70,500.
5. 

 Represents company contributions to superannuation. Telstra does not provide any other post-employment benefits. Includes an increase in super contributions for 
FY23, partially funded from salary and fees, due to indexation of the Maximum Superannuation Contribution Base.
 Termination benefits for Alex Badenoch of $837,792 comprised of a $362,190 payment in lieu of notice and a $475,602 termination payment as per her employment 
contract. No termination benefits were paid to Andrew Penn on retirement, only statutory leave was paid out. The termination benefits provided to Alex Badenoch were 
paid in compliance with Part 2D.2, Division 2 of the Corporations Act.

6. 

70

Remuneration Report | Telstra Annual Report 2023

Short term 

employee benefits

Post–

employment 

benefits

Termination 
Benefits

Other long term benefits

Share–based payments
Accounting value (at risk)($)8

Salary & fees 

($000)1

EVP cash 

($000)2

Non–monetary 

benefits 

($000)3

Other 

Superannuation 

($000)4

($000)5

Termination 
benefits ($000)6

Accrued 
leave benefits 
($000)7

Dividend 
Equivalent 
Payment 
Accrual 
($000)

Restricted 
shares 
($000)9

 Performance 
rights 
($000)10

 Cash Rights 
($000)11

Total 
($000)

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

838

–

838

–

59

30

31

28

27

27

28

28

27

27

35

35

23

23

13

–

10

59

11

23

264

280

110

69

124

81

66

31

123

85

112

76

160

110

23

5

–

–

54

198

58

84

830

739

1,025

618

786

605

596

482

598

544

614

520

828

713

415

258

62

–

111

1,220

785

532

5,820

5,492

543

321

411

309

244

169

360

296

350

274

484

411

138

76

18

–

152

1,439

703

313

3,403

3,608

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

978

1,965

225

–

1,203

1,965

5,248

2,821

3,312

2,802

2,570

2,324

2,667

2,527

2,682

2,438

3,607

3,214

1,993

1,709

983

–

1,951

8,401

3,314

2,374

28,327

28,610

Name 

and title

Vicki Brady

CEO

Michael Ackland

CFO

Kim Krogh 

Andersen

GE P&T

David Burns

GE TE

Nikos Katinakis

GE G&NT

Brendon Riley

GE & CEO InfraCo

Dean Salter

GE GBS

Brad Whitcomb

GE C&SB

Andrew Penn

Former CEO

Alex Badenoch

Former GE TC&P

Total current 

and former KMP

Year

2023

2022

2023

2022

2023

2022

2023

2022

2023

2022

2023

2022

2023

2022

2023

2022

2023

2022

2023

2022

2023

2022

2,164

1,176

1,208

1,100

1,076

1,025

1,126

1,126

1,076

1,076

1,376

1,376

926

926

519

–

400

2,366

437

906

10,308

11,077

1,231

570

703

600

511

431

432

440

511

410

670

553

437

375

240

–

228

1,113

210

495

5,173

4,987

120

50

33

–

1

4

10

3

18

31

45

38

10

1

7

–

18

43

–

2

162

272

41

(20)

24

54

21

15

(35)

(19)

(51)

-

(16)

(46)

(4)

21

111

–

(6)

(26)

28

(5)

113

(26)

25

24

25

24

25

24

25

24

25

24

25

24

25

24

13

–

6

24

19

24

213

216

 Includes the net movement of long service leave entitlement balances.

7. 
8.   The accounting values included in the table relate to the current year amortised value of all Restricted Shares, Performance Rights and Cash Rights that had not yet 
fully vested at the commencement of the financial year. The value of each equity instrument is calculated by applying valuation methodologies or is based on the 
market value of Telstra shares at the grant date as described in note 5.2 to the financial statements and is then amortised, based on the maximum achievable 
allocation, over the relevant vesting period. This value includes an assumption that the instruments will vest at the end of the vesting period unless forfeited during the 
financial year.
 This includes the amortised value of the Restricted Share component of the FY23, FY22, FY21 and FY20 EVPs. As the Board exercised discretion to permit Andrew Penn 
to retain his 404,414 FY21 EVP Restricted Shares in FY22, these shares have been accounted under AASB 2 as a forfeiture and replacement award and their fair value 
has been remeasured totalling $1.465 million. The original fair value was $1.602 million. No Board discretion was exercised in relation to Alex Badenoch’s Restricted 
Shares.

9. 

10.  This includes the amortised value of the Performance Right component of the FY23, FY22, FY21, FY20 and FY19 EVPs. (This footnote included in the statutory full year 

financial results on 17 August 2023 contained a typographical error which has now been corrected.)

11.   As required under AASB 2, the accounting expense for the FY22 Cash Rights awarded to Andrew Penn and FY23 Cash Rights that will be awarded to Andrew Penn and 
Alex Badenoch in lieu of Restricted Shares and Performance Rights have been fully recognised in this reporting period even though the EVP Cash Rights will not be 
eligible to vest until the end of their respective restriction and performance periods. The FY23 Cash Rights are subject to the same time conditions and performance 
measures as those applying to FY23 Restricted Shares and Performance Rights to be allocated to other Senior Executives.

71

(c) FY23 EVP Payments (cash and equity)

Breakdown of FY23 Individual EVP Outcomes1

Maximum 
potential 
EVP 
opportunity 
($000)2

25% Cash 
component 
($000)

35% 
Restricted 
Shares 
component 
($000)3

40% 
Performance 
Rights
component 
($000)

Individual 
EVP 
Outcome 
($000)

% of 
maximum 
opportunity 
earned

% of 
maximum 
opportunity 
forfeited

6,564

3,750

3,304

3,454

3,304

4,204

2,854

1,571

1,219

1,376

1,231

1,722

703

511

432

511

670

437

240

228

210

984

715

604

715

937

612

337

320

295

1,968

1,124

817

690

817

1,071

700

385

365

337

4,921

2,811

2,043

1,726

2,043

2,678

1,749

962

913

842

75.0%

25.0%

75.0%

25.0%

61.8%

38.2%

50.0%

50.0%

61.8%

38.2%

63.7%

36.3%

61.3%

61.2%

38.7%

38.8%

75.0%

25.0%

61.2%

38.8%

Name

 Vicki Brady

 Michael Ackland

 Kim Krogh Andersen

 David Burns

 Nikos Katinakis

 Brendon Riley

 Dean Salter

 Brad Whitcomb

 Andrew Penn4

 Alex Badenoch4

1.  The FY23 Individual EVP Outcomes were approved by the Board on 15 August 2023.
2.   Represents the maximum potential EVP opportunity specific to their time as Senior Executives for FY23, adjusted for any variation in Fixed Remuneration or any leave 
without pay taken throughout FY23 that impacts the maximum potential EVP opportunity available. If the minimum threshold performance is not met, the minimum 
possible EVP payment is nil.

3.   The Restricted Shares and Performance Rights awarded are expected to be allocated shortly after Telstra’s 2023 Annual General Meeting and are subject to Restriction 

Periods and performance periods (as set out in Section 2.1(c)) and the Senior Executive's continued employment.

4.   As Andrew Penn and Alex Badenoch ceased employment for Permitted Reasons before the allocation of their FY23 Restricted Shares and Performance Rights under 

the EVP, they will be granted Cash Rights in lieu of those Restricted Shares and Performance Rights.

72

Remuneration Report | Telstra Annual Report 2023

(d) Number and value of rights over equity instruments allocated, vested and exercised during FY23
As a result of the Restructure, Performance Rights and Restricted Shares under the FY22 EVP were granted by the new parent 
entity of the Telstra Group, Telstra Group Limited. All Restricted Shares on issue at the time the top hat component of the scheme 
forming part of the Restructure was implemented (being 31 October 2022) were treated in the same way as shares held by other 
Telstra shareholders. Telstra Corporation Limited Restricted Shares were exchanged for Telstra Group Limited Restricted Shares 
on a one-for-one basis. All Performance Rights on issue at the time the top hat component of the scheme was implemented were 
amended to provide that a Telstra Group Limited share (or cash amount equivalent to such share) will be provided on the vesting 
of any Performance Right. There was no change to the fair market value of the Performance Rights as a result of the amendment. 
The closing price of Telstra Group Limited shares on the ASX on 31 October 2022 was $3.92.

Equity Movements

Total 
rights held 
at 1 July 
20221

Rights 
allocated 
during 
FY232

Value of 
rights 
allocated 
($000)3

Rights 
vested / 
exercised 
during FY234

Value of 
rights 
vested/ 
exercised 
($000)5

Other
changes 
(lapsed 
rights)

Total 
 rights held 
at 30 June 
20235

Name

Vicki Brady

535,984

224,918

551

(83,562)

Michael Ackland

608,332

236,756

400

(202,232)

Kim Krogh Andersen

300,255

170,168

David Burns

633,796

173,621

Nikos Katinakis

577,110

161,783

Brendon Riley

832,639

218,013

Dean Salter

61,108

147,972

Brad Whitcomb

–

Andrew Penn

1,471,653

–

–

288

293

273

368

250

–

–

–

(203,130)

(164,095)

(273,721)

–

–

(558,281)

Alex Badenoch

615,277

195,324

330

(224,842)

165

400

–

402

325

542

–

–

1,407

445

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

677,340

642,856

470,423

604,287

574,798

776,931

209,080

–

913,372

585,759

All service and performance conditions for rights granted in previous financial years are summarised in the Remuneration Report for each relevant year of grant. Each 
equity instrument granted, vested or exercised in FY23 (where applicable) in the table above was issued by Telstra Corporation Limited (if issued prior to the Restructure) 
or Telstra Group Limited (if issued after the Restructure) and resulted or will result (on vesting and exercise) in one ordinary Telstra Group Limited share (or, at Telstra 
Group Limited’s discretion, a cash amount equal to the value of one ordinary Telstra Group Limited share) being provided to the holder per equity instrument. No amount 
is payable by the KMP on grant, vesting or exercise of their rights. Restricted Shares are excluded from this table. Refer to Sections 2.5(c) and (e) for further information.

1.   The balance reflects the number of equity instruments held on the later of 1 July 2022 or the date on which the executive commenced as a KMP. Refer to the list of KMP 

at the end of the Key Highlights section of this report for further information.

2.   Rights allocated during FY23 were the FY22 EVP Performance Rights allocated on 21 November 2022. Approval for the issue of FY22 EVP Performance Rights allocated 
to Vicki Brady was obtained from shareholders at our 2022 AGM, and as a result the grant date of those awards for accounting purposes is considered to be the date of 
that AGM as described in note 2 below. The FY23 EVP Performance Rights will be allocated shortly after Telstra’s 2023 AGM, refer to Section 2.1 for more information. 
Approval for the issue of FY23 EVP Performance Rights to be allocated to Vicki Brady will be sought from shareholders at our 2023 AGM, and as a result the grant date 
of those awards for accounting purposes will be considered to be the date of the 2023 AGM (rather than 12 August 2022).

3.   The fair value reflects the valuation approach required by AASB 2 using an option pricing model for Performance Rights granted. The fair value of the Performance 

Rights allocated in FY23 under the FY22 EVP are based on the grant dates of 11 October 2022 for the CEO and 11 August 2021 for all other Senior Executives, 
respectively. The fair value of Performance Rights granted under the FY22 EVP are $2.45 for the CEO, and $1.69 for Senior Executives.

4.   Rights vested in this column relate to the Performance Rights awarded under the FY19 EVP that was performance tested following the conclusion of the performance 

period on 30 June 2023 and resulted in 100% of the Performance Rights vesting. These will be provided as shares following the date of this report.

5.   The fair value reflects the valuation approach required by AASB 2 using an option pricing model for Performance Rights granted. The fair value of the Performance 

Rights vested under the FY19 EVP are based on the grant dates of 15 October 2019 for Andrew Penn and 11 October 2018 for all other Senior Executives, respectively. 
The fair value of Performance Rights vested under the FY19 EVP are $2.52 for Andrew Penn and $1.98 for all other Senior Executives.

6.   The balance reflects the number of shares held at 30 June 2023 or, if earlier, the date on which the executive ceased to hold the KMP position. Refer to the list of KMP at 

the end of the Key Highlights section of this report for further information.

There are no Performance Rights or options held by any KMP’s related parties and no Performance Rights or options held indirectly or beneficially by our KMP. As at 30 
June 2023, there were no options or Performance Rights vested, or vested and exercisable or vested and unexercisable, except for the FY19 EVP Performance Rights. As 
outlined in Section 2.4, the secondary performance condition applying to the FY19 EVP Performance Rights was tested following the conclusion of the performance period 
on 30 June 2023 and 100% of those Performance Rights vested. Shares will be provided in respect of those vested Performance Rights following the date of this report.

73

(e) Senior Executive interests in Telstra Shares
During FY23, our Senior Executives and their related parties held Telstra shares directly, indirectly or beneficially as follows:

Name

Vicki Brady

Michael Ackland

Kim Krogh Andersen

David Burns

Nikos Katinakis

Total shares 
held at
1 July 20221,2

Restricted 
Shares 
allocated3

Net shares 
acquired or 
disposed of and 
other changes4

Total shares 
held at
30 June 20235

Number of 
shares held 
nominally at 
30 June 20235,6

575,085

886,513

262,723

740,018

530,785

196,803

–

771,888

441,137

207,161

(55,000)

1,038,674

1,038,674

148,897

–

151,918

(400,000)

411,620

491,936

325,996

384,967

141,560

–

672,345

366,445

Brendon Riley

1,507,606

190,761

(500,000)

1,198,367

1,198,367

Dean Salter

58,969

129,476

Brad Whitcomb

–

Andrew Penn

2,556,435

–

–

Alex Badenoch

597,980

170,908

–

–

–

–

188,445

175,078

–

2,556,435

768,888

–

559,505

380,832

Total

7,716,114

1,337,484

(955,000)

8,098,598

4,871,001

1.   Total shareholdings include shares held by our Senior Executives and their related parties. Unless related to our employee share plans, shares acquired or disposed of 

by our Senior Executives and their related parties during FY23 were on an arms length basis at market price.

2.   Reflects the number of shares held on the later of 1 July 2022 or the date on which the executive commenced as a KMP. Refer to the list of KMP at the end of the Key 

Highlights section of this report for further information.

3.   Restricted Shares in this column were allocated on 21 November 2022 and relate to the FY22 EVP. The approval for the issue of Restricted Shares allocated to Vicki 

Brady was obtained from shareholders at our 2022 Annual General Meeting. For his FY22 EVP award, Andrew Penn was awarded Cash Rights and not Restricted Shares. 
The Restricted Shares under the FY23 EVP will be made after the reporting date of 30 June 2023, therefore they have not been included in the table above.

4.   For Michael Ackland, David Burns and Brendon Riley the movement relates to sale of shares.
5.   The balance reflects the number of shares held at 30 June 2023 or, if earlier, the date on which the executive ceased to hold the KMP position. Refer to the list of KMP at 

the end of the Key Highlights section of this report for further information.

6.   Nominally refers to shares held either indirectly or beneficially by Senior Executives and shares held by their related parties including certain Restricted Shares held 
beneficially by Senior Executives. These shares are subject to a Restriction Period, such that the Senior Executive is restricted from dealing with the shares until the 
Restriction Period ends. Refer to note 5.2 to the financial statements for further details.

74

3.0 Non-executive Director remuneration

3.1 FY23 fee structure

Overview
Our non-executive Directors are remunerated with set fees and 
do not receive any performance-based pay. This enables non-
executive Directors to maintain independence and impartiality 
when making decisions affecting the future direction of the 
Company.

Superannuation contributions are included within each non-
executive Director's total remuneration, in accordance with the 
ASX Listing Rules and Telstra policy. Non-executive Directors 
may choose to increase the proportion of their remuneration 
taken as superannuation, subject to legislative requirements.

Telstra does not provide retirement benefits for non-executive 
Directors other than the superannuation contributions noted 
above.

Sections 1.1(g) and (h) of this report provide details of the share 
ownership policy and securities trading restrictions that apply 
to our non-executive Directors. Section 3 provides full details of 
non-executive Director remuneration for FY23.

Non-executive Directors are remunerated in accordance with 
Telstra's Constitution, which provides for an aggregate fee pool 
that is set, and varied, only by approval of a resolution of 
shareholders at the AGM. The current annual fee pool of $3.5 
million was approved by shareholders at Telstra's 2012 AGM. 
The total of Board and Committee fees, including 
superannuation, paid to non-executive Directors in FY23 
remained within the approved fee pool.

(a) FY23 Board and standing Committee fees
On an annual basis the Board conducts a market review of 
Board fees. Before FY23, the Chair fee and non-executive 
Director annual base fee had not changed since 2014 and 2012 
respectively.

As reported in our 2022 Remuneration Report, from 1 October 
2022, the Board determined to increase the Board Chair fee 
from $775,000 to $790,000 (1.9% increase) and the non-
executive director Board fee from $235,000 to $240,000 (2.1% 
increase). The People and Remuneration Committee member 
fee had not changed since 2017 and, from 1 October 2022, 
increased by 1.8% from $28,000 to $28,500. The total of Board 
and Committee fees remains within the approved fee pool.

The Board and standing Committee fee structure (inclusive of 
superannuation) during FY23 was:

FY23 
Board Fees

Board

FY23 
Committee Fee

Audit & Risk Committee

People and Remuneration 
Committee

Chair

$790,000

Chair

$70,000

$56,000

Nomination Committee*

–

Non-executive 
Director (annual 
base fee)

$240,000

Committee 
Member

$35,000

$28,500

–

* All non-executive Directors are members of the Nomination Committee and do not 
receive a fee for this Committee.

The Board Chair does not receive Committee fees if he is a 
Member of a Board Committee. No remuneration for additional 
or special duties was paid to non-executive Directors in FY23.

Following the FY23 market review of Board fees, from 1 October 
2023 the Board has determined to increase the People and 
Remuneration Committee Chair annual fee from $56,000 to 
$58,000 (3.6% increase) and the People and Remuneration 
Committee member fee from $28,500 to $29,500 (3.5% 
increase). The total of Board and Committee fees will remain 
within the approved fee pool.

(b) Changes to the Board and Committee composition
There were a number of changes to Board and Committee 
composition during FY23.
• Nora Scheinkestel retired as a non-executive Director effective 

11 October 2022;

• Bridget Loudon was appointed as a member of the People and 

Remuneration Committee on 13 October 2022;

• Ming Long was appointed to the Board and as a member of 

the Nomination Committee on 1 January 2023;

• Ming Long was appointed as a member of the People and 

Remuneration Committee and as a member of the Audit and 
Risk Committee on 15 February 2023;

• Maxine Brenner was appointed to the Board and as a member 
of the Nomination Committee and Audit and Risk Committee 
on 17 February 2023; and

• Elana Rubin was appointed to the Audit and Risk Committee 
on 13 October 2022 and ceased to be a member of the Audit 
and Risk Committee from 17 February 2023.

75

3.2 Detailed remuneration and interests in Telstra shares

(a) Non-executive Director remuneration

Name and title

John P Mullen
Chair

Eelco Blok4
Director

Maxine Brenner5
Director

Roy H Chestnutt4
Director

Craig W Dunn
Director

Ming Long5
Director

Bridget Loudon6
Director

Elana Rubin7
Director

Nora L Scheinkestel8
Director

Niek Jan van Damme4
Director

Total

Year

2023

2022

2023

2022

2023

2022

2023

2022

2023

2022

2023

2022

2023

2022

2023

2022

2023

2022

2023

2022

2023

2022

Short term employee benefits

Post–employment 
benefits

Salary and fees 
($000)1

Non-monetary 
benefits ($000)2

Superannuation 
($000)3

Total 
($000)9

 761

 751

 234

 231

 93

 –

 269

 265

 283

 292

 131

 –

 235

 214

 349

 253

 76

283

 262

258

 2,693

 2,547

 15

 11

 –

 –

 –

 –

 –

 –

 1

 1

 –

 –

 –

 1

 4

 1

 –

 1

 –

 –

 20

 15

 25

 24

 5

 4

 9

 –

 5

 5

 25

 24

 13

 –

 24

 21

 –

 6

 7

 24

 5

 5

 118

 113

 801

 786

 239

 235

 102

 –

 274

 270

 309

 317

 144

 –

 259

 236

 353

 260

 83

 308

 267

 263

 2,831

 2,675

1.   Includes fees for membership on Board standing committees and remuneration for payroll adjustments, additional or special duties (where applicable). In FY22, the 

following non-executive Directors received remuneration for additional or special duties: Craig Dunn ($11,000) and Nora L Scheinkestel ($9,000). No remuneration for 
additional or special duties was paid to non-executive Directors in FY23.

2.   Includes the provision of car parking as well as the value of Telstra products and services provided to non-executive directors. The value of non-monetary benefits has 

been grossed up where required for FBT by the relevant FBT rates.

3.   Includes an increase in super contributions for FY23, funded from salary and fees, due to indexation of the Maximum Superannuation Contribution Base.
4.   As Eelco Blok, Roy Chestnutt, and Niek Jan van Damme are overseas residents, their superannuation contributions for FY23 and FY22 are less than the contributions 

for Australian resident non-executive Directors.

5.   Maxine Brenner and Ming Long qualified as KMP from 17 February 2023 and 1 January 2023 respectively, when they were appointed as non-executive Directors of 

Telstra.

6.   Includes a period of paid parental leave.
7.   Includes $42,162 payable from payroll reconciliation relating to prior periods. An employer superannuation guarantee shortfall exemption certificate has been granted 

by the ATO for the 2023 financial year. Based on the exemption approval Telstra has met the required Superannuation Guarantee obligation.

8.   Nora L Scheinkestel (Director since August 2010) retired from the Board of Directors on 11 October 2022.
9.   The total for FY22 of $2,675 million in this table is different to the total for FY22 in the FY22 Remuneration Report of $2,902 million as it does not include 

remuneration for Peter Hearl of $147,000 or Margaret Seale of $80,000.

76

Remuneration Report | Telstra Annual Report 2023

(b) Non-executive Directors’ interests in Telstra shares
During FY23, our non-executive Directors and their related parties held Telstra shares directly, indirectly or beneficially as follows:

Name

John P Mullen

Eelco Blok

Maxine Brenner

Roy H Chestnutt

Craig W Dunn

Ming Long

Bridget Loudon

Elana Rubin

Nora L Scheinkestel

Niek Jan van Damme

Total

Total shares held at
1 July 20221,2

Net shares acquired
or disposed of and 
other changes1

Total shares held at
30 June 20231,3

Shares held nominally 
at 30 June 20233,4

126,159

75,000

–

70,000

73,173

26,000

2,500

67,961

161,685

77,000

679,478

–

–

–

–

–

25,589

10,000

–

3,459

–

39,048

126,159

75,000

–

70,000

73,173

51,589

12,500

67,961

165,144

77,000

718,526

100,000

–

–

70,000

72,473

–

12,500

–

131,206

–

386,179

1.   Total shareholdings include shares held by our non-executive Directors and their related parties. Shares acquired or disposed of by our non-executive Directors and 

their related parties during FY23 were on an arm's length basis at market price.

2.  For Maxine Brenner and Ming Long, the balance as at 1 July 2022 represents shares held as at the date they became KMP.
3.  For Nora L Scheinkestel, the balance as at 30 June 2023 represents shares held as at the date on which she ceased to be KMP.
4.   Nominally refers to shares held either indirectly or beneficially by non-executive Directors including those shares held by their related parties.

4.0 Looking forward to FY24

4.1 Senior Executive Leadership Changes
During the year we were delighted to announce the 
appointment of Kathryn van der Merwe as Group Executive 
People, Culture and Communications. Kathryn commenced with 
Telstra on 3 July 2023.

4.2 FY24 Senior Executive Remuneration Framework
On an annual basis the Board conducts a market review of 
Senior Executive remuneration along with other factors 
including internal relativities and any growth in the 
accountabilities of Senior Executive roles.

Dean Salter commenced with Telstra on 19 February 2021 on a 
fixed remuneration of $950,000. With an increase in the 
Superannuation Guarantee Charge, his fixed remuneration 
increased to $951,205 on 1 July 2022. Since commencement, 
the accountabilities of Dean Salter’s role have expanded and 
have become critical to the delivery of our T25 strategy. Field 
services and wideband construction teams have moved into 
Global Business Services to enable consistent investment in our 
critical field services capabilities and to ensure a consistent 
customer experience. Dean Salter also plays an increasingly 
critical role in Telstra delivering net cost reductions through 
productivity improvements, including the expansion and 
maturation of our global shared services operations.

The Board has determined to increase the fixed remuneration of 
Dean Salter, Group Executive Global Business Services, from 
$951,205 to $1,050,000. This change will take effect on 1 
October 2023 and, with the exception of the regulated increase 
in the Superannuation Guarantee Charge, is the first increase in 
fixed remuneration for Dean Salter since his commencement 
nearly three years ago.

For FY24 we do not anticipate any other increases in Senior 
Executive Fixed Remuneration other than on appointment or 
promotion to a new role or due to a significant increase in 
accountabilities, nor do we intend on making any significant 
changes to the EVP remuneration structure.

4.3 FY24 EVP Performance Measures and Targets
It is our intention to continue to provide meaningful information 
to enable shareholders to assess the appropriateness of our 
remuneration targets and provide transparency over 
remuneration outcomes. The Board considers this an imperative 
as our operating environment requires careful shareholder 
consideration of the need to appropriately recognise and reward 
strong management performance for the value created for the 
Company and its shareholders.

The performance measures and targets selected by the Board 
are designed to focus the Senior Executives on delivering 
against the second year of our T25 strategy, and to help ensure 
that financial rewards are linked directly to their contributions, 
to company performance and to long-term shareholder value 
creation.

In setting the primary performance measures and targets for 
the FY24 EVP, the Board sought to ensure they were robust and 
sufficiently demanding, taking into account the key deliverables 
and milestones outlined in our T25 strategy and scorecard, 
planned financial outcomes contained within our FY24 
Corporate Plan and FY24 guidance (as announced on 17 August 
2023).

The targets that apply to the FY24 EVP do not constitute 
market guidance. Subsequent adjustments to guidance 
throughout the year (for example unplanned one-off events) 
and their impact on EVP outcomes will be considered both 
during the financial year as those events may occur and also at 
the end of the financial year, in accordance with established 
principles to ensure that outcomes appropriately reflect the 
performance of Senior Executives. Any adjustments that the 
Board makes will be fully disclosed to shareholders in next 
year’s Remuneration Report. The Board also has the ability to 
amend the performance measures themselves if it considers it 
appropriate having regard to Telstra’s business circumstances 
and priorities.

All of the following measures have been selected on the basis 
that they are directly linked to our T25 strategy.

77

FY24 EVP Performance Measures and Targets

Performance 
Measure

Metric

Weighting

FY23 EVP 
Actual^

FY24

Threshold

Target

Max

Rationale for 

why chosen

i

l
a
c
n
a
n
F

i

Total Income

Underlying 
EBITDA

Free Cash Flow

g
n
i
t
h
g
e
w

i

l
a
t
o
t

f
o
%
0
6

Underlying Return On 
Invested Capital

Telstra Income (excluding finance income)

15%

$23,245m

Underlying EBITDA is Earnings Before Interest, Tax, 
Depreciation & Amortisation, and excludes guidance 
adjustments

15%

$7,950m

Free Cashflow after lease payments defined as ‘operating cash 
flows’ less ‘investing cash flows’, less ‘payments for lease 
liabilities’, and excludes spectrum and guidance adjustments

15%

$2,784m

Underlying ROIC is Total NOPAT less guidance adjustments 
after tax, divided by Average Invested Capital

15%

8.1%

Aligned to 

bottom end 

of Market

Guidance*

Aligned to 

Midpoint of 

Market 

Guidance*

Aligned to 

top end of 

Market 

Guidance*

r
e
m
o
t
s
u
C

g
n
i
t
h
g
e
w

i

l
a
t
o
t

f
o
%
5
2

c
i
g
e
t
a
r
t
S

g
n
i
t
h
g
e
w

i

l
a
t
o
t

f
o
%
5
1

Episode NPS

RepTrak

Measures our customer experience from their feedback on 
each transaction using a Net Promoter Score

15%

+43

+43

+44

+45

Measures our reputation score on the RepTrak index

10%

63.5

63.5

64.2

64.9

Responsible Business

Our % reduction in absolute scope 1 + 2 greenhouse gas 
emissions and % reduction in absolute scope 3 greenhouse gas 
emissions, both from our FY19 baseline (excluding Digicel 
Pacific)

5%

Digital 
Leadership

Launching Application Programming Interface (API)-first 
products

5%

30% 
reduction in 
scope 1 + 2 
emissions
28%

reduction in 
scope 3 
emissions

89% of FY23 
target build 
achieved

Build 100% 

of the APIs 

required to 

launch our 

first API-first 

product

Release 2 

API-first 

products

Release 3 

API-first 

products

32%

33%

34%

electricity we use. Added for FY24 are scope 3 greenhouse gas emissions which are 

People Engagement

Maintain employee engagement in the high performing norm
(90th percentile)

5%

80

80

81

82

• A highly engaged workforce is critical for attracting and retaining the talent required to 

^   For metrics continuing from FY23, the FY23 EVP Actual refers to the FY23 EVP performance outcomes as outlined in Section 2.2. For Underlying EBITDA and Underlying 
ROIC refer to section 2.1 for the FY23 definitions. For Responsible Business the FY23 EVP Actual refers to the actual performance outcomes for the reduction in scope 1, 
2 and 3 greenhouse gas emissions in FY23. For metrics that are new in FY24, the FY23 EVP Actual (where available) is our current internal measurement to the end of 
June 2023 where this provides relevant context to the determination of Threshold, Target and Maximum for FY24.

*  Market Guidance means guidance for FY24 as set out in Telstra’s ASX announcement dated 17 August 2023. Threshold, Target and Maximum levels for Underlying ROIC 

align to the corresponding Threshold, Target and Maximum for Underlying EBITDA (which align to Market Guidance as described above).

78

• Key indicator of financial performance.

• Ensures continued focus on income and customer retention and growth.

• Aligns to the growth and value pillar of our T25 scorecard.

• Key indicator of financial performance.

• Ensures appropriate focus on profit and cost to deliver.

• A strong indicator of underlying company profitability.

• Aligns to the growth and value pillar of our T25 scorecard.

• Key indicator of financial performance.

• Appropriate for a capital-intensive business and critical in managing the Company’s 

ability to pay a dividend and maintain balance sheet strength.

• Aligns to the growth and value pillar of our T25 scorecard.

• Key indicator of financial performance.

• The introduction of this metric in FY23 reflects our T25 strategy focus on growth and 

financial returns.

• Aligns to the growth and value pillar of our T25 scorecard.

• Focusses leaders on continuously improving the customer service experience, driving 

both customer attraction and retention.

• Underpins company-wide improvement programs focused on improving our 

operational excellence by identifying and eliminating the causes of unnecessary 

customer effort and pain points.

• Aligns to the customer experience pillar of our T25 scorecard.

• Includes the sentiment of customers and non-customers, but also provides a broader, 

more holistic measure which picks up on all the key drivers of company reputation.

• Focusses leaders on the Company’s reputation in the community, with customers and 

prospective customers, and with prospective employees, driving both customer and 

employee attraction and retention.

• To account for macro changes in consumer sentiment, we will review Telstra’s 

performance against the year-on-year movement in the RepTrak Benchmark 60 

average score which measures the reputation of the 60 largest brands in Australia by 

revenue and market presence.

• Aligns to the responsible business pillar of our T25 scorecard.

• Inclusion of this metric in our scorecard leans into Telstra’s contribution to addressing 

this pressing issue and specifically recognises broad community concern on our 

changing environment.

• Scope 1 + 2 greenhouse gas emissions are those caused by fossil fuels and grid 

mainly those from our value chain (e.g. suppliers and customers). Both metrics will be 

assessed separately and combined with an equal weighting (50% each), as set out 

below this table.

• Aligns to the responsible business pillar of our T25 scorecard.

• This measure focuses our executives on enablers of Digital Leadership that will halve 

our new product time to market by building a 100% API-first architecture for customer 

management and product development.

• API-first involves building our underlying network, IT and data capabilities as services 

that can be used by teams building product and channel experiences. These services 

will be reusable for multiple products and channels, so we can make changes to them 

faster and more cheaply.

• It will drive fundamental and significant change in the way we work, improving 

offerings to customers whilst reducing cost.

• Aligns to the digital leadership pillar of our T25 scorecard.

• Focusses leaders on our employee engagement and the importance of our employees 

as stakeholders.

deliver on our ambitious strategy.

• Aligns to the new ways of working pillar of our T25 scorecard.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Total Income

Underlying 

EBITDA

Episode NPS

RepTrak

l

a

i

c

n

a

n

i

F

g

n

i

t

h

g

i

e

w

l

a

t

o

t

f

o

%

0

6

r

e

m

o

t

s

u

C

g

n

i

t

h

g

i

e

w

l

a

t

o

t

f

o

%

5

2

c

i

g

e

t

a

r

t

S

g

n

i

t

h

g

i

e

w

l

a

t

o

t

f

o

%

5

1

Responsible Business

Pacific)

Our % reduction in absolute scope 1 + 2 greenhouse gas 

emissions and % reduction in absolute scope 3 greenhouse gas 

5%

emissions, both from our FY19 baseline (excluding Digicel 

30% 

reduction in 

scope 1 + 2 

emissions

28%

reduction in 

scope 3 

emissions

Digital 

Leadership

Launching Application Programming Interface (API)-first 

products

5%

89% of FY23 

target build 

achieved

People Engagement

Maintain employee engagement in the high performing norm

(90th percentile)

FY24 EVP Performance Measures and Targets

Performance 

Measure

Metric

Weighting

FY23 EVP 

Actual^

FY24

Threshold

Target

Max

Rationale for 
why chosen

Remuneration Report | Telstra Annual Report 2023

Telstra Income (excluding finance income)

15%

$23,245m

Underlying EBITDA is Earnings Before Interest, Tax, 

Depreciation & Amortisation, and excludes guidance 

adjustments

15%

$7,950m

Free Cash Flow

liabilities’, and excludes spectrum and guidance adjustments

Free Cashflow after lease payments defined as ‘operating cash 

flows’ less ‘investing cash flows’, less ‘payments for lease 

15%

$2,784m

Underlying Return On 

Invested Capital

Underlying ROIC is Total NOPAT less guidance adjustments 

after tax, divided by Average Invested Capital

15%

8.1%

Aligned to 
bottom end 
of Market
Guidance*

Aligned to 
Midpoint of 
Market 
Guidance*

Aligned to 
top end of 
Market 
Guidance*

Measures our customer experience from their feedback on 

each transaction using a Net Promoter Score

15%

+43

+43

+44

+45

Measures our reputation score on the RepTrak index

10%

63.5

63.5

64.2

64.9

32%

33%

34%

Build 100% 
of the APIs 
required to 
launch our 
first API-first 
product

Release 2 
API-first 
products

Release 3 
API-first 
products

• Key indicator of financial performance.
• Ensures continued focus on income and customer retention and growth.
• Aligns to the growth and value pillar of our T25 scorecard.

• Key indicator of financial performance.
• Ensures appropriate focus on profit and cost to deliver.
• A strong indicator of underlying company profitability.
• Aligns to the growth and value pillar of our T25 scorecard.

• Key indicator of financial performance.
• Appropriate for a capital-intensive business and critical in managing the Company’s 

ability to pay a dividend and maintain balance sheet strength.

• Aligns to the growth and value pillar of our T25 scorecard.

• Key indicator of financial performance.
• The introduction of this metric in FY23 reflects our T25 strategy focus on growth and 

financial returns.

• Aligns to the growth and value pillar of our T25 scorecard.

• Focusses leaders on continuously improving the customer service experience, driving 

both customer attraction and retention.

• Underpins company-wide improvement programs focused on improving our 

operational excellence by identifying and eliminating the causes of unnecessary 
customer effort and pain points.

• Aligns to the customer experience pillar of our T25 scorecard.

• Includes the sentiment of customers and non-customers, but also provides a broader, 
more holistic measure which picks up on all the key drivers of company reputation.
• Focusses leaders on the Company’s reputation in the community, with customers and 
prospective customers, and with prospective employees, driving both customer and 
employee attraction and retention.

• To account for macro changes in consumer sentiment, we will review Telstra’s 

performance against the year-on-year movement in the RepTrak Benchmark 60 
average score which measures the reputation of the 60 largest brands in Australia by 
revenue and market presence.

• Aligns to the responsible business pillar of our T25 scorecard.

• Inclusion of this metric in our scorecard leans into Telstra’s contribution to addressing 

this pressing issue and specifically recognises broad community concern on our 
changing environment.

• Scope 1 + 2 greenhouse gas emissions are those caused by fossil fuels and grid 

electricity we use. Added for FY24 are scope 3 greenhouse gas emissions which are 
mainly those from our value chain (e.g. suppliers and customers). Both metrics will be 
assessed separately and combined with an equal weighting (50% each), as set out 
below this table.

• Aligns to the responsible business pillar of our T25 scorecard.

• This measure focuses our executives on enablers of Digital Leadership that will halve 
our new product time to market by building a 100% API-first architecture for customer 
management and product development.

• API-first involves building our underlying network, IT and data capabilities as services 
that can be used by teams building product and channel experiences. These services 
will be reusable for multiple products and channels, so we can make changes to them 
faster and more cheaply.

• It will drive fundamental and significant change in the way we work, improving 

offerings to customers whilst reducing cost.

• Aligns to the digital leadership pillar of our T25 scorecard.

• Focusses leaders on our employee engagement and the importance of our employees 

as stakeholders.

5%

80

80

81

82

• A highly engaged workforce is critical for attracting and retaining the talent required to 

deliver on our ambitious strategy.

• Aligns to the new ways of working pillar of our T25 scorecard.

Calculation of Blended Responsible Business Metric for FY24:

Reduce emissions

Weight

Threshold

Target

Scope 1 + 2

Scope 3

Blended targets (rounded to nearest whole %)

50%

50%

100%

32%

31%

32%

33%

32%

33%

Max

35%

33%

34%

79

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
5.0 Glossary

Cash Rights

EBITDA

EVP

EVP Scorecard 
Outcome

Rights granted to a Senior Executive who ceases employment for a Permitted Reason before the 
Restricted Shares and Performance Rights are granted in respect of the EVP in lieu of those Restricted 
Shares and Performance Rights. The Cash Rights are subject to the same time conditions and 
performance measures as those applying to those Restricted Shares and Performance Rights. On 
vesting, a Cash Right will entitle the Senior Executive to a cash payment equivalent to the value of a 
Telstra share at the end of the applicable Restriction Period or performance period. A Cash Right granted 
in lieu of a Restricted Share also entitles the Senior Executive to receive an amount equal to dividends 
paid on Telstra shares between the date the Cash Right is allocated and the end of the applicable 
Restriction Period, at or around the same time that Telstra pays the dividend. A Cash Right granted in 
lieu of a Performance Right entitles the Senior Executive, if the Cash Right vests, to receive an amount 
equivalent to dividends paid between allocation and vesting of the Cash Right after the end of the 
applicable performance period.

Earnings Before Interest, Tax, Depreciation and Amortisation.

Executive Variable Remuneration Plan.

The outcome determined by the Board following an assessment of Telstra’s performance against the 
primary performance measures under the EVP during the Initial Performance Period, after making such 
adjustments as it considers necessary to ensure the outcome is appropriate, that is then used as an input 
for determining each Senior Executive’s Individual EVP Outcome.

Fixed Remuneration 
or FR

Base salary plus company and private salary sacrificed superannuation contributions.

FY

Financial year

Individual EVP 
Outcome

The individual award earned by a Senior Executive under the EVP taking into consideration their 
performance, the EVP Scorecard Outcome, their ‘at target’ EVP reward opportunity and other factors in 
accordance with the Board’s decision framework such as any material risk events identified, the severity 
of their impact and the Senior Executive’s accountability for the matter.

Initial Performance 
Period

1 year (1 July 2022 – 30 June 2023).

KMP

Key Management Personnel, being people with authority and responsibility for planning, directing and 
controlling the activities of Telstra and the Group, directly or indirectly.

NBN Transaction

Agreements with nbn co and the Government in relation to Telstra's participation in the rollout of the nbn 
access network. This includes the entire definitive agreement receipts and the net negative recurring nbn 
headwinds on our business.

NPS

Net Promoter Score is a non-financial performance metric that we use to measure customer experience 
at Telstra. The Episode NPS performance measure is based on responses to internal surveys following 
actual service experiences customers had with Telstra. The overall Episode NPS result for Telstra is a 
weighted average calculation of the survey results from Telstra business segments – Consumer & Small 
Business contribute collectively at 65% and Telstra Enterprise at 35%.

Performance Right

A right to a share or, at Telstra’s discretion, a cash amount equivalent to the value of a share, at the end 
of a performance period, subject to the satisfaction of certain performance measures and continuing 
employment conditions.

Permitted Reason

Permitted Reason under the EVP means death, total and permanent disablement, certain medical 
conditions, company initiated separation for a reason unrelated to performance or conduct, redundancy 
or retirement. Permitted Reason under the EVP Performance Rights and Restricted Share terms also 
includes mutual separation.

Related parties

of a person means:
• a close member of the person’s family; and/or
• an entity over which the person or close family member has, directly or indirectly, control, joint control 

or significant influence

80

Remuneration Report | Telstra Annual Report 2023

Restricted Share

A Telstra share that is subject to a Restriction Period.

Restriction Period

A period during which a Telstra share is subject to a continuing employment condition and cannot be 
traded. Restricted Shares are transferred to a Senior Executive on the first day after the end of the 
Restriction Period that Senior Executives are able to deal in shares under Telstra's Securities Trading 
Policy.

Restructure

The corporate restructure of the Telstra Group implemented during FY23, which included Telstra Group. 
Limited becoming the new parent entity of the Telstra Group with effect from 31 October 2022 (Telstra 
Corporation Limited was the parent entity of the Telstra Group prior to that date).

Relative Total 
Shareholder Return 
(RTSR)

Measures the performance of a Telstra share (including the value of any cash dividend and other 
shareholder benefits paid during the period) relative to the performance of ordinary securities issued by 
the other entities in a comparator group over the same period.

RTSR Performance 
Period

The five-year performance period ending on 30 June 2027 over which the RTSR performance condition 
for the FY23 EVP Performance Rights will be measured.

Senior Executive

Refers to the CEO and those GEs who are KMP.

Underlying EBITDA

Underlying EBITDA is Earnings Before Interest, Tax, Depreciation & Amortisation. It excludes guidance 
adjustments. In FY23 and prior years, it also excluded net one-off nbn DA receipts less nbn net C2C.

81

SignOffs with signatures for Print Report.fm  Page 95  Wednesday, August 16, 2023  5:22 PM

SignOffs with signatures for Print Report.fm  Page 95  Wednesday, August 16, 2023  5:22 PM

Directors’ 
Report

Ernst & Young 
8 Exhibition Street
Melbourne VIC 3000 Australia
GPO Box 67 Melbourne VIC 3001
Tel: +61 3 9288 8000
Fax: +61 3 8650 7777
ey.com/au

Rounding

The Telstra Entity is a company of the kind referred to in 
the Australian Securities and Investments Commission 
Corporations (Rounding in Financial/Directors’ Reports) 
Instrument 2016/191, as amended from time to time and 
issued pursuant to section 341(1) of the Corporations Act 
2001. Except where otherwise indicated, the amounts in 
this Directors’ Report and the accompanying financial 
report have been rounded to the nearest million dollars 
($m) and amounts in the Remuneration Report have been 
rounded to the nearest thousand dollars ($000).

This report is made on 17 August 2023 in accordance with 
a resolution of the Directors.

Auditor’s Independence Declaration to the 
Directors of Telstra Group Limited

As lead auditor for the audit of the financial report of 
Telstra Group Limited for the financial year ended 30 June 
2023, I declare to the best of my knowledge and belief, 
there have been:

(a)  No contraventions of the auditor independence 

requirements of the Corporations Act 2001 in relation 
to the audit;

(b)  No contraventions of any applicable code of 

professional conduct in relation to the audit; and

(c)  No non-audit services provided that contravene any 

applicable code of professional conduct in relation to 
the audit.

This declaration is in respect of Telstra Group Limited and 
the entities it controlled during the financial year.

John P Mullen
Chairman
17 August 2023

Vicki Brady
Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director
17 August 2023

Ernst & Young

Sarah Lowe
Partner
17 August 2023

A member firm of Ernst & Young Global Limited
Liability limited by a scheme approved under 
Professional Standards Legislation

A member firm of Ernst & Young Global Limited
Liability limited by a scheme approved under Professional Standards Legislation

F95

82

Financial
Report

83
Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities | 83

Telstra Financial Report 2023Telstra Group Limited
and controlled entities

Australian Business Number (ABN): 56 650 620 303

Telstra Financial Report 2023

Financial report: introduction and contents

As at 30 June 2023

About this report

This is the financial report for Telstra Group Limited (referred to as 
the Company or Telstra Entity) and its controlled entities (together 
referred to as we, us, our, Telstra, the Telstra Group or the Group) 
for the year ended 30 June 2023. 

Telstra Group Limited is a ‘for profit’ company limited by shares 
incorporated in Australia whose shares are publicly traded on the 
Australian Securities Exchange (ASX) following the exchange of 
shares in Telstra Corporation Limited for shares in Telstra Group 
Limited under the Telstra Group restructure described in note 1.2 
(Restructure).

The Restructure took place during the financial year 2023, with the 
final steps completed on 1 January 2023. Telstra Group Limited 
replaced Telstra Corporation Limited as the new parent entity of the 
Telstra Group on 31 October 2022. Our full year financial report has 
been prepared as a continuation of the existing financial 
performance and financial position of Telstra Corporation Limited 
and its controlled entities. As such, as at and for the year ended 30 
June 2023, the consolidated financial statements of the Group 
include the historical financial information of the Telstra Group for 
both the period before and after the Restructure.

This financial report was authorised for issue in accordance with a 
resolution of the Telstra Group Limited Board of Directors on 17 
August 2023. The Directors have the power to amend and reissue 
the financial report.

Reading the financials

Section introduction

The introduction at the start of each section outlines the focus of 
the section and explains the purpose and content of that section. 

Note and topic summary

A summary at the start of certain notes explains the objectives and 
content of that note, or at the start of certain specific topics 
clarifies complex concepts, which users may not be familiar with. 

Narrative table

Some narrative disclosures are presented in a tabular format to 
provide readers with a clearer understanding of the information 
being presented.

Information panel

The information panel describes our key accounting estimates and 
judgements applied in the preparation of the financial report, which 
are relevant to that section or note.

Contents

Financial Statements
Income Statement 
Statement of Comprehensive Income  
Statement of Financial Position  
Statement of Cash Flows  
Statement of Changes in Equity 

85
86
87
89
 90

Notes to the Financial Statements

Section 1: Basis of preparation
1.1  Basis of preparation of the financial report 
1.2  Telstra Group restructure 
1.3  Terminology used in our income statement 
1.4  Principles of consolidation 
1.5  Key accounting estimates and judgements 
1.6  Other accounting policies 
1.7  Restatement of prior periods 

Income 

Section 2: Our performance
2.1  Segment information 
2.2 
2.3  Expenses 
2.4 
Income taxes 
2.5  Earnings per share 
2.6  Notes to the statement of cash flows 

91
91
91
92
92
93
94

95
100
110
111
114
115

Section 3: Our core assets, lease arrangements and working 
capital
116
3.1  Property, plant and equipment and intangible assets 
122
3.2  Lease arrangements 
3.3  Trade and other receivables and contract assets 
127
3.4  Contract liabilities and other revenue received in advance  130
130
3.5 
131
3.6  Deferred contract costs 
132
3.7 
132
3.8  Trade and other payables 

 Net contract assets and contract liabilities 

Inventories 

Section 4: Our capital and risk management
4.1  Capital management 
4.2  Dividend 
4.3  Equity 
4.4  Net debt 
4.5  Financial instruments and risk management 

Section 5: Our people
5.1  Employee benefits 
5.2  Employee share plans 
5.3  Post-employment benefits 
5.4  Key management personnel compensation 

Section 6: Our investments
6.1  Changes in the group structure 
6.2 
6.3  Non-controlling interests 
6.4 

Investments in controlled entities 

Investments in joint ventures and associated entities 

Section 7: Other information
7.1  Auditor’s remuneration 
7.2  Other provisions 
7.3  Parent entity disclosures 
7.4  Commitments and contingencies 
7.5  Events after reporting date 

Directors’ Declaration 

Independent Auditor’s Report 

133
133
134
136
140

152
153
156
159

160
162 
165
166

170
170
171
172
173

174

175

84 | Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities

Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities | F1

Notes to the financial statements (continued)2023.Financial Report.book  Page 1  Wednesday, August 16, 2023  4:21 PM

2023.Financial Report.book  Page 2  Wednesday, August 16, 2023  4:21 PM

Income
Statement

For the year ended 30 June 2023

Telstra Group

Income

Revenue (excluding finance income)

Other income

Expenses

Labour

Goods and services purchased

Net impairment losses on financial assets

Other expenses

Share of net loss from joint ventures and associated entities

Earnings before interest, income tax expense, depreciation and amortisation (EBITDA)

Depreciation and amortisation

Earnings before interest and income tax expense (EBIT)

Finance income

Finance costs

Net finance costs

Contract liabilities and other revenue received in 

      F47

Profit before income tax expense

Income tax expense

Profit for the year

Profit for the year attributable to:

Equity holders of Telstra Entity

Non-controlling interests

Earnings per share (cents per share)

Basic

Diluted

Some narrative disclosures are presented in a tabular format to 

provide readers with a clearer understanding of the information 

Key management personnel compensation

The notes following the financial statements form part of the financial report.

Telstra Financial Report 2023

Telstra Group Limited is a ‘for profit’ company limited by shares 

Principles of consolidation

Financial report: introduction and contents

Telstra Group Limited

and controlled entities

Australian Business Number (ABN): 56 650 620 303

As at 30 June 2023

About this report

This is the financial report for Telstra Group Limited (referred to as 

the Company or Telstra Entity) and its controlled entities (together 

referred to as we, us, our, Telstra, the Telstra Group or the Group) 

for the year ended 30 June 2023. 

incorporated in Australia whose shares are publicly traded on the 

Australian Securities Exchange (ASX) following the exchange of 

shares in Telstra Corporation Limited for shares in Telstra Group 

Limited under the Telstra Group restructure described in note 1.2 

(Restructure).

The Restructure took place during the financial year 2023, with the 

final steps completed on 1 January 2023. Telstra Group Limited 

replaced Telstra Corporation Limited as the new parent entity of the 

Telstra Group on 31 October 2022. Our full year financial report has 

been prepared as a continuation of the existing financial 

performance and financial position of Telstra Corporation Limited 

and its controlled entities. As such, as at and for the year ended 30 

June 2023, the consolidated financial statements of the Group 

include the historical financial information of the Telstra Group for 

both the period before and after the Restructure.

This financial report was authorised for issue in accordance with a 

resolution of the Telstra Group Limited Board of Directors on 17 

August 2023. The Directors have the power to amend and reissue 

the financial report.

Reading the financials

Section introduction

Note and topic summary

A summary at the start of certain notes explains the objectives and 

content of that note, or at the start of certain specific topics 

clarifies complex concepts, which users may not be familiar with. 

The information panel describes our key accounting estimates and 

judgements applied in the preparation of the financial report, which 

are relevant to that section or note.

Narrative table

being presented.

Information panel

Contents

Financial Statements

Income Statement

Statement of Comprehensive Income

Statement of Financial Position

Statement of Cash Flows

Statement of Changes in Equity

1.1

1.2

1.3

1.4

1.5

1.6

1.7

2.1

2.2

2.3

2.4

2.5

2.6

3.2

3.3

3.4

3.5

3.6

3.7

3.8

4.1

4.2

4.3

5.1

5.2

5.3

5.4

6.1

6.2

6.3

6.4

7.1

7.2

7.3

7.4

7.5

Notes to the Financial Statements

Section 1: Basis of preparation

Basis of preparation of the financial report

Telstra Group restructure

Terminology used in our income statement

Key accounting estimates and judgements

Other accounting policies

Restatement of prior periods

Section 2: Our performance

Segment information

Income

Expenses

Income taxes

Earnings per share

Notes to the statement of cash flows

Section 3: Our core assets, lease arrangements and 

working capital

3.1

Property, plant and equipment and intangible 

F33

assets

Lease arrangements

Trade and other receivables and contract assets

advance

Net contract assets and contract liabilities

Deferred contract costs

Inventories

Trade and other payables

Dividend

Equity

4.4 Net debt

4.5

Financial instruments and risk management

Section 5: Our people

Employee benefits

Employee share plans

Post-employment benefits

Section 6: Our investments

Changes in the group structure

Investments in controlled entities

Non-controlling interests

Investments in joint ventures and associated 

entities

Section 7: Other information

Auditor’s remuneration

Other provisions

Parent entity disclosures

Commitments and contingencies

Events after reporting date

Directors’ Declaration

Independent Auditor’s Report

F2

F3

F4

F6

F7

      F10

      F11

F8

F8

F8

F9

F9

F12

F17

F27

F28

F31

F32

      F39

F44

      F47

      F48

F49

F49

F50

F50

F51

F53

F57

F69

F70

F73

F76

F77

F79

F82

F83

F87

F87

F88

F89

F90

F91

F92

The introduction at the start of each section outlines the focus of 

the section and explains the purpose and content of that section. 

Section 4: Our capital and risk management

Capital management

Telstra Financial Report 2023

Year ended 30 June

2023

2022

Note

$m

$m

2.2

2.2

2.3

6.4

2.3

2.2

2.3

2.4

2.5

2.5

22,702

543

21,277

768

23,245

22,045

3,967

8,511

90

2,788

15,356

3,620

8,228

98

2,812

14,758

(27)

(31)

15,383

14,789

7,862

4,470

3,392

101

630

529

2,863

812

2,051

1,928

123

2,051

7,256

4,358

2,898

110

527

417

2,481

667

1,814

1,688

126

1,814

cents

cents

16.7

16.7

14.4

14.3

Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities | F1

F2 | Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities

Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities | 85

Telstra Financial Report 20232023.Financial Report.book  Page 3  Wednesday, August 16, 2023  4:21 PM

2023.Financial Report.book  Page 4  Wednesday, August 16, 2023  4:21 PM

Statement of
Comprehensive Income

For the year ended 30 June 2023

Telstra Group

Profit for the year attributable to:

Equity holders of Telstra Entity

Non-controlling interests

Items that will not be reclassified to the income statement

Retained profits

Actuarial gain on defined benefit plans attributable to equity holders of Telstra Entity

5.3

Income tax on actuarial gain on defined benefit plans

Fair value of equity instruments reserve

Share of other comprehensive income of equity accounted investments

Income tax on share of other comprehensive income of equity accounted investments

Foreign currency translation reserve

Translation differences of foreign operations attributable to non-controlling interests

Items that may be subsequently reclassified to the income statement

Foreign currency translation reserve

Telstra Financial Report 2023

Year ended 30 June

2023

2022

Note

$m

$m

Statement of

Financial Position

As at 30 June 2023

Telstra Group

1,928

123

2,051

1,688

126

1,814

28

(9)

(94)

71

(3)

(7)

149

(45)

(189)

40

2

(43)

Trade and other receivables and contract assets

Trade and other receivables and contract assets

Investments – accounted for using the equity method

Translation differences of foreign operations attributable to equity holders of Telstra Entity

50

49

Cash flow hedging reserve

Changes in cash flow hedging reserve

Share of other comprehensive income of equity accounted investments

Income tax on movements in the cash flow hedging reserve

Foreign currency basis spread reserve

Changes in the value of the foreign currency basis spread

Income tax on movements in the foreign currency basis spread reserve

Total other comprehensive income

Total comprehensive income for the year

Total comprehensive income for the year attributable to:

Equity holders of Telstra Entity

Non-controlling interests

The notes following the financial statements form part of the financial report.

4.5

4.5

(112)

-

33

(13)

4

(38)

(45)

204

6

(54)

79

(24)

260

217

2,006

2,031

1,886

120

1,903

128

86 | Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities

Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities | F3

F4 | Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities

Current assets

Cash and cash equivalents

Deferred contract costs

Inventories

Derivative financial assets

Current tax receivables

Prepayments

Total current assets

Non-current assets

Deferred contract costs

Inventories

Investments – other

Property, plant and equipment

Intangible assets

Right-of-use assets

Derivative financial assets

Deferred tax assets

Defined benefit asset

Total non-current assets

Total assets

Current liabilities

Trade and other payables

Employee benefits

Other provisions

Lease liabilities

Borrowings

Derivative financial liabilities

Current tax payables

Total current liabilities

Non-current liabilities

Other payables

Employee benefits

Other provisions

Lease liabilities

Borrowings

Derivative financial liabilities

Deferred tax liabilities

Defined benefit liabilities

Total non-current liabilities

Total liabilities

Net assets

Contract liabilities and other revenue received in advance

Contract liabilities and other revenue received in advance

As at 30 June

2023

2022

Restated

Note

$m

$m

6,733

6,260

932

4,216

114

546

445

152

328

1,017

1,088

36

686

22

20,969

10,989

2,825

333

46

285

38,296

45,029

684

327

448

73

38

1,495

10,092

208

125

186

2,743

10,013

189

2,112

11

1,534

17,121

27,213

17,816

1,040

4,074

116

476

302

17

235

861

1,238

28

814

15

20,485

8,155

2,926

512

60

274

35,368

41,628

667

160

490

-

79

1,403

9,698

233

132

119

2,797

8,292

305

1,678

10

1,388

14,954

24,652

16,976

4,365

4,209

2,662

2,690

2.6

3.3

3.6

3.7

4.4

2.4

3.3

3.6

3.7

6.4

3.1

3.1

3.2

4.4

2.4

5.3

3.8

5.1

7.2

3.2

4.4

4.4

2.4

3.4

3.8

5.1

7.2

3.2

4.4

4.4

2.4

5.3

3.4

Notes to the financial statements (continued)2023.Financial Report.book  Page 3  Wednesday, August 16, 2023  4:21 PM

2023.Financial Report.book  Page 4  Wednesday, August 16, 2023  4:21 PM

Statement of

Comprehensive Income

For the year ended 30 June 2023

Telstra Group

Profit for the year attributable to:

Equity holders of Telstra Entity

Non-controlling interests

Items that will not be reclassified to the income statement

Retained profits

Actuarial gain on defined benefit plans attributable to equity holders of Telstra Entity

5.3

Income tax on actuarial gain on defined benefit plans

Fair value of equity instruments reserve

Share of other comprehensive income of equity accounted investments

Income tax on share of other comprehensive income of equity accounted investments

Foreign currency translation reserve

Translation differences of foreign operations attributable to non-controlling interests

Items that may be subsequently reclassified to the income statement

Foreign currency translation reserve

Cash flow hedging reserve

Changes in cash flow hedging reserve

Share of other comprehensive income of equity accounted investments

Income tax on movements in the cash flow hedging reserve

Foreign currency basis spread reserve

Changes in the value of the foreign currency basis spread

Income tax on movements in the foreign currency basis spread reserve

Total other comprehensive income

Total comprehensive income for the year

Total comprehensive income for the year attributable to:

Equity holders of Telstra Entity

Non-controlling interests

The notes following the financial statements form part of the financial report.

Telstra Financial Report 2023

Year ended 30 June

2023

2022

Note

$m

$m

1,928

123

2,051

1,688

126

1,814

28

(9)

(94)

71

(3)

(7)

(112)

-

33

(13)

4

(38)

(45)

149

(45)

(189)

40

2

(43)

204

6

(54)

79

(24)

260

217

2,006

2,031

1,886

120

1,903

128

4.5

4.5

Translation differences of foreign operations attributable to equity holders of Telstra Entity

50

49

Statement of
Financial Position

As at 30 June 2023

Telstra Group

Current assets

Cash and cash equivalents

Trade and other receivables and contract assets

Deferred contract costs

Inventories

Derivative financial assets

Current tax receivables

Prepayments

Total current assets

Non-current assets

Trade and other receivables and contract assets

Deferred contract costs

Inventories

Investments – accounted for using the equity method

Investments – other

Property, plant and equipment

Intangible assets

Right-of-use assets

Derivative financial assets

Deferred tax assets

Defined benefit asset

Total non-current assets

Total assets

Current liabilities

Trade and other payables

Employee benefits

Other provisions

Lease liabilities

Borrowings

Derivative financial liabilities

Current tax payables

Contract liabilities and other revenue received in advance

Total current liabilities

Non-current liabilities

Other payables

Employee benefits

Other provisions

Lease liabilities

Borrowings

Derivative financial liabilities

Deferred tax liabilities

Defined benefit liabilities

Contract liabilities and other revenue received in advance

Total non-current liabilities

Total liabilities

Net assets

Telstra Financial Report 2023

As at 30 June

2023

Note

$m

2022
Restated
$m

2.6

3.3

3.6

3.7

4.4

2.4

3.3

3.6

3.7

6.4

3.1

3.1

3.2

4.4

2.4

5.3

3.8

5.1

7.2

3.2

4.4

4.4

2.4

3.4

3.8

5.1

7.2

3.2

4.4

4.4

2.4

5.3

3.4

932

4,216

114

546

445

152

328

1,040

4,074

116

476

302

17

235

6,733

6,260

1,017

1,088

36

686

22

20,969

10,989

2,825

333

46

285

38,296

45,029

861

1,238

28

814

15

20,485

8,155

2,926

512

60

274

35,368

41,628

4,365

4,209

684

327

448

667

160

490

2,662

2,690

73

38

1,495

10,092

208

125

186

2,743

10,013

189

2,112

11

1,534

17,121

27,213

17,816

-

79

1,403

9,698

233

132

119

2,797

8,292

305

1,678

10

1,388

14,954

24,652

16,976

Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities | F3

F4 | Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities

Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities | 87

Telstra Financial Report 20232023.Financial Report.book  Page 5  Wednesday, August 16, 2023  4:21 PM

2023.Financial Report.book  Page 6  Wednesday, August 16, 2023  4:21 PM

Statement of
Financial Position (continued)

Telstra Financial Report 2023

As at 30 June 2023

Telstra Group

Equity

Share capital

Reserves

Retained profits

Equity available to Telstra Entity shareholders

Non-controlling interests

Total equity

The notes following the financial statements form part of the financial report.

As at 30 June

Telstra Group

2023

Note

$m

2022
Restated
$m

4.3

4.3

3,095

2,196

10,116

15,407

2,409

17,816

3,098

2,333

10,057

15,488

1,488

16,976

Statement of

Cash Flows

For the year ended 30 June 2023

Cash flows from operating activities

Receipts from customers (inclusive of goods and services tax (GST))

Payments to suppliers and employees (inclusive of GST)

Government grants received for operating activities

Net cash generated from operations

Income taxes paid

Net cash provided by operating activities

Cash flows from investing activities

Payments for property, plant and equipment

Payments for intangible assets

Capital expenditure (before investments)

Payments for shares in controlled entities (net of cash acquired)

Payments for equity accounted investments

Payments for other investments

Total capital expenditure (including investments)

Proceeds from sale of property, plant and equipment

Proceeds from sale of intangibles

Proceeds from sale of equity accounted and other investments

Distributions received from equity accounted investments

Receipts of the principal portion of finance lease receivables

Government grants received for investing activities

Interest received

Other

Repayment of loans by associated entity

Net cash used in investing activities

Operating cash flows less investing cash flows

Cash flows from financing activities

Proceeds from borrowings

Repayment of borrowings

Payment of principal portion of lease liabilities

Share buy-back

Finance costs paid

Purchase of shares for employee share plans

Dividends/distributions paid to non-controlling interests

Dividends paid to equity holders of Telstra Entity

Proceeds from issuance of equity-like instrument

Proceeds from sale of non-controlling interests

Net cash used in financing activities

Net decrease in cash and cash equivalents

Cash and cash equivalents at the beginning of the year

Effects of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents

Cash and cash equivalents at the end of the year

Year ended 30 June

2023

2022

Note

$m

$m

25,196

23,876

(17,640)

(15,987)

179

8,068

(819)

7,249

(2,176)

(918)

(3,094)

(771)

(30)

(50)

155

-

156

93

92

24

14

-

16

(697)

(1,350)

(5)

(534)

(100)

-

2,883

(3,971)

(117)

1,125

32

1,040

(6,465)

(3,945)

(5,951)

(3,395)

851

3,854

8,627

1,470

(7,067)

(3,750)

(1,964)

(1,888)

179

7,735

(933)

6,802

(2,474)

(1,396)

(3,870)

(2,488)

(103)

(4)

201

16

51

40

82

58

37

25

4

(675)

-

(21)

(636)

(163)

923

7

(969)

(118)

1,040

10

932

2.4

2.6

3.2

4.2

6.1

6.1

2.6

88 | Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities

Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities | F5

F6 | Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities

The notes following the financial statements form part of the financial report.

Notes to the financial statements (continued)As at 30 June 2023

Telstra Group

Equity

Share capital

Reserves

Retained profits

Equity available to Telstra Entity shareholders

Non-controlling interests

Total equity

The notes following the financial statements form part of the financial report.

As at 30 June

2023

2022

Restated

4.3

4.3

3,095

2,196

10,116

15,407

2,409

17,816

3,098

2,333

10,057

15,488

1,488

16,976

2023.Financial Report.book  Page 5  Wednesday, August 16, 2023  4:21 PM

2023.Financial Report.book  Page 6  Wednesday, August 16, 2023  4:21 PM

Statement of

Financial Position (continued)

Telstra Financial Report 2023

Statement of
Cash Flows

For the year ended 30 June 2023

Telstra Group

Note

$m

$m

Cash flows from operating activities

Receipts from customers (inclusive of goods and services tax (GST))

Payments to suppliers and employees (inclusive of GST)

Government grants received for operating activities

Net cash generated from operations

Income taxes paid

Net cash provided by operating activities

Cash flows from investing activities

Payments for property, plant and equipment

Payments for intangible assets

Capital expenditure (before investments)

Payments for shares in controlled entities (net of cash acquired)

Payments for equity accounted investments

Payments for other investments

Total capital expenditure (including investments)

Proceeds from sale of property, plant and equipment

Proceeds from sale of intangibles

Proceeds from sale of equity accounted and other investments

Distributions received from equity accounted investments

Receipts of the principal portion of finance lease receivables

Government grants received for investing activities

Interest received

Repayment of loans by associated entity

Other

Net cash used in investing activities

Operating cash flows less investing cash flows

Cash flows from financing activities

Proceeds from borrowings

Repayment of borrowings

Payment of principal portion of lease liabilities

Share buy-back

Purchase of shares for employee share plans

Finance costs paid

Dividends/distributions paid to non-controlling interests

Dividends paid to equity holders of Telstra Entity

Proceeds from issuance of equity-like instrument

Proceeds from sale of non-controlling interests

Net cash used in financing activities

Net decrease in cash and cash equivalents

Cash and cash equivalents at the beginning of the year

Effects of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents

Cash and cash equivalents at the end of the year

Telstra Financial Report 2023

Year ended 30 June

2023

2022

Note

$m

$m

25,196

23,876

(17,640)

(15,987)

179

7,735

(933)

6,802

(2,474)

(1,396)

(3,870)

(2,488)

(103)

(4)

179

8,068

(819)

7,249

(2,176)

(918)

(3,094)

(771)

(30)

(50)

(6,465)

(3,945)

201

16

51

40

82

58

37

25

4

155

-

156

93

92

24

14

-

16

(5,951)

(3,395)

851

3,854

8,627

1,470

(7,067)

(3,750)

(675)

-

(21)

(636)

(163)

(697)

(1,350)

(5)

(534)

(100)

(1,964)

(1,888)

923

7

(969)

(118)

1,040

10

932

-

2,883

(3,971)

(117)

1,125

32

1,040

2.4

2.6

3.2

4.2

6.1

6.1

2.6

The notes following the financial statements form part of the financial report.

Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities | F5

F6 | Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities

Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities | 89

Telstra Financial Report 20232023.Financial Report.book  Page 7  Wednesday, August 16, 2023  4:21 PM

2023.Financial Report.book  Page 8  Wednesday, August 16, 2023  4:21 PM

Statement of
Changes in Equity

For the year ended 30 June 2023

Telstra Group

Share 
capital

Reserves Retained 

Total

profits

Balance at 1 July 2021 (reported)

Net effect of a restatement of prior periods

Balance at 1 July 2021 (restated)
Profit for the year
Other comprehensive income

Total comprehensive income for the year
Dividends
Share buy-back (net of income tax)

Transactions with non-controlling interests

Additional shares purchased

Share-based payments

Note

1.7

6.3

4.3

$m
4,436

-

4,436
-
-

-
-
(1,350)

-

(5)

17

$m
138

-

138
-
111

111
-
-

2,084

-

-

$m
10,014

139

10,153
1,688
104

1,792
(1,888)
-

-

-

-

Balance at 30 June 2022 (restated)

3,098

2,333

10,057

Profit for the year
Other comprehensive income

Total comprehensive income for the year
Dividends

Non-controlling interests on acquisitions

Transactions with non-controlling interests

Transfer of fair value of equity instruments reserve 
to retained earnings

Additional shares purchased

Share-based payments

Balance at 30 June 2023

6.3

4.3

-
-

-
-

-

-

-

(21)

18

-
(61)

(61)
-

-

-

(76)

-

-

1,928
19

1,947
(1,964)

-

-

76

-

-

3,095

2,196

10,116

The notes following the financial statements form part of the financial report.

$m
14,588

139

14,727
1,688
215
1,903
(1,888)
(1,350)

2,084

(5)

17

15,488

1,928
(42)
1,886
(1,964)

-

-

-

(21)

18
15,407

Telstra Financial Report 2023

Notes to the financial statements

Non- 
control- 
ling 
interests
$m
687

-

687
126
2

128
-
-

673

-

-

1,488

123
(3)

120
-

941

(140)

-

-

-

2,409

Total 
equity

$m
15,275

139

15,414
1,814
217
2,031
(1,888)
(1,350)

2,757

(5)

17

16,976

2,051
(45)
2,006
(1,964)

941

(140)

-

(21)

18
17,816

Section 1. Basis of preparation

This section explains the basis of preparation of our 

financial report, describes changes in our accounting 

policies and provides a summary of our key accounting 

estimates and judgements.

SECTION 1.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                

BASIS OF PREPARATION

1.1 Basis of preparation of the financial report

This financial report is a general purpose financial report, prepared 

by a ‘for profit’ entity, in accordance with the requirements of the 

On 31 October 2022, Telstra Group Limited became the new head 

entity of the Australian tax consolidated group. Refer to note 2.4.4 

for further details on accounting for the tax consolidated group.

Australian Corporations Act 2001, Accounting Standards applicable 

On 30 November 2022, Telstra Group Limited became the 

in Australia and other authoritative pronouncements of the 

sponsoring employer in our Telstra Superannuation Scheme 

Australian Accounting Standards Board (AASB). It also complies 

(Telstra Super). Refer to note 5.3.2 for further details on accounting 

with International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) and 

for Telstra Super.

Interpretations published by the International Accounting 

Standards Board (IASB).

On 1 January 2023, the final steps of the Restructure (including the 

business restructure component of the Scheme) were completed. 

The financial report is presented in Australian dollars and, unless 

Those steps involved Telstra Corporation Limited transferring the 

otherwise stated, all values have been rounded to the nearest 

retail and active wholesale business assets and liabilities and 

million dollars ($m) under the option available under the Australian 

related investments to Telstra Limited, and the international 

Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) Corporations 

business assets and liabilities and related investments to Telstra 

(Rounding in Financial/Directors’ Report) Instrument 2016/191 as 

International Holdings Pty Ltd and its controlled entities. Telstra 

amended from time to time. The functional currency of the Telstra 

Corporation Limited also transferred its interest in Telstra Towerco 

Entity and its Australian controlled entities is Australian dollars. 

No.2 Pty Ltd, being the wholly-owned entity which holds an interest 

The functional currency of certain non-Australian controlled 

in the Amplitel towers business and related investments, to Telstra 

entities is not Australian dollars. The results of these entities are 

Group Limited. Following the Restructure, Telstra Corporation 

translated into Australian dollars in accordance with our accounting 

Limited continues to operate our passive fixed infrastructure 

policy described in note 1.4.1.

business and service our nbn Definitive Agreements.

The financial report is prepared on a historical cost basis, except for 

The businesses and investments transferred between Telstra 

some categories of financial instruments, which are recorded at fair 

Corporation Limited and Telstra Group Limited or other entities 

value.

presentation.

Where relevant, comparative information has been reclassified to 

ensure comparability with the current year disclosures and 

1.2 Telstra Group restructure

During the financial year 2023, Telstra Corporation Limited 

implemented a scheme of arrangement (Scheme) to support the 

restructure of the Telstra Group (Restructure) first announced in 

November 2020. The Restructure was an internal legal 

reorganisation and did not, by itself, result in any immediate change 

to the underlying assets or business activities of the Telstra Group.

within the Telstra Group under the Restructure did not result in 

business combinations for accounting purposes and the 

Restructure was accounted for as an internal reorganisation, i.e. 

assets and liabilities transferred were recognised at their existing 

values in the statement of financial position. From the Telstra 

Group perspective the internal reorganisation transfers are 

eliminated on consolidation, i.e. they do not impact the Telstra 

Group financial results.

Accordingly, the consolidated financial statements have been 

presented as a continuation of the existing financial performance 

and financial position of the Telstra Group. As such, as at and for 

the year ended 30 June 2023, the consolidated financial statements 

of the Telstra Group include the historical financial information of 

the Telstra Group for both the period before and after the 

Refer to notes 6.1 and 7.3 for further details about changes in our 

group structure and for new parent entity disclosures.

The Scheme was comprised of two components: the top hat 

Restructure.

component which established the Telstra Entity as the parent entity 

of the Telstra Group, and the business restructure component 

which was used to transfer certain assets and liabilities within the 

Telstra Group. The Restructure also involved certain other steps in 

addition to the Scheme. While these steps were completed over a 

period of time, for accounting purposes, all the steps were 

considered together as they were undertaken in contemplation of 

EBITDA reflects earnings before interest, income tax, depreciation 

the Restructure as a whole.

The top hat component of the Scheme was implemented on 31 

and amortisation. EBIT is a similar measure to EBITDA, but takes 

into account depreciation and amortisation. 

October 2022 and the business restructure component of the 

We believe EBITDA is useful as it is a widely recognised measure of 

Scheme was implemented on 1 January 2023.

operating performance.

1.3 Terminology used in our income statement

On implementation of the top hat component, all of the shares in 

Telstra Corporation Limited (11,554,427,353 in total) were 

transferred to the Telstra Entity in exchange for the issue of 

11,554,427,353 shares in Telstra Group Limited to eligible Telstra 

Corporation Limited shareholders under the Scheme, and Telstra 

Group Limited became the parent entity of Telstra Corporation 

Limited and its controlled entities.

90 | Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities

Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities | F7

F8 | Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities

Notes to the financial statements (continued)Statement of

Changes in Equity

For the year ended 30 June 2023

Telstra Group

Balance at 1 July 2021 (reported)

Net effect of a restatement of prior periods

Balance at 1 July 2021 (restated)

Profit for the year

Other comprehensive income

Total comprehensive income for the year

Dividends

Share buy-back (net of income tax)

Transactions with non-controlling interests

Additional shares purchased

Share-based payments

Profit for the year

Other comprehensive income

Total comprehensive income for the year

Dividends

Non-controlling interests on acquisitions

Transactions with non-controlling interests

Transfer of fair value of equity instruments reserve 

to retained earnings

Additional shares purchased

Share-based payments

Balance at 30 June 2023

Note

1.7

6.3

4.3

6.3

4.3

Share 

capital

Reserves Retained 

Total

profits

Total 

equity

Non- 

control- 

ling 

interests

$m

$m

10,014

14,588

$m

4,436

4,436

(1,350)

(5)

17

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

(21)

18

$m

138

138

111

111

2,084

(61)

(61)

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

139

10,153

1,688

104

1,792

(1,888)

10,057

1,928

19

1,947

(1,964)

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

139

14,727

1,688

215

1,903

(1,888)

(1,350)

2,084

(5)

17

1,928

(42)

1,886

(1,964)

-

-

-

(21)

18

(76)

76

$m

687

-

687

126

2

128

673

123

(3)

120

941

(140)

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

$m

15,275

139

15,414

1,814

217

2,031

(1,888)

(1,350)

2,757

(5)

17

16,976

2,051

(45)

2,006

(1,964)

941

(140)

-

(21)

18

3,095

2,196

10,116

15,407

2,409

17,816

Balance at 30 June 2022 (restated)

3,098

2,333

15,488

1,488

The notes following the financial statements form part of the financial report.

2023.Financial Report.book  Page 7  Wednesday, August 16, 2023  4:21 PM

2023.Financial Report.book  Page 8  Wednesday, August 16, 2023  4:21 PM

Telstra Financial Report 2023

Notes to the financial statements

Section 1. Basis of preparation

This section explains the basis of preparation of our 
financial report, describes changes in our accounting 
policies and provides a summary of our key accounting 
estimates and judgements.

SECTION 1.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                

BASIS OF PREPARATION

1.1 Basis of preparation of the financial report

This financial report is a general purpose financial report, prepared 
by a ‘for profit’ entity, in accordance with the requirements of the 
Australian Corporations Act 2001, Accounting Standards applicable 
in Australia and other authoritative pronouncements of the 
Australian Accounting Standards Board (AASB). It also complies 
with International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) and 
Interpretations published by the International Accounting 
Standards Board (IASB).

The financial report is presented in Australian dollars and, unless 
otherwise stated, all values have been rounded to the nearest 
million dollars ($m) under the option available under the Australian 
Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) Corporations 
(Rounding in Financial/Directors’ Report) Instrument 2016/191 as 
amended from time to time. The functional currency of the Telstra 
Entity and its Australian controlled entities is Australian dollars. 
The functional currency of certain non-Australian controlled 
entities is not Australian dollars. The results of these entities are 
translated into Australian dollars in accordance with our accounting 
policy described in note 1.4.1.

The financial report is prepared on a historical cost basis, except for 
some categories of financial instruments, which are recorded at fair 
value.

Where relevant, comparative information has been reclassified to 
ensure comparability with the current year disclosures and 
presentation.

1.2 Telstra Group restructure

During the financial year 2023, Telstra Corporation Limited 
implemented a scheme of arrangement (Scheme) to support the 
restructure of the Telstra Group (Restructure) first announced in 
November 2020. The Restructure was an internal legal 
reorganisation and did not, by itself, result in any immediate change 
to the underlying assets or business activities of the Telstra Group.

The Scheme was comprised of two components: the top hat 
component which established the Telstra Entity as the parent entity 
of the Telstra Group, and the business restructure component 
which was used to transfer certain assets and liabilities within the 
Telstra Group. The Restructure also involved certain other steps in 
addition to the Scheme. While these steps were completed over a 
period of time, for accounting purposes, all the steps were 
considered together as they were undertaken in contemplation of 
the Restructure as a whole.

The top hat component of the Scheme was implemented on 31 
October 2022 and the business restructure component of the 
Scheme was implemented on 1 January 2023.

On implementation of the top hat component, all of the shares in 
Telstra Corporation Limited (11,554,427,353 in total) were 
transferred to the Telstra Entity in exchange for the issue of 
11,554,427,353 shares in Telstra Group Limited to eligible Telstra 
Corporation Limited shareholders under the Scheme, and Telstra 
Group Limited became the parent entity of Telstra Corporation 
Limited and its controlled entities.

On 31 October 2022, Telstra Group Limited became the new head 
entity of the Australian tax consolidated group. Refer to note 2.4.4 
for further details on accounting for the tax consolidated group.

On 30 November 2022, Telstra Group Limited became the 
sponsoring employer in our Telstra Superannuation Scheme 
(Telstra Super). Refer to note 5.3.2 for further details on accounting 
for Telstra Super.

On 1 January 2023, the final steps of the Restructure (including the 
business restructure component of the Scheme) were completed. 
Those steps involved Telstra Corporation Limited transferring the 
retail and active wholesale business assets and liabilities and 
related investments to Telstra Limited, and the international 
business assets and liabilities and related investments to Telstra 
International Holdings Pty Ltd and its controlled entities. Telstra 
Corporation Limited also transferred its interest in Telstra Towerco 
No.2 Pty Ltd, being the wholly-owned entity which holds an interest 
in the Amplitel towers business and related investments, to Telstra 
Group Limited. Following the Restructure, Telstra Corporation 
Limited continues to operate our passive fixed infrastructure 
business and service our nbn Definitive Agreements.

The businesses and investments transferred between Telstra 
Corporation Limited and Telstra Group Limited or other entities 
within the Telstra Group under the Restructure did not result in 
business combinations for accounting purposes and the 
Restructure was accounted for as an internal reorganisation, i.e. 
assets and liabilities transferred were recognised at their existing 
values in the statement of financial position. From the Telstra 
Group perspective the internal reorganisation transfers are 
eliminated on consolidation, i.e. they do not impact the Telstra 
Group financial results.

Accordingly, the consolidated financial statements have been 
presented as a continuation of the existing financial performance 
and financial position of the Telstra Group. As such, as at and for 
the year ended 30 June 2023, the consolidated financial statements 
of the Telstra Group include the historical financial information of 
the Telstra Group for both the period before and after the 
Restructure.

Refer to notes 6.1 and 7.3 for further details about changes in our 
group structure and for new parent entity disclosures.

1.3 Terminology used in our income statement

EBITDA reflects earnings before interest, income tax, depreciation 
and amortisation. EBIT is a similar measure to EBITDA, but takes 
into account depreciation and amortisation. 

We believe EBITDA is useful as it is a widely recognised measure of 
operating performance.

Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities | F7

F8 | Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities

Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities | 91

Telstra Financial Report 2023Notes to the financial statements (continued)

Telstra Financial Report 2023

Notes to the financial statements (continued)

Section 1. Basis of preparation (continued)

Section 1. Basis of preparation (continued)

2023.Financial Report.book  Page 10  Wednesday, August 16, 2023  4:21 PM

1.4 Principles of consolidation

1.5 Key accounting estimates and judgements

1.6 Other accounting policies

Our financial report includes the consolidated assets and liabilities 
of the Telstra Entity and its controlled entities as a whole as at the 
end of the financial year and the consolidated results and cash 
flows for the year. 

An entity is considered to be a controlled entity where we are 
exposed, or have rights, to variable returns from our involvement 
with the entity and have the ability to affect those returns through 
our power to direct the activities of the entity. We consolidate the 
results of our controlled entities from the date on which we gain 
control until the date we cease control.

Preparation of the financial report requires management to make 
estimates and judgements. 

1.5.1 Summary of key management judgements 

The accounting policies and significant management judgements 
and estimates used, and any changes thereto, are set out in the 
relevant notes. The key accounting estimates and judgements are 
included in the following notes:

Key accounting estimates and judgements

Note Page

introduces:

The effects of intra-group transactions and balances are eliminated 
from our consolidated financial statements.

Assessment of a significant financing component in 
mass market contracts

Non-controlling interests in the results and equity of controlled 
entities are shown separately in our income statement, statement 
of comprehensive income, statement of financial position and 
statement of changes in equity.

The financial statements of the Group’s controlled entities are 
prepared using consistent accounting policies as the Telstra Entity. 
Adjustments are made to bring the reporting periods in line with 
those of the Group where necessary.

1.4.1 Translation of financial reports of foreign operations that 
have a functional currency other than the Australian dollar

The financial reports of our foreign operations are translated into 
Australian dollars (our presentation currency) using the following 
method: 

Foreign currency 
amount

Exchange rate

Assets and liabilities 
including goodwill and fair 
value adjustments arising 
on consolidation

The reporting date rate

Equity items

The initial investment date 
rate

Income statements

Average rate (or the 
transaction date rate for 
significant identifiable 
transactions) 

The exchange differences arising from the translation of financial 
statements of foreign operations are recognised in other 
comprehensive income.

Determining standalone selling prices

Assessment of a significant financing component in 
Indefeasible Right of Use (IRU)

Impact of nbn Infrastructure Services Agreement 
(ISA) on revenue from customer contracts and other 
income

Assessment of a significant financing component in 
nbn DAs

Unrecognised deferred tax assets

Capitalisation of development costs

Useful lives and residual values of tangible and 
intangible assets

Impairment assessment of our ubiquitous 
telecommunications network

Determining CGUs and their recoverable amount for 
impairment assessment of goodwill

Determining lease term for property leases

Determining incremental borrowing rates for 
property leases

Estimating expected credit losses

Amortisation period of deferred contract costs

Long service leave provision

Defined benefit plan

Equity-like securities issued to the Australian 
Government

Determining non-controlling interests in Power 
Health

Joint control of Telstra Ventures Fund II, L.P.

Significant influence over Telstra Super Pty Ltd

Significant influence over Telstra Ventures Fund III, 
L.P.

2.2

104

2.2

105

2.2

105

2.2

107

2.2

107

2.4

3.1

113

118

3.1

118

3.1

119

3.1

120

3.2

122

3.2

124

3.3

3.6

5.1

5.3

128

131

152

158

6.1

160

6.2

162

6.4

6.4

168

168

6.4

168

Relevant accounting policies are included in the respective notes to 

the financial statements. Changes in the accounting policies and 

impacts from the accounting standards to be applied in future 

reporting periods, as well as other accounting policies not disclosed 

elsewhere in the financial report are detailed below.

1.6.1 Changes in accounting policies

In June 2023, the AASB issued AASB 2023-2 ‘Amendments to 

Australian Accounting standards - International tax reform - Pillar 

Two Model Rules’, which amends AASB 112 ‘Income Taxes’ and 

• a temporary exception to recognise and disclose information 

about deferred tax assets and liabilities related to Pillar Two 

income taxes. The exception is effective from issue date of the 

amendment, therefore we have adopted it in the financial year 

2023 and relevant disclosures have been included in note 2.4.3.

• requirements for entities to disclose qualitative and quantitative 

information about its exposure to Pillar Two income taxes, 

including a separate disclosure of current income tax related to 

Pillar Two income taxes. These disclosures are effective for the 

Telstra Group from 1 July 2023 and the impact on our financial 

report is yet to be assessed. We will continue to monitor 

developments in tax legislation and assess the impact of the new 

requirements in the financial year 2024. 

In addition to the effective part of AASB 2023-2, a number of other 

new or amended accounting standards became effective in the 

current reporting period but none of those had a material impact on 

our accounting policies. 

1.6.2 New accounting standards to be applied in future reporting 

periods

We have not early adopted any standard, interpretation or 

amendment that has been issued but is not yet effective. This 

includes the parts of AASB 2023-2 ‘Amendments to Australian 

Accounting standards - International tax reform - Pillar Two Model 

Rules’ issued by the AASB in June 2023 as detailed in note 1.6.1, the 

impact of which we are yet to assess.

We do not expect any other recently issued accounting standards to 

have a material impact on our financial results upon adoption.

1.6.3 Transactions and balances in foreign currency

Foreign currency transactions are translated into the relevant 

functional currency at the spot exchange rate at the transaction 

date. At the reporting date, amounts receivable or payable 

denominated in foreign currencies are translated into the relevant 

functional currency at market exchange rates as at the reporting 

date. Any currency translation gains and losses that arise are 

included in our income statement.

Non-monetary items denominated in foreign currency that are 

measured at fair value (i.e. certain equity instruments not held for 

trading) are translated using the exchange rates at the date when 

the fair value was determined. Differences arising from the 

translation are reported as part of the fair value gain or loss in line 

with the recognition of the changes in the fair value of the non-

monetary item.

92 | Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities

Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities | F9

F10 | Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities

2023.Financial Report.book  Page 9  Wednesday, August 16, 2023  4:21 PM

2023.Financial Report.book  Page 10  Wednesday, August 16, 2023  4:21 PM

Notes to the financial statements (continued)

Telstra Financial Report 2023

Notes to the financial statements (continued)

Telstra Financial Report 2023

Section 1. Basis of preparation (continued)

Section 1. Basis of preparation (continued)

1.4 Principles of consolidation

1.5 Key accounting estimates and judgements

1.6 Other accounting policies

The effects of intra-group transactions and balances are eliminated 

Assessment of a significant financing component 

Our financial report includes the consolidated assets and liabilities 

Preparation of the financial report requires management to make 

of the Telstra Entity and its controlled entities as a whole as at the 

estimates and judgements. 

end of the financial year and the consolidated results and cash 

flows for the year. 

An entity is considered to be a controlled entity where we are 

exposed, or have rights, to variable returns from our involvement 

with the entity and have the ability to affect those returns through 

our power to direct the activities of the entity. We consolidate the 

results of our controlled entities from the date on which we gain 

control until the date we cease control.

from our consolidated financial statements.

Non-controlling interests in the results and equity of controlled 

entities are shown separately in our income statement, statement 

of comprehensive income, statement of financial position and 

statement of changes in equity.

The financial statements of the Group’s controlled entities are 

prepared using consistent accounting policies as the Telstra Entity. 

Adjustments are made to bring the reporting periods in line with 

those of the Group where necessary.

other income

in nbn DAs

1.4.1 Translation of financial reports of foreign operations that 

have a functional currency other than the Australian dollar

The financial reports of our foreign operations are translated into 

Australian dollars (our presentation currency) using the following 

intangible assets

method: 

Foreign currency 

amount

Exchange rate

Assets and liabilities 

including goodwill and fair 

value adjustments arising 

on consolidation

Income statements

rate

Average rate (or the 

transaction date rate for 

significant identifiable 

transactions) 

The exchange differences arising from the translation of financial 

statements of foreign operations are recognised in other 

comprehensive income.

1.5.1 Summary of key management judgements 

The accounting policies and significant management judgements 

and estimates used, and any changes thereto, are set out in the 

relevant notes. The key accounting estimates and judgements are 

included in the following notes:

Key accounting estimates and judgements

Note Page

in mass market contracts

Determining standalone selling prices

Assessment of a significant financing component 

in Indefeasible Right of Use (IRU)

Impact of nbn Infrastructure Services Agreement 

(ISA) on revenue from customer contracts and 

Assessment of a significant financing component 

2.2

2.2

2.2

F21

F22

F22

2.2

F24

2.2

F24

3.1

F36

Unrecognised deferred tax assets

Capitalisation of development costs

Useful lives and residual values of tangible and 

Impairment assessment of our ubiquitous 

telecommunications network

Determining CGUs and their recoverable amount 

for impairment assessment of goodwill

Determining lease term for property leases

Determining incremental borrowing rates for 

property leases

Amortisation period of deferred contract costs

Long service leave provision

Defined benefit plan

Government

Health

Determining non-controlling interests in Power 

Joint control of Telstra Ventures Fund II, L.P.

Significant influence over Telstra Super Pty Ltd

Significant influence over Telstra Ventures Fund III, 

L.P.

2.4

3.1

3.1

3.1

3.2

3.2

3.3

3.6

5.1

5.3

6.1

6.2

6.4

6.4

6.4

F30

F35

F35

F37

F39

F41

F45

F48

F69

F75

F77

F79

F85

F85

F85

Equity items

The initial investment date 

Equity-like securities issued to the Australian 

The reporting date rate

Estimating expected credit losses

Relevant accounting policies are included in the respective notes to 
the financial statements. Changes in the accounting policies and 
impacts from the accounting standards to be applied in future 
reporting periods, as well as other accounting policies not disclosed 
elsewhere in the financial report are detailed below.

1.6.1 Changes in accounting policies

In June 2023, the AASB issued AASB 2023-2 ‘Amendments to 
Australian Accounting standards - International tax reform - Pillar 
Two Model Rules’, which amends AASB 112 ‘Income Taxes’ and 
introduces:

• a temporary exception to recognise and disclose information 
about deferred tax assets and liabilities related to Pillar Two 
income taxes. The exception is effective from issue date of the 
amendment, therefore we have adopted it in the financial year 
2023 and relevant disclosures have been included in note 2.4.3.
• requirements for entities to disclose qualitative and quantitative 

information about its exposure to Pillar Two income taxes, 
including a separate disclosure of current income tax related to 
Pillar Two income taxes. These disclosures are effective for the 
Telstra Group from 1 July 2023 and the impact on our financial 
report is yet to be assessed. We will continue to monitor 
developments in tax legislation and assess the impact of the new 
requirements in the financial year 2024. 

In addition to the effective part of AASB 2023-2, a number of other 
new or amended accounting standards became effective in the 
current reporting period but none of those had a material impact on 
our accounting policies. 

1.6.2 New accounting standards to be applied in future reporting 
periods

We have not early adopted any standard, interpretation or 
amendment that has been issued but is not yet effective. This 
includes the parts of AASB 2023-2 ‘Amendments to Australian 
Accounting standards - International tax reform - Pillar Two Model 
Rules’ issued by the AASB in June 2023 as detailed in note 1.6.1, the 
impact of which we are yet to assess.

We do not expect any other recently issued accounting standards to 
have a material impact on our financial results upon adoption.

1.6.3 Transactions and balances in foreign currency

Foreign currency transactions are translated into the relevant 
functional currency at the spot exchange rate at the transaction 
date. At the reporting date, amounts receivable or payable 
denominated in foreign currencies are translated into the relevant 
functional currency at market exchange rates as at the reporting 
date. Any currency translation gains and losses that arise are 
included in our income statement.

Non-monetary items denominated in foreign currency that are 
measured at fair value (i.e. certain equity instruments not held for 
trading) are translated using the exchange rates at the date when 
the fair value was determined. Differences arising from the 
translation are reported as part of the fair value gain or loss in line 
with the recognition of the changes in the fair value of the non-
monetary item.

Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities | F9

F10 | Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities

Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities | 93

2023.Financial Report.book  Page 11  Wednesday, August 16, 2023  4:21 PM

2023.Financial Report.book  Page 12  Wednesday, August 16, 2023  4:21 PM

Notes to the financial statements (continued)

Telstra Financial Report 2023

Notes to the financial statements (continued)

Section 1. Basis of preparation (continued)

1.7 Restatement of prior periods

During the financial year 2023, we have finalised migration of our 
prepaid customers to a new billing and provisioning system. On 
completion, a $219 million current contract liability balance relating 
to our prepaid legacy plans could not be substantiated, because the 
services had been provided in the prior periods and this contract 
liability should have been recognised as revenue at that time. This 
balance was related to the reporting periods prior to the financial 
year 2022. Therefore, in the statement of financial position we have 
restated the related balances, including their tax impacts where 
relevant, as at 1 July 2021 and as at 30 June 2022. The income 
statement for the financial year 2022 did not require a restatement 
because the comparative financial results were not impacted.

Table A summarises the restatement of all impacted line items in 
the statement of financial position as at 30 June 2022 and 1 July 
2021. Adjustments to retained earnings have been reflected in the 
statement of changes in equity. 

Table A

Telstra Group

30 June 2022 Adjustments 30 June 2022

1 July 2021

Adjustments

1 July 2021

Reported

Restated

Reported

Restated

$m

$m

$m

$m

$m

$m

for reportable segments.

2.1.1 Operating segments

Restated line items in the 
statement of financial position
Current liabilities
Trade and other payables
Contract liabilities and other 
revenue received in advance
Current tax payables

Total current liabilities
Non-current liabilities
Deferred tax liabilities

Total non-current liabilities
Total liabilities
Net assets

Equity
Retained profits

Equity available to Telstra 
Entity shareholders
Total Equity

4,189

1,622

42

9,860

1,655

14,931
24,791
16,837

9,918

15,349

16,837

20

(219)

37

(162)

23

23
(139)
139

139

139

139

4,209

1,403

79

9,698

1,678

14,954
24,652
16,976

10,057

15,488

16,976

3,766

1,605

124

10,424

1,580

16,826
27,250
15,275

10,014

14,588

15,275

20

(219)

(18)

(217)

78

78
(139)
139

139

139

139

3,786

1,386

106

10,207

1,658

16,904
27,111
15,414

10,153

14,727

15,414

Section 2. Our performance

This section explains our results, performance of our 

segments, which are reported on the same basis as our 

internal management structure, and our earnings per share 

for the period. It also provides disaggregated revenue, 

details of selected income and expense items, information 

about taxation and a reconciliation of our profit to net cash 

generated from operating activities.

SECTION 2. OUR PERFORMANCE

2.1 Segment information 

Segment information is based on the information that 

management uses to make decisions about operating matters 

and allows users to review operations of the Group through the 

eyes of management.

Our operating segments represent the functions which offer 

our main products and services in the market. However, only 

some of our operating segments meet the disclosure criteria 

During the financial year 2023 our IT function moved from Networks 

and IT to Product and Technology, and Networks and IT was 

renamed to Global Networks and Technology. Following this 

realignment, the ‘Networks and IT’ reportable segment has been 

replaced by a new reportable segment, ‘Networks, IT and Product’. 

It consists of two operating segments, being Global Networks and 

Technology and Product and Technology (previously included in 

the ‘All Other’ category), which have been combined for reporting 

purposes as they have similar economic characteristics and provide 

support functions underpinning operations of the other segments. 

There were no other changes to our operating segments. The 

Restructure described in note 1.2 did not change our operating 

segments as it focused on internal legal reorganisation. 

In our segment results, the ‘All Other’ category includes functions 

that do not qualify as operating segments as well as the operating 

segments which are not material to be reported individually.

We report segment information on the same basis as our internal 

management reporting structure at the reporting date. Segment 

comparatives reflect any organisational changes that have 

occurred since the end of the prior financial year to present a like-

We have four reportable segments as follows:

for-like view. 

Segment

Operation

Telstra Consumer 

• provides telecommunication, media and technology products and services to Consumer and Small 

and Small 

Business customers in Australia using mobile and fixed network technologies 

Business (TC&SB)

• operates contact centres, retail stores, a dealership network, digital channels, distribution systems and 

the Telstra Plus customer loyalty program in Australia 

Telstra Enterprise 

• provides telecommunication services, advanced technology solutions, network capacity and 

(TE)

management, unified communications, cloud, security, industry solutions, integrated and monitoring 

services to government and large enterprise and business customers in Australia and globally

• provides telecommunication, media and technology products and services to consumer, business and 

government customers in the South Pacific through our Digicel Pacific business

• provides wholesale services outside of Australia, including voice and data

• manages Telstra’s networks outside Australia, including international subsea cables, in conjunction with 

Networks, IT and Product and Telstra InfraCo segments

Networks, IT and 

Product (NIT&P)

• Global Networks and Technology supports the other segments and their respective revenue generating 

activities by maintaining high level of reliability and security of our global network platforms and cloud 

infrastructure. It maintains our networks and is accountable for our network intelligence and automation.

• Product and Technology works with other functions to create and deliver products and solutions for 

customers across all segments. It has accountability for product strategy, life cycle, as well as technology 

and innovation where products are incubated and brought to scale. It is also accountable for Telstra’s IT 

and Data & AI functions and our digital platforms underpinning our customer digital experience.

Telstra InfraCo 

• provides telecommunication products and services delivered over Telstra networks to other carriers, 

carriage service providers and internet service providers

• provides other Telstra functions and wholesale customers with access to network infrastructure within 

• operates the fixed passive network infrastructure including data centres, exchanges, poles, ducts, pits 

Telstra InfraCo’s asset accountabilities

and pipes and fibre network

• designs and constructs fibre, exchanges and other infrastructure

• provides nbn co with long-term access to certain components of our infrastructure under the 

Infrastructure Services Agreement 

• operates the passive and physical mobile tower assets owned or operated by the Amplitel business

94 | Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities

Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities | F11

F12 | Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities

2023.Financial Report.book  Page 11  Wednesday, August 16, 2023  4:21 PM

2023.Financial Report.book  Page 12  Wednesday, August 16, 2023  4:21 PM

Notes to the financial statements (continued)

Telstra Financial Report 2023

Notes to the financial statements (continued)

Section 1. Basis of preparation (continued)

1.7 Restatement of prior periods

During the financial year 2023, we have finalised migration of our 

prepaid customers to a new billing and provisioning system. On 

completion, a $219 million current contract liability balance relating 

to our prepaid legacy plans could not be substantiated, because the 

services had been provided in the prior periods and this contract 

liability should have been recognised as revenue at that time. This 

balance was related to the reporting periods prior to the financial 

year 2022. Therefore, in the statement of financial position we have 

restated the related balances, including their tax impacts where 

relevant, as at 1 July 2021 and as at 30 June 2022. The income 

statement for the financial year 2022 did not require a restatement 

because the comparative financial results were not impacted.

Table A summarises the restatement of all impacted line items in 

the statement of financial position as at 30 June 2022 and 1 July 

2021. Adjustments to retained earnings have been reflected in the 

statement of changes in equity. 

Table A

Telstra Group

30 June 2022 Adjustments 30 June 2022

1 July 2021

Adjustments

1 July 2021

Reported

Restated

Reported

Restated

$m

$m

$m

$m

$m

$m

Restated line items in the 

statement of financial position

Current liabilities

Trade and other payables

Contract liabilities and other 

revenue received in advance

Current tax payables

Total current liabilities

Non-current liabilities

Deferred tax liabilities

Total non-current liabilities

Total liabilities

Net assets

Equity

Retained profits

Equity available to Telstra 

Entity shareholders

Total Equity

4,189

1,622

42

9,860

1,655

14,931

24,791

16,837

9,918

15,349

16,837

20

(219)

37

(162)

23

23

(139)

139

139

139

139

4,209

1,403

79

9,698

1,678

14,954

24,652

16,976

10,057

15,488

16,976

3,766

1,605

124

10,424

1,580

16,826

27,250

15,275

10,014

14,588

15,275

20

(219)

(18)

(217)

78

78

(139)

139

139

139

139

3,786

1,386

106

10,207

1,658

16,904

27,111

15,414

10,153

14,727

15,414

Section 2. Our performance

This section explains our results, performance of our 
segments, which are reported on the same basis as our 
internal management structure, and our earnings per share 
for the period. It also provides disaggregated revenue, 
details of selected income and expense items, information 
about taxation and a reconciliation of our profit to net cash 
generated from operating activities.

SECTION 2. OUR PERFORMANCE

2.1 Segment information 

Segment information is based on the information that 
management uses to make decisions about operating matters 
and allows users to review operations of the Group through the 
eyes of management.

Our operating segments represent the functions which offer 
our main products and services in the market. However, only 
some of our operating segments meet the disclosure criteria 
for reportable segments.

2.1.1 Operating segments

We report segment information on the same basis as our internal 
management reporting structure at the reporting date. Segment 
comparatives reflect any organisational changes that have 
occurred since the end of the prior financial year to present a like-
for-like view. 

Segment

Operation

During the financial year 2023 our IT function moved from Networks 
and IT to Product and Technology, and Networks and IT was 
renamed to Global Networks and Technology. Following this 
realignment, the ‘Networks and IT’ reportable segment has been 
replaced by a new reportable segment, ‘Networks, IT and Product’. 
It consists of two operating segments, being Global Networks and 
Technology and Product and Technology (previously included in 
the ‘All Other’ category), which have been combined for reporting 
purposes as they have similar economic characteristics and provide 
support functions underpinning operations of the other segments. 
There were no other changes to our operating segments. The 
Restructure described in note 1.2 did not change our operating 
segments as it focused on internal legal reorganisation. 

In our segment results, the ‘All Other’ category includes functions 
that do not qualify as operating segments as well as the operating 
segments which are not material to be reported individually.

We have four reportable segments as follows:

Telstra Consumer 
and Small 
Business (TC&SB)

• provides telecommunication, media and technology products and services to Consumer and Small 

Business customers in Australia using mobile and fixed network technologies 

• operates contact centres, retail stores, a dealership network, digital channels, distribution systems and 

the Telstra Plus customer loyalty program in Australia 

Telstra Enterprise 
(TE)

• provides telecommunication services, advanced technology solutions, network capacity and 

management, unified communications, cloud, security, industry solutions, integrated and monitoring 
services to government and large enterprise and business customers in Australia and globally

• provides telecommunication, media and technology products and services to consumer, business and 

government customers in the South Pacific through our Digicel Pacific business

• provides wholesale services outside of Australia, including voice and data
• manages Telstra’s networks outside Australia, including international subsea cables, in conjunction with 

Networks, IT and Product and Telstra InfraCo segments

Networks, IT and 
Product (NIT&P)

• Global Networks and Technology supports the other segments and their respective revenue generating 
activities by maintaining high level of reliability and security of our global network platforms and cloud 
infrastructure. It maintains our networks and is accountable for our network intelligence and automation.

• Product and Technology works with other functions to create and deliver products and solutions for 

customers across all segments. It has accountability for product strategy, life cycle, as well as technology 
and innovation where products are incubated and brought to scale. It is also accountable for Telstra’s IT 
and Data & AI functions and our digital platforms underpinning our customer digital experience.

Telstra InfraCo 

• provides telecommunication products and services delivered over Telstra networks to other carriers, 

carriage service providers and internet service providers

• provides other Telstra functions and wholesale customers with access to network infrastructure within 

Telstra InfraCo’s asset accountabilities

• operates the fixed passive network infrastructure including data centres, exchanges, poles, ducts, pits 

and pipes and fibre network

• designs and constructs fibre, exchanges and other infrastructure
• provides nbn co with long-term access to certain components of our infrastructure under the 

Infrastructure Services Agreement 

• operates the passive and physical mobile tower assets owned or operated by the Amplitel business

Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities | F11

F12 | Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities

Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities | 95

Telstra Financial Report 20232023.Financial Report.book  Page 13  Wednesday, August 16, 2023  4:21 PM

2023.Financial Report.book  Page 14  Wednesday, August 16, 2023  4:21 PM

Notes to the financial statements (continued)

Telstra Financial Report 2023

Notes to the financial statements (continued)

Section 2. Our performance (continued)

Section 2. Our performance (continued)

2.1 Segment information (continued)

2.1.1 Operating segments (continued)

Consistent with information presented for internal management 
reporting, the result of each segment is measured based on its 
EBITDA contribution, which differs from our reported EBITDA. 

The table below details how we determine segment income and 
EBITDA contribution of each segment. 

Nature of 
transaction

Description 

Measurement basis

Transactions with 
external parties

Any transactions between any of the 
Telstra Group entities with:

Accounted for in accordance with the 
Australian Accounting Standards.

• an external counterparty, e.g. 

supplier or customer 

• any related party which is not 

controlled by the Telstra Group, i.e. it 
is not eliminated on consolidation.

Transactions with 
other segments 

Any transactions between segments 
arising from:

• inter-company legal agreements 

between entities controlled by the 
Telstra Group 

• internal notional charges under the 
arrangements not governed by legal 
agreements, i.e. those governing 
internal arrangements prior to the 
completion of the Restructure. The 
notional charges were determined 
based on a variety of internally and 
externally observable inputs to 
reflect an arm’s length basis. 

Some transactions 
which are 
managed centrally 
or by one segment

Certain items and transactions are 
managed centrally or by one of the 
segments even if they relate to results 
of multiple segments.

Different measurement bases apply to 
our transactions between segments 
depending on their nature:

• transactions related to the 

performance of our infrastructure 
assets are measured based on a 
'management view', i.e. all charges 
earned/incurred are recognised as 
either income or expenses. Such 
recognition may differ from the 
requirements of the Australian 
Accounting Standards in a number 
of areas, for example lease 
accounting.

• any transactions other than those 
described above are accounted for 
in accordance with the Australian 
Accounting Standards.

Transactions within the same segment 
are eliminated within that segment’s 
results. 

Any transactions with other segments 
are eliminated on consolidation, 
therefore the total Telstra Group 
reported income and total reported 
EBITDA reconcile to the statutory 
financial statements.

Accounted for in accordance with the 
Australian Accounting Standards.

Impact on 
segment results

The effects of all 
transactions with 
external parties are 
included in the 
segment results.

The effects of the 
transactions with 
other segments are 
included in the 
segment results 
and, depending on 
the nature of the 
transaction, either 
measured based on 
the management 
view or as 
accounted under 
the Australian 
Accounting 
Standards.

The effects of these 
transactions are 
included in the 
segment results as 
detailed in the table 
on the following 
page. 

2.1 Segment information (continued)

2.1.1 Operating segments (continued)

The table below provides further details how some transactions are 

allocated and managed and, as a result, how they are reflected in 

From 1 January 2023 

EBITDA contribution does not include those expenses

EBITDA contribution does not include those expenses

our segment results.

Nature of 

transaction

Income from nbn 

disconnection fees 

and associated 

expenses

Network service 

delivery expenses 

other than those 

supporting passive 

infrastructure 

Telstra Limited’s 

redundancy and 

restructuring 

expenses

Until 31 December 

2022 Telstra 

Corporation Limited’s 

redundancy and 

restructuring 

expenses

inter-company 

transactions for 

international 

connectivity disclosed 

as internal income and 

internal expenses

Until 31 December 

2022 inter-company 

transactions for 

international 

connectivity disclosed 

as revenue from 

external customers 

and external expenses 

TC&SB

TE

NIT&P

All Other

EBITDA contribution does not 

include these transactions

n/a

EBITDA contribution does not 

EBITDA 

include the network service delivery 

contribution 

expense for TC&SB and TE 

customers

includes network 

service delivery 

expenses 

related to 

TC&SB, TE and 

Telstra InfraCo 

customers

Telstra InfraCo’s 

customers

EBITDA 

contribution 

includes these 

transactions

EBITDA 

contribution 

includes network 

service delivery 

expenses 

related to 

TC&SB, TE and 

Telstra InfraCo 

EBITDA 

contribution 

includes those 

expenses

EBITDA 

contribution 

includes those 

expenses

Telstra 

InfraCo

EBITDA 

contribution 

does not include 

these 

transactions

EBITDA 

contribution 

does not include 

the network 

service delivery 

expense for 

customers 

serviced by 

passive 

infrastructure

EBITDA 

contribution 

includes inter-

segment internal 

expenses 

(recharged by 

TE)

EBITDA 

contribution 

includes inter-

segment 

revenue (earned 

from TE) and 

expenses 

(recharged by 

TE)

n/a

Elimination of 

inter-company 

transactions

contribution 

includes inter-

segment 

internal 

expenses 

recharged by 

TE

EBITDA 

contribution 

includes inter-

segment 

expenses 

recharged by 

TE

EBITDA 

contribution 

includes inter-

segment internal 

income (earned 

from TC&SB and 

Telstra InfraCo) 

EBITDA 

contribution 

includes inter-

segment 

revenue (earned 

from TC&SB and 

Telstra InfraCo) 

and expenses 

(recharged by 

Telstra InfraCo)

From 1 January 2023 

EBITDA 

n/a

n/a

96 | Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities

Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities | F13

F14 | Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities

2023.Financial Report.book  Page 14  Wednesday, August 16, 2023  4:21 PM

Notes to the financial statements (continued)

Section 2. Our performance (continued)

2.1 Segment information (continued)

2.1.1 Operating segments (continued)

The table below provides further details how some transactions are 
allocated and managed and, as a result, how they are reflected in 
our segment results.

Nature of 
transaction

Income from nbn 
disconnection fees 
and associated 
expenses

Network service 
delivery expenses 
other than those 
supporting passive 
infrastructure 

From 1 January 2023 
Telstra Limited’s 
redundancy and 
restructuring 
expenses

Until 31 December 
2022 Telstra 
Corporation Limited’s 
redundancy and 
restructuring 
expenses

From 1 January 2023 
inter-company 
transactions for 
international 
connectivity disclosed 
as internal income and 
internal expenses

Until 31 December 
2022 inter-company 
transactions for 
international 
connectivity disclosed 
as revenue from 
external customers 
and external expenses 

TC&SB

TE

NIT&P

Telstra 
InfraCo

All Other

EBITDA contribution does not 
include these transactions

n/a

EBITDA contribution does not 
include the network service delivery 
expense for TC&SB and TE 
customers

EBITDA 
contribution 
includes network 
service delivery 
expenses 
related to 
TC&SB, TE and 
Telstra InfraCo 
customers

EBITDA contribution does not include those expenses

EBITDA 
contribution 
does not include 
these 
transactions

EBITDA 
contribution 
does not include 
the network 
service delivery 
expense for 
customers 
serviced by 
Telstra InfraCo’s 
passive 
infrastructure

EBITDA contribution does not include those expenses

EBITDA 
contribution 
includes these 
transactions

EBITDA 
contribution 
includes network 
service delivery 
expenses 
related to 
TC&SB, TE and 
Telstra InfraCo 
customers

EBITDA 
contribution 
includes those 
expenses

EBITDA 
contribution 
includes those 
expenses

EBITDA 
contribution 
includes inter-
segment 
internal 
expenses 
recharged by 
TE

EBITDA 
contribution 
includes inter-
segment 
expenses 
recharged by 
TE

n/a

n/a

EBITDA 
contribution 
includes inter-
segment internal 
income (earned 
from TC&SB and 
Telstra InfraCo) 

EBITDA 
contribution 
includes inter-
segment 
revenue (earned 
from TC&SB and 
Telstra InfraCo) 
and expenses 
(recharged by 
Telstra InfraCo)

n/a

EBITDA 
contribution 
includes inter-
segment internal 
expenses 
(recharged by 
TE)

Elimination of 
inter-company 
transactions

EBITDA 
contribution 
includes inter-
segment 
revenue (earned 
from TE) and 
expenses 
(recharged by 
TE)

F14 | Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities

Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities | 97

Telstra Financial Report 20232023.Financial Report.book  Page 15  Wednesday, August 16, 2023  4:21 PM

2023.Financial Report.book  Page 16  Wednesday, August 16, 2023  4:21 PM

Notes to the financial statements (continued)

Telstra Financial Report 2023

Notes to the financial statements (continued)

Section 2. Our performance (continued)

Section 2. Our performance (continued)

2.1 Segment information (continued)

2.1.2 Segment results

Table A details our segment results and a reconciliation of EBITDA 
contribution to the Telstra Group’s EBITDA, EBIT and profit before 
income tax expense. 

Table A                                         

TC&SB

TE

NIT&P

Telstra Group

Telstra 
InfraCo

All Other Subtotal

Elimina-
tions

Total

$m

$m

$m

$m

$m

$m

$m

$m

Mobility
Fixed - C&SB
Fixed - Enterprise
InfraCo Fixed
Amplitel
Fixed - Active Wholesale
International
One-off nbn DA and connection
Other

Total management reported 
income
Transactions between segments

Total external income
Share of net profit/(loss) from 
equity accounted entities

EBITDA contribution
Depreciation and amortisation

Telstra Group EBIT
Net finance costs

Telstra Group profit before 
income tax expense

Mobility
Fixed - C&SB
Fixed - Enterprise
InfraCo Fixed
Amplitel
Fixed - Active Wholesale
International
One-off nbn DA and connection
Other

Total management reported 
income
Transactions between segments

Total external income
Share of net loss from equity 
accounted entities

EBITDA contribution
Depreciation and amortisation

Telstra Group EBIT
Net finance costs

Telstra Group profit before 
income tax expense

8,156
4,457
-
-
-
-
-
-
6

12,619

(1)

12,618

-

1,721
-
3,636
-
-
-
2,534
-
38

7,929

(125)

7,804

(4)

Year ended 30 June 2023

-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
413

413

381
-
-
2,556
401
403
-
-
34

3,775

-
-
-
-
-
-
(105)
72
585

10,258
4,457
3,636
2,556
401
403
2,429
72
1,076

-
-
-
(1,067)
(335)
-
(113)
-
(528)

10,258
4,457
3,636
1,489
66
403
2,316
72
548

552

25,288

(2,043)

23,245

(321)

92

(10)

(1,426)

2,349

(18)

(170)

382

5

(2,043)
23,245

(27)

5,729

3,152

(2,466)

2,628

(1,181)

7,862

Year ended 30 June 2022

7,449
4,486
-
-
-
-
-
43
-

11,978

-

11,978

1,675
-
3,729
-
-
-
1,705
-
23

7,132

-

7,132

-

(1)

-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
300

300

(216)

84

(11)

332
-
-
2,456
368
477
-
-
5

3,638

(1,284)

2,354

-

14
-
-
-
-
-
(204)
335
427

9,470
4,486
3,729
2,456
368
477
1,501
378
755

(75)

497

(19)

(1,575)
22,045

(31)

5,139

3,066

(2,455)

2,480

(974)

7,256

572

23,620

(1,575)

22,045

2,043

-

-

-

-
-
-
(976)
(308)
-
-
-
(291)

-
23,245

(27)

7,862
(4,470)
3,392
(529)

2,863

9,470
4,486
3,729
1,480
60
477
1,501
378
464

1,575

-

-

-

-
22,045

(31)

7,256
(4,358)
2,898
(417)

2,481

98 | Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities

Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities | F15

F16 | Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities

2.1 Segment information (continued)

2.1.2 Segment results (continued)

Until 31 December 2022 the effects of the following inter-company 

transactions with other segments have been reported as external 

income and expenses in the respective segment EBITDA 

contribution: 

• revenue from external customers in the TE segment includes 

$105 million (2022: $204 million) of inter-segment revenue 

treated as external expenses in the TC&SB and Telstra InfraCo 

segments, which is eliminated in the ‘All Other’ category

• EBITDA contribution in the TE segment reflects $3 million (2022: 

$5 million) of inter-segment expenses treated as external 

revenue in the Telstra InfraCo and eliminated in the ‘All Other’ 

category.

Following the completion of the Restructure, these transactions are 

governed by the new inter-company agreements, reported as 

internal revenue in the TE segment and eliminated at the Group 

level.

2023.

The transactions between segments in ‘All Other’ category exclude 

$163 million inter-company revenue and $163 million inter-

company expenses reflecting costs of employees transferred to 

Telstra Limited on 8 December 2022 in contemplation of the retail 

and active wholesale business transfer completed on 1 January 

Negative revenue amounts in ‘All Other’ category related to certain 

corporate level adjustments.

Information about our non-current assets by geographical market is 

presented in Table B.

Table B

Telstra Group

Carrying amount of non-current 

assets

Located in Australia

Located offshore

As at 30 June

2023

2022

$m

$m

30,374

5,095

35,469

30,630

1,750

32,380

Our geographical operations are split between our Australian and 

offshore operations. No individual foreign country within our 

offshore operations has material revenue or non-current assets.

The carrying amount of our segment non-current assets excludes 

financial assets, inventories, defined benefit assets, deferred 

contract costs and deferred tax assets.

2023.Financial Report.book  Page 15  Wednesday, August 16, 2023  4:21 PM

2023.Financial Report.book  Page 16  Wednesday, August 16, 2023  4:21 PM

Notes to the financial statements (continued)

Telstra Financial Report 2023

Notes to the financial statements (continued)

Section 2. Our performance (continued)

Section 2. Our performance (continued)

2.1 Segment information (continued)

2.1.2 Segment results

Table A details our segment results and a reconciliation of EBITDA 

contribution to the Telstra Group’s EBITDA, EBIT and profit before 

income tax expense. 

12,619

7,929

25,288

(2,043)

23,245

Table A                                         

TC&SB

TE

NIT&P

All Other Subtotal

Elimina-

Total

Telstra 

InfraCo

tions

$m

$m

$m

$m

$m

$m

$m

$m

Year ended 30 June 2023

EBITDA contribution

5,729

3,152

(2,466)

2,628

(1,181)

7,862

Telstra Group

Mobility

Fixed - C&SB

Fixed - Enterprise

InfraCo Fixed

Amplitel

Fixed - Active Wholesale

International

One-off nbn DA and connection

Other

income

Total management reported 

Transactions between segments

Total external income

Share of net profit/(loss) from 

equity accounted entities

12,618

(1)

-

Depreciation and amortisation

Telstra Group EBIT

Net finance costs

Telstra Group profit before 

income tax expense

Mobility

Fixed - C&SB

Fixed - Enterprise

InfraCo Fixed

Amplitel

Fixed - Active Wholesale

International

Other

income

Total management reported 

Transactions between segments

Share of net loss from equity 

accounted entities

EBITDA contribution

Depreciation and amortisation

Telstra Group EBIT

Net finance costs

Telstra Group profit before 

income tax expense

8,156

4,457

-

-

-

-

-

-

6

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

1,721

3,636

2,534

38

(125)

7,804

(4)

1,675

3,729

1,705

23

(1)

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

413

413

(321)

92

(10)

300

300

(216)

84

(11)

381

2,556

401

403

-

-

-

-

34

3,775

(1,426)

2,349

(18)

-

-

-

-

5

-

2,456

368

477

3,638

(1,284)

2,354

(105)

72

585

552

(170)

382

5

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

(204)

335

427

572

(75)

497

(19)

10,258

4,457

3,636

2,556

401

403

2,429

72

1,076

(2,043)

23,245

(27)

9,470

4,486

3,729

2,456

368

477

1,501

378

755

(1,575)

22,045

(31)

7,449

4,486

Year ended 30 June 2022

332

14

5,139

3,066

(2,455)

2,480

(974)

7,256

(1,067)

(335)

(113)

(528)

2,043

(976)

(308)

(291)

1,575

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

10,258

4,457

3,636

1,489

66

403

2,316

72

548

-

23,245

(27)

7,862

(4,470)

3,392

(529)

2,863

9,470

4,486

3,729

1,480

60

477

1,501

378

464

-

22,045

(31)

7,256

(4,358)

2,898

(417)

2,481

One-off nbn DA and connection

43

Total external income

11,978

7,132

11,978

7,132

23,620

(1,575)

22,045

2.1 Segment information (continued)

2.1.2 Segment results (continued)

Until 31 December 2022 the effects of the following inter-company 
transactions with other segments have been reported as external 
income and expenses in the respective segment EBITDA 
contribution: 

• revenue from external customers in the TE segment includes 
$105 million (2022: $204 million) of inter-segment revenue 
treated as external expenses in the TC&SB and Telstra InfraCo 
segments, which is eliminated in the ‘All Other’ category

• EBITDA contribution in the TE segment reflects $3 million (2022: 

$5 million) of inter-segment expenses treated as external 
revenue in the Telstra InfraCo and eliminated in the ‘All Other’ 
category.

Following the completion of the Restructure, these transactions are 
governed by the new inter-company agreements, reported as 
internal revenue in the TE segment and eliminated at the Group 
level.

The transactions between segments in ‘All Other’ category exclude 
$163 million inter-company revenue and $163 million inter-
company expenses reflecting costs of employees transferred to 
Telstra Limited on 8 December 2022 in contemplation of the retail 
and active wholesale business transfer completed on 1 January 
2023.

Negative revenue amounts in ‘All Other’ category related to certain 
corporate level adjustments.

Information about our non-current assets by geographical market is 
presented in Table B.

Table B

Telstra Group

Carrying amount of non-current 
assets
Located in Australia
Located offshore

As at 30 June

2023

2022

$m

$m

30,374
5,095

35,469

30,630
1,750

32,380

Our geographical operations are split between our Australian and 
offshore operations. No individual foreign country within our 
offshore operations has material revenue or non-current assets.

The carrying amount of our segment non-current assets excludes 
financial assets, inventories, defined benefit assets, deferred 
contract costs and deferred tax assets.

Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities | F15

F16 | Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities

Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities | 99

Telstra Financial Report 20232023.Financial Report.book  Page 17  Wednesday, August 16, 2023  4:21 PM

2023.Financial Report.book  Page 18  Wednesday, August 16, 2023  4:21 PM

Notes to the financial statements (continued)

Telstra Financial Report 2023

Notes to the financial statements (continued)

Section 2. Our performance (continued)

Section 2. Our performance (continued)

Year ended 30 June

2023

2022

$m
22,365
337

22,702

178
6
14
69
222
11
43

543
23,245

91
10

101
23,346

$m
20,920
357

21,277

158
7
3
329
223
-
48

768
22,045

102
8

110
22,155

2.2 Income (continued)

2.2.1 Disaggregated revenue 

Table B presents the disaggregated revenue from contracts with 

customers based on the nature and the timing of transfer of goods 

and services. 

We recognise revenue from contracts with customers when the 

control of goods or services has been transferred to the customer. 

Revenue from sale of services is recognised over time, whereas 

revenue from sale of goods is recognised at a point in time. 

Other revenue from contracts with customers includes licensing 

revenue (recognised either at a point in time or over time) and 

agency revenue (recognised over time). Refer to note 2.2.2 for 

further details about our contracts with customers. 

Revenue from contracts with customers

Other revenue from contracts with customers

Telstra Group

Sale of services

Sale of goods

Sale of services

Sale of goods

Other revenue from contracts with customers

Table B                                                                                                                   

TC&SB

TE

NIT&P

Telstra 

InfraCo

All 

Other

Total

$m

$m

$m

$m

$m

$m

Year ended 30 June 2023

12,336

7,727

Year ended 30 June 2022

10,239

2,079

18

9,767

1,881

18

6,878

797

52

6,267

734

47

1,981

1,981

2,007

-

-

2

-

66

66

-

-

-

-

52

52

227

27

1

255

133

9

3

19,325

2,969

71

22,365

18,174

2,678

68

11,666

7,048

2,009

145

20,920

2.2 Income

Table A

Telstra Group

Revenue from contracts with customers
Revenue from other sources

Total revenue (excluding finance income)
Other income
Net gain on disposal of property, plant and equipment and intangible assets
Net gain on disposal of businesses and investments
Net gain related to lease arrangements
nbn disconnection fees
Government grants
Net gain on derivative financial instruments not related to financing
Other miscellaneous income

Total income (excluding finance income)
Finance income
Finance income (excluding income from finance leases)
Finance income from finance leases (Telstra as a lessor)

Total income

Revenue from other sources includes income from: 

• customer contributions to extend, relocate or amend our network 

assets, where the customer does not purchase any ongoing 
services under the same (or linked) contract(s)

• late payment fees
• our lease arrangements, including finance leases where Telstra is 

a dealer-lessor and operating leases (refer to note 3.2.2 for 
further details).

nbn disconnection fees earned under the Subscriber Agreement 
with nbn co are recognised as other income because they do not 
relate to our ordinary activities. We recognise this income when we 
have met our contractual obligations under this agreement.

Government grants include income under the Telstra Universal 
Service Obligation Performance Agreement, the Federal 
Government’s Mobile Black Spot Program and other individually 
immaterial government grants. There are no unfulfilled conditions 
or other contingencies attached to these grants.

100 | Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities

Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities | F17

F18 | Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities

2023.Financial Report.book  Page 18  Wednesday, August 16, 2023  4:21 PM

Notes to the financial statements (continued)

Section 2. Our performance (continued)

2.2 Income (continued)

2.2.1 Disaggregated revenue 

Table B presents the disaggregated revenue from contracts with 
customers based on the nature and the timing of transfer of goods 
and services. 

We recognise revenue from contracts with customers when the 
control of goods or services has been transferred to the customer. 
Revenue from sale of services is recognised over time, whereas 
revenue from sale of goods is recognised at a point in time. 

Other revenue from contracts with customers includes licensing 
revenue (recognised either at a point in time or over time) and 
agency revenue (recognised over time). Refer to note 2.2.2 for 
further details about our contracts with customers. 

Table B                                                                                                                   

TC&SB

TE

NIT&P

Telstra Group

Telstra 
InfraCo

All 
Other

Total

Revenue from contracts with customers
Sale of services
Sale of goods
Other revenue from contracts with customers

Sale of services
Sale of goods
Other revenue from contracts with customers

$m

$m

$m

$m

$m

$m

Year ended 30 June 2023

10,239
2,079
18

12,336

9,767
1,881
18

11,666

6,878
797
52

7,727

-
66
-

66

1,981
-
-

1,981

Year ended 30 June 2022

6,267
734
47

7,048

-
52
-

52

2,007
2
-

2,009

227
27
1

255

133
9
3

145

19,325
2,969
71
22,365

18,174
2,678
68
20,920

F18 | Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities

Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities | 101

Telstra Financial Report 20232023.Financial Report.book  Page 19  Wednesday, August 16, 2023  4:21 PM

Notes to the financial statements (continued)

Telstra Financial Report 2023

Section 2. Our performance (continued)

2.2 Income (continued)

2.2.1 Disaggregated revenue (continued)

Table C presents total revenue from external customers 
disaggregated by major products and by geographical markets. 

Our geographical operations are split between our Australian and 
offshore operations. No individual foreign country within our 
offshore operations has material revenue.

Table C                                                                                                                   

TC&SB

TE

NIT&P

Telstra Group

Telstra 
InfraCo

All 
Other

Total

$m

$m

$m

$m

$m

$m

Year ended 30 June 2023

Total revenue from external customers by product
Mobile
Revenue from contracts with customers
Revenue from other sources

Fixed - C&SB
Revenue from contracts with customers
Revenue from other sources

Fixed - Enterprise
Revenue from contracts with customers
Revenue from other sources

InfraCo Fixed
Revenue from contracts with customers
Revenue from other sources

Amplitel
Revenue from contracts with customers

Fixed - Active Wholesale
Revenue from contracts with customers

International
Revenue from contracts with customers

Other products and services
Revenue from contracts with customers
Revenue from other sources

Total revenue from contracts with customers
Total revenue from other sources

Other income

Total revenue from external customers by geographical 
market
Australian customers
Revenue from contracts with customers
Revenue from other sources

Offshore customers
Revenue from contracts with customers

Total revenue from contracts with customers
Total revenue from other sources

Other income

8,156
8,120
36

4,263
4,206
57

-
-
-

-
-
-

-
-

-
-

-
-

10
10
-

12,336
93
12,429
189
12,618

12,429
12,336
93

-
-

12,336
93
12,429
189
12,618

1,721
1,721
-

-
-
-

3,635
3,613
22

-
-
-

-
-

-
-

2,407
2,407

(14)
(14)
-

7,727
22
7,749
55
7,804

5,573
5,551
22

2,176
2,176

7,727
22
7,749
55
7,804

-
-
-

-
-
-

-
-
-

-
-
-

-
-

-
-

-
-

66
66
-

66
-
66
26
92

66
66
-

-
-

66
-
66
26
92

381
381
-

-
-
-

-
-
-

1,341
1,125
216

62
62

403
403

-
-

10
10
-

1,981
216
2,197
152
2,349

2,197
1,981
216

-
-

1,981
216
2,197
152
2,349

-
-
-

-
-
-

-
-
-

-
-
-

-
-

-
-

(105)
(105)

366
360
6

255
6
261
121
382

363
357
6

(102)
(102)

255
6
261
121
382

10,258
10,222
36
4,263
4,206
57
3,635
3,613
22
1,341
1,125
216
62
62
403
403
2,302
2,302
438
432
6
22,365
337
22,702
543
23,245

20,628
20,291
337
2,074
2,074
22,365
337
22,702
543
23,245

102 | Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities

Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities | F19

2023.Financial Report.book  Page 20  Wednesday, August 16, 2023  4:21 PM

Notes to the financial statements (continued)

Section 2. Our performance (continued)

2.2 Income (continued)

2.2.1 Disaggregated revenue (continued)

Table C (continued)                                                                                 

TC&SB

TE

NIT&P

Telstra Group

Telstra 
InfraCo

All 
Other

Total

$m

$m

$m

$m

$m

$m

Year ended 30 June 2022

Total revenue from external customers by product
Mobile
Revenue from contracts with customers
Revenue from other sources

Fixed - C&SB
Revenue from contracts with customers
Revenue from other sources

Fixed - Enterprise
Revenue from contracts with customers
Revenue from other sources

InfraCo Fixed
Revenue from contracts with customers
Revenue from other sources

Amplitel
Revenue from contracts with customers

Fixed - Active Wholesale
Revenue from contracts with customers

International
Revenue from contracts with customers
Revenue from other sources

One-off nbn DA and connection
Revenue from contracts with customers

Other products and services
Revenue from contracts with customers
Revenue from other sources

Total revenue from contracts with customers
Total revenue from other sources

Other income

Total revenue from external customers by geographical 
market
Australian customers
Revenue from contracts with customers
Revenue from other sources

Offshore customers
Revenue from contracts with customers
Revenue from other sources

Total revenue from contracts with customers
Total revenue from other sources

Other income

7,449
7,368
81

4,296
4,255
41

-
-
-

-
-
-

-
-

-
-

-
-
-

43
43

2
-
2

11,666
124
11,790
188
11,978

11,790
11,666
124

-
-
-

11,666
124
11,790
188
11,978

1,675
1,674
1

-
-
-

3,729
3,702
27

-
-
-

-
-

-
-

1,697
1,677
20

-
-

(5)
(5)
-

7,048
48
7,096
36
7,132

5,645
5,603
42

1,451
1,445
6

7,048
48
7,096
36
7,132

-
-
-

-
-
-

-
-
-

-
-
-

-
-

-
-

-
-
-

-
-

52
52
-

52
-
52
32
84

52
52
-

-
-
-

52
-
52
32
84

332
332
-

-
-
-

-
-
-

1,316
1,135
181

60
60

477
477

-
-
-

-
-

5
5
-

2,009
181
2,190
164
2,354

2,190
2,009
181

-
-
-

2,009
181
2,190
164
2,354

14
14
-

-
-
-

-
-
-

-
-
-

-
-

-
-

(204)
(204)
-

-
-

339
335
4

145
4
149
348
497

351
347
4

(202)
(202)
-

145
4
149
348
497

9,470
9,388
82
4,296
4,255
41
3,729
3,702
27
1,316
1,135
181
60
60
477
477
1,493
1,473
20
43
43
393
387
6
20,920
357
21,277
768
22,045

20,028
19,677
351
1,249
1,243
6
20,920
357
21,277
768
22,045

F20 | Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities

Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities | 103

Telstra Financial Report 20232023.Financial Report.book  Page 21  Wednesday, August 16, 2023  4:21 PM

Notes to the financial statements (continued)

Telstra Financial Report 2023

Section 2. Our performance (continued)

2.2 Income (continued)

2.2.1 Disaggregated revenue (continued)

Revenue from other products and services includes miscellaneous 
income, revenue generated by Telstra Health, and revenue from the 
sale of energy under our power purchase agreements. 

By and large we recognise revenue from the sale of goods on their 
delivery and from sale of services based on the passage of time. The 
consideration allocated at contract inception to material rights is 
recognised as revenue either when the customer exercises the 
option and benefits from the free or discounted products or when 
the rights are forfeited.

‘All Other’ category includes eliminations of the inter-segment 
transactions described in the segment results in note 2.1.2. 

We offer deferred payment terms when customers purchase certain 
handsets and other devices under a device repayment contract. 

Negative revenue amounts disclosed in the tables above related to 
certain corporate level adjustments and consolidation eliminations.

2.2.2 Our contracts with customers

We generate revenue from external customer contracts, which vary 
in their form (standard or bespoke), term (casual, short-term and 
long-term) and customer segment (consumer, small to medium 
business, government and large enterprise), with the main 
contracts being:

• retail consumer contracts (mass market prepaid and post-paid 

mobile, fixed and media plans)

• retail small to medium business contracts (mass market and off-

the-shelf technology solutions)

• retail enterprise and government contracts (carriage, 

standardised and bespoke technology solutions and their 
management)

• network capacity contracts, mainly Indefeasible Right of Use 

(IRU)

• wholesale contracts for telecommunication services 
• nbn Definitive Agreements (nbn DAs) and related arrangements. 

The nature and type of contracts with customers are further 
described below. 

We sell a wide range of goods and services, which are provided 
either directly by us or by third parties. Generally, we act as 
principal rather than an agent in our contracts with customers.    

(a) Telstra Consumer and Small Business (TC&SB) contracts

We offer prepaid and post-paid services to our mass market 
customers. Our mass market contracts are homogeneous in nature 
and sold directly by us or via our dealer channel. These contracts 
often offer a bundle of goods and services, including products such 
as hardware, voice, text and data services, media content and 
others. Some also include options to purchase additional goods or 
services free of charge or at a discount (i.e. material rights).

We currently offer no-lock-in (month to month) post-paid service 
plans to our fixed and mobile mass market customers. In those 
arrangements, our customers can purchase a device, either outright 
or on a device repayment contract, together with a no-lock-in 
service plan. If a customer cancels their no-lock-in service plan, any 
outstanding device balance becomes payable immediately. 

Where we sell a service plan and a device on a device repayment 
contract together with that plan, and offer a discount to the 
customer who takes up that bundle and purchases directly from us, 
or through a dealer that is acting as our agent, we allocate the 
discount between the device and services based on their relative 
standalone selling prices. For our service bundle plans sold via 
dealers, who in their own right also sell the device to the customer, 
the whole discount is allocated to services only. 

Generally, we allocate the consideration, and any relevant 
discounts, to all products in the bundle based on a mixture of 
observable and estimated standalone selling prices of these 
products.

Assessment of a significant financing 
component in mass market contracts 

We have applied judgement to determine that no significant 
financing component exists in our bundled arrangements 
offering no-lock-in mobile plans and device repayment 
contracts sold directly by us. We considered factors such as 
significance of financing in the context of the contract as a 
whole, commercial objectives of our offers, the duration of 
deferred payment terms and interest rates prevailing in the 
marketplace. 

We offer a loyalty program, Telstra Plus, under which our consumer 
and small business customers can earn points redeemable in the 
future for certain goods and services. The program also provides 
customers access to tier benefits in the form of free or discounted 
services like entertainment or technical support. Points awarded for 
purchases of Telstra goods and services are accounted for as 
material rights, with any amount allocated to the points initially 
recognised as a contract liability in the statement of financial 
position. When a customer redeems the points or they expire we 
recognise revenue from sale of goods or services transferred or 
from forfeiture of the material rights. We also recognise revenue 
when, based on customers redemption patterns, we expect that the 
likelihood of the customers utilising the points is remote (i.e. 
breakage). Discretionary bonus points that do not relate to 
accounting contracts are classified as a marketing offer and 
expensed at the time the points are awarded. Tier benefits reduce 
revenue of the related accounting contracts. 

Generally, mass market contracts are not modified due to their 
homogeneous nature. However, because our no-lock-in mass 
market fixed and mobile post-paid service plans are month to 
month contracts, customers can change plans once each month or 
cancel their services altogether.

(b) Telstra Enterprise (TE) contracts

TE transacts with medium to large enterprise and government 
customers. Large and complex TE contracts are usually bespoke in 
nature as they deliver tailored solutions and services. Outside of the 
large customers, the contracts are mostly standard. 

Our TE legal contracts often are in a form of multi-year framework 
agreements under which customers can order goods and services, 
include performance conditions and grant different types of 
discounts or incentives. Such framework agreements are rarely 
considered contracts for accounting purposes. Instead, revenue 
recognition rules are applied to goods and services ordered under 
each valid purchase order or a statement of work raised under the 
terms of the framework agreement. 

104 | Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities

Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities | F21

2023.Financial Report.book  Page 22  Wednesday, August 16, 2023  4:21 PM

Notes to the financial statements (continued)

Section 2. Our performance (continued)

2.2 Income (continued)

2.2.2 Our contracts with customers (continued)

(b) Telstra Enterprise (TE) contracts (continued)

In some of our TE contracts we also act as a dealer-lessor for certain 
customer premise equipment used by our customers as part of the 
solutions management and outsourcing services. Leases embedded 
in those contracts are separately accounted for, usually as dealer-
lessor finance leases with finance lease receivables recognised in 
the statement of financial position. 

Some of our TE contracts include two phases: a build phase 
followed by the management of the technology solutions. Due to 
the complex nature of those arrangements, we analyse the facts 
and circumstances of each contract in order to determine goods 
and services ordered and timing of revenue recognition. If the build 
phase (or its components) qualifies as a separate service, we 
recognise the build phase revenue over the term of the build or at its 
completion depending on when the customer obtains control over 
the technology solution. 

From time to time our bespoke TE contracts are varied or 
renegotiated. When this happens, we assess the scope of the 
modification or its impact on the contract price in order to 
determine whether the amendment must be treated as a separate 
contract, as if the existing contract were terminated and a new 
contract signed, or whether the amendment must be considered as 
a change to the existing contract.

Under some of our enterprise arrangements, we receive customer 
contributions to extend or amend our network assets to ultimately 
enable delivery of telecommunication services to that customer. 
Where the counterparty makes a contribution for network 
construction activities and purchases ongoing services under the 
same (or linked) contract(s), the upfront contribution is added to 
the total consideration in the customer contract and is allocated to 
the goods and services to be delivered under that contract. 

Our TE accounting contracts include multiple goods and services. 
Generally we allocate the consideration and any relevant discounts 
to all the products in the accounting contract based on the 
standalone selling prices. However, some discounts granted under 
the framework agreements may be allocated to selected goods or 
services only if specific performance conditions apply. Any 
consideration allocated to a lease component is based on the 
relative standalone selling price of the lease.

Determining standalone selling prices 

We have applied judgement to determine standalone selling 
prices in order to allocate the consideration to goods and 
services sold under the same customer contract. 

In the absence of observable prices, we use various estimation 
methods, including an adjusted market assessment and cost 
plus margin approach, to arrive at a standalone selling price. 
We have determined that the negotiated prices are largely 
aligned to the standalone selling prices.

We recognise revenue from management services or fixed fee 
services based on passage of time and from usage-based carriage 
contracts when the services have been consumed. 

Some of our framework agreements offer enterprise loyalty 
programs and technology funds under which a customer can obtain 
additional free products. At contract inception, a portion of the 
consideration is allocated to such products and recognised as a 
contract liability in the statement of financial position. We 
recognise revenue when the customer either exercises the option 
and benefits from the free products or when the rights are forfeited.

Our large commercial arrangements often incorporate service level 
agreements, e.g. agreed delivery time or service reinstatement 
time. If we fail to comply with these commitments, we will 
compensate the customer. The expected amount of such 
compensation reduces the revenue for the period in which a service 
level commitment has not been met, and it is recognised as soon as 
not meeting the commitment becomes probable. Some 
arrangements also include benchmarking or consumer price index 
clauses, which are accounted for as variable consideration, usually 
from the time the price changes take effect. 

Our international TE arrangements include long-term network 
capacity arrangements (some being take-or-pay arrangements) as 
well as managed services such as security and backups, for which 
revenue is usually recognised based on passage of time. IRU 
arrangements often include upfront payments for services which 
will be delivered over multiple years. 

Assessment of a significant financing 
component in Indefeasible Right of Use 
(IRU)   

We have applied judgement to assess if a financing 
component is significant in the context of the contract as a 
whole and, where relevant, to determine appropriate discount 
rates. 

We account for a significant financing component in our 
domestic and international bespoke network capacity 
agreements, i.e. IRUs, where customers make an upfront 
payment in advance of receiving services. These contracts 
have an average legal contract term between 10 and 25 years.

Where Telstra receives financing from the customer, revenue 
recognised over the contract term exceeds the cash payment 
received in advance of performance by the amount of interest 
expense recognised in net finance costs.

During the financial year 2023, we recognised $41 million 
(2022: $46 million) interest expense for our IRU arrangements.

F22 | Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities

Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities | 105

Telstra Financial Report 20232023.Financial Report.book  Page 23  Wednesday, August 16, 2023  4:21 PM

2023.Financial Report.book  Page 24  Wednesday, August 16, 2023  4:21 PM

Notes to the financial statements (continued)

Telstra Financial Report 2023

Notes to the financial statements (continued)

Section 2. Our performance (continued)

Section 2. Our performance (continued)

2.2 Income (continued)

(d) Agreements with nbn co 

The main contracts with nbn co are nbn DAs and related 
arrangements. 

Revenue from contracts with nbn co is reported within the Telstra 
InfraCo segment. Amounts recognised as other income are 
recorded in the TC&SB segment and in ‘All Other’ category.    

Our nbn DAs and related arrangements include a number of 
separate legal contracts with both nbn co and the Commonwealth 
Government which have been negotiated together with a common 
commercial objective. These contracts have been combined for 
revenue assessment. The combined contract has a minimum term 
of 30 years for accounting purposes.

The combined nbn DAs and related arrangements include a number 
of separately priced elements, some of which are not accounted for 
under the revenue recognition standard. For example, nbn 
disconnection fees are presented as other income as they do not 
relate to our ordinary activities and there is no price dependency on 
other nbn DAs. 

Services provided under the Infrastructure Services Agreement 
(ISA) are accounted for under the revenue recognition standard. We 
recognise revenue from providing long-term access to our 
infrastructure, including ducts and pits, dark fibre and exchange 
rack spaces, over time, initially based on the cumulative nbn 
network rollout percentage and after rollout completion based on 
passage of time. 

The build of nbn related infrastructure is not considered a separate 
service, therefore payments received for it under a separate legal 
agreement have been combined and accounted for together with 
the ISA long-term access services. These upfront payments have 
been recorded as a contract liability in the statement of financial 
position and are recognised as services transfer over the ISA 
average contracted period of 35 years. 

ISA also includes payments for the sale of our infrastructure assets, 
with the net gain on sale of those assets recognised in other income 
at a point in time when the control passes to nbn co based on the 
incremental nbn network rollout percentage.

2.2.2 Our contracts with customers (continued)

(b) Telstra Enterprise (TE) contracts (continued)

During the financial year 2023, TE earned revenue through our new 
acquisition, Digicel Pacific, which mainly offers prepaid and post-
paid mobile services to consumer, and small to medium business 
customers, as well as technology solutions to business customers. 
Where goods and services are provided as a bundle, we allocate the 
consideration and any relevant discounts to all products in the 
bundle based on their estimated relative standalone selling prices. 
Where observable prices are not available, we estimate standalone 
selling prices based on the cost plus margin approach. Refer to note 
6.1.2 for further details on the acquisition of Digicel Pacific. 

(c) Telstra InfraCo contracts (excluding contracts with nbn co)

Telstra InfraCo typically transacts with carriage services providers 
and internet service providers, who in turn sell their services to their 
end users.

Revenue arises from fixed network service contracts, including 
usage-based contracts and fixed bundles, with a term of up to three 
years. Other contracts provide data and IP and mobile products 
such as interconnect, bulk SMS and post-paid mobile services. 

Telstra InfraCo legal contracts are generally signed as multi-year 
framework agreements, which set out pricing for the agreed 
services, the term and any renewal options, incentives, discounts 
and one-off fees.

Some of our framework agreements specify a minimum spend 
commitment (i.e. a take-or-pay arrangement), in which case the 
accounting contract may exist also at the framework agreement 
level. 

Customer contributions to extend or amend our network assets to 
ultimately enable delivery of telecommunication services are 
recognised when those services are delivered.

Telstra InfraCo’s service revenue is generally recognised over time 
during the period over which the services are rendered, mostly 
based on passage of time as the service provider (i.e. our customer) 
receives unlimited calls and data. 

Some of Telstra InfraCo contracts include multiple goods and 
services. We allocate the consideration, and any relevant discounts, 
generally to all the products in the accounting contract based on 
the negotiated prices, which are largely aligned to the estimated 
standalone selling prices of goods and services promised under the 
contracts. However, some discounts granted under the framework 
agreements may be allocated only to selected goods or services 
based on the specific performance conditions in the framework 
agreement.

Some of our Telstra InfraCo contracts grant customers access to 
our passive infrastructure assets. Lease component(s) in those 
contracts are largely classified as operating leases and we 
recognise revenue from other sources for those leases. 

2.2 Income (continued)

2.2.2 Our contracts with customers (continued)

(d) Agreements with nbn co (continued)

We deliver a number of different services under these 

arrangements and the consideration includes a number of fixed and 

variable components as described below.

Impact of nbn Infrastructure Services Agreement (ISA) on revenue from customer 

contracts and other income

Under the ISA, we receive the following payments from nbn co:

• Infrastructure Access Payment (IAP) for long-term access to ducts and pits

• Infrastructure Ownership Payment (IOP) for the progressive transfer of infrastructure assets

• payments for long-term access to other infrastructure, including dark fibre and exchange rack spaces.

IAP are indexed to consumer price index (CPI) and will grow in line with the nbn network rollout until its completion (as defined under 

the DAs). Subsequently, IAP will continue being indexed to CPI for the remaining average contracted period of 24 years.

IOP are received over the duration of the nbn network rollout, CPI adjusted and linked to the progress of the nbn network rollout.

IAP and IOP are classified in the income statement as revenue and other income, respectively, and are recognised on a percentage 

rollout basis of the nbn network footprint.

For any given period, the IAP and IOP amounts ultimately received from nbn co may vary from the amounts recognised in the income 

statement depending on the progress of the nbn network rollout and the final number of our existing fixed line premises as defined 

and determined under the ISA. A change in the nbn network rollout progress and/or the final number of these premises could result 

in a material change to the amount of IAP and IOP recognised in the income statement and the associated cash flows. Some of these 

adjustments cannot be finalised and the related amounts cannot be settled until the completion of the rollout and are subject to 

compounding interest calculated from the historical period applicable to the adjustments.

The nbn network rollout is substantially complete but its progress and its completion date are controlled by nbn co and the final 

number of the fixed line premises may continue to change even after all the relevant assets have been transferred to nbn co. 

Therefore, the final price adjustments and the resulting cash flows, including interest payable where relevant, will not be known until 

the nbn network rollout is complete in accordance with the DAs. nbn co may also choose to negotiate an earlier effective date for the 

final price adjustments. Should that date extend past our current assumption, additional interest payable by us of approximately $30 

million would accrue annually. However, these amounts whilst paid upon settlement would be recognised in the income statement 

over the remaining average contracted period of 24 years. Upon the final price adjustments, we expect to incur a significant cash 

outflow. Had the cash settlement occurred as at 30 June 2023, the estimated cash outflow would have been approximately $200 

million.

As described above, we have applied judgement in determining the amounts of IAP and IOP recognised for the financial year 2023 

and related balance sheet positions. We did not identify material impacts resulting from reassessment of the assumptions described 

above. Should evidence exist in future reporting periods that changes these judgements and estimates, revenue and other income 

will be adjusted in the future reporting periods.

Given significant variability in the overall ISA consideration, the 

legal contract includes specific clauses as to if, when and how an 

interest receivable or an interest payable should be calculated. 

Assessment of a significant financing 

component in nbn DAs 

We have applied judgement to assess if a financing 

component is significant in the context of the contract as a 

whole and, where relevant, to determine appropriate discount 

rates. 

We do not separately account for the financing component in 

our nbn DAs and related arrangements because it is not 

significant to the accounting contract.

106 | Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities

Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities | F23

F24 | Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities

2023.Financial Report.book  Page 24  Wednesday, August 16, 2023  4:21 PM

Notes to the financial statements (continued)

Section 2. Our performance (continued)

2.2 Income (continued)

2.2.2 Our contracts with customers (continued)

(d) Agreements with nbn co (continued)

We deliver a number of different services under these 
arrangements and the consideration includes a number of fixed and 
variable components as described below.

Impact of nbn Infrastructure Services Agreement (ISA) on revenue from customer 
contracts and other income

Under the ISA, we receive the following payments from nbn co:

• Infrastructure Access Payment (IAP) for long-term access to ducts and pits
• Infrastructure Ownership Payment (IOP) for the progressive transfer of infrastructure assets
• payments for long-term access to other infrastructure, including dark fibre and exchange rack spaces.

IAP are indexed to consumer price index (CPI) and will grow in line with the nbn network rollout until its completion (as defined under 
the DAs). Subsequently, IAP will continue being indexed to CPI for the remaining average contracted period of 24 years.

IOP are received over the duration of the nbn network rollout, CPI adjusted and linked to the progress of the nbn network rollout.

IAP and IOP are classified in the income statement as revenue and other income, respectively, and are recognised on a percentage 
rollout basis of the nbn network footprint.

For any given period, the IAP and IOP amounts ultimately received from nbn co may vary from the amounts recognised in the income 
statement depending on the progress of the nbn network rollout and the final number of our existing fixed line premises as defined 
and determined under the ISA. A change in the nbn network rollout progress and/or the final number of these premises could result 
in a material change to the amount of IAP and IOP recognised in the income statement and the associated cash flows. Some of these 
adjustments cannot be finalised and the related amounts cannot be settled until the completion of the rollout and are subject to 
compounding interest calculated from the historical period applicable to the adjustments.

The nbn network rollout is substantially complete but its progress and its completion date are controlled by nbn co and the final 
number of the fixed line premises may continue to change even after all the relevant assets have been transferred to nbn co. 
Therefore, the final price adjustments and the resulting cash flows, including interest payable where relevant, will not be known until 
the nbn network rollout is complete in accordance with the DAs. nbn co may also choose to negotiate an earlier effective date for the 
final price adjustments. Should that date extend past our current assumption, additional interest payable by us of approximately $30 
million would accrue annually. However, these amounts whilst paid upon settlement would be recognised in the income statement 
over the remaining average contracted period of 24 years. Upon the final price adjustments, we expect to incur a significant cash 
outflow. Had the cash settlement occurred as at 30 June 2023, the estimated cash outflow would have been approximately $200 
million.

As described above, we have applied judgement in determining the amounts of IAP and IOP recognised for the financial year 2023 
and related balance sheet positions. We did not identify material impacts resulting from reassessment of the assumptions described 
above. Should evidence exist in future reporting periods that changes these judgements and estimates, revenue and other income 
will be adjusted in the future reporting periods.

Given significant variability in the overall ISA consideration, the 
legal contract includes specific clauses as to if, when and how an 
interest receivable or an interest payable should be calculated. 

Assessment of a significant financing 
component in nbn DAs 

We have applied judgement to assess if a financing 
component is significant in the context of the contract as a 
whole and, where relevant, to determine appropriate discount 
rates. 

We do not separately account for the financing component in 
our nbn DAs and related arrangements because it is not 
significant to the accounting contract.

F24 | Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities

Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities | 107

Telstra Financial Report 2023(a) Revenue from contracts with customers (continued)

relates to the purchase of ongoing services under the same (or 

2.2 Income (continued)

2.2.4 Recognition and measurement (continued)

(vi) Timing of revenue recognition

Revenue is recognised when control of the good or service is 

transferred to the customer, i.e. when the customer can benefit 

from the good or service and decide how to use them.

We receive contributions to extend, relocate or amend our network 

assets. Where the counterparty makes a contribution for network 

construction activities that is neither a government grant nor 

linked) contract(s), we recognise revenue over the period of the 

network construction activities.

Revenue from other sources also includes late payment fees, which 

are recognised when charged and their collectability is reasonably 

assured.

We recognise revenue over time when the customer simultaneously 

receives and consumes the benefits provided to them or we create 

(c) Government grants

or enhance an asset controlled by the customer. Otherwise, we 

Government grants are recognised where there is reasonable 

assurance that the grant will be received and Telstra will comply 

with all attached conditions. Government grants relating to costs 

are deferred and recognised in the income statement as other 

income over the period necessary to match them with the costs that 

they are intended to compensate.

2023.Financial Report.book  Page 25  Wednesday, August 16, 2023  4:21 PM

2023.Financial Report.book  Page 26  Wednesday, August 16, 2023  4:21 PM

Notes to the financial statements (continued)

Telstra Financial Report 2023

Notes to the financial statements (continued)

Section 2. Our performance (continued)

Section 2. Our performance (continued)

2.2 Income (continued)

2.2.3 Revenue for contracted goods and services yet to be 
delivered 

Sometimes goods and services purchased under the same 
customer contract will be transferred to the customer over multiple 
reporting periods. 

Table D presents aggregate consideration allocated to the 
remaining goods, services and material rights promised under the 
contracts where a customer has made a firm commitment before 
the balance date but goods and services will be transferred after 30 
June 2023. Any future amounts arising from contracts where the 
customer has not made a firm commitment, such as usage-based 
contracts, are not included in the disclosed amounts. Presented 
time bands best depict the future revenue recognition profile. 

Table D

Telstra Group

Less than 1 year
Between 1 to 2 years
Between 2 to 5 years
Between 5 to 10 years
Between 10 to 20 years
More than 20 years

As at 30 June

2023

2022

Restated

$m
4,455
2,811
4,900
7,491
15,460
7,116

$m
4,141
2,394
4,100
6,988
14,385
8,368

42,233

40,376

The comparative amounts have been restated as a result of the prior 
period restatement of contract liabilities as detailed in note 1.7. 

Future revenue arising from nbn DAs is estimated based on a 
number of assumptions which are reassessed at each reporting 
period. However, given its size, long-term nature and a number of 
variable components impacting the contract consideration (refer to 
note 2.2.2 for details), the actual amounts recognised in the future 
periods may still materially differ from our estimates.

Any amounts arising from our existing customer contracts which 
will be recognised as ‘revenue from other sources’ or ‘other income’, 
for example operating lease income or net gain on sale of assets, are 
excluded from revenue for contracted goods and services yet to be 
delivered.

2.2.4 Recognition and measurement

Our revenue recognition accounting policies are described below.

(a) Revenue from contracts with customers

Revenue from contracts with customers arises from goods and 
services sold as part of our ordinary activities. 

(i) Accounting contracts with customer

Revenue recognition principles are applied to accounting contracts 
which are agreements between two or more parties that create 
enforceable rights and obligations. 

The accounting contract may not align with the legal contract and 
in some cases multiple legal contracts may need to be combined to 
form one accounting contract. In other instances, a legal contract 
may only provide a framework agreement (i.e. an offer) and an 
accounting contract only exists when the customer commits to 
purchase goods or services.

Any components of the contract which are accounted for under 
other accounting standards are separated out and accounted for 
under those other standards.

(ii) Goods, services and/or material rights

Revenue is recognised when Telstra fulfils its contractual 
obligation to deliver promised goods and services (or a bundle of 
goods and services) to the customer. 

A contractual promise giving the customer an option to purchase 
additional goods and services at a discount (i.e. material right) is 
accounted for separately if the incremental discount is at least five 
per cent compared to other customers. 

A good or service is separately accounted for if a customer can 
benefit from it on its own or together with other readily available 
resources, and no transformative relationship exists with other 
promised goods or services.

(iii) Variable consideration

If a contractual amount includes a variable component, we estimate 
the amount to which we will be entitled in exchange for promised 
goods and services. Examples of variable consideration include 
discounts, rebates, refunds, credits and price concessions. To 
estimate an amount of variable consideration, we use either the 
most likely amount or the expected value method depending on 
which better predicts the variable amount. The variable 
consideration is estimated at contract inception and constrained 
until it is highly probable that a significant reversal of cumulative 
revenue recognised will not occur.

(iv) Significant financing component

If the period between when we would transfer the good or service to 
the customer and when the customer would pay for them is 
expected to be greater than one year, we assess whether revenue 
should be adjusted for significant financing component, i.e. 
reduced if we offer deferred payment terms or increased if we 
receive an advance payment from customer. The significance of 
financing is assessed relative to the total contract value and 
interest rates used reflect credit characteristics of the counterparty 
receiving financing.

(v) Allocation of revenue to goods and services

to that third party.

We allocate the consideration to the goods and services based on 
their relative standalone selling prices. Standalone selling price is 
the price for which we would sell the goods or services on a 
standalone basis, i.e. not in a bundle. We determine standalone 
selling price at contract inception using an observable price for a 
standalone sale of substantially the same good or service under 
similar circumstances and to a similar class of customers. If no 
observable price is available, we estimate the standalone selling 
price using an appropriate method, e.g. adjusted market 
assessment approach, expected cost plus a margin approach or a 
residual approach. 

In some instances, in order to correctly reflect the amount of 
revenue we expect to be entitled to, we allocate variable 
consideration, discounts or a significant financing component to 
some but not all goods, services and/or material rights. 

recognise revenue at a point in time.

We use either input or output methods to measure progress when 

selling goods or services. Output methods use direct 

measurements of the value to the customer, for example, 

milestones reached. Input methods use our efforts or inputs in 

measuring the performance, for example, our labour hours used 

relative to the total expected labour hours.

When revenue is recognised at a point in time, the allocated 

consideration is recognised when control over a good is transferred 

to the customer. In determining this, we consider the customer’s 

obligation to pay, transfer of legal title to the good, physical 

possession of the good, the customer’s acceptance, and risks and 

rewards of ownership.

(vii) Contract modifications

From time to time, our contracts are renegotiated after contract 

inception and their scope and/or price change. A contract 

modification will result in a cumulative change to revenue already 

recognised only when the remaining goods and services are not 

separate from those already delivered.

(viii) Gross versus net presentation

When we control the promised goods and services before they are 

transferred to the customer and we have primary obligation for their 

delivery, we act as principal in the contract with a customer and 

recognise revenue at gross amounts. When we act as an agent of a 

third-party provider, we recognise revenue net of amounts payable 

(b) Revenue from other sources

Revenue from other sources includes income arising from 

arrangements other than those accounted for under the revenue 

recognition standard. 

Contract terminations generally trigger different rights and 

obligations. These rights and obligations are not related to our 

performance and were not considered at inception of the 

accounting contract. Therefore, where relevant, any income over 

and above the recovery of the consideration due for the delivered 

goods or services is not classified as revenue from customer 

contracts. Instead, we classify it as revenue from other sources. 

We earn revenue from some of our lease arrangements described in 

note 3.2, in particular from finance leases where Telstra is a dealer-

lessor of customer premise equipment. We recognise revenue from 

sale of these goods at a point in time at the commencement date of 

the lease.

Where a (combined) accounting contract includes lease and non-

lease components and Telstra is a lessor, we allocate the 

consideration to lease and non-lease components applying the 

relative standalone selling prices requirements for revenue from 

contracts with customers.

108 | Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities

Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities | F25

F26 | Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities

We receive contributions to extend, relocate or amend our network 
assets. Where the counterparty makes a contribution for network 
construction activities that is neither a government grant nor 
relates to the purchase of ongoing services under the same (or 
linked) contract(s), we recognise revenue over the period of the 
network construction activities.

Revenue from other sources also includes late payment fees, which 
are recognised when charged and their collectability is reasonably 
assured.

(c) Government grants

Government grants are recognised where there is reasonable 
assurance that the grant will be received and Telstra will comply 
with all attached conditions. Government grants relating to costs 
are deferred and recognised in the income statement as other 
income over the period necessary to match them with the costs that 
they are intended to compensate.

2023.Financial Report.book  Page 26  Wednesday, August 16, 2023  4:21 PM

Notes to the financial statements (continued)

Section 2. Our performance (continued)

2.2 Income (continued)

2.2.4 Recognition and measurement (continued)

(a) Revenue from contracts with customers (continued)

(vi) Timing of revenue recognition

Revenue is recognised when control of the good or service is 
transferred to the customer, i.e. when the customer can benefit 
from the good or service and decide how to use them.

We recognise revenue over time when the customer simultaneously 
receives and consumes the benefits provided to them or we create 
or enhance an asset controlled by the customer. Otherwise, we 
recognise revenue at a point in time.

We use either input or output methods to measure progress when 
selling goods or services. Output methods use direct 
measurements of the value to the customer, for example, 
milestones reached. Input methods use our efforts or inputs in 
measuring the performance, for example, our labour hours used 
relative to the total expected labour hours.

When revenue is recognised at a point in time, the allocated 
consideration is recognised when control over a good is transferred 
to the customer. In determining this, we consider the customer’s 
obligation to pay, transfer of legal title to the good, physical 
possession of the good, the customer’s acceptance, and risks and 
rewards of ownership.

(vii) Contract modifications

From time to time, our contracts are renegotiated after contract 
inception and their scope and/or price change. A contract 
modification will result in a cumulative change to revenue already 
recognised only when the remaining goods and services are not 
separate from those already delivered.

(viii) Gross versus net presentation

When we control the promised goods and services before they are 
transferred to the customer and we have primary obligation for their 
delivery, we act as principal in the contract with a customer and 
recognise revenue at gross amounts. When we act as an agent of a 
third-party provider, we recognise revenue net of amounts payable 
to that third party.

(b) Revenue from other sources

Revenue from other sources includes income arising from 
arrangements other than those accounted for under the revenue 
recognition standard. 

Contract terminations generally trigger different rights and 
obligations. These rights and obligations are not related to our 
performance and were not considered at inception of the 
accounting contract. Therefore, where relevant, any income over 
and above the recovery of the consideration due for the delivered 
goods or services is not classified as revenue from customer 
contracts. Instead, we classify it as revenue from other sources. 

We earn revenue from some of our lease arrangements described in 
note 3.2, in particular from finance leases where Telstra is a dealer-
lessor of customer premise equipment. We recognise revenue from 
sale of these goods at a point in time at the commencement date of 
the lease.

Where a (combined) accounting contract includes lease and non-
lease components and Telstra is a lessor, we allocate the 
consideration to lease and non-lease components applying the 
relative standalone selling prices requirements for revenue from 
contracts with customers.

F26 | Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities

Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities | 109

Telstra Financial Report 20232023.Financial Report.book  Page 27  Wednesday, August 16, 2023  4:21 PM

2023.Financial Report.book  Page 28  Wednesday, August 16, 2023  4:21 PM

Notes to the financial statements (continued)

Telstra Financial Report 2023

Notes to the financial statements (continued)

Section 2. Our performance (continued)

Section 2. Our performance (continued)

2.3 Expenses

We classify expenses (apart from finance costs) by nature as this 
classification more accurately reflects the type of operations we 
undertake.

Telstra Group

Included in our labour expenses are the following:
Employee redundancy
Share-based payments
Defined contribution plan expense
Defined benefit plan expense

Included in our goods and services purchased are the following:
Network payments
Cost of goods sold

Other expenses
Impairment losses (excluding net losses on financial assets)
General and administration
Service contracts and other agreements
Promotion and advertising
Expenses related to lease arrangements
Stamp duty expenses
Other operating expenses

Depreciation and amortisation
Depreciation of property, plant and equipment
Depreciation of right-of-use assets
Amortisation of intangible assets

Finance costs
Interest on borrowings
Interest on lease liabilities (Telstra as a lessee)
Other

Less: interest on borrowings capitalised

The following paragraphs provide further information about our 
expenses and finance costs: 

• share-based payments expense relates to both cash-settled and 
equity-settled share plans. Refer to note 5.2 for further details.

• impairment losses include $95 million (2022: $107 million) 

impairment of deferred contract costs 

• interest on borrowings has been capitalised using a capitalisation 

rate of 4.6 per cent (2022: 3.7 per cent)

• other finance costs include unrealised valuation impacts on our 
borrowings and derivatives. These include net losses which arise 
from changes in the fair value of derivative financial instruments 
to the extent that hedge accounting is not effective or the hedge 
accounting criteria are not met. These fair values increase or 
decrease because of changes in financial indices and prices over 
which we have no control. All unrealised amounts unwind to nil at 
maturity of the underlying instrument.

Year ended 30 June

2023

2022

$m

$m

80
20
240
45

3,274
2,853

129
1,060
1,056
272
16
12
243

2,788

2,424
574
1,472

4,470

570
99
32

701
(71)

630

80
19
215
45

3,223
2,648

144
915
1,167
248
21
95
222

2,812

2,572
587
1,199

4,358

444
78
61

583
(56)

527

2.4 Income taxes

This note sets out our tax accounting policies and provides an analysis of our income tax expense and deferred tax balances, 

including a reconciliation of tax expense to accounting profit.

Current income tax is based on the accounting profit adjusted for differences in accounting and tax treatments of income and 

expenses (i.e. taxable income).

Deferred income tax, which is accounted for using the balance sheet method, arises because the accounting income is not always 

the same as taxable income. This creates temporary differences, which usually reverse over time. Until they reverse, a deferred tax 

asset or liability must be recognised in the statement of financial position.

This note also provides disclosures which form part of the requirements of the Australian Board of Taxation’s Voluntary Tax 

Transparency Code.

2.4.1 Income tax expense

Table A

Telstra Group

Table A provides a reconciliation of notional income tax expense to 

actual income tax expense.

Major components of income tax expense

Current tax expense

Deferred tax resulting from the origination and reversal of temporary differences

Under/(over) provision of tax in prior years

Reconciliation of notional income tax expense to actual income tax expense

Profit before income tax expense

Notional income tax expense calculated at the Australian tax rate of 30% (2022: 30%)

Notional income tax expense differs from actual income tax expense due to the tax effect of:

2,863

859

2,481

744

Net non-deductible and (non-taxable) items

Deferred tax liabilities derecognised

Amended assessments

Under/(over) provision of tax in prior years

Different tax rates in overseas jurisdictions

Income tax expense on profit

equity

The comparative amounts have been restated to reflect the 

different split between our current income tax expense and the 

deferred income tax expense resulting from the restatement of 

contract liabilities (refer to note 1.7 for details), however the total 

income tax expense for the financial year 2022 has not changed. 

Income tax (benefit)/expense recognised during the year directly in other comprehensive income or 

Year ended 30 June

2023

2022

Restated

$m

748

54

10

812

5

(10)

(9)

10

(43)

812

(99)

$m

752

(78)

(7)

667

(5)

(15)

(18)

(7)

(32)

667

83

110 | Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities

Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities | F27

F28 | Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities

2023.Financial Report.book  Page 28  Wednesday, August 16, 2023  4:21 PM

Notes to the financial statements (continued)

Section 2. Our performance (continued)

2.4 Income taxes

This note sets out our tax accounting policies and provides an analysis of our income tax expense and deferred tax balances, 
including a reconciliation of tax expense to accounting profit.

Current income tax is based on the accounting profit adjusted for differences in accounting and tax treatments of income and 
expenses (i.e. taxable income).

Deferred income tax, which is accounted for using the balance sheet method, arises because the accounting income is not always 
the same as taxable income. This creates temporary differences, which usually reverse over time. Until they reverse, a deferred tax 
asset or liability must be recognised in the statement of financial position.

This note also provides disclosures which form part of the requirements of the Australian Board of Taxation’s Voluntary Tax 
Transparency Code.

2.4.1 Income tax expense

Table A provides a reconciliation of notional income tax expense to 
actual income tax expense.

Table A

Telstra Group

Major components of income tax expense
Current tax expense
Deferred tax resulting from the origination and reversal of temporary differences
Under/(over) provision of tax in prior years

Reconciliation of notional income tax expense to actual income tax expense
Profit before income tax expense
Notional income tax expense calculated at the Australian tax rate of 30% (2022: 30%)
Notional income tax expense differs from actual income tax expense due to the tax effect of:
Net non-deductible and (non-taxable) items
Deferred tax liabilities derecognised
Amended assessments
Under/(over) provision of tax in prior years
Different tax rates in overseas jurisdictions

Income tax expense on profit
Income tax (benefit)/expense recognised during the year directly in other comprehensive income or 
equity

The comparative amounts have been restated to reflect the 
different split between our current income tax expense and the 
deferred income tax expense resulting from the restatement of 
contract liabilities (refer to note 1.7 for details), however the total 
income tax expense for the financial year 2022 has not changed. 

Year ended 30 June

2023

2022

Restated

$m

748
54
10

812

$m

752
(78)
(7)

667

2,863
859

2,481
744

5
(10)
(9)
10
(43)

812

(99)

(5)
(15)
(18)
(7)
(32)

667

83

F28 | Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities

Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities | 111

Telstra Financial Report 20232023.Financial Report.book  Page 29  Wednesday, August 16, 2023  4:21 PM

2023.Financial Report.book  Page 30  Wednesday, August 16, 2023  4:21 PM

Notes to the financial statements (continued)

Telstra Financial Report 2023

Notes to the financial statements (continued)

Section 2. Our performance (continued)

Section 2. Our performance (continued)

2.4 Income taxes (continued)

2.4.1 Income tax expense (continued)

Table C provides a reconciliation of income tax expense to income 
tax paid during the year. 

2.4 Income taxes (continued)

2.4.2 Deferred tax assets/(liabilities)

Tables B and C include disclosures which form part of the 
requirements of the Australian Board of Taxation’s Voluntary Tax 
Transparency Code. Any disclosed amounts are determined in 
accordance with the Australian Accounting Standards. 

Table C

Telstra Group

Year ended 30 June

2023

2022

Restated

Table B provides a breakdown of effective income tax rates and Tax 
Transparency Code effective income tax rates (TTC ETR) for both 
the Australian Economic Group (the Telstra Entity and its Australian 
resident controlled entities) and the Telstra Group. 

Table B

Year ended 30 June

Telstra Group

2023

2022

Effective income 
tax rate
Tax Transparency 
Code effective 
income tax rate

Group Australia Group

Australia

28.4%

26.2%

26.9%

28.4%

28.3%

26.5%

28.3%

29.3%

The effective income tax rate for the Telstra Group of 28.4 per cent 
(2022: 26.9 per cent) was calculated as income tax expense divided 
by profit before income tax expense. Refer to the key non-taxable 
and non-deductible items impacting our effective tax rate as 
detailed below. 

The TTC ETR for the Telstra Group of 28.3 per cent (2022: 28.3 per 
cent) differs from the effective income tax rate due to excluding the 
impact of under or over provision of tax in prior years and amended 
assessments. The 2022 TTC ETRs have been updated to include the 
impact of the net over provision of tax and amended 2022 
assessments reflected in the current year income tax expense.  

The TTC ETR forms part of the requirements of the Voluntary Tax 
Transparency Code to disclose the income tax expense borne by 
Telstra in respect of the Australian and global operations for the 
individual year.

Non-taxable and non-deductible items include the tax effect of:

• $145 million of overseas profits taxed at lower corporate tax rates 

(i.e. below 30%)

• $72 million related to withholding taxes with no tax offset 
• $66 million lease termination deductions relating to the 

acquisition of Telstra dealership stores in the prior reporting 
period

• $55 million non-assessable gains on property disposals
• $33 million non-deductible amortisation of intangibles.

Income tax expense
(Under)/over provision in prior years
Temporary differences recognised 
in deferred tax expense
Trade and other receivables and 
contract assets
Deferred contract costs
Investments
Property, plant and equipment
Right-of-use assets
Intangible assets
Trade and other payables
Provision for employee entitlements
Lease liabilities
Borrowings and derivative financial 
instruments
Contract liabilities and other revenue 
received in advance
Other

Current tax expense
Income tax payments for prior years
Income tax receivable/(payable) next 
year
Other

Income tax paid

$m
812
(10)

13

44
-
(28)
38
(7)
(28)
(2)
(53)

2

(17)

(16)

(54)
748
66

114

5

933

$m
667
7

3

52
(1)
62
50
(84)
26
(4)
(50)

(5)

50

(21)

78
752
130

(62)

(1)

819

The comparative amounts have been restated to reflect tax impacts 
of the restatement of contract liabilities detailed in note 1.7. 

(1,990)

(1,359)

Table D details the amount of deferred tax assets and liabilities 

recognised in the statement of financial position, which include 

impact of foreign exchange movements.

Table D                                                  

Year ended/as at         

Telstra Group

30 June

2023

2022

Restated

$m

$m

Property, plant and equipment

(1,844)

(1,545)

Deferred tax items recognised in the 

income statement

Trade and other receivables and 

contract assets

Allowance for doubtful debts

Deferred contract costs

Investments

Right-of-use assets

Intangible assets

Trade and other payables

Provision for employee entitlements

Other provisions

Lease liabilities

Defined benefit asset

Borrowings and derivative financial 

instruments

Contract liabilities and other revenue 

received in advance

Capital tax losses

Income tax losses

Undistributed reserves and 

withholding taxes

Other

Deferred tax items recognised in 

other comprehensive income or 

equity

Investments

instruments

Other

Defined benefit asset

Borrowings and derivative financial 

(203)

40

(284)

(8)

(736)

(819)

177

240

104

776

128

46

473

10

5

(96)

1

2

6

-

(215)

131

(76)

Tax impact of restatement of retained 

earnings

Net deferred tax liability

(2,066)

(1,618)

Comprising:

Deferred tax assets

Deferred tax liabilities

46

(2,112)

(2,066)

60

(1,678)

(1,618)

The comparative amounts have been restated to reflect tax impacts 

of the restatement of contract liabilities detailed in note 1.7.

Unrecognised deferred tax assets 

We apply judgement to recognise a deferred tax asset and 

review its carrying amount at each reporting date. The carrying 

amount is only recognised to the extent that it is probable that 

sufficient taxable profit will be available in the future to utilise 

this benefit. Any amount unrecognised could be subsequently 

recognised if it has become probable that future taxable profit 

will allow us to benefit from this deferred tax asset.

Table E details deferred tax assets not recognised in the statement 

of financial position.

Table E

Telstra Group

Deferred tax assets not recognised

Capital tax losses

Income tax losses

Deductible temporary differences

Year ended 30 June

2023

2022

$m

$m

2,622

213

99

2,934

1,253

255

111

1,619

As at 30 June 2023, deferred tax assets on capital tax losses not 

recognised in the statement of financial position include capital tax 

losses crystallised during the financial year 2023 on liquidation of 

an offshore dormant controlled entity. 

2.4.3 International tax reform - Pillar Two income taxes

The Telstra Group is expected to be within the scope of the Pillar 

Two top up tax being implemented in Australia as it will apply to 

569

entities with revenues exceeding EUR750 million and the Telstra 

Group revenues exceed this threshold. The Group has applied the 

mandatory exception to recognising and disclosing information 

about deferred tax assets and liabilities related to Pillar Two income 

taxes as detailed in note 1.6.1. 

2.4.4 Tax consolidated group

Under the Australian taxation law, the Telstra Entity and its eligible 

Australian resident wholly-owned entities (members) form a tax 

consolidated group and are treated as a single entity for income tax 

purposes. The Telstra Entity is the head entity of the group and, in 

addition to its own transactions, it recognises the current tax 

liabilities and the deferred tax assets arising from unused tax losses 

and tax credits for all members in the tax consolidated group. 

As detailed in note 1.2, on 31 October 2022, Telstra Group Limited 

replaced Telstra Corporation Limited as the new head entity of the 

Australian tax consolidated group. Under Australian taxation law 

and confirmed by a ruling of the Australian Tax Office, Telstra has 

elected that the tax consolidated group will continue in existence, 

with Telstra Group Limited as the head company. This has been 

accounted for as a continuation of the antecedent tax consolidated 

group with Telstra Corporation Limited as the head entity, with the 

franking credits account being inherited by Telstra Group Limited. 

There were no income tax implications to the tax consolidated 

group resulting from the Restructure. 

Entities within the tax consolidated group have entered into a new 

tax sharing agreement and a tax funding agreement with Telstra 

Group Limited as the head entity.

(217)

52

(318)

(12)

(600)

(688)

196

244

99

665

123

44

26

8

-

(5)

(69)

(206)

94

-

(181)

(78)

112 | Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities

Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities | F29

F30 | Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities

(203)

(217)

Table E

Telstra Group

2023.Financial Report.book  Page 30  Wednesday, August 16, 2023  4:21 PM

Notes to the financial statements (continued)

Section 2. Our performance (continued)

2.4 Income taxes (continued)

2.4.2 Deferred tax assets/(liabilities)

Table D details the amount of deferred tax assets and liabilities 
recognised in the statement of financial position, which include 
impact of foreign exchange movements.

Table D                                                  

Year ended/as at         

Telstra Group

Deferred tax items recognised in the 
income statement
Trade and other receivables and 
contract assets
Allowance for doubtful debts
Deferred contract costs
Investments
Property, plant and equipment
Right-of-use assets
Intangible assets
Trade and other payables
Provision for employee entitlements
Other provisions
Lease liabilities
Defined benefit asset
Borrowings and derivative financial 
instruments
Contract liabilities and other revenue 
received in advance
Capital tax losses
Income tax losses
Undistributed reserves and 
withholding taxes
Other

Deferred tax items recognised in 
other comprehensive income or 
equity
Investments
Defined benefit asset
Borrowings and derivative financial 
instruments
Other

Tax impact of restatement of retained 
earnings

Net deferred tax liability
Comprising:
Deferred tax assets
Deferred tax liabilities

30 June

2023

2022

Restated

$m

$m

40
(284)
(8)
(1,844)
(736)
(819)
177
240
104
776
128

46

473

10
58

(96)

1

52
(318)
(12)
(1,545)
(600)
(688)
196
244
99
665
123

44

569

26

-

(5)

(1,990)

(1,359)

2
(215)

131

6

(76)

-

(69)
(206)

94

-

(181)

(78)

(2,066)

(1,618)

46
(2,112)

(2,066)

60
(1,678)

(1,618)

The comparative amounts have been restated to reflect tax impacts 
of the restatement of contract liabilities detailed in note 1.7.

Unrecognised deferred tax assets 

We apply judgement to recognise a deferred tax asset and 
review its carrying amount at each reporting date. The carrying 
amount is only recognised to the extent that it is probable that 
sufficient taxable profit will be available in the future to utilise 
this benefit. Any amount unrecognised could be subsequently 
recognised if it has become probable that future taxable profit 
will allow us to benefit from this deferred tax asset.

Table E details deferred tax assets not recognised in the statement 
of financial position.

Deferred tax assets not recognised
Capital tax losses
Income tax losses
Deductible temporary differences

Year ended 30 June

2023

2022

$m

$m

2,622
213
99

2,934

1,253
255
111

1,619

As at 30 June 2023, deferred tax assets on capital tax losses not 
recognised in the statement of financial position include capital tax 
losses crystallised during the financial year 2023 on liquidation of 
an offshore dormant controlled entity. 

2.4.3 International tax reform - Pillar Two income taxes

The Telstra Group is expected to be within the scope of the Pillar 
Two top up tax being implemented in Australia as it will apply to 
entities with revenues exceeding EUR750 million and the Telstra 
Group revenues exceed this threshold. The Group has applied the 
mandatory exception to recognising and disclosing information 
about deferred tax assets and liabilities related to Pillar Two income 
taxes as detailed in note 1.6.1. 

2.4.4 Tax consolidated group

Under the Australian taxation law, the Telstra Entity and its eligible 
Australian resident wholly-owned entities (members) form a tax 
consolidated group and are treated as a single entity for income tax 
purposes. The Telstra Entity is the head entity of the group and, in 
addition to its own transactions, it recognises the current tax 
liabilities and the deferred tax assets arising from unused tax losses 
and tax credits for all members in the tax consolidated group. 

As detailed in note 1.2, on 31 October 2022, Telstra Group Limited 
replaced Telstra Corporation Limited as the new head entity of the 
Australian tax consolidated group. Under Australian taxation law 
and confirmed by a ruling of the Australian Tax Office, Telstra has 
elected that the tax consolidated group will continue in existence, 
with Telstra Group Limited as the head company. This has been 
accounted for as a continuation of the antecedent tax consolidated 
group with Telstra Corporation Limited as the head entity, with the 
franking credits account being inherited by Telstra Group Limited. 
There were no income tax implications to the tax consolidated 
group resulting from the Restructure. 

Entities within the tax consolidated group have entered into a new 
tax sharing agreement and a tax funding agreement with Telstra 
Group Limited as the head entity.

F30 | Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities

Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities | 113

Telstra Financial Report 20232023.Financial Report.book  Page 31  Wednesday, August 16, 2023  4:21 PM

Notes to the financial statements (continued)

Telstra Financial Report 2023

Section 2. Our performance (continued)

2.4 Income taxes (continued)

2.4.4 Tax consolidated group (continued)

The tax sharing agreement specifies methods of allocating any tax 
liability in the event the head entity defaults on its group payment 
obligations and the treatment where a member exits the tax 
consolidated group.

Under the tax funding agreement, the head entity will pay the tax 
consolidated group liabilities to the Commissioner of Taxation and 
each of the members has agreed to pay/receive a current tax 
payable to/receivable from the head entity based on the current tax 
liability or current tax asset recorded in the financial statements of 
the relevant member. The Telstra Entity will also compensate the 
members for any deferred tax assets relating to unused tax losses 
and tax credits. 

Amounts receivable (net of allowance for doubtful debts) by the 
Telstra Entity of $624 million (2022: $74 million receivable by 
Telstra Corporation Limited) and payable by the Telstra Entity of 
$76 million (2022: $87 million payable by Telstra Corporation 
Limited) under the tax funding agreement are due in the next 
financial year upon final settlement of the current tax payable for 
the tax consolidated group.

2.4.5 Recognition and measurement

Our income tax expense is the sum of current and deferred income 
tax expenses. Current income tax expense is calculated on 
accounting profit after adjusting for non-taxable and non-
deductible items based on rules set by the tax authorities. Deferred 
income tax expense is calculated at the tax rates that are expected 
to apply for the period in which the deferred tax asset is realised or 
the deferred tax liability is settled. Both our current and deferred 
income tax expenses are calculated using tax rates that have been 
enacted or substantively enacted at the reporting date.

Our current and deferred taxes are recognised as an expense in the 
income statement, except when they relate to items that are 
directly recognised in other comprehensive income or equity. In this 
case, our current and deferred tax expenses are also recognised 
directly in other comprehensive income or equity.

Our current and deferred taxes must also recognise the impact of 
any uncertain tax positions. If it is probable that a relevant tax 
authority would accept our tax treatment, our tax balances are 
recognised under that tax treatment. Otherwise, for each uncertain 
tax position for which it is not probable that the relevant tax 
authority will accept the tax treatment, we use the most likely 
amount or the expected value to estimate our tax balances. 

We apply the balance sheet method for calculating our deferred tax 
balances. Deferred tax is the expected tax payable or recoverable 
on all taxable and deductible temporary differences determined 
with reference to the tax bases of assets and liabilities and their 
carrying amount for financial reporting purposes as at the reporting 
date.

We generally recognise deferred tax liabilities for all taxable 
temporary differences, except to the extent that the deferred tax 
liability arises from:

• the initial recognition of goodwill
• the initial recognition of an asset or liability in a transaction that 
is not a business combination and affects neither our accounting 
profit nor our taxable income at the time of the transaction 
(single transactions where both deductible and taxable 
temporary differences arise on initial recognition that result in 
deferred tax assets and liabilities of the same amount are 
excluded from this exemption).

For our investments in controlled entities, joint ventures and 
associated entities, recognition of deferred tax liabilities is required 
unless we are able to control the timing of our temporary difference 
reversal and it is probable that the temporary difference will not 
reverse.

Deferred tax assets are recognised to the extent that it is probable 
that taxable profit will be available against which the deductible 
temporary differences, and the carried forward unused tax losses 
and tax credits, can be utilised.

Deferred tax assets and deferred tax liabilities are offset in the 
statement of financial position where they relate to income taxes 
levied by the same taxation authority and to the extent that we 
intend to settle our current tax assets and liabilities on a net basis. 

2.5 Earnings per share

This note outlines the calculation of Earnings per Share (EPS), 
which is the amount of post-tax profit attributable to each 
share. EPS excludes profit attributable to non-controlling 
interests and takes into account the average number of shares 
weighted by the number of days on issue.

We calculate basic and diluted EPS. Diluted EPS reflects the 
effects of the equity instruments allocated to our employee 
share schemes under the Telstra Growthshare Trust.

Telstra Group

Earnings used in the calculation of 
basic and diluted EPS
Profit for the year attributable to 
equity holders of Telstra Entity

Weighted average number of 
ordinary shares

Weighted average number of ordinary 
shares used in the calculation of basic 
EPS
Dilutive effect of certain employee 
share instruments

Weighted average number of 
ordinary shares used in the 
calculation of diluted EPS

Basic EPS
Diluted EPS

Year ended 30 June

2023

2022

$m

$m

1,928

1,688

Number of shares 
(millions)

11,543

11,755

11

9

11,554

11,764

cents

cents

16.7
16.7

14.4
14.3

When we calculate the basic EPS, we adjust the weighted average 
number of ordinary shares to exclude the shares held in trust by 
Telstra Growthshare Trust (Growthshare).

Information about equity instruments issued under Growthshare 
can be found in note 5.2.

114 | Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities

Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities | F31

2023.Financial Report.book  Page 13  Wednesday, August 16, 2023  4:21 PM

2023.Financial Report.book  Page 14  Wednesday, August 16, 2023  4:21 PM

Notes to the financial statements (continued)

Telstra Financial Report 2023

Notes to the financial statements (continued)

Section 2. Our performance (continued)

Section 2. Our performance (continued)

2.1 Segment information (continued)

2.1.1 Operating segments (continued)

Consistent with information presented for internal management 
reporting, the result of each segment is measured based on its 
EBITDA contribution, which differs from our reported EBITDA. 

The table below details how we determine segment income and 
EBITDA contribution of each segment. 

Nature of 
transaction

Description 

Measurement basis

Transactions with 
external parties

Any transactions between any of the 
Telstra Group entities with:

Accounted for in accordance with the 
Australian Accounting Standards.

• an external counterparty, e.g. 

supplier or customer 

• any related party which is not 

controlled by the Telstra Group, i.e. it 
is not eliminated on consolidation.

Transactions with 
other segments 

Any transactions between segments 
arising from:

• inter-company legal agreements 

between entities controlled by the 
Telstra Group 

• internal notional charges under the 
arrangements not governed by legal 
agreements, i.e. those governing 
internal arrangements prior to the 
completion of the Restructure. The 
notional charges were determined 
based on a variety of internally and 
externally observable inputs to 
reflect an arm’s length basis. 

Some transactions 
which are 
managed centrally 
or by one segment

Certain items and transactions are 
managed centrally or by one of the 
segments even if they relate to results 
of multiple segments.

Different measurement bases apply to 
our transactions between segments 
depending on their nature:

• transactions related to the 

performance of our infrastructure 
assets are measured based on a 
'management view', i.e. all charges 
earned/incurred are recognised as 
either income or expenses. Such 
recognition may differ from the 
requirements of the Australian 
Accounting Standards in a number 
of areas, for example lease 
accounting.

• any transactions other than those 
described above are accounted for 
in accordance with the Australian 
Accounting Standards.

Transactions within the same segment 
are eliminated within that segment’s 
results. 

Any transactions with other segments 
are eliminated on consolidation, 
therefore the total Telstra Group 
reported income and total reported 
EBITDA reconcile to the statutory 
financial statements.

Accounted for in accordance with the 
Australian Accounting Standards.

Impact on 
segment results

The effects of all 
transactions with 
external parties are 
included in the 
segment results.

The effects of the 
transactions with 
other segments are 
included in the 
segment results 
and, depending on 
the nature of the 
transaction, either 
measured based on 
the management 
view or as 
accounted under 
the Australian 
Accounting 
Standards.

The effects of these 
transactions are 
included in the 
segment results as 
detailed in the table 
on the following 
page. 

2.1 Segment information (continued)

2.1.1 Operating segments (continued)

The table below provides further details how some transactions are 

allocated and managed and, as a result, how they are reflected in 

From 1 January 2023 

EBITDA contribution does not include those expenses

EBITDA contribution does not include those expenses

our segment results.

Nature of 

transaction

Income from nbn 

disconnection fees 

and associated 

expenses

Network service 

delivery expenses 

other than those 

supporting passive 

infrastructure 

Telstra Limited’s 

redundancy and 

restructuring 

expenses

Until 31 December 

2022 Telstra 

Corporation Limited’s 

redundancy and 

restructuring 

expenses

inter-company 

transactions for 

international 

connectivity disclosed 

as internal income and 

internal expenses

Until 31 December 

2022 inter-company 

transactions for 

international 

connectivity disclosed 

as revenue from 

external customers 

and external expenses 

TC&SB

TE

NIT&P

All Other

EBITDA contribution does not 

include these transactions

n/a

EBITDA contribution does not 

EBITDA 

include the network service delivery 

contribution 

expense for TC&SB and TE 

customers

includes network 

service delivery 

expenses 

related to 

TC&SB, TE and 

Telstra InfraCo 

customers

Telstra InfraCo’s 

customers

EBITDA 

contribution 

includes these 

transactions

EBITDA 

contribution 

includes network 

service delivery 

expenses 

related to 

TC&SB, TE and 

Telstra InfraCo 

EBITDA 

contribution 

includes those 

expenses

EBITDA 

contribution 

includes those 

expenses

Telstra 

InfraCo

EBITDA 

contribution 

does not include 

these 

transactions

EBITDA 

contribution 

does not include 

the network 

service delivery 

expense for 

customers 

serviced by 

passive 

infrastructure

EBITDA 

contribution 

includes inter-

segment internal 

expenses 

(recharged by 

TE)

EBITDA 

contribution 

includes inter-

segment 

revenue (earned 

from TE) and 

expenses 

(recharged by 

TE)

n/a

Elimination of 

inter-company 

transactions

contribution 

includes inter-

segment 

internal 

expenses 

recharged by 

TE

EBITDA 

contribution 

includes inter-

segment 

expenses 

recharged by 

TE

EBITDA 

contribution 

includes inter-

segment internal 

income (earned 

from TC&SB and 

Telstra InfraCo) 

EBITDA 

contribution 

includes inter-

segment 

revenue (earned 

from TC&SB and 

Telstra InfraCo) 

and expenses 

(recharged by 

Telstra InfraCo)

From 1 January 2023 

EBITDA 

n/a

n/a

96 | Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities

Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities | F13

F14 | Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities

2023.Financial Report.book  Page 33  Wednesday, August 16, 2023  4:21 PM

2023.Financial Report.book  Page 34  Wednesday, August 16, 2023  4:21 PM

Notes to the financial statements (continued)
Notes to the financial statements (continued)

Notes to the financial statements (continued)

Section 3. Our core assets, lease 
Section 3. Our core assets, lease 
arrangements and working capital
arrangements and working capital

This section describes our core long-term tangible (owned 
This section describes our core long-term tangible (owned 
and leased) and intangible assets underpinning the Group’s 
and leased) and intangible assets underpinning the Group’s 
performance and provides a summary of our asset 
performance and provides a summary of our asset 
impairment assessment. This section also describes our 
impairment assessment. This section also describes our 
short-term assets and liabilities, i.e. our working capital 
short-term assets and liabilities, i.e. our working capital 
supporting the operating liquidity of our business.
supporting the operating liquidity of our business.

Section 3. Our core assets, lease arrangements and working capital (continued)

SECTION 3. 

3.1 Property, plant and equipment and intangible assets

OUR CORE ASSETS, LEASE ARRANGEMENTS AND WORKING CAPITAL

This note provides details of our tangible and intangible 
assets, including goodwill, and their impairment assessment. 

Our impairment assessment compares the carrying values of 
our cash generating units (CGUs) with their recoverable 
amounts determined using a ‘value in use’ calculation. The 
value in use calculations use key assumptions such as cash 
flow forecasts, discount rates and terminal growth rates.

3.1.1 Property, plant and equipment

Table A shows movements in the net book value of our property, 
plant and equipment (PPE) assets during the financial year. 

Table A                                                                                       

Telstra Group

Land and 
buildings

Communication 
assets

Other plant and 
equipment

Total property, 
plant and 
equipment

Net book value at 1 July 2021
Additions
Additions due to acquisitions of controlled entities
Depreciation expenses
Other movements

Net book value at 30 June 2022, comprising:
Cost
Accumulated depreciation and impairment

Net book value at 1 July 2022
Additions
Additions due to acquisitions of controlled entities
Depreciation expenses
Other movements

Net book value at 30 June 2023, comprising:
Cost
Accumulated depreciation and impairment

$m

588
59
27
(60)
1

615
1,274
(659)

615
52
33
(74)
(30)

596
1,184
(588)

$m

20,057
2,093
-
(2,433)
(53)

19,664
62,475
(42,811)

19,664
2,286
469
(2,253)
(8)

20,158
62,453
(42,295)

$m

218
79
6
(79)
(18)

206
1,130
(924)

206
90
21
(97)
(5)

215
1,159
(944)

$m

20,863
2,231
33
(2,572)
(70)
20,485
64,879
(44,394)

20,485
2,428
523
(2,424)
(43)
20,969
64,796
(43,827)

116 | Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities

Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities | F33

F34 | Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities

3.1 Property, plant and equipment and intangible assets 

(continued)

3.1.1 Property, plant and equipment (continued)

The following paragraphs provide further information about our 

fixed asset classes:

• additions to PPE include $46 million (2022: $42 million) of 

capitalised borrowing costs directly attributable to qualifying 

assets

• land and buildings include leasehold improvements related to 

right-of-use assets recognised under our leasing arrangements 

(Telstra as a lessee)

• communication assets include network land and buildings that 

are essential to the operation of our communication assets 

• our buildings and communication assets are mainly used by us to 

generate revenue, however we also generate rental income from 

these assets. Given their dual purpose, it is impractical to 

separately present the assets under the operating lease 

arrangements. As at 30 June 2023, the total net book value of the 

assets used for dual purpose was $2,826 million (2022: $2,998 

million). 

• as at 30 June 2023, $1,338 million (2022: $1,137 million) of PPE 

was under construction and not installed nor ready for use

• other movements include $54 million (2022: $83 million) net 

transfers to intangible assets, $42 million (2022: $44 million) 

increase due to net foreign exchange differences, and other 

individually insignificant transactions. 

3.1.2  Goodwill and other intangible assets

Table B shows movements in the net book value of our intangible 

assets during the financial year. 

Table B                                                                                      

Goodwill

Software 

Licences

Other intan-

Total intan- 

assets

gible assets

gible assets

Telstra Group

Net book value at 1 July 2021

Additions

Additions due to acquisitions of controlled entities

Amortisation expense

Other movements

Net book value at 30 June 2022, comprising:

Accumulated amortisation and impairment

Net book value at 1 July 2022

Additions

Additions due to acquisitions of controlled entities

Amortisation expense

Other movements

Net book value at 30 June 2023, comprising:

Cost

Cost

Accumulated amortisation and impairment

$m

1,052

676

-

-

41

1,769

1,856

(87)

1,769

1,633

-

-

62

3,464

3,555

(91)

$m

3,455

891

103

(823)

83

3,709

12,048

(8,339)

3,709

1,272

(998)

10

52

4,045

13,050

(9,005)

$m

2,043

238

-

(282)

(4)

1,995

3,547

(1,552)

1,995

100

-

(296)

(37)

1,762

3,523

(1,761)

$m

581

42

147

(94)

6

682

1,735

(1,053)

682

39

1,147

(178)

28

1,718

2,929

(1,211)

$m

7,131

1,171

926

(1,199)

126

8,155

19,186

(11,031)

8,155

1,411

2,790

(1,472)

105

10,989

23,057

(12,068)

Section 3. Our core assets, lease 

arrangements and working capital

This section describes our core long-term tangible (owned 

and leased) and intangible assets underpinning the Group’s 

performance and provides a summary of our asset 

impairment assessment. This section also describes our 

short-term assets and liabilities, i.e. our working capital 

supporting the operating liquidity of our business.

SECTION 3. 

3.1 Property, plant and equipment and intangible assets

OUR CORE ASSETS, LEASE ARRANGEMENTS AND WORKING CAPITAL

This note provides details of our tangible and intangible 

assets, including goodwill, and their impairment assessment. 

Our impairment assessment compares the carrying values of 

our cash generating units (CGUs) with their recoverable 

amounts determined using a ‘value in use’ calculation. The 

value in use calculations use key assumptions such as cash 

flow forecasts, discount rates and terminal growth rates.

3.1.1 Property, plant and equipment

Table A shows movements in the net book value of our property, 

plant and equipment (PPE) assets during the financial year. 

Table A                                                                                       

Communication 

Other plant and 

Total property, 

Land and 

buildings

assets

equipment

plant and 

equipment

Telstra Group

Net book value at 1 July 2021

Additions

Additions due to acquisitions of controlled entities

Depreciation expenses

Other movements

Net book value at 30 June 2022, comprising:

Accumulated depreciation and impairment

Net book value at 1 July 2022

Additions

Additions due to acquisitions of controlled entities

Depreciation expenses

Other movements

Net book value at 30 June 2023, comprising:

Cost

Cost

Accumulated depreciation and impairment

$m

588

59

27

(60)

1

615

1,274

(659)

615

52

33

(74)

(30)

596

1,184

(588)

$m

20,057

2,093

-

(2,433)

(53)

19,664

62,475

(42,811)

19,664

2,286

469

(2,253)

(8)

20,158

62,453

(42,295)

$m

218

79

6

(79)

(18)

206

1,130

(924)

206

90

21

(97)

(5)

215

1,159

(944)

$m

20,863

2,231

33

(2,572)

(70)

20,485

64,879

(44,394)

20,485

2,428

523

(2,424)

(43)

20,969

64,796

(43,827)

2023.Financial Report.book  Page 33  Wednesday, August 16, 2023  4:21 PM

2023.Financial Report.book  Page 34  Wednesday, August 16, 2023  4:21 PM

Notes to the financial statements (continued)

Notes to the financial statements (continued)

Section 3. Our core assets, lease arrangements and working capital (continued)

3.1 Property, plant and equipment and intangible assets 
(continued)

3.1.1 Property, plant and equipment (continued)

The following paragraphs provide further information about our 
fixed asset classes:

• additions to PPE include $46 million (2022: $42 million) of 

capitalised borrowing costs directly attributable to qualifying 
assets

• land and buildings include leasehold improvements related to 

right-of-use assets recognised under our leasing arrangements 
(Telstra as a lessee)

• communication assets include network land and buildings that 
are essential to the operation of our communication assets 

• our buildings and communication assets are mainly used by us to 
generate revenue, however we also generate rental income from 
these assets. Given their dual purpose, it is impractical to 
separately present the assets under the operating lease 
arrangements. As at 30 June 2023, the total net book value of the 
assets used for dual purpose was $2,826 million (2022: $2,998 
million). 

• as at 30 June 2023, $1,338 million (2022: $1,137 million) of PPE 

was under construction and not installed nor ready for use
• other movements include $54 million (2022: $83 million) net 
transfers to intangible assets, $42 million (2022: $44 million) 
increase due to net foreign exchange differences, and other 
individually insignificant transactions. 

3.1.2  Goodwill and other intangible assets

Table B shows movements in the net book value of our intangible 
assets during the financial year. 

Table B                                                                                      

Goodwill

Telstra Group

Software 
assets

Licences

Other intan-
gible assets

Total intan- 
gible assets

Net book value at 1 July 2021
Additions
Additions due to acquisitions of controlled entities
Amortisation expense
Other movements

Net book value at 30 June 2022, comprising:
Cost
Accumulated amortisation and impairment

Net book value at 1 July 2022
Additions
Additions due to acquisitions of controlled entities
Amortisation expense
Other movements

Net book value at 30 June 2023, comprising:
Cost
Accumulated amortisation and impairment

$m

1,052
-
676
-
41

1,769
1,856
(87)

1,769
-
1,633
-
62

3,464
3,555
(91)

$m

3,455
891
103
(823)
83

3,709
12,048
(8,339)

3,709
1,272
10
(998)
52

4,045
13,050
(9,005)

$m

2,043
238
-
(282)
(4)

1,995
3,547
(1,552)

1,995
100
-
(296)
(37)

1,762
3,523
(1,761)

$m

581
42
147
(94)
6

682
1,735
(1,053)

682
39
1,147
(178)
28

1,718
2,929
(1,211)

$m

7,131
1,171
926
(1,199)
126
8,155
19,186
(11,031)

8,155
1,411
2,790
(1,472)
105
10,989
23,057
(12,068)

Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities | F33

F34 | Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities

Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities | 117

Telstra Financial Report 20232023.Financial Report.book  Page 35  Wednesday, August 16, 2023  4:21 PM

2023.Financial Report.book  Page 36  Wednesday, August 16, 2023  4:21 PM

Notes to the financial statements (continued)

Telstra Financial Report 2023

Notes to the financial statements (continued)

Section 3. Our core assets, lease arrangements and working capital (continued)

Section 3. Our core assets, lease arrangements and working capital (continued)

3.1 Property, plant and equipment and intangible assets 
(continued)

3.1.2  Goodwill and other intangible assets (continued)

The following paragraphs detail further information about our 
intangible asset classes:

• additions to software assets include $25 million (2022: $14 

million) of capitalised borrowing costs directly attributable to 
qualifying assets

• software assets mostly comprise internally generated assets
• licences comprise of spectrum and apparatus licences obtained 

to operate a range of radiocommunications devices

• other movements include $54 million (2022: $83 million) net 
transfers from property, plant and equipment to intangible 
assets, $92 million (2022: $48 million) increase due to net foreign 
exchange differences, $45 million disposal of licence and other 
individually insignificant transactions.

Capitalisation of development costs 

We apply judgement to determine whether to capitalise 
development costs. 

Development costs are only capitalised if the project is 
assessed to be technically and commercially feasible, we are 
able to use or sell the asset, and we have sufficient resources 
and intent to complete the development. 

As at 30 June 2023, $638 million (2022: $434 million) of 
software assets were not installed and ready for use. 

3.1.3 Depreciation and amortisation

Table C presents the weighted average useful lives of our property, 
plant and equipment and identifiable intangible assets with a 
definite useful life. 

Table C                                                   

Telstra Group

Property, plant and equipment
Buildings
Communication assets
Other plant and equipment
Intangible assets
Software assets
Licences
Other intangibles

Expected benefit 
(years)

As at 30 June

2023

2022

30
27
7

8
14
19

30
25
7

9
14
17

Useful lives and residual values of tangible 
and intangible assets

We apply judgement to estimate useful lives and residual 
values of our assets and review them each year. If useful lives 
or residual values need to be modified, the depreciation and 
amortisation expense changes from the date of reassessment 
until the end of the revised useful life for both the current and 
future years. 

Assessment of useful lives and residual values includes a 
comparison with international trends for telecommunication 
companies and, in relation to communication assets, a 
determination of when the asset may be superseded 
technologically or made obsolete. For intangible assets, 
specifically business software, useful lives are adjusted to 
align with expected retirement dates of the relevant 
applications under the current corporate strategies.

During the financial year 2023, the net effect of the 
assessment of useful lives was $35 million and $33 million 
decrease in depreciation and amortisation expenses, 
respectively. There was no material net effect of assessment 
of useful lives in the financial year 2022.

3.1.4 Impairment assessment

All non-current tangible and intangible assets are reviewed for 
impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate 
that the carrying amounts may not be recoverable. Goodwill and 
intangible assets with an indefinite useful life are not subject to 
amortisation and are assessed for impairment at least annually. If 
the carrying amount of the asset exceeds its recoverable amount, 
the asset is impaired and an impairment loss is charged to the 
income statement so as to reduce the carrying amount.

The recoverable amount of an asset is the higher of its fair value 
less cost of disposal and its value in use. Fair value less cost of 
disposal is measured with reference to quoted market prices in an 
active market. Value in use represents the present value of the 
future amount expected to be recovered through the cash inflows 
and outflows arising from the asset’s continued use and 
subsequent disposal.

We identify CGUs, the smallest groups of assets that generate 
largely independent cash inflows from other assets or groups of 
assets. CGUs to which goodwill is allocated cannot be larger than 
an operating segment.

3.1 Property, plant and equipment and intangible assets 

(continued)

3.1.4 Impairment assessment (continued)

(a) Telstra Entity ubiquitous telecommunication network 

An impairment assessment is performed at the level of our Telstra 

Entity ubiquitous telecommunications network CGU. 

Impairment assessment of our ubiquitous telecommunications network

We have determined that assets which form part of the Telstra Entity ubiquitous telecommunications network, comprising the 

customer access network and the core network, are working together to generate independent cash inflows. No one item of 

telecommunications equipment is of any value without the other assets to which it is connected to deliver our products and services. 

Indicators of impairment may include changes in our operating and economic assumptions or possible impacts from risks such as 

changing economic and market conditions and climate change. We apply judgement in determining whether certain trends with an 

adverse impact on our cash flows are considered impairment indicators. 

We continue to operate in uncertain economic environments with rising inflation and other economic pressures. However, given the 

long-lived nature of the majority of our assets and the nature of the services we provide, the expected return on the assets is not 

significantly impacted. As a result, we did not consider the uncertain economic environment as an impairment indicator of our 

ubiquitous telecommunications network. 

We continue to assess the potential impacts of climate change, including physical climate risks on our assets associated with 

bushfires, cyclones, coastal inundation, urban flash flooding and increasing temperatures, as well as the impact of extreme weather 

events on our operations and service delivery. 

While we have already incorporated in our management forecasts some financial impacts related to our short-medium term 

environmental goals associated with both maintaining our carbon neutral operational certification, and with enabling renewable 

energy generation equivalent to 100 per cent of our consumption by 2025, work is ongoing to incorporate the potential long-term 

financial impacts of climate change and our relevant adaptation strategies in our forward plans. 

Based on our experience with extreme weather events, and considering the diverse location and nature of our assets as well as our 

continued focus on network resiliency and business continuity programs, we do not consider the potential impacts of climate change 

and the transition to a lower carbon economy to be an impairment indicator at this stage. In addition, based on the sensitivity analysis 

performed, the range of financial impacts identified and quantified to date for possible climate scenarios, namely the service 

disruption payments and asset loss/replacement costs, is not significant compared to the excess of the recoverable amount over the 

carrying value of our ubiquitous telecommunications network.

As we continue to assess climate impacts to our business, we will incorporate any identified financial impacts into our impairment 

assessment. Should we identify material adverse effects of climate change or transition to a lower carbon economy on our cash flows, 

we may deem it an impairment indicator in the future. 

Management forecasts require significant judgements and assumptions and are subject to risk and uncertainty that may be beyond 

our control. Hence, there is a possibility that changes in circumstances will materially alter projections, which may impact our 

assessment of impairment indicators and the recoverable amount of assets at each reporting date. 

118 | Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities

Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities | F35

F36 | Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities

2023.Financial Report.book  Page 35  Wednesday, August 16, 2023  4:21 PM

2023.Financial Report.book  Page 36  Wednesday, August 16, 2023  4:21 PM

Notes to the financial statements (continued)

Telstra Financial Report 2023

Notes to the financial statements (continued)

Section 3. Our core assets, lease arrangements and working capital (continued)

Section 3. Our core assets, lease arrangements and working capital (continued)

3.1 Property, plant and equipment and intangible assets 

(continued)

3.1.2  Goodwill and other intangible assets (continued)

The following paragraphs detail further information about our 

intangible asset classes:

• additions to software assets include $25 million (2022: $14 

million) of capitalised borrowing costs directly attributable to 

qualifying assets

• software assets mostly comprise internally generated assets

• licences comprise of spectrum and apparatus licences obtained 

to operate a range of radiocommunications devices

• other movements include $54 million (2022: $83 million) net 

transfers from property, plant and equipment to intangible 

assets, $92 million (2022: $48 million) increase due to net foreign 

exchange differences, $45 million disposal of licence and other 

individually insignificant transactions.

Capitalisation of development costs 

We apply judgement to determine whether to capitalise 

development costs. 

Development costs are only capitalised if the project is 

assessed to be technically and commercially feasible, we are 

able to use or sell the asset, and we have sufficient resources 

and intent to complete the development. 

As at 30 June 2023, $638 million (2022: $434 million) of 

software assets were not installed and ready for use. 

3.1.3 Depreciation and amortisation

Table C presents the weighted average useful lives of our property, 

plant and equipment and identifiable intangible assets with a 

definite useful life. 

Table C                                                   

Expected benefit 

Telstra Group

Property, plant and equipment

Buildings

Communication assets

Other plant and equipment

Intangible assets

Software assets

Licences

Other intangibles

(years)

As at 30 June

2023

2022

30

27

7

8

14

19

30

25

7

9

14

17

Useful lives and residual values of tangible 

and intangible assets

We apply judgement to estimate useful lives and residual 

values of our assets and review them each year. If useful lives 

or residual values need to be modified, the depreciation and 

amortisation expense changes from the date of reassessment 

until the end of the revised useful life for both the current and 

future years. 

Assessment of useful lives and residual values includes a 

comparison with international trends for telecommunication 

companies and, in relation to communication assets, a 

determination of when the asset may be superseded 

technologically or made obsolete. For intangible assets, 

specifically business software, useful lives are adjusted to 

align with expected retirement dates of the relevant 

applications under the current corporate strategies.

During the financial year 2023, the net effect of the 

assessment of useful lives was $35 million and $33 million 

decrease in depreciation and amortisation expenses, 

respectively. There was no material net effect of assessment 

of useful lives in the financial year 2022.

3.1.4 Impairment assessment

All non-current tangible and intangible assets are reviewed for 

impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate 

that the carrying amounts may not be recoverable. Goodwill and 

intangible assets with an indefinite useful life are not subject to 

amortisation and are assessed for impairment at least annually. If 

the carrying amount of the asset exceeds its recoverable amount, 

the asset is impaired and an impairment loss is charged to the 

income statement so as to reduce the carrying amount.

The recoverable amount of an asset is the higher of its fair value 

less cost of disposal and its value in use. Fair value less cost of 

disposal is measured with reference to quoted market prices in an 

active market. Value in use represents the present value of the 

future amount expected to be recovered through the cash inflows 

and outflows arising from the asset’s continued use and 

subsequent disposal.

We identify CGUs, the smallest groups of assets that generate 

largely independent cash inflows from other assets or groups of 

assets. CGUs to which goodwill is allocated cannot be larger than 

an operating segment.

3.1 Property, plant and equipment and intangible assets 
(continued)

3.1.4 Impairment assessment (continued)

(a) Telstra Entity ubiquitous telecommunication network 

An impairment assessment is performed at the level of our Telstra 
Entity ubiquitous telecommunications network CGU. 

Impairment assessment of our ubiquitous telecommunications network

We have determined that assets which form part of the Telstra Entity ubiquitous telecommunications network, comprising the 
customer access network and the core network, are working together to generate independent cash inflows. No one item of 
telecommunications equipment is of any value without the other assets to which it is connected to deliver our products and services. 

Indicators of impairment may include changes in our operating and economic assumptions or possible impacts from risks such as 
changing economic and market conditions and climate change. We apply judgement in determining whether certain trends with an 
adverse impact on our cash flows are considered impairment indicators. 

We continue to operate in uncertain economic environments with rising inflation and other economic pressures. However, given the 
long-lived nature of the majority of our assets and the nature of the services we provide, the expected return on the assets is not 
significantly impacted. As a result, we did not consider the uncertain economic environment as an impairment indicator of our 
ubiquitous telecommunications network. 

We continue to assess the potential impacts of climate change, including physical climate risks on our assets associated with 
bushfires, cyclones, coastal inundation, urban flash flooding and increasing temperatures, as well as the impact of extreme weather 
events on our operations and service delivery. 

While we have already incorporated in our management forecasts some financial impacts related to our short-medium term 
environmental goals associated with both maintaining our carbon neutral operational certification, and with enabling renewable 
energy generation equivalent to 100 per cent of our consumption by 2025, work is ongoing to incorporate the potential long-term 
financial impacts of climate change and our relevant adaptation strategies in our forward plans. 

Based on our experience with extreme weather events, and considering the diverse location and nature of our assets as well as our 
continued focus on network resiliency and business continuity programs, we do not consider the potential impacts of climate change 
and the transition to a lower carbon economy to be an impairment indicator at this stage. In addition, based on the sensitivity analysis 
performed, the range of financial impacts identified and quantified to date for possible climate scenarios, namely the service 
disruption payments and asset loss/replacement costs, is not significant compared to the excess of the recoverable amount over the 
carrying value of our ubiquitous telecommunications network.

As we continue to assess climate impacts to our business, we will incorporate any identified financial impacts into our impairment 
assessment. Should we identify material adverse effects of climate change or transition to a lower carbon economy on our cash flows, 
we may deem it an impairment indicator in the future. 

Management forecasts require significant judgements and assumptions and are subject to risk and uncertainty that may be beyond 
our control. Hence, there is a possibility that changes in circumstances will materially alter projections, which may impact our 
assessment of impairment indicators and the recoverable amount of assets at each reporting date. 

Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities | F35

F36 | Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities

Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities | 119

Telstra Financial Report 20232023.Financial Report.book  Page 37  Wednesday, August 16, 2023  4:21 PM

2023.Financial Report.book  Page 38  Wednesday, August 16, 2023  4:21 PM

Notes to the financial statements (continued)

Telstra Financial Report 2023

Notes to the financial statements (continued)

Section 3. Our core assets, lease arrangements and working capital (continued)

Section 3. Our core assets, lease arrangements and working capital (continued)

3.1 Property, plant and equipment and intangible assets 
(continued)

3.1.4 Impairment assessment (continued)

(b) Goodwill

The carrying amount of goodwill has been allocated to the CGUs as 
detailed in Table D. 

We have used the following key assumptions in determining the 
recoverable amount of our material CGUs to which goodwill has 
been allocated:

Table E         

Telstra Group

Discount rate

Terminal value 
growth rate

2023

2022

2023

2022

Table D

Telstra Group

As at 30 June

2023

2022

Digicel Pacific1
Telstra Enterprise International Group1,2
Telstra Enterprise Australia Group2
Telstra Consumer & Small Business 
Group2
Health Group (including 
MedicalDirector)2,3
MedicalDirector Group
PowerHealth Group
Fetch TV
Other4

$m
1,614
612
437

341

251

-
89
32
88

$m
-
585
437

323

-

224
89
-
111

3,464

1,769

1   These CGUs operate in overseas locations. Therefore, the goodwill allocated to these 
CGUs will fluctuate in line with movements in applicable foreign exchange rates.

2   The Telstra Enterprise International Group, Telstra Enterprise Australia Group, Telstra 
Consumer and Small Business, and Health Group include goodwill from past acquisitions 
integrated into these businesses. 

3   During the financial year 2023, the operations of MedicalDirector were integrated into 
Health Group to generate combined cash inflows for the Group.

4   Other includes individually immaterial CGUs.

In regard to goodwill recognised on acquisitions completed during 
the financial year 2023, there were no impairment indicators in 
relation to these assets since their acquisition date. For all other 
CGUs including Digicel Pacific with allocated goodwill, we used a 
value in use calculation to determine the recoverable amount.  

Digicel Pacific
Telstra Enterprise 
International Group
Telstra Enterprise 
Australia Group
Telstra Consumer & 
Small Business 
Group
Health Group 
(including 
MedicalDirector)
PowerHealth Group

%
13.4

8.5

%
n/a

9.9

13.3

14.0

12.2

n/a

13.3

15.9

n/a

n/a

%
3.0

2.0

2.5

2.5

-

2.5

%
n/a

2.0

2.5

n/a

n/a

n/a

The discount rate represents the pre-tax discount rate applied to 
the cash flow projections. The discount rate reflects the market 
determined, risk-adjusted discount rate that is adjusted for specific 
risks relating to the CGU and the countries in which it operates.

The terminal value growth rate represents the growth rate applied 
to extrapolate our cash flows beyond the forecast period. These 
growth rates are based on our expectation of the CGUs’ long-term 
performance in their markets. 

We also perform a sensitivity analysis to examine the effect of a 
change in a key assumption on the remaining CGUs. The pre-tax 
discount rate would need to increase by 90 basis points (2022: 364 
basis points) or the terminal value growth rate would need to 
decrease by 135 basis points (2022: 697 basis points) before the 
recoverable amount of any of the CGUs would equal its carrying 
value. No other changes in key assumptions will result in a material 
impairment charge for any of the CGUs.

Determining CGUs and their recoverable 
amount for impairment assessment of 
goodwill

We apply judgement to identify our CGUs and determine their 
recoverable amounts using a value in use calculation. These 
judgements include cash flow forecasts, as well as the 
selection of growth rates, terminal growth rates and discount 
rates based on experience and our expectations for the future. 

Our cash flow projections are based on five-year 
management-approved forecasts unless a different period is 
justified. The forecasts use management estimates to 
determine income, expenses, capital expenditure and cash 
flows for each asset and CGU.

We have concluded that the discounted cash flows generated 
continue to support the carrying values of our CGUs, thus no 
impairment has been identified.

3.1 Property, plant and equipment and intangible assets 

(continued)

3.1.5 Recognition and measurement 

Asset class

Recognition and measurement

Property, plant and 

Property, plant and equipment, including assets under construction, is recorded at cost less 

equipment

accumulated depreciation and impairment. Cost includes the purchase price and costs directly 

attributable to bringing the asset to the location and condition necessary for its intended use.

We capitalise borrowing costs that are directly attributable to the acquisition, construction or 

production of a qualifying asset. All other borrowing costs are recognised as an expense in our income 

statement when incurred.

Property, plant and equipment other than freehold land are depreciated on a straight-line basis in the 

income statement from the time when the assets are installed and ready for use. Items of property, 

plant and equipment excluding leasehold improvements are depreciated over their estimated useful 

lives. Leasehold improvements are depreciated over the shorter of the lease term and the useful life of 

Goodwill

Goodwill acquired in a business combination is measured at cost. Cost represents the excess of what 

we pay for the business combination over the fair value of the identifiable net assets acquired at the 

Goodwill is not amortised but is tested for impairment on an annual basis or when an indication of 

Goodwill arising on the acquisition of joint ventures or associated entities constitutes part of the cost 

the assets.

date of acquisition.

impairment arises.

of the investment.

Internally generated 

intangible assets

Internally generated intangible assets include mainly IT development costs incurred in design, build 

and testing of new or improved IT products and systems.

Research costs are expensed when incurred.

Capitalised development costs include:

• external direct costs of materials and services consumed

• payroll and payroll-related costs for employees (including contractors) directly associated with the 

• borrowing costs that are directly attributable to the qualifying assets.

Internally generated intangible assets have a finite life and are amortised on a straight-line basis over 

project

their useful lives.

Acquired intangible 

We acquire other intangible assets either as part of a business combination or through a separate 

assets

acquisition. Intangible assets acquired in a business combination are recorded at their fair value at the 

date of acquisition and recognised separately from goodwill. Intangible assets acquired through a 

specific acquisition are recorded at cost.

Intangible assets that are considered to have a finite life are amortised on a straight-line basis over the 

useful lives. Intangible assets that are considered to have an indefinite life are not amortised but tested 

for impairment on an annual basis or when an indication of impairment exists.

120 | Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities

Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities | F37

F38 | Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities

2023.Financial Report.book  Page 37  Wednesday, August 16, 2023  4:21 PM

2023.Financial Report.book  Page 38  Wednesday, August 16, 2023  4:21 PM

Notes to the financial statements (continued)

Telstra Financial Report 2023

Notes to the financial statements (continued)

Section 3. Our core assets, lease arrangements and working capital (continued)

Section 3. Our core assets, lease arrangements and working capital (continued)

3.1 Property, plant and equipment and intangible assets 

We have used the following key assumptions in determining the 

recoverable amount of our material CGUs to which goodwill has 

3.1 Property, plant and equipment and intangible assets 
(continued)

3.1.5 Recognition and measurement 

Asset class

Recognition and measurement

Property, plant and 
equipment

Property, plant and equipment, including assets under construction, is recorded at cost less 
accumulated depreciation and impairment. Cost includes the purchase price and costs directly 
attributable to bringing the asset to the location and condition necessary for its intended use.

Goodwill

We capitalise borrowing costs that are directly attributable to the acquisition, construction or 
production of a qualifying asset. All other borrowing costs are recognised as an expense in our income 
statement when incurred.

Property, plant and equipment other than freehold land are depreciated on a straight-line basis in the 
income statement from the time when the assets are installed and ready for use. Items of property, 
plant and equipment excluding leasehold improvements are depreciated over their estimated useful 
lives. Leasehold improvements are depreciated over the shorter of the lease term and the useful life of 
the assets.

Goodwill acquired in a business combination is measured at cost. Cost represents the excess of what 
we pay for the business combination over the fair value of the identifiable net assets acquired at the 
date of acquisition.

Goodwill is not amortised but is tested for impairment on an annual basis or when an indication of 
impairment arises.

Goodwill arising on the acquisition of joint ventures or associated entities constitutes part of the cost 
of the investment.

Internally generated 
intangible assets

Internally generated intangible assets include mainly IT development costs incurred in design, build 
and testing of new or improved IT products and systems.

Research costs are expensed when incurred.

Capitalised development costs include:

• external direct costs of materials and services consumed
• payroll and payroll-related costs for employees (including contractors) directly associated with the 

project

• borrowing costs that are directly attributable to the qualifying assets.

Internally generated intangible assets have a finite life and are amortised on a straight-line basis over 
their useful lives.

Acquired intangible 
assets

We acquire other intangible assets either as part of a business combination or through a separate 
acquisition. Intangible assets acquired in a business combination are recorded at their fair value at the 
date of acquisition and recognised separately from goodwill. Intangible assets acquired through a 
specific acquisition are recorded at cost.

Intangible assets that are considered to have a finite life are amortised on a straight-line basis over the 
useful lives. Intangible assets that are considered to have an indefinite life are not amortised but tested 
for impairment on an annual basis or when an indication of impairment exists.

Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities | F37

F38 | Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities

Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities | 121

(continued)

(b) Goodwill

3.1.4 Impairment assessment (continued)

The carrying amount of goodwill has been allocated to the CGUs as 

detailed in Table D. 

Table D

Telstra Group

Digicel Pacific1

Telstra Enterprise International Group1,2

Telstra Enterprise Australia Group2

Telstra Consumer & Small Business 

Group2

Health Group (including 

MedicalDirector)2,3

MedicalDirector Group

PowerHealth Group

Fetch TV

Other4

As at 30 June

2023

2022

$m

1,614

612

437

341

251

-

89

32

88

$m

-

585

437

323

-

224

89

-

111

been allocated:

Table E         

Telstra Group

Digicel Pacific

Telstra Enterprise 

International Group

Telstra Enterprise 

Australia Group

Telstra Consumer & 

Small Business 

Group

Health Group 

(including 

MedicalDirector)

PowerHealth Group

Discount rate

Terminal value 

growth rate

2023

2022

2023

2022

%

%

%

13.4

8.5

13.3

%

n/a

9.9

14.0

12.2

n/a

13.3

15.9

n/a

n/a

3.0

2.0

2.5

2.5

-

2.5

n/a

2.0

2.5

n/a

n/a

n/a

The discount rate represents the pre-tax discount rate applied to 

the cash flow projections. The discount rate reflects the market 

3,464

1,769

determined, risk-adjusted discount rate that is adjusted for specific 

risks relating to the CGU and the countries in which it operates.

1   These CGUs operate in overseas locations. Therefore, the goodwill allocated to these 

CGUs will fluctuate in line with movements in applicable foreign exchange rates.

2   The Telstra Enterprise International Group, Telstra Enterprise Australia Group, Telstra 

Consumer and Small Business, and Health Group include goodwill from past acquisitions 

integrated into these businesses. 

3   During the financial year 2023, the operations of MedicalDirector were integrated into 

Health Group to generate combined cash inflows for the Group.

4   Other includes individually immaterial CGUs.

In regard to goodwill recognised on acquisitions completed during 

the financial year 2023, there were no impairment indicators in 

relation to these assets since their acquisition date. For all other 

CGUs including Digicel Pacific with allocated goodwill, we used a 

value in use calculation to determine the recoverable amount.  

The terminal value growth rate represents the growth rate applied 

to extrapolate our cash flows beyond the forecast period. These 

growth rates are based on our expectation of the CGUs’ long-term 

performance in their markets. 

We also perform a sensitivity analysis to examine the effect of a 

change in a key assumption on the remaining CGUs. The pre-tax 

discount rate would need to increase by 90 basis points (2022: 364 

basis points) or the terminal value growth rate would need to 

decrease by 135 basis points (2022: 697 basis points) before the 

recoverable amount of any of the CGUs would equal its carrying 

value. No other changes in key assumptions will result in a material 

impairment charge for any of the CGUs.

Determining CGUs and their recoverable 

amount for impairment assessment of 

goodwill

We apply judgement to identify our CGUs and determine their 

recoverable amounts using a value in use calculation. These 

judgements include cash flow forecasts, as well as the 

selection of growth rates, terminal growth rates and discount 

rates based on experience and our expectations for the future. 

Our cash flow projections are based on five-year 

management-approved forecasts unless a different period is 

justified. The forecasts use management estimates to 

determine income, expenses, capital expenditure and cash 

flows for each asset and CGU.

We have concluded that the discounted cash flows generated 

continue to support the carrying values of our CGUs, thus no 

impairment has been identified.

Telstra Financial Report 20232023.Financial Report.book  Page 39  Wednesday, August 16, 2023  4:21 PM

2023.Financial Report.book  Page 40  Wednesday, August 16, 2023  4:21 PM

Notes to the financial statements (continued)

Telstra Financial Report 2023

Notes to the financial statements (continued)

Section 3. Our core assets, lease arrangements and working capital (continued)

Section 3. Our core assets, lease arrangements and working capital (continued)

3.2 Lease arrangements

This note provides details about our leasing arrangements, 
where Telstra is either a lessee or a lessor, including 
arrangements where Telstra is an intermediate lessor (i.e. 
subleases). 

3.2.1 Telstra as a lessee

Our most significant lease contracts relate to network and non-
network properties, including: 

• land and buildings supporting our network assets and data 

centres

• office buildings, retail spaces and warehouses.

Other lease arrangements include:

• communication assets dedicated to solution management that 

we provide to our enterprise customers

• spaces on mobile towers
• renewable energy plants
• modem devices
• motor vehicles 
• laptops, personal computers and printers.

None of our leases include residual value guarantees. Other 
features of our leases are described below.

(a) Leases with extension, termination and purchase options

We do not have any significant purchase options in our property 
leases.

Extension options are included in a number of commercial and 
network property leases and are taken up to maximise the 
operational flexibility in terms of managing the assets used in our 
core business operations.

The majority of extension and termination options within our lease 
contracts are exercisable only by us and not by the respective 
lessor, with the exception of ‘holdover periods’ in our property 
leases, where generally either party can terminate the lease.

The extension, termination and purchase options are considered 
when determining lease term.

Determining lease term for property 
leases

We apply judgement to determine a lease term for leases with 
extension, termination or purchase options. We also consider 
lease modifications where we continue to use the same 
underlying asset for an extended term.

Our property lease terms are negotiated on an individual basis 
and contain a wide range of different terms and conditions, 
with typical fixed term periods between one and 15 years. 

In determining the lease term, we consider all facts and 
circumstances that create an economic incentive to exercise 
an extension, termination or purchase option, including 
holdover periods where relevant. 

In particular, we consider contractual terms under which the 
lease term can be extended or terminated, potential relocation 
costs, asset specific factors and any relevant leasehold 
improvements or our wider strategy and policy decisions.

We also consider long-term inter-company arrangements to 
access tower sites and exchanges located on land leased from 
third parties. 

Extension options are only included in the lease term if the 
lease is reasonably certain to be extended. Periods beyond 
termination options are only included in the lease term if it is 
reasonably certain that the lease will not be terminated.

The longer the fixed lease term, the less certain a lessee is to 
exercise an option to extend the lease.

The extension options for leases of office buildings have 
generally not been included in the lease term due to a 
competitive marketplace and our commercial ability to either 
substantially renegotiate or replace these assets instead of 
exercising the extension options.

None of our termination options have been considered 
reasonably certain to be exercised; therefore, the lease terms 
have not been shortened and all future cash flows have been 
included in the measurement of the lease liability.

The lease term assessment is reviewed if a significant event or 
change in circumstances occurs which affects this 
assessment and that is within our control as a lessee. 

3.2 Lease arrangements (continued)

3.2.1 Telstra as a lessee (continued)

(b) Leases with lease payment increases

(c) Leases with variable lease payments that do not depend on 

an index or a rate 

Some of our leases, such as leases of renewable energy plants, 

include variable lease payments that do not depend on an index or 

Under most of our lease arrangements, we pay fixed lease 

a rate. Such payments are not included in the measurement of the 

payments, which are included in the measurement of lease 

lease liability and are expensed as incurred in ‘other expenses’ in 

liabilities at initial recognition or at the time of reassessment. Fixed 

the income statement.

lease payments in our property leases usually include fixed 

increases. However, some of our property leases contain other 

(d) Right-of-use assets

escalation clauses, including increases subject to the consumer 

Table A shows movements in net book value of our right-of-use 

price index, the greater of fixed increase or the consumer price 

assets during the financial year.

index or increases subject to market rates. Market rent review terms 

are used to respond to competitive market trends and to minimise 

our fixed costs. No material remeasurement to lease liabilities 

resulting from such escalation clauses were recognised during the 

financial year 2023.

Table A

Telstra Group

Additions

Depreciation expense

Terminations

Other movements

Net book value at 1 July 2021 (reclassified)

Additions due to acquisitions of controlled entities and businesses

Net book value at 30 June 2022 (reclassified), comprising:

Additions due to acquisitions of controlled entities and businesses

Cost

Additions

Accumulated depreciation and impairment

Net book value at 1 July 2022 (reclassified)

Depreciation expense

Terminations

Derecognition due to finance subleases

Other movements

Net book value at 30 June 2023, comprising:

Accumulated depreciation and impairment

Cost

assets. 

We reclassified right-of-use assets related to leases of towers and 

tower-like structures from ‘land and buildings’ to ‘other’ class of 

underlying assets to best reflect the nature of such right-of-use 

The following amounts have been reclassified:

• $649 million of net book value as at 1 July 2021

• $41 million of additions during the financial year 2022

• $76 million of depreciation expense during the financial year 2022

• $614 million of net book value as at 1 July 2022.

This change in presentation did not impact our reported results. 

Other movements include other individually insignificant 

transactions. 

Right-of-use assets for underlying assets

Other

Total

Land and 

buildings

$m

2,044

472

96

(406)

(32)

1

2,175

3,361

(1,186)

2,175

295

55

(407)

(23)

(17)

3

2,081

3,437

(1,356)

$m

808

162

-

(181)

(13)

(25)

751

1,139

(388)

751

275

2

(167)

(17)

(70)

(30)

744

1,265

(521)

$m

2,852

634

96

(587)

(45)

(24)

2,926

4,500

(1,574)

2,926

570

57

(574)

(40)

(87)

(27)

2,825

4,702

(1,877)

122 | Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities

Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities | F39

F40 | Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities

2023.Financial Report.book  Page 39  Wednesday, August 16, 2023  4:21 PM

2023.Financial Report.book  Page 40  Wednesday, August 16, 2023  4:21 PM

Notes to the financial statements (continued)

Telstra Financial Report 2023

Notes to the financial statements (continued)

Section 3. Our core assets, lease arrangements and working capital (continued)

Section 3. Our core assets, lease arrangements and working capital (continued)

This note provides details about our leasing arrangements, 

where Telstra is either a lessee or a lessor, including 

arrangements where Telstra is an intermediate lessor (i.e. 

leases

3.2 Lease arrangements

subleases). 

3.2.1 Telstra as a lessee

Our most significant lease contracts relate to network and non-

network properties, including: 

• land and buildings supporting our network assets and data 

centres

• office buildings, retail spaces and warehouses.

Other lease arrangements include:

• communication assets dedicated to solution management that 

we provide to our enterprise customers

• spaces on mobile towers

• renewable energy plants

• modem devices

• motor vehicles 

• laptops, personal computers and printers.

None of our leases include residual value guarantees. Other 

features of our leases are described below.

(a) Leases with extension, termination and purchase options

We do not have any significant purchase options in our property 

leases.

Extension options are included in a number of commercial and 

network property leases and are taken up to maximise the 

operational flexibility in terms of managing the assets used in our 

core business operations.

The majority of extension and termination options within our lease 

contracts are exercisable only by us and not by the respective 

lessor, with the exception of ‘holdover periods’ in our property 

leases, where generally either party can terminate the lease.

The extension, termination and purchase options are considered 

when determining lease term.

Determining lease term for property 

We apply judgement to determine a lease term for leases with 

extension, termination or purchase options. We also consider 

lease modifications where we continue to use the same 

underlying asset for an extended term.

Our property lease terms are negotiated on an individual basis 

and contain a wide range of different terms and conditions, 

with typical fixed term periods between one and 15 years. 

In determining the lease term, we consider all facts and 

circumstances that create an economic incentive to exercise 

an extension, termination or purchase option, including 

holdover periods where relevant. 

In particular, we consider contractual terms under which the 

lease term can be extended or terminated, potential relocation 

costs, asset specific factors and any relevant leasehold 

improvements or our wider strategy and policy decisions.

We also consider long-term inter-company arrangements to 

access tower sites and exchanges located on land leased from 

third parties. 

Extension options are only included in the lease term if the 

lease is reasonably certain to be extended. Periods beyond 

termination options are only included in the lease term if it is 

reasonably certain that the lease will not be terminated.

The longer the fixed lease term, the less certain a lessee is to 

exercise an option to extend the lease.

The extension options for leases of office buildings have 

generally not been included in the lease term due to a 

competitive marketplace and our commercial ability to either 

substantially renegotiate or replace these assets instead of 

exercising the extension options.

None of our termination options have been considered 

reasonably certain to be exercised; therefore, the lease terms 

have not been shortened and all future cash flows have been 

included in the measurement of the lease liability.

The lease term assessment is reviewed if a significant event or 

change in circumstances occurs which affects this 

assessment and that is within our control as a lessee. 

(c) Leases with variable lease payments that do not depend on 
an index or a rate 

Some of our leases, such as leases of renewable energy plants, 
include variable lease payments that do not depend on an index or 
a rate. Such payments are not included in the measurement of the 
lease liability and are expensed as incurred in ‘other expenses’ in 
the income statement.

(d) Right-of-use assets

Table A shows movements in net book value of our right-of-use 
assets during the financial year.

Right-of-use assets for underlying assets

Land and 
buildings

Other

Total

$m

2,044
472
96
(406)
(32)
1

2,175
3,361
(1,186)

2,175
295
55
(407)
(23)
(17)
3

2,081
3,437
(1,356)

$m

808
162
-
(181)
(13)
(25)

751
1,139
(388)

751
275
2
(167)
(17)
(70)
(30)

744
1,265
(521)

$m

2,852
634
96
(587)
(45)
(24)
2,926
4,500
(1,574)

2,926
570
57
(574)
(40)
(87)
(27)
2,825
4,702
(1,877)

3.2 Lease arrangements (continued)

3.2.1 Telstra as a lessee (continued)

(b) Leases with lease payment increases

Under most of our lease arrangements, we pay fixed lease 
payments, which are included in the measurement of lease 
liabilities at initial recognition or at the time of reassessment. Fixed 
lease payments in our property leases usually include fixed 
increases. However, some of our property leases contain other 
escalation clauses, including increases subject to the consumer 
price index, the greater of fixed increase or the consumer price 
index or increases subject to market rates. Market rent review terms 
are used to respond to competitive market trends and to minimise 
our fixed costs. No material remeasurement to lease liabilities 
resulting from such escalation clauses were recognised during the 
financial year 2023.

Table A

Telstra Group

Net book value at 1 July 2021 (reclassified)
Additions
Additions due to acquisitions of controlled entities and businesses
Depreciation expense
Terminations
Other movements

Net book value at 30 June 2022 (reclassified), comprising:
Cost
Accumulated depreciation and impairment

Net book value at 1 July 2022 (reclassified)
Additions
Additions due to acquisitions of controlled entities and businesses
Depreciation expense
Terminations
Derecognition due to finance subleases
Other movements

Net book value at 30 June 2023, comprising:
Cost
Accumulated depreciation and impairment

We reclassified right-of-use assets related to leases of towers and 
tower-like structures from ‘land and buildings’ to ‘other’ class of 
underlying assets to best reflect the nature of such right-of-use 
assets. 

The following amounts have been reclassified:

• $649 million of net book value as at 1 July 2021
• $41 million of additions during the financial year 2022
• $76 million of depreciation expense during the financial year 2022
• $614 million of net book value as at 1 July 2022.

This change in presentation did not impact our reported results. 

Other movements include other individually insignificant 
transactions. 

Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities | F39

F40 | Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities

Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities | 123

Telstra Financial Report 20232023.Financial Report.book  Page 41  Wednesday, August 16, 2023  4:21 PM

2023.Financial Report.book  Page 42  Wednesday, August 16, 2023  4:21 PM

Notes to the financial statements (continued)

Telstra Financial Report 2023

Notes to the financial statements (continued)

Section 3. Our core assets, lease arrangements and working capital (continued)

Section 3. Our core assets, lease arrangements and working capital (continued)

3.2 Lease arrangements (continued)

Table C presents maturity analysis of our lease liabilities.

3.2 Lease arrangements (continued)

(ii) Subleases 

Undiscounted future cash flows
Less than 1 year
1 to 2 years
2 to 5 years
More than 5 years

Total undiscounted lease liabilities
Future finance charges

Present value of lease liabilities
Comprising:
Current
Non-current

As at 30 June

2023

2022

$m

$m

539
591
1,021
1,571

3,722
(531)

3,191

448
2,743

3,191

550
546
1,196
1,394

3,686
(399)

3,287

490
2,797

3,287

3.2.1 Telstra as a lessee (continued)

(d) Right-of-use assets (continued)

Table B provides information about the weighted average useful 
lives of our right-of-use assets.

Table C

Telstra Group

Table B                                                   

Telstra Group

Right-of-use assets
Land and buildings
Other

(e) Lease liabilities 

Weighted average 
useful life (years)

As at 30 June

2023

2022

11
9

9
3

Lease liabilities do not include liabilities for leases of low value 
assets or leases with variable payments which do not depend on an 
index or a rate, for which associated outstanding rental payments 
as at balance date continue to be included in trade and other 
payables.

Determining incremental borrowing rates 
for property leases 

We apply judgement to determine incremental borrowing 
rates for our property leases because the interest rates 
implicit in leases are not readily determinable for those 
arrangements. 

The incremental borrowing rates are determined with 
reference to rates sourced from market-based credit adjusted 
yield curves which are independently derived and reasonably 
reflect the credit risk of the lessee. The discount rates also 
reflect:

• the lease term (based on the weighted average repayment 

term)

• any guarantees which may be in place
• the impact of any security if significant to pricing.

As at 30 June 2023, the weighted average incremental 
borrowing rate was 3.0 per cent (2022: 2.4 per cent).

Measurement of lease liabilities reflects judgements made about 
discounted future cash flows arising from reasonably certain 
extension options and lease modifications, which must be 
reassessed should the circumstances change. 

Potential future cash outflows of $1,776 million (2022: $1,961 
million) are not reflected in the measurement of lease liabilities as 
they relate to leases which are yet to commence and/or extension 
options that we assessed as not reasonably certain. Almost 85 per 
cent of those cash flows will occur after five years. These outflows 
represent contractual undiscounted future cash flows estimated 
based on fixed lease payments only, payable over:

• for leases yet to commence - the legally non-cancellable lease 

(interest portion)

term 

• for leases already recognised in the statement of financial 

position and for those yet to commence - all extension options 
exercisable only by us (i.e. excluding holdover periods).

Such cash flows are not contractually payable until options have 
been legally exercised (if at all) and/or until the effective dates of 
already executed new contracts.

3.2.2  Telstra as a lessor (including a dealer-lessor and an 

intermediate lessor)

Our lease arrangements where Telstra is a lessor, including a 

dealer-lessor and intermediate lessor, include the following main 

categories:

network buildings

• leases and subleases of property assets, including office and 

3.2.1 Telstra as a lessee (continued)

(f) Amounts recognised in the income statement and cash 

outflows for leases 

Generally, we rent office and network buildings for our own use and 

not with the intention to earn rental income. However, where our 

needs or the intended use of the rented properties change and we 

have assessed that exiting a lease is uneconomical, we sublease 

property assets on market terms for the remaining non-cancellable 

Table D presents amounts recognised in the income statement and 

the cash outflows related to our lease arrangements. 

lease term of the head lease. 

Table D

Telstra Group

Amounts recognised in the income 

statement

Income from operating subleases (in 

revenue from other sources)

Depreciation of right-of-use assets (in 

depreciation and amortisation 

expense)

Interest expense on lease liabilities (in 

net finance costs)

Net gain on disposal due to finance 

(sub)lease (in other income)

Expense for leases of low value assets 

and variable payments (in other 

expenses)

Cash outflows for leases

In cash flows from operating activities

In cash flows from financing activities 

(principal portion)

In cash flows from financing activities 

Year ended 30 June

2023

2022

These subleases are either classified as operating lease or finance 

lease. For finance subleases, at lease commencement date, we 

record a net gain or loss on the derecognised right-of-use asset and 

recognise a finance lease receivable. We have no risks associated 

$m

$m

with any retained rights in the underlying assets as the properties 

are vacated and returned to the landlords at the end of the non-

cancellable lease term. 

8

40

(iii) Leases of passive infrastructure assets

Generally, we hold our infrastructure assets for our own use and not 

with the intention to earn rental income. However, we also generate 

(574)

(587)

some revenue from rental of dark fibre and exchange building 

floorspace mainly to our wholesale customers. 

These leases are classified as operating leases and we recognise 

revenue from other sources for the rental payments. 

(iv) Finance lease receivable maturity analysis 

Table E sets out the maturity analysis of undiscounted lease 

payments receivable and the unearned finance income for our 

finance lease receivables. No unguaranteed residual values accrue 

under our finance leases.

(99)

14

(78)

1

(14)

(21)

(14)

(675)

(21)

(697)

(99)

(78)

Undiscounted lease payments 

receivable under finance leases

Table E

Telstra Group

Less than 1 year

1 to 2 years

2 to 3 years

3 to 4 years

4 to 5 years

More than 5 years

As at 30 June

2023

2022

$m

$m

74

22

39

31

24

86

276

(55)

221

(1)

220

63

157

220

70

46

26

20

13

17

192

(16)

176

(1)

175

63

112

175

• finance leases where Telstra is a dealer-lessor of communication 

assets dedicated to solution management

• leases of modem devices to our consumer and small business 

customers

• leases of dark fibre and exchange buildings.

Our key finance and operating leases are described below.

Total undiscounted lease payments 

receivables

Less: unearned finance income

Net investment in the lease

Allowance for doubtful debts

(a) Finance leases

(i) Finance leases where Telstra is a dealer-lessor

We enter into finance lease arrangements with our customers 

predominantly for communication assets dedicated to solution 

management. At lease commencement date, we recognise revenue 

and a selling profit from these transactions as we have no risks 

associated with the remaining rights in the underlying assets. The 

weighted average remaining term of the finance leases in our 

customer contracts is eight years (2022: four years).

Comprising

Current

Non-current

124 | Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities

Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities | F41

F42 | Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities

2023.Financial Report.book  Page 41  Wednesday, August 16, 2023  4:21 PM

2023.Financial Report.book  Page 42  Wednesday, August 16, 2023  4:21 PM

Notes to the financial statements (continued)

Telstra Financial Report 2023

Notes to the financial statements (continued)

Section 3. Our core assets, lease arrangements and working capital (continued)

Section 3. Our core assets, lease arrangements and working capital (continued)

3.2 Lease arrangements (continued)

Table C presents maturity analysis of our lease liabilities.

3.2 Lease arrangements (continued)

(ii) Subleases 

3.2.1 Telstra as a lessee (continued)

(d) Right-of-use assets (continued)

Table B provides information about the weighted average useful 

lives of our right-of-use assets.

Table C

Telstra Group

Table B                                                   

Telstra Group

Right-of-use assets

Land and buildings

Other

(e) Lease liabilities 

Undiscounted future cash flows

Weighted average 

useful life (years)

As at 30 June

2023

2022

Less than 1 year

1 to 2 years

2 to 5 years

More than 5 years

Total undiscounted lease liabilities

Future finance charges

Present value of lease liabilities

11

9

9

3

Comprising:

Current

Non-current

Lease liabilities do not include liabilities for leases of low value 

assets or leases with variable payments which do not depend on an 

index or a rate, for which associated outstanding rental payments 

as at balance date continue to be included in trade and other 

payables.

As at 30 June

2023

2022

$m

$m

539

591

1,021

1,571

3,722

(531)

3,191

448

2,743

3,191

550

546

1,196

1,394

3,686

(399)

3,287

490

2,797

3,287

Measurement of lease liabilities reflects judgements made about 

discounted future cash flows arising from reasonably certain 

extension options and lease modifications, which must be 

reassessed should the circumstances change. 

Potential future cash outflows of $1,776 million (2022: $1,961 

million) are not reflected in the measurement of lease liabilities as 

they relate to leases which are yet to commence and/or extension 

options that we assessed as not reasonably certain. Almost 85 per 

cent of those cash flows will occur after five years. These outflows 

represent contractual undiscounted future cash flows estimated 

based on fixed lease payments only, payable over:

• for leases yet to commence - the legally non-cancellable lease 

• for leases already recognised in the statement of financial 

position and for those yet to commence - all extension options 

exercisable only by us (i.e. excluding holdover periods).

Such cash flows are not contractually payable until options have 

been legally exercised (if at all) and/or until the effective dates of 

already executed new contracts.

Determining incremental borrowing rates 

for property leases 

We apply judgement to determine incremental borrowing 

rates for our property leases because the interest rates 

implicit in leases are not readily determinable for those 

arrangements. 

The incremental borrowing rates are determined with 

reference to rates sourced from market-based credit adjusted 

yield curves which are independently derived and reasonably 

reflect the credit risk of the lessee. The discount rates also 

term 

reflect:

term)

• the lease term (based on the weighted average repayment 

• any guarantees which may be in place

• the impact of any security if significant to pricing.

As at 30 June 2023, the weighted average incremental 

borrowing rate was 3.0 per cent (2022: 2.4 per cent).

3.2.1 Telstra as a lessee (continued)

(f) Amounts recognised in the income statement and cash 
outflows for leases 

Table D presents amounts recognised in the income statement and 
the cash outflows related to our lease arrangements. 

Table D

Telstra Group

Year ended 30 June

2023

2022

$m

$m

Amounts recognised in the income 
statement
Income from operating subleases (in 
revenue from other sources)
Depreciation of right-of-use assets (in 
depreciation and amortisation 
expense)
Interest expense on lease liabilities (in 
net finance costs)
Net gain on disposal due to finance 
(sub)lease (in other income)
Expense for leases of low value assets 
and variable payments (in other 
expenses)
Cash outflows for leases
In cash flows from operating activities
In cash flows from financing activities 
(principal portion)
In cash flows from financing activities 
(interest portion)

8

40

(574)

(587)

(99)

14

(78)

1

(14)

(21)

(14)

(675)

(21)

(697)

(99)

(78)

3.2.2  Telstra as a lessor (including a dealer-lessor and an 
intermediate lessor)

Our lease arrangements where Telstra is a lessor, including a 
dealer-lessor and intermediate lessor, include the following main 
categories:

• leases and subleases of property assets, including office and 

network buildings

• finance leases where Telstra is a dealer-lessor of communication 

assets dedicated to solution management

• leases of modem devices to our consumer and small business 

customers

• leases of dark fibre and exchange buildings.

Our key finance and operating leases are described below.

(a) Finance leases

(i) Finance leases where Telstra is a dealer-lessor

We enter into finance lease arrangements with our customers 
predominantly for communication assets dedicated to solution 
management. At lease commencement date, we recognise revenue 
and a selling profit from these transactions as we have no risks 
associated with the remaining rights in the underlying assets. The 
weighted average remaining term of the finance leases in our 
customer contracts is eight years (2022: four years).

Generally, we rent office and network buildings for our own use and 
not with the intention to earn rental income. However, where our 
needs or the intended use of the rented properties change and we 
have assessed that exiting a lease is uneconomical, we sublease 
property assets on market terms for the remaining non-cancellable 
lease term of the head lease. 

These subleases are either classified as operating lease or finance 
lease. For finance subleases, at lease commencement date, we 
record a net gain or loss on the derecognised right-of-use asset and 
recognise a finance lease receivable. We have no risks associated 
with any retained rights in the underlying assets as the properties 
are vacated and returned to the landlords at the end of the non-
cancellable lease term. 

(iii) Leases of passive infrastructure assets

Generally, we hold our infrastructure assets for our own use and not 
with the intention to earn rental income. However, we also generate 
some revenue from rental of dark fibre and exchange building 
floorspace mainly to our wholesale customers. 

These leases are classified as operating leases and we recognise 
revenue from other sources for the rental payments. 

(iv) Finance lease receivable maturity analysis 

Table E sets out the maturity analysis of undiscounted lease 
payments receivable and the unearned finance income for our 
finance lease receivables. No unguaranteed residual values accrue 
under our finance leases.

Table E

Telstra Group

Undiscounted lease payments 
receivable under finance leases
Less than 1 year
1 to 2 years
2 to 3 years
3 to 4 years
4 to 5 years
More than 5 years

Total undiscounted lease payments 
receivables
Less: unearned finance income

Net investment in the lease
Allowance for doubtful debts

Comprising
Current
Non-current

As at 30 June

2023

2022

$m

$m

74
22
39
31
24
86

276

(55)

221
(1)

220

63
157

220

70
46
26
20
13
17

192

(16)

176
(1)

175

63
112

175

Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities | F41

F42 | Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities

Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities | 125

Telstra Financial Report 20232023.Financial Report.book  Page 43  Wednesday, August 16, 2023  4:21 PM

2023.Financial Report.book  Page 44  Wednesday, August 16, 2023  4:21 PM

Notes to the financial statements (continued)

Telstra Financial Report 2023

Notes to the financial statements (continued)

Section 3. Our core assets, lease arrangements and working capital (continued)

Section 3. Our core assets, lease arrangements and working capital (continued)

3.2 Lease arrangements (continued)

(b) Telstra as a lessee

3.2 Lease arrangements (continued)

3.3 Trade and other receivables and contract assets

3.2.2  Telstra as a lessor (including a dealer-lessor and an 
intermediate lessor) (continued)

(a) Finance leases (continued)

(iv) Finance lease receivable maturity analysis  (continued)

A lessee recognises a right-of-use asset and a lease liability at lease 
commencement date. The lease liability is initially measured as a 
present value of the following lease payments:

• fixed payments (including any in-substance fixed lease 

payments), less any lease incentives receivable

During the financial year 2023, we added $126 million (2022: $31 
million) new finance lease receivables and recognised interest 
income of $10 million (2022: $8 million). 

• variable lease payments that are based on an index or a rate, 
initially using the index or rate as at the commencement date
• the exercise price of a purchase option, if the purchase option was 

Refer to note 3.3.1 for details regarding impairment assessment of 
our finance lease receivables.

(b) Operating leases 

The undiscounted future lease payments receivable under our 
operating leases totalled $211 million (2022: $67 million), with 65 
per cent (2022: 70 per cent) of that amount maturing within the next 
two years.

(c) Amounts recognised in the income statement 

Table F presents amounts relating to our lease arrangements where 
Telstra is a lessor (including an intermediate lessor) recognised in 
the income statement during the financial year.

Table F

Telstra Group

Revenue from dealer-lessor finance 
leases (in revenue from other sources)
Income from operating leases, 
including subleases (in revenue from 
other sources)

3.2.3 Recognition and measurement 

(a) Lease identification and lease term 

As at 30 June

2023

2022

$m

18

66

$m

22

73

A contract is, or contains, a lease if it conveys the right to control 
the use of an identified asset, including a physically distinct portion 
of an asset, for a period of time in exchange for consideration. The 
customer has the right to control the use of an identified asset if the 
supplier has no substantive substitution rights, and the customer 
obtains substantially all of the economic benefits from use of the 
identified asset and has the right to direct its use.

A contract may include lease and non-lease components, which are 
accounted for separately. We allocate the consideration to lease 
and non-lease components based on their relative standalone 
(selling) prices. 

If a lease has been identified at inception of the arrangement, a 
lease term is determined considering a non-cancellable period and 
reasonably certain extension, termination or purchase options. 

assessed as reasonably certain to be exercised

• payments for penalties for terminating the lease, if the lease term 

reflects that the lessee will exercise that option.

Lease payments expected to be made under a reasonably certain 
extension option are also reflected in the measurement of the lease 
liability.

Where lease arrangements include market rent review clauses, 
lease liabilities are measured excluding any expected impacts from 
market rent reviews until they are legally binding and can be reliably 
measured.

The lease payments are discounted using the interest rate implicit 
in the lease, unless that rate is not readily determinable, in which 
case the lessee’s incremental borrowing rate is used.

Lease payments are allocated between principal and finance cost. 
The finance cost is charged to the income statement over the lease 
term so as to produce a constant periodic rate of interest on the 
remaining balance of the liability for each period. 

Variable lease payments that do not depend on an index or a rate 
are recognised in the income statement in the period in which the 
event or condition that triggers those payments occurs.

Payments associated with leases of low value assets are recognised 
on a straight-line basis as an expense in the income statement. 

At the commencement of the lease, right-of-use assets are 
measured at cost, which comprises the initial measurement of the 
corresponding lease liability, lease payments made at or before the 
commencement date and any initial direct costs. Where an 
obligation exists to dismantle, remove or restore a leased asset or 
the site it is located on and a provision has been raised, the right-of-
use asset also includes these restoration costs.

Right-of-use assets are subsequently measured at cost less 
accumulated depreciation and impairment losses.

Right-of-use assets are generally depreciated on a straight-line 
basis over the shorter of the asset’s useful life and the lease term. If 
it is reasonably certain that we will exercise the purchase option, 
the right-of-use asset is depreciated over the underlying asset’s 
useful life. The depreciation starts at the commencement date of 
the lease.

Right-of-use assets are reviewed for impairment under the same 
policy as our property, plant and equipment assets. Refer to note 
3.1.4 for further details regarding impairment testing.

Costs of improvements to the leased properties are capitalised as 
leasehold improvements and usually depreciated over the shorter 
of the useful life of the improvements and the term of the lease.

3.2.3 Recognition and measurement  (continued)

3.3.1 Current and non-current trade and other receivables and 

(b) Telstra as a lessee (continued)

We reassess lease liability (and make a corresponding adjustment 

to the related right-of-use asset) whenever:

• the lease term has changed (reflecting reassessment of or 

exercise of an extension or termination options previously not 

included in the measurement of the lease liability) or there is a 

change in the assessment of exercise of a purchase option, in 

which case the lease liability is remeasured by discounting the 

revised lease payments using a revised discount rate

contract assets 

Table A

Telstra Group

Current

Trade receivables from 

contracts with customers

• the future lease payments change due to changes in an index or a 

Finance lease receivables

rate, in which case the lease liability is remeasured by discounting 

the revised lease payments using the initial discount rate

• a lease contract is modified and the lease modification is not 

accounted for as a separate lease, in which case the lease liability 

is remeasured by discounting the revised lease payments using a 

revised discount rate.

(c) Telstra as a lessor (including a dealer-lessor and an 

intermediate lessor)

Accrued revenue

Other receivables

Contract assets

Non-current

We distinguish between finance leases, which effectively transfer 

substantially all the risks and benefits incidental to ownership of 

Trade receivables from 

contracts with customers

As at 30 June

2023

2022

Note

$m

$m

2,693

2,755

3.2

3.5

3.2

6.4

3.5

63

247

387

3,390

826

4,216

577

157

143

16

893

124

1,017

63

260

166

3,244

830

4,074

412

112

132

47

703

158

861

Finance lease receivables

Amounts owed by joint 

ventures and associated 

entities

Other receivables

Contract assets

The majority of our receivables are in the form of contracted 

agreements with our customers. In general, the terms and 

conditions of these contracts require settlement between 14 and 30 

days from the date of invoice. Credit risk associated with trade and 

other receivables and contract assets has been provided for.

Our trade receivables include receivables with deferred payment 

terms over 12, 24 or 36 months arising from mass market plans of 

hardware and services. Amounts expected to be collected within 12 

months from the reporting date are presented as current assets. 

Trade receivables from contracts with customers represent an 

unconditional right to receive consideration (primarily cash) which 

normally arises when the goods and services have been delivered 

and/or a valid invoice has been issued. By contrast, contract assets 

relate to our rights to consideration for goods or services provided 

to the customer but for which we do not have an unconditional right 

to payment at the reporting date.

In general, we invoice customers in advance for services provided 

under our prepaid or fixed fee (usually monthly) contracts and in 

arrears for usage-based contracts (e.g. carriage services under 

enterprise contracts). In those cases, we would recognise a contract 

liability and a contract asset, respectively.

Refer to note 3.5 for movements in net contract assets and contract 

liabilities.

the leased asset from the lessor to the lessee, and operating leases 

under which the lessor effectively retains substantially all such 

risks and benefits. Lease classification is made at the inception date 

and is only reassessed if a lease is modified.

Where we are an intermediate lessor, we account for the head lease 

and the sublease as two separate contracts. The sublease is 

classified as a finance or operating lease by reference to the right-

of-use asset arising from the head lease.

Where we lease assets via a finance lease, a finance lease 

receivable (i.e. a net investment in the lease) is recognised at the 

lease commencement date and measured at the present value of 

the lease payments receivable plus the present value of any 

unguaranteed residual value expected to accrue at the end of the 

lease term and discounted using the interest rate implicit in the 

lease.

Finance lease receipts are allocated between finance income and a 

reduction of the finance lease receivable over the term of the lease 

in order to reflect a constant periodic rate of return on the net 

investment outstanding in respect of the lease. 

Where we are a dealer-lessor, at the commencement of the lease, in 

addition to the finance lease receivable we also recognise a selling 

profit or loss (being the difference between revenue from other 

sources and the cost of sale) from the sale of the underlying asset. 

Income from operating leases is recognised on a straight-line basis 

over the term of the relevant lease and presented in the income 

statement as revenue from other sources.

(d) Sale and leaseback transactions 

When we sell and lease back the same asset, the accounting 

treatment depends on whether the control of the asset has been 

transferred to the buyer: 

• if yes, we measure the right-of-use asset arising from the 

leaseback at the proportion of the previous carrying amount of 

the asset that relates to the rights retained by us as a seller-

lessee. Accordingly, we recognise only the amount of any gain or 

loss that relates to the rights transferred to the buyer-lessor.

• if not, as a seller-lessee we continue to recognise the transferred 

asset and we recognise a financial liability equal to the transfer 

proceeds.

126 | Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities

Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities | F43

F44 | Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities

2023.Financial Report.book  Page 43  Wednesday, August 16, 2023  4:21 PM

2023.Financial Report.book  Page 44  Wednesday, August 16, 2023  4:21 PM

Notes to the financial statements (continued)

Telstra Financial Report 2023

Notes to the financial statements (continued)

Section 3. Our core assets, lease arrangements and working capital (continued)

Section 3. Our core assets, lease arrangements and working capital (continued)

3.2 Lease arrangements (continued)

(b) Telstra as a lessee

3.2 Lease arrangements (continued)

3.3 Trade and other receivables and contract assets

3.2.2  Telstra as a lessor (including a dealer-lessor and an 

A lessee recognises a right-of-use asset and a lease liability at lease 

3.2.3 Recognition and measurement  (continued)

intermediate lessor) (continued)

(a) Finance leases (continued)

(iv) Finance lease receivable maturity analysis  (continued)

During the financial year 2023, we added $126 million (2022: $31 

million) new finance lease receivables and recognised interest 

income of $10 million (2022: $8 million). 

Refer to note 3.3.1 for details regarding impairment assessment of 

our finance lease receivables.

(b) Operating leases 

The undiscounted future lease payments receivable under our 

operating leases totalled $211 million (2022: $67 million), with 65 

liability.

per cent (2022: 70 per cent) of that amount maturing within the next 

two years.

(c) Amounts recognised in the income statement 

Table F presents amounts relating to our lease arrangements where 

Telstra is a lessor (including an intermediate lessor) recognised in 

the income statement during the financial year.

measured.

Table F

Telstra Group

Revenue from dealer-lessor finance 

leases (in revenue from other sources)

Income from operating leases, 

including subleases (in revenue from 

other sources)

3.2.3 Recognition and measurement 

(a) Lease identification and lease term 

As at 30 June

2023

2022

$m

18

66

$m

22

73

A contract is, or contains, a lease if it conveys the right to control 

the use of an identified asset, including a physically distinct portion 

of an asset, for a period of time in exchange for consideration. The 

customer has the right to control the use of an identified asset if the 

supplier has no substantive substitution rights, and the customer 

obtains substantially all of the economic benefits from use of the 

identified asset and has the right to direct its use.

A contract may include lease and non-lease components, which are 

accounted for separately. We allocate the consideration to lease 

and non-lease components based on their relative standalone 

(selling) prices. 

If a lease has been identified at inception of the arrangement, a 

lease term is determined considering a non-cancellable period and 

reasonably certain extension, termination or purchase options. 

the lease.

commencement date. The lease liability is initially measured as a 

present value of the following lease payments:

• fixed payments (including any in-substance fixed lease 

payments), less any lease incentives receivable

• variable lease payments that are based on an index or a rate, 

initially using the index or rate as at the commencement date

• the exercise price of a purchase option, if the purchase option was 

assessed as reasonably certain to be exercised

• payments for penalties for terminating the lease, if the lease term 

reflects that the lessee will exercise that option.

Lease payments expected to be made under a reasonably certain 

extension option are also reflected in the measurement of the lease 

Where lease arrangements include market rent review clauses, 

lease liabilities are measured excluding any expected impacts from 

market rent reviews until they are legally binding and can be reliably 

The lease payments are discounted using the interest rate implicit 

in the lease, unless that rate is not readily determinable, in which 

case the lessee’s incremental borrowing rate is used.

Lease payments are allocated between principal and finance cost. 

The finance cost is charged to the income statement over the lease 

term so as to produce a constant periodic rate of interest on the 

remaining balance of the liability for each period. 

Variable lease payments that do not depend on an index or a rate 

are recognised in the income statement in the period in which the 

event or condition that triggers those payments occurs.

Payments associated with leases of low value assets are recognised 

on a straight-line basis as an expense in the income statement. 

At the commencement of the lease, right-of-use assets are 

measured at cost, which comprises the initial measurement of the 

corresponding lease liability, lease payments made at or before the 

commencement date and any initial direct costs. Where an 

obligation exists to dismantle, remove or restore a leased asset or 

the site it is located on and a provision has been raised, the right-of-

use asset also includes these restoration costs.

Right-of-use assets are subsequently measured at cost less 

accumulated depreciation and impairment losses.

Right-of-use assets are generally depreciated on a straight-line 

basis over the shorter of the asset’s useful life and the lease term. If 

it is reasonably certain that we will exercise the purchase option, 

the right-of-use asset is depreciated over the underlying asset’s 

useful life. The depreciation starts at the commencement date of 

Right-of-use assets are reviewed for impairment under the same 

policy as our property, plant and equipment assets. Refer to note 

3.1.4 for further details regarding impairment testing.

Costs of improvements to the leased properties are capitalised as 

leasehold improvements and usually depreciated over the shorter 

of the useful life of the improvements and the term of the lease.

(b) Telstra as a lessee (continued)

We reassess lease liability (and make a corresponding adjustment 
to the related right-of-use asset) whenever:

• the lease term has changed (reflecting reassessment of or 

exercise of an extension or termination options previously not 
included in the measurement of the lease liability) or there is a 
change in the assessment of exercise of a purchase option, in 
which case the lease liability is remeasured by discounting the 
revised lease payments using a revised discount rate

• the future lease payments change due to changes in an index or a 
rate, in which case the lease liability is remeasured by discounting 
the revised lease payments using the initial discount rate
• a lease contract is modified and the lease modification is not 

accounted for as a separate lease, in which case the lease liability 
is remeasured by discounting the revised lease payments using a 
revised discount rate.

(c) Telstra as a lessor (including a dealer-lessor and an 
intermediate lessor)

We distinguish between finance leases, which effectively transfer 
substantially all the risks and benefits incidental to ownership of 
the leased asset from the lessor to the lessee, and operating leases 
under which the lessor effectively retains substantially all such 
risks and benefits. Lease classification is made at the inception date 
and is only reassessed if a lease is modified.

Where we are an intermediate lessor, we account for the head lease 
and the sublease as two separate contracts. The sublease is 
classified as a finance or operating lease by reference to the right-
of-use asset arising from the head lease.

Where we lease assets via a finance lease, a finance lease 
receivable (i.e. a net investment in the lease) is recognised at the 
lease commencement date and measured at the present value of 
the lease payments receivable plus the present value of any 
unguaranteed residual value expected to accrue at the end of the 
lease term and discounted using the interest rate implicit in the 
lease.

Finance lease receipts are allocated between finance income and a 
reduction of the finance lease receivable over the term of the lease 
in order to reflect a constant periodic rate of return on the net 
investment outstanding in respect of the lease. 

Where we are a dealer-lessor, at the commencement of the lease, in 
addition to the finance lease receivable we also recognise a selling 
profit or loss (being the difference between revenue from other 
sources and the cost of sale) from the sale of the underlying asset. 

Income from operating leases is recognised on a straight-line basis 
over the term of the relevant lease and presented in the income 
statement as revenue from other sources.

(d) Sale and leaseback transactions 

When we sell and lease back the same asset, the accounting 
treatment depends on whether the control of the asset has been 
transferred to the buyer: 

• if yes, we measure the right-of-use asset arising from the 

leaseback at the proportion of the previous carrying amount of 
the asset that relates to the rights retained by us as a seller-
lessee. Accordingly, we recognise only the amount of any gain or 
loss that relates to the rights transferred to the buyer-lessor.
• if not, as a seller-lessee we continue to recognise the transferred 
asset and we recognise a financial liability equal to the transfer 
proceeds.

3.3.1 Current and non-current trade and other receivables and 
contract assets 

Table A

Telstra Group

As at 30 June

2023

2022

Note

$m

$m

Current

Trade receivables from 
contracts with customers

Finance lease receivables

3.2

Accrued revenue

Other receivables

Contract assets

Non-current

Trade receivables from 
contracts with customers

Finance lease receivables

Amounts owed by joint 
ventures and associated 
entities

Other receivables

Contract assets

3.5

3.2

6.4

3.5

2,693

2,755

63

247

387

3,390

826

4,216

577

157

143

16

893

124

1,017

63

260

166

3,244

830

4,074

412

112

132

47

703

158

861

The majority of our receivables are in the form of contracted 
agreements with our customers. In general, the terms and 
conditions of these contracts require settlement between 14 and 30 
days from the date of invoice. Credit risk associated with trade and 
other receivables and contract assets has been provided for.

Our trade receivables include receivables with deferred payment 
terms over 12, 24 or 36 months arising from mass market plans of 
hardware and services. Amounts expected to be collected within 12 
months from the reporting date are presented as current assets. 

Trade receivables from contracts with customers represent an 
unconditional right to receive consideration (primarily cash) which 
normally arises when the goods and services have been delivered 
and/or a valid invoice has been issued. By contrast, contract assets 
relate to our rights to consideration for goods or services provided 
to the customer but for which we do not have an unconditional right 
to payment at the reporting date.

In general, we invoice customers in advance for services provided 
under our prepaid or fixed fee (usually monthly) contracts and in 
arrears for usage-based contracts (e.g. carriage services under 
enterprise contracts). In those cases, we would recognise a contract 
liability and a contract asset, respectively.

Refer to note 3.5 for movements in net contract assets and contract 
liabilities.

Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities | F43

F44 | Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities

Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities | 127

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2023.Financial Report.book  Page 46  Wednesday, August 16, 2023  4:21 PM

Notes to the financial statements (continued)

Telstra Financial Report 2023

Notes to the financial statements (continued)

Section 3. Our core assets, lease arrangements and working capital (continued)

Section 3. Our core assets, lease arrangements and working capital (continued)

3.3 Trade and other receivables and contract assets 
(continued)

3.3.1 Current and non-current trade and other receivables and 
contract assets (continued)

(a) Impairment of trade and other receivables and contract 
assets

Trade and other receivables and contract assets are exposed to 
customers’ credit risk and are subject to impairment assessment. 

If a credit loss (i.e. a shortfall between the contractual and 
expected cash flows) is expected, an allowance for doubtful debt is 
raised to reduce the carrying amount of trade and other receivables 
and contract assets. For both receivables and contract assets we 
estimate the expected credit loss using one or a combination of a 
portfolio approach and/or an individual account by account 
assessment as detailed below. 

(i) Portfolio approach

The portfolio approach is based on historical credit loss experience 
and, where appropriate, adjusted to reflect current conditions and 
estimates of future economic outlook. This approach is mostly 
applied to balances arising from our consumer and small business 
customer contracts. Under this approach, receivables and contract 
assets are grouped based on shared credit risk characteristics, such 
as:

• account status (services still active or not)
• customers’ payment history 
• the days past due.

For each grouping, the expected credit loss is then calculated on 
the probability that an account within the group will default (i.e. it 
will become past due by more than 90 days, or when an invoice will 
be overdue for our no-lock-in consumer plans) and the expected 
loss rate when they default, both represented as a percentage of 
the exposure at default and determined at the customer account 
level.

Our provision rates range from 0.1 per cent (2022: 0.1 per cent) for 
balances not past due to 91.0 per cent (2022: 92.0 per cent) for 
balances where the payment is overdue by more than 90 days and 
the customer’s services have been deactivated.

(ii) Individual approach

The individual approach is an account by account assessment 
based on credit history, knowledge of debtor’s financial situation, 
such as insolvency or entering a payment plan, or other known 
credit risk specific to the debtor, such as judgement based on the 
debtor’s industry. This approach is applied to balances arising from 
contracts with large enterprise and government customers as well 
as to other accounts in TE, Telstra InfraCo and TC&SB segments 
where some detrimental change in payment behaviour has been 
noticed or certain thresholds have been exceeded by a customer.

Balances arising from our transactions with nbn co (reported in 
Telstra InfraCo and TC&SB segments and in ‘All Other’ category) 
are separately assessed based on the Australian government credit 
risk rating.

We estimate our allowance for impairment as detailed below.  

3.3 Trade and other receivables and contract assets 

(a) Impairment of financial assets 

Estimating expected credit losses 

We apply judgement to estimate the expected credit losses 
for our trade and other receivables measured at amortised 
cost and for contract assets. 

For trade receivables and contract assets arising from our 
TC&SB and TE Australian customers, we have implemented a 
scenario-based approach incorporating base, good and bad 
economic scenarios. The overall expected credit loss was 
calculated as a weighted average of the three scenarios.

Our analysis has shown that generally overall macroeconomic 
factors, such as unemployment rates, interest rates or gross 
domestic product have no strong correlation with our bad debt 
losses unless certain thresholds are exceeded. As at 30 June 
2023, those macroeconomic factors were within the relevant 
thresholds.

The aging analysis and loss allowance in relation to trade 
receivables from contracts with customers, finance lease 
receivables and contract assets are detailed in Table B. The analysis 
is based on the original due date of the receivables, including where 
repayment terms for certain long outstanding receivables have 
been renegotiated. Contract assets are not yet due for collection, 
thus the entire balance has been included in the ‘not past due’ 
category.

Table B

As at 30 June

Telstra Group

2023

2022

Gross

Allow-
ance

Gross

Allow-
ance

$m

$m

$m

$m

Not past due, 
including measured 
at:
- amortised cost
- fair value

Past due 1 - 30 days
Past due 31 - 60 
days
Past due 61 - 90 
days
Past 91 days

3,978
-

3,978
273

119

49

207

4,626

(50)
-

(50)
(8)

(9)

(13)

(106)

(186)

3,688
65

3,753
330

118

50

281

4,532

(43)
-

(43)
(10)

(9)

(10)

(130)

(202)

Aging analysis for the financial year 2022 has been amended to 
provide a like-for-like view with the financial year 2023 and reflect a 
change in the way we allocate credit balances to aging categories.

(continued)

3.3.1 Current and non-current trade and other receivables and 

(including contract assets) measured at amortised cost depending 

contract assets (continued)

on their nature on either of the following basis:

We estimate the expected credit losses for our financial assets 

(a) Impairment of trade and other receivables and contract 

• for accrued revenue, amounts owed by joint ventures and 

assets (continued)

Accrued revenue, amounts owed by joint ventures and associated 

entities, and other receivables (before allowance for doubtful 

debts) totalling $800 million (2022: $613 million) are subject to 

impairment assessment using the general approach and include 35 

per cent (2022: 49 per cent) of balances with counterparties with an 

external credit rating of A- or above, and 30 per cent (2022: 28 per 

cent) of balances with counterparties with an external credit rating 

between BBB- and A-. The remaining balance is related to 

individually insignificant debtors, and there is no concentration of 

credit risk in those amounts.

associated entities, and other receivables - using a general 

approach, i.e. 12-month expected credit loss which results from 

all possible default events within the 12 months after the 

reporting date. However, if the credit risk of a financial asset at 

the reporting date has increased significantly since its initial 

recognition, loss allowance is calculated based on lifetime 

expected credit losses.

• for trade receivables from contracts with customer, contract 

assets and lease receivables - using a simplified approach, i.e. 

lifetime expected credit loss which results from all possible 

default events over the expected life of a financial instrument.

Any expected credit loss is discounted at the original effective 

We hold security for a number of trade receivables, including past 

due or impaired receivables, in the form of guarantees, letters of 

interest rate. 

credit and deposits. During the financial year 2023, the securities 

Any customer account with debt more than 90 days past due (or 

we called upon were insignificant. These trade receivables, along 

when an invoice is overdue for our no-lock-in consumer plans) is 

with our trade receivables that are neither past due nor impaired, 

considered to be in default.

comprise customers who have a good debt history and are 

considered recoverable. Further, we limit our exposure to credit risk 

from trade receivables by establishing a maximum payment period 

and, in certain instances, cease providing further services after 90 

days from the past due date (or 30 days for our no-lock-in consumer 

plans). 

Trade and other receivables and contract assets are written off 

against the impairment allowance or directly against their carrying 

amounts and expensed in the income statement when all collection 

efforts have been exhausted and the financial asset is considered 

uncollectable. Factors indicating there is no reasonable expectation 

of recovery include insolvency and significant time period since the 

Movements in the allowance for doubtful debts in respect of all our 

last invoice was issued.

trade and other receivables and contracts assets, regardless of the 

method used in measuring the impairment allowance, are detailed 

in Table C.

Table C

Telstra Group

Opening balance 1 July

Additional allowance

Amount used

Amount reversed

Disposal of controlled entities

Closing balance 30 June

Year ended 30 June

2023

2022

$m

(210)

(130)

62

85

-

$m

(208)

(122)

25

90

5

(193)

(210)

Impairment allowance related to accrued revenue, amounts owed 

by joint ventures and associated entities, and other receivables (i.e. 

balances not presented in Table B) amounted to $7 million (2022: 

$8 million). 

3.3.2 Recognition and measurement

Trade and other receivables and contract assets are financial assets 

which are initially recorded at fair value and subsequently 

measured at amortised cost using the effective interest method.

Contract assets are initially recorded at the transaction price 

allocated as compensation for goods or services provided to 

customers for which the right to collect payment is subject to 

providing other goods or services under the same contract (or group 

of contracts) and/or we are yet to issue a valid invoice. Contract 

assets are subsequently measured to reflect relevant transaction 

price adjustments (where required) and are transferred to trade 

receivables when the right to payment becomes unconditional.   

128 | Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities

Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities | F45

F46 | Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities

2023.Financial Report.book  Page 45  Wednesday, August 16, 2023  4:21 PM

2023.Financial Report.book  Page 46  Wednesday, August 16, 2023  4:21 PM

Notes to the financial statements (continued)

Telstra Financial Report 2023

Notes to the financial statements (continued)

Section 3. Our core assets, lease arrangements and working capital (continued)

Section 3. Our core assets, lease arrangements and working capital (continued)

(a) Impairment of financial assets 

We estimate the expected credit losses for our financial assets 
(including contract assets) measured at amortised cost depending 
on their nature on either of the following basis:

• for accrued revenue, amounts owed by joint ventures and 

associated entities, and other receivables - using a general 
approach, i.e. 12-month expected credit loss which results from 
all possible default events within the 12 months after the 
reporting date. However, if the credit risk of a financial asset at 
the reporting date has increased significantly since its initial 
recognition, loss allowance is calculated based on lifetime 
expected credit losses.

• for trade receivables from contracts with customer, contract 

assets and lease receivables - using a simplified approach, i.e. 
lifetime expected credit loss which results from all possible 
default events over the expected life of a financial instrument.

Any expected credit loss is discounted at the original effective 
interest rate. 

Any customer account with debt more than 90 days past due (or 
when an invoice is overdue for our no-lock-in consumer plans) is 
considered to be in default.

Trade and other receivables and contract assets are written off 
against the impairment allowance or directly against their carrying 
amounts and expensed in the income statement when all collection 
efforts have been exhausted and the financial asset is considered 
uncollectable. Factors indicating there is no reasonable expectation 
of recovery include insolvency and significant time period since the 
last invoice was issued.

3.3 Trade and other receivables and contract assets 

We estimate our allowance for impairment as detailed below.  

(continued)

3.3.1 Current and non-current trade and other receivables and 

contract assets (continued)

(a) Impairment of trade and other receivables and contract 

assets

Trade and other receivables and contract assets are exposed to 

customers’ credit risk and are subject to impairment assessment. 

If a credit loss (i.e. a shortfall between the contractual and 

expected cash flows) is expected, an allowance for doubtful debt is 

raised to reduce the carrying amount of trade and other receivables 

and contract assets. For both receivables and contract assets we 

estimate the expected credit loss using one or a combination of a 

portfolio approach and/or an individual account by account 

assessment as detailed below. 

(i) Portfolio approach

The portfolio approach is based on historical credit loss experience 

and, where appropriate, adjusted to reflect current conditions and 

estimates of future economic outlook. This approach is mostly 

applied to balances arising from our consumer and small business 

customer contracts. Under this approach, receivables and contract 

assets are grouped based on shared credit risk characteristics, such 

Estimating expected credit losses 

We apply judgement to estimate the expected credit losses 

for our trade and other receivables measured at amortised 

cost and for contract assets. 

For trade receivables and contract assets arising from our 

TC&SB and TE Australian customers, we have implemented a 

scenario-based approach incorporating base, good and bad 

economic scenarios. The overall expected credit loss was 

calculated as a weighted average of the three scenarios.

Our analysis has shown that generally overall macroeconomic 

factors, such as unemployment rates, interest rates or gross 

domestic product have no strong correlation with our bad debt 

losses unless certain thresholds are exceeded. As at 30 June 

2023, those macroeconomic factors were within the relevant 

thresholds.

The aging analysis and loss allowance in relation to trade 

receivables from contracts with customers, finance lease 

receivables and contract assets are detailed in Table B. The analysis 

is based on the original due date of the receivables, including where 

repayment terms for certain long outstanding receivables have 

been renegotiated. Contract assets are not yet due for collection, 

thus the entire balance has been included in the ‘not past due’ 

as:

level.

• account status (services still active or not)

• customers’ payment history 

• the days past due.

For each grouping, the expected credit loss is then calculated on 

the probability that an account within the group will default (i.e. it 

category.

will become past due by more than 90 days, or when an invoice will 

Table B

As at 30 June

be overdue for our no-lock-in consumer plans) and the expected 

loss rate when they default, both represented as a percentage of 

the exposure at default and determined at the customer account 

Our provision rates range from 0.1 per cent (2022: 0.1 per cent) for 

balances not past due to 91.0 per cent (2022: 92.0 per cent) for 

balances where the payment is overdue by more than 90 days and 

the customer’s services have been deactivated.

(ii) Individual approach

The individual approach is an account by account assessment 

based on credit history, knowledge of debtor’s financial situation, 

such as insolvency or entering a payment plan, or other known 

credit risk specific to the debtor, such as judgement based on the 

debtor’s industry. This approach is applied to balances arising from 

contracts with large enterprise and government customers as well 

as to other accounts in TE, Telstra InfraCo and TC&SB segments 

where some detrimental change in payment behaviour has been 

noticed or certain thresholds have been exceeded by a customer.

Balances arising from our transactions with nbn co (reported in 

Telstra InfraCo and TC&SB segments and in ‘All Other’ category) 

Telstra Group

2023

2022

Gross

Gross

Allow-

ance

Allow-

ance

$m

$m

$m

$m

Not past due, 

including measured 

at:

- amortised cost

- fair value

Past due 1 - 30 days

Past due 31 - 60 

days

days

Past due 61 - 90 

Past 91 days

3,978

-

3,978

273

119

49

207

4,626

(50)

3,688

-

(50)

(8)

(9)

(13)

(106)

(186)

65

3,753

330

118

50

281

4,532

(43)

-

(43)

(10)

(9)

(10)

(130)

(202)

are separately assessed based on the Australian government credit 

Aging analysis for the financial year 2022 has been amended to 

risk rating.

provide a like-for-like view with the financial year 2023 and reflect a 

change in the way we allocate credit balances to aging categories.

3.3 Trade and other receivables and contract assets 
(continued)

3.3.1 Current and non-current trade and other receivables and 
contract assets (continued)

(a) Impairment of trade and other receivables and contract 
assets (continued)

Accrued revenue, amounts owed by joint ventures and associated 
entities, and other receivables (before allowance for doubtful 
debts) totalling $800 million (2022: $613 million) are subject to 
impairment assessment using the general approach and include 35 
per cent (2022: 49 per cent) of balances with counterparties with an 
external credit rating of A- or above, and 30 per cent (2022: 28 per 
cent) of balances with counterparties with an external credit rating 
between BBB- and A-. The remaining balance is related to 
individually insignificant debtors, and there is no concentration of 
credit risk in those amounts.

We hold security for a number of trade receivables, including past 
due or impaired receivables, in the form of guarantees, letters of 
credit and deposits. During the financial year 2023, the securities 
we called upon were insignificant. These trade receivables, along 
with our trade receivables that are neither past due nor impaired, 
comprise customers who have a good debt history and are 
considered recoverable. Further, we limit our exposure to credit risk 
from trade receivables by establishing a maximum payment period 
and, in certain instances, cease providing further services after 90 
days from the past due date (or 30 days for our no-lock-in consumer 
plans). 

Movements in the allowance for doubtful debts in respect of all our 
trade and other receivables and contracts assets, regardless of the 
method used in measuring the impairment allowance, are detailed 
in Table C.

Table C

Telstra Group

Year ended 30 June

2023

2022

Opening balance 1 July
Additional allowance
Amount used
Amount reversed
Disposal of controlled entities

Closing balance 30 June

$m

(210)
(130)
62
85
-

(193)

$m

(208)
(122)
25
90
5

(210)

Impairment allowance related to accrued revenue, amounts owed 
by joint ventures and associated entities, and other receivables (i.e. 
balances not presented in Table B) amounted to $7 million (2022: 
$8 million). 

3.3.2 Recognition and measurement

Trade and other receivables and contract assets are financial assets 
which are initially recorded at fair value and subsequently 
measured at amortised cost using the effective interest method.

Contract assets are initially recorded at the transaction price 
allocated as compensation for goods or services provided to 
customers for which the right to collect payment is subject to 
providing other goods or services under the same contract (or group 
of contracts) and/or we are yet to issue a valid invoice. Contract 
assets are subsequently measured to reflect relevant transaction 
price adjustments (where required) and are transferred to trade 
receivables when the right to payment becomes unconditional.   

Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities | F45

F46 | Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities

Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities | 129

Telstra Financial Report 20232023.Financial Report.book  Page 47  Wednesday, August 16, 2023  4:21 PM

2023.Financial Report.book  Page 48  Wednesday, August 16, 2023  4:21 PM

Notes to the financial statements (continued)

Telstra Financial Report 2023

Notes to the financial statements (continued)

Section 3. Our core assets, lease arrangements and working capital (continued)

Section 3. Our core assets, lease arrangements and working capital (continued)

3.4 Contract liabilities and other revenue received in 
advance

Contract liabilities arise from our contracts with customers and 
represent amounts paid (or due) to us by customers before 
receiving the goods and/or services promised under the contract.

Revenue received in advance comprises upfront consideration 
under contracts giving rise to revenue from other sources or other 
income, for example from sale of assets.

Amounts expected to be recognised as revenue within 12 months 
from the reporting date are presented as current liabilities.

Table A presents customer payments received in advance under 
different types of our commercial arrangements. 

Table A

Telstra Group

As at 30 June

2023

2022

Restated

Note

$m

$m

Current

Contract liabilities

3.5

Other revenue received in 
advance

Non-current

Contract liabilities

Other revenue received in 
advance

3.5

1,366

129

1,342

61

1,495

1,403

1,000

534

1,534

987

401

1,388

The comparative amounts have been restated as a result of the prior 
period restatement of contract liabilities as detailed in note 1.7. 

3.5 Net contract assets and contract liabilities

Contract assets and contract liabilities arise due to the timing 
differences between revenue recognition and customer invoicing. 
Our billing arrangements for goods and services as well as different 
types of discounts, credits or other incentives can vary depending 
on the type and nature of the contracts with customers. As a result, 
at times under the same accounting contract, we may recognise 
both a contract asset and a contract liability. At each reporting 
date, any balances arising from the same accounting contract are 
presented net in the statement of financial position as either a net 
contract asset or a net contract liability.

The net presentation mainly impacts our small business and 
enterprise framework arrangements that offer loyalty programs and 
technology funds, and nbn Definitive Agreements, where multiple 
legal contracts have been combined as one accounting contract.

Table A presents opening and closing balances of our current and 
non-current contract assets and contract liabilities and their total 
net movement for the period.

3.6 Deferred contract costs

Table A

Telstra Group

Current contract assets
Non-current contract assets

Total contract assets
Current contract liabilities
Non-current contract liabilities

Total contract liabilities
Total net contract liabilities
Increase in net contract liabilities 
for the year

As at 30 June

2023

2022

Restated

$m
826
124

950
(1,366)
(1,000)

(2,366)
(1,416)

$m
830
158

988
(1,342)
(987)

(2,329)
(1,341)

(75)

(19)

The comparative amounts have been restated as a result of the prior 
period restatement of contract liabilities as detailed in note 1.7. 

Generally, contract assets increase when we recognise revenue for 
goods and services transferred to the customer before billing and 
decrease when we invoice customers for already provided goods 
and services. 

On the other hand, contract liabilities increase when we receive 
consideration in advance of transferring the goods and services to 
the customer, and decrease when we recognise revenue for the 
goods and services previously prepaid by the customer. 

Other changes in our contract assets and contract liabilities 
represent movements resulting from changes in the transaction 
prices due to timing of invoicing and recognition of discounts, 
credits and other incentives. 

The following selected movements contributed to the overall 
increase of $75 million (2022: $19 million) in the net contract 
liabilities:

• $1,422 million (2022: $1,628 million) revenue recognised in the 
reporting period that was included in the contract liabilities 
balance at the beginning of the reporting period 

• $19 million (2022: $47 million) cumulative catch-up adjustments 

to revenue recognised in the prior reporting periods
• $55 million (2022: $5 million) changes due to business 

acquisitions.

Refer to note 3.3.1 for details regarding impairment assessment of 
contract assets. 

costs 

We pay dealer commissions to acquire customer contracts and 

we incur upfront set-up and other costs related to customer 

contracts. When those costs support the delivery of goods and 

services in the future and are expected to be recovered, they 

are deferred in the statement of financial position and 

amortised on a basis consistent with the transfer of goods and 

services to which these costs relate. 

Table A provides movements in net book values of the deferred 

contract costs. 

Telstra Group

Table A                                                                                      

Costs to 

Costs to fulfil a contract

obtain a 

contract

sions

Commis- 

Set-up costs

Total

Costs of 

service 

provider

Total 

deferred 

contract 

costs

Net book value at 1 July 2021, comprising:

Current

Non-current

Additions

Amortisation expense

Impairment losses

Current

Non-current

Net book value at 30 June 2022, comprising:

Net book value at 1 July 2022

Additions

Amortisation expense

Impairment losses

Current

Non-current

Net book value at 30 June 2023, comprising:

$m

1,146

n/a

1,146

365

(382)

(107)

1,022

n/a

1,022

1,022

268

(320)

(95)

875

n/a

875

$m

41

-

41

11

(9)

43

-

-

43

43

8

(8)

43

-

-

43

$m

268

113

155

809

(788)

-

289

116

173

289

653

(658)

-

284

114

170

$m

309

113

196

820

(797)

-

332

116

216

332

661

(666)

-

327

114

213

$m

1,455

113

1,342

1,185

(1,179)

(107)

1,354

116

1,238

1,354

929

(986)

(95)

1,202

114

1,088

Amortisation period of deferred contract 

We apply judgement to estimate the amortisation period of 

deferred contract costs to obtain a contract. 

For sales commissions paid on acquisition of the initial 

contract which are not commensurate with recontracting 

commissions, the amortisation period reflects the average 

estimated customer life for respective types of contracts.

130 | Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities

Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities | F47

F48 | Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities

3.4 Contract liabilities and other revenue received in 

advance

Table A presents opening and closing balances of our current and 

non-current contract assets and contract liabilities and their total 

net movement for the period.

Contract liabilities arise from our contracts with customers and 

represent amounts paid (or due) to us by customers before 

receiving the goods and/or services promised under the contract.

Table A

Revenue received in advance comprises upfront consideration 

under contracts giving rise to revenue from other sources or other 

Telstra Group

income, for example from sale of assets.

Amounts expected to be recognised as revenue within 12 months 

from the reporting date are presented as current liabilities.

Table A presents customer payments received in advance under 

different types of our commercial arrangements. 

As at 30 June

2023

2022

Restated

$m

826

124

950

(1,366)

(1,000)

(2,366)

(1,416)

$m

830

158

988

(1,342)

(987)

(2,329)

(1,341)

Current contract assets

Non-current contract assets

Total contract assets

Current contract liabilities

Non-current contract liabilities

Total contract liabilities

Total net contract liabilities

Table A

Telstra Group

Current

Contract liabilities

Other revenue received in 

advance

Non-current

Contract liabilities

Other revenue received in 

advance

Note

3.5

3.5

As at 30 June

2023

2022

Restated

1,366

129

1,495

1,000

534

1,534

1,342

61

987

401

1,388

The comparative amounts have been restated as a result of the prior 

period restatement of contract liabilities as detailed in note 1.7. 

3.5 Net contract assets and contract liabilities

Contract assets and contract liabilities arise due to the timing 

differences between revenue recognition and customer invoicing. 

Our billing arrangements for goods and services as well as different 

types of discounts, credits or other incentives can vary depending 

on the type and nature of the contracts with customers. As a result, 

at times under the same accounting contract, we may recognise 

both a contract asset and a contract liability. At each reporting 

date, any balances arising from the same accounting contract are 

presented net in the statement of financial position as either a net 

contract asset or a net contract liability.

The net presentation mainly impacts our small business and 

enterprise framework arrangements that offer loyalty programs and 

technology funds, and nbn Definitive Agreements, where multiple 

legal contracts have been combined as one accounting contract.

$m

$m

for the year

Increase in net contract liabilities 

(75)

(19)

The comparative amounts have been restated as a result of the prior 

period restatement of contract liabilities as detailed in note 1.7. 

Generally, contract assets increase when we recognise revenue for 

goods and services transferred to the customer before billing and 

1,403

decrease when we invoice customers for already provided goods 

and services. 

On the other hand, contract liabilities increase when we receive 

consideration in advance of transferring the goods and services to 

the customer, and decrease when we recognise revenue for the 

goods and services previously prepaid by the customer. 

Other changes in our contract assets and contract liabilities 

represent movements resulting from changes in the transaction 

prices due to timing of invoicing and recognition of discounts, 

credits and other incentives. 

The following selected movements contributed to the overall 

increase of $75 million (2022: $19 million) in the net contract 

liabilities:

• $1,422 million (2022: $1,628 million) revenue recognised in the 

reporting period that was included in the contract liabilities 

balance at the beginning of the reporting period 

• $19 million (2022: $47 million) cumulative catch-up adjustments 

to revenue recognised in the prior reporting periods

• $55 million (2022: $5 million) changes due to business 

Refer to note 3.3.1 for details regarding impairment assessment of 

acquisitions.

contract assets. 

2023.Financial Report.book  Page 47  Wednesday, August 16, 2023  4:21 PM

2023.Financial Report.book  Page 48  Wednesday, August 16, 2023  4:21 PM

Notes to the financial statements (continued)

Telstra Financial Report 2023

Notes to the financial statements (continued)

Section 3. Our core assets, lease arrangements and working capital (continued)

Section 3. Our core assets, lease arrangements and working capital (continued)

3.6 Deferred contract costs

We pay dealer commissions to acquire customer contracts and 
we incur upfront set-up and other costs related to customer 
contracts. When those costs support the delivery of goods and 
services in the future and are expected to be recovered, they 
are deferred in the statement of financial position and 
amortised on a basis consistent with the transfer of goods and 
services to which these costs relate. 

Table A provides movements in net book values of the deferred 
contract costs. 

Table A                                                                                      

Costs to fulfil a contract

Telstra Group

Net book value at 1 July 2021, comprising:
Current
Non-current

Additions
Amortisation expense
Impairment losses

Net book value at 30 June 2022, comprising:
Current
Non-current

Net book value at 1 July 2022
Additions
Amortisation expense
Impairment losses

Net book value at 30 June 2023, comprising:
Current
Non-current

Costs to 
obtain a 
contract

Commis- 
sions

Set-up costs

Costs of 
service 
provider

Total

$m

1,146
n/a
1,146

365
(382)
(107)

1,022
n/a
1,022

1,022
268
(320)
(95)

875
n/a
875

$m

41
-
41

11
(9)
-

43
-
43

43
8
(8)
-

43
-
43

$m

268
113
155

809
(788)
-

289
116
173

289
653
(658)
-

284
114
170

$m

309
113
196

820
(797)
-

332
116
216

332
661
(666)
-

327
114
213

Total 
deferred 
contract 
costs

$m

1,455
113
1,342

1,185
(1,179)
(107)
1,354
116
1,238

1,354
929
(986)
(95)
1,202
114
1,088

Amortisation period of deferred contract 
costs 

We apply judgement to estimate the amortisation period of 
deferred contract costs to obtain a contract. 

For sales commissions paid on acquisition of the initial 
contract which are not commensurate with recontracting 
commissions, the amortisation period reflects the average 
estimated customer life for respective types of contracts.

Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities | F47

F48 | Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities

Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities | 131

Telstra Financial Report 20232023.Financial Report.book  Page 49  Wednesday, August 16, 2023  4:21 PM

2023.Financial Report.book  Page 50  Wednesday, August 16, 2023  4:21 PM

Notes to the financial statements (continued)

Telstra Financial Report 2023

Notes to the financial statements (continued)

Section 3. Our core assets, lease arrangements and working capital (continued)

3.6 Deferred contract costs (continued)

3.8 Trade and other payables

Telstra Group

Current
Trade payables
Accrued expenses
Accrued capital expenditure
Accrued interest
Contingent consideration
Other payables

Non-current
Contingent consideration
Other payables

As at 30 June

2023

2022

Restated

$m

$m

1,591
1,691
314
143
107
519

1,317
1,877
316
142
19
538

SECTION 4. OUR CAPITAL AND RISK MANAGEMENT

4.1 Capital management

Capital management is undertaken in accordance with the financial 

parameters regularly reviewed and approved by the Board. 

We manage our capital structure with the aim to provide returns for 

balance.

shareholders and benefits for other stakeholders, while:

There are no income tax consequences for the Telstra Group 

resulting from the resolution and payment of the final dividend, 

except for $421 million of franking debits arising from the payment 

of this dividend that will be adjusted in our franking account 

Table B provides information about franking (debits)/credits 

• safeguarding our ability to continue as a going concern

available for use in subsequent reporting periods. 

• maintaining an optimal capital structure and cost of capital that 

4,365

4,209

provides flexibility for strategic investments.

144
64

208

53
180

233

In order to maintain or adjust our capital structure, we may issue or 

repay debt, adjust the amount of dividends to be paid to 

shareholders or return capital to shareholders.

Notes 4.3 and 4.4 provide further details on each component of 

Franking account balance

capital, being equity and net debt.

Table B

Telstra Group

Year ended 30 June

2023

2022

The comparative amounts have been restated as a result of the prior 
period restatement of contract liabilities as detailed in note 1.7.

Trade payables and other payables are non-interest bearing 
liabilities. Our payment terms vary, however payments are generally 
made within 20 days to 90 days from the invoice date.

Contingent consideration relates to payment obligations arising 
from our acquisitions of controlled entities and is measured at fair 
value. Refer to note 4.5.6 for further details.

3.8.1 Recognition and measurement

Trade and other payables, including accruals, are recorded when we 
are required to make future payments as a result of purchases of 
assets or services. Trade and other payables are financial liabilities 
initially recognised at fair value and carried at amortised cost using 
the effective interest method.

Franking (debits)/credits that will 

arise from the (receipt)/payment of 

income tax (receivable)/payable as at 

30 June (at a tax rate of 30% on a tax 

(received)/paid basis)

$m

5

(136)

(131)

$m

24

24

48

We believe that our current balance in the franking account, 

combined with the franking credits that will arise on income tax 

instalments expected to be paid in the financial year 2024, will be 

sufficient to fully frank our 2023 final dividend. 

3.6.1 Recognition and measurement

We capitalise costs to obtain an accounting contract when the 
costs are incremental, i.e. would not have been incurred if the 
contract had not been obtained and are recoverable either directly 
via reimbursement by the customer or indirectly through the 
contract margin. 

We immediately expense the incremental costs of obtaining 
contracts if the period of benefit is one year or less.

Costs to fulfil a contract relate directly to an identified good or 
service or indirectly to other activities that are necessary under the 
contract but that do not result in a transfer of goods or services. 

Costs to fulfil a contract include set-up costs and prepaid costs of 
a service provider related to goods and services which will be 
transferred in the future reporting periods. 

We capitalise costs to fulfil a contract if: 

• the costs relate directly to a contract or a specifically identified 

anticipated contract 

• the costs generate or enhance resources that we control and will 

use when transferring future goods and services 

• we expect to recover the costs.

We amortise deferred contract costs in ‘goods and services 
purchased’ expense over the term that reflects the expected period 
of benefit of the expense. This period may extend beyond the initial 
contract term to the estimated customer life or average customer 
life of the class of customers. We use the amortisation pattern 
consistent with the method used to measure progress and 
recognise revenue for the related goods or services. 

We assess whether deferred contract costs are impaired whenever 
events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying 
amounts may not be recoverable. We recognise impairment losses 
in ‘other expenses’. 

3.7 Inventories

Telstra Group

Current
Goods for resale
Network and other inventory

Non-current
Network and other inventory

As at 30 June

2023

2022

$m

$m

479
67

546

36

36

400
76

476

28

28

3.7.1 Recognition and measurement

Inventories are valued at the lower of cost and net realisable value. 
For the majority of inventory items, we assign cost using the 
weighted average cost basis.

Net realisable value of items expected to be sold is the estimated 
selling price less the estimated costs incurred in marketing, selling 
and distribution.

Net realisable value of items expected to be consumed, for example 
used in the construction of another asset, is the net value expected 
to be earned through future use.

132 | Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities

Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities | F49

F50 | Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities

Section 4. Our capital and risk 

management

This section provides information on our approach to capital 

management and our capital structure. Our total capital is 

defined as equity and net debt. Also outlined in this section 

are the financial risks that we are exposed to and how we 

manage these financial risks.

4.2 Dividend

This note includes the previous year final dividend and the 

current year interim dividend paid.

We currently pay dividends to equity holders of the Telstra Entity 

twice a year, an interim and a final dividend. Table A below provides 

details about the dividends paid during the financial year. 

Table A

Year ended 30 June

Telstra Entity

2023

2022

2023

2022

Previous year final 

dividend paid

Interim dividend 

paid

$m

$m

cents

cents

982

982

951

937

1,964

1,888

8.5

8.5

17.0

8.0

8.0

16.0

On 17 August 2023, the Directors of Telstra Group Limited resolved 

to pay a fully franked final dividend for the financial year 2023 of 8.5 

cents per ordinary share. The final dividend will be fully franked at a 

tax rate of 30 per cent. The record date for the final dividend will be 

31 August 2023, with payment to be made on 28 September 2023. 

From 30 August 2023, shares will trade excluding entitlement to the 

dividend. 

In connection with the Restructure, Telstra Corporation Limited’s 

Dividend Reinvestment Plan (DRP) was discontinued and a new 

DRP established by Telstra Group Limited. On 17 August 2023, the 

Board determined that the Telstra Group Limited DRP will continue 

to operate for the final dividend for the financial year 2023. The 

election date for participation in the DRP is 1 September 2023.

As at 30 June 2023, the final dividend for the financial year 2023 was 

not determined or publicly recommended by the Board. Therefore, 

no provision for the dividend had been raised in the statement of 

financial position. A $982 million provision for the final dividend 

payable has been raised as at the date of resolution. 

2023.Financial Report.book  Page 49  Wednesday, August 16, 2023  4:21 PM

2023.Financial Report.book  Page 50  Wednesday, August 16, 2023  4:21 PM

Notes to the financial statements (continued)

Telstra Financial Report 2023

Notes to the financial statements (continued)

Section 3. Our core assets, lease arrangements and working capital (continued)

3.6 Deferred contract costs (continued)

3.8 Trade and other payables

3.6.1 Recognition and measurement

We capitalise costs to obtain an accounting contract when the 

costs are incremental, i.e. would not have been incurred if the 

contract had not been obtained and are recoverable either directly 

via reimbursement by the customer or indirectly through the 

contract margin. 

We immediately expense the incremental costs of obtaining 

contracts if the period of benefit is one year or less.

Costs to fulfil a contract relate directly to an identified good or 

service or indirectly to other activities that are necessary under the 

contract but that do not result in a transfer of goods or services. 

Telstra Group

Current

Trade payables

Accrued expenses

Accrued capital expenditure

Accrued interest

Costs to fulfil a contract include set-up costs and prepaid costs of 

Contingent consideration

a service provider related to goods and services which will be 

Other payables

transferred in the future reporting periods. 

We capitalise costs to fulfil a contract if: 

• the costs relate directly to a contract or a specifically identified 

Contingent consideration

Non-current

Other payables

anticipated contract 

• the costs generate or enhance resources that we control and will 

use when transferring future goods and services 

• we expect to recover the costs.

We amortise deferred contract costs in ‘goods and services 

purchased’ expense over the term that reflects the expected period 

of benefit of the expense. This period may extend beyond the initial 

contract term to the estimated customer life or average customer 

life of the class of customers. We use the amortisation pattern 

consistent with the method used to measure progress and 

recognise revenue for the related goods or services. 

We assess whether deferred contract costs are impaired whenever 

events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying 

3.8.1 Recognition and measurement

amounts may not be recoverable. We recognise impairment losses 

As at 30 June

2023

2022

Restated

$m

$m

1,591

1,691

314

143

107

519

144

64

208

1,317

1,877

316

142

19

538

53

180

233

The comparative amounts have been restated as a result of the prior 

period restatement of contract liabilities as detailed in note 1.7.

Trade payables and other payables are non-interest bearing 

liabilities. Our payment terms vary, however payments are generally 

made within 20 days to 90 days from the invoice date.

Contingent consideration relates to payment obligations arising 

from our acquisitions of controlled entities and is measured at fair 

value. Refer to note 4.5.6 for further details.

Trade and other payables, including accruals, are recorded when we 

are required to make future payments as a result of purchases of 

assets or services. Trade and other payables are financial liabilities 

initially recognised at fair value and carried at amortised cost using 

the effective interest method.

in ‘other expenses’. 

3.7 Inventories

Telstra Group

Current

Goods for resale

Network and other inventory

Non-current

Network and other inventory

As at 30 June

2023

2022

$m

$m

479

67

546

36

36

400

76

476

28

28

3.7.1 Recognition and measurement

Inventories are valued at the lower of cost and net realisable value. 

For the majority of inventory items, we assign cost using the 

weighted average cost basis.

Net realisable value of items expected to be sold is the estimated 

selling price less the estimated costs incurred in marketing, selling 

and distribution.

Net realisable value of items expected to be consumed, for example 

used in the construction of another asset, is the net value expected 

to be earned through future use.

Section 4. Our capital and risk 
management

This section provides information on our approach to capital 
management and our capital structure. Our total capital is 
defined as equity and net debt. Also outlined in this section 
are the financial risks that we are exposed to and how we 
manage these financial risks.

SECTION 4. OUR CAPITAL AND RISK MANAGEMENT

4.1 Capital management

Capital management is undertaken in accordance with the financial 
parameters regularly reviewed and approved by the Board. 

We manage our capital structure with the aim to provide returns for 
shareholders and benefits for other stakeholders, while:

• safeguarding our ability to continue as a going concern
• maintaining an optimal capital structure and cost of capital that

There are no income tax consequences for the Telstra Group 
resulting from the resolution and payment of the final dividend, 
except for $421 million of franking debits arising from the payment 
of this dividend that will be adjusted in our franking account 
balance.

Table B provides information about franking (debits)/credits 
available for use in subsequent reporting periods. 

Table B

Telstra Group

Year ended 30 June

2023

2022

Franking account balance
Franking (debits)/credits that will 
arise from the (receipt)/payment of 
income tax (receivable)/payable as at 
30 June (at a tax rate of 30% on a tax 
(received)/paid basis)

$m
5

(136)

(131)

$m
24

24

48

We believe that our current balance in the franking account, 
combined with the franking credits that will arise on income tax 
instalments expected to be paid in the financial year 2024, will be 
sufficient to fully frank our 2023 final dividend. 

4,365

4,209

provides flexibility for strategic investments.

In order to maintain or adjust our capital structure, we may issue or 
repay debt, adjust the amount of dividends to be paid to 
shareholders or return capital to shareholders.

Notes 4.3 and 4.4 provide further details on each component of 
capital, being equity and net debt.

4.2 Dividend

This note includes the previous year final dividend and the 
current year interim dividend paid.

We currently pay dividends to equity holders of the Telstra Entity 
twice a year, an interim and a final dividend. Table A below provides 
details about the dividends paid during the financial year. 

Table A

Year ended 30 June

Telstra Entity

2023

2022

2023

2022

Previous year final 
dividend paid
Interim dividend 
paid

$m

$m

cents

cents

982

982

951

937

1,964

1,888

8.5

8.5

17.0

8.0

8.0

16.0

On 17 August 2023, the Directors of Telstra Group Limited resolved 
to pay a fully franked final dividend for the financial year 2023 of 8.5 
cents per ordinary share. The final dividend will be fully franked at a 
tax rate of 30 per cent. The record date for the final dividend will be 
31 August 2023, with payment to be made on 28 September 2023. 
From 30 August 2023, shares will trade excluding entitlement to the 
dividend. 

In connection with the Restructure, Telstra Corporation Limited’s 
Dividend Reinvestment Plan (DRP) was discontinued and a new 
DRP established by Telstra Group Limited. On 17 August 2023, the 
Board determined that the Telstra Group Limited DRP will continue 
to operate for the final dividend for the financial year 2023. The 
election date for participation in the DRP is 1 September 2023.

As at 30 June 2023, the final dividend for the financial year 2023 was 
not determined or publicly recommended by the Board. Therefore, 
no provision for the dividend had been raised in the statement of 
financial position. A $982 million provision for the final dividend 
payable has been raised as at the date of resolution. 

Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities | F49

F50 | Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities

Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities | 133

Telstra Financial Report 20232023.Financial Report.book  Page 11  Wednesday, August 16, 2023  4:21 PM

2023.Financial Report.book  Page 12  Wednesday, August 16, 2023  4:21 PM

Notes to the financial statements (continued)

Telstra Financial Report 2023

Notes to the financial statements (continued)

Section 1. Basis of preparation (continued)

1.7 Restatement of prior periods

During the financial year 2023, we have finalised migration of our 

prepaid customers to a new billing and provisioning system. On 

completion, a $219 million current contract liability balance relating 

to our prepaid legacy plans could not be substantiated, because the 

services had been provided in the prior periods and this contract 

liability should have been recognised as revenue at that time. This 

balance was related to the reporting periods prior to the financial 

year 2022. Therefore, in the statement of financial position we have 

restated the related balances, including their tax impacts where 

relevant, as at 1 July 2021 and as at 30 June 2022. The income 

statement for the financial year 2022 did not require a restatement 

because the comparative financial results were not impacted.

Table A summarises the restatement of all impacted line items in 

the statement of financial position as at 30 June 2022 and 1 July 

2021. Adjustments to retained earnings have been reflected in the 

statement of changes in equity. 

Table A

Telstra Group

30 June 2022 Adjustments 30 June 2022

1 July 2021

Adjustments

1 July 2021

Reported

Restated

Reported

Restated

$m

$m

$m

$m

$m

$m

Restated line items in the 

statement of financial position

Current liabilities

Trade and other payables

Contract liabilities and other 

revenue received in advance

Current tax payables

Total current liabilities

Non-current liabilities

Deferred tax liabilities

Total non-current liabilities

Total liabilities

Net assets

Equity

Retained profits

Equity available to Telstra 

Entity shareholders

Total Equity

4,189

1,622

42

9,860

1,655

14,931

24,791

16,837

9,918

15,349

16,837

20

(219)

37

(162)

23

23

(139)

139

139

139

139

4,209

1,403

79

9,698

1,678

14,954

24,652

16,976

10,057

15,488

16,976

3,766

1,605

124

10,424

1,580

16,826

27,250

15,275

10,014

14,588

15,275

20

(219)

(18)

(217)

78

78

(139)

139

139

139

139

3,786

1,386

106

10,207

1,658

16,904

27,111

15,414

10,153

14,727

15,414

Section 2. Our performance

This section explains our results, performance of our 
segments, which are reported on the same basis as our 
internal management structure, and our earnings per share 
for the period. It also provides disaggregated revenue, 
details of selected income and expense items, information 
about taxation and a reconciliation of our profit to net cash 
generated from operating activities.

SECTION 2. OUR PERFORMANCE

2.1 Segment information 

Segment information is based on the information that 
management uses to make decisions about operating matters 
and allows users to review operations of the Group through the 
eyes of management.

Our operating segments represent the functions which offer 
our main products and services in the market. However, only 
some of our operating segments meet the disclosure criteria 
for reportable segments.

2.1.1 Operating segments

We report segment information on the same basis as our internal 
management reporting structure at the reporting date. Segment 
comparatives reflect any organisational changes that have 
occurred since the end of the prior financial year to present a like-
for-like view. 

Segment

Operation

During the financial year 2023 our IT function moved from Networks 
and IT to Product and Technology, and Networks and IT was 
renamed to Global Networks and Technology. Following this 
realignment, the ‘Networks and IT’ reportable segment has been 
replaced by a new reportable segment, ‘Networks, IT and Product’. 
It consists of two operating segments, being Global Networks and 
Technology and Product and Technology (previously included in 
the ‘All Other’ category), which have been combined for reporting 
purposes as they have similar economic characteristics and provide 
support functions underpinning operations of the other segments. 
There were no other changes to our operating segments. The 
Restructure described in note 1.2 did not change our operating 
segments as it focused on internal legal reorganisation. 

In our segment results, the ‘All Other’ category includes functions 
that do not qualify as operating segments as well as the operating 
segments which are not material to be reported individually.

We have four reportable segments as follows:

Telstra Consumer 
and Small 
Business (TC&SB)

• provides telecommunication, media and technology products and services to Consumer and Small

Business customers in Australia using mobile and fixed network technologies

• operates contact centres, retail stores, a dealership network, digital channels, distribution systems and

the Telstra Plus customer loyalty program in Australia

Telstra Enterprise 
(TE)

• provides telecommunication services, advanced technology solutions, network capacity and

management, unified communications, cloud, security, industry solutions, integrated and monitoring
services to government and large enterprise and business customers in Australia and globally

• provides telecommunication, media and technology products and services to consumer, business and

government customers in the South Pacific through our Digicel Pacific business

• provides wholesale services outside of Australia, including voice and data
• manages Telstra’s networks outside Australia, including international subsea cables, in conjunction with 

Networks, IT and Product and Telstra InfraCo segments

Networks, IT and 
Product (NIT&P)

• Global Networks and Technology supports the other segments and their respective revenue generating
activities by maintaining high level of reliability and security of our global network platforms and cloud
infrastructure. It maintains our networks and is accountable for our network intelligence and automation.

• Product and Technology works with other functions to create and deliver products and solutions for

customers across all segments. It has accountability for product strategy, life cycle, as well as technology 
and innovation where products are incubated and brought to scale. It is also accountable for Telstra’s IT
and Data & AI functions and our digital platforms underpinning our customer digital experience.

Telstra InfraCo 

• provides telecommunication products and services delivered over Telstra networks to other carriers,

carriage service providers and internet service providers

• provides other Telstra functions and wholesale customers with access to network infrastructure within

Telstra InfraCo’s asset accountabilities

• operates the fixed passive network infrastructure including data centres, exchanges, poles, ducts, pits

and pipes and fibre network

• designs and constructs fibre, exchanges and other infrastructure
• provides nbn co with long-term access to certain components of our infrastructure under the

Infrastructure Services Agreement

• operates the passive and physical mobile tower assets owned or operated by the Amplitel business

Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities | F11

F12 | Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities

Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities | 95

Telstra Financial Report 2023On 30 November 2022, Telstra Corporation Limited transferred its 

shares in Telstra Growthshare Pty Ltd to Telstra Group Limited. As 

at 31 October 2022 (when eligible shareholders of Telstra 

Corporation Limited exchanged their shares in that company for 

shares in Telstra Group Limited), the number of shares held by 

employee share plans totalled 12,585,314 shares of Telstra 

Corporation Limited. Refer to note 5.2.1 for further details about the 

Restructure impact on our employee share plans.

As at 30 June 2023, the number of shares held by employee share 

plans totalled 12,571,257 shares of Telstra Group Limited (2022: 

10,132,961 shares of Telstra Corporation Limited). 

During the financial year 2023, Telstra Growthshare Pty Ltd (the 

trustee of the Telstra Growthshare Trust that administers our 

employee share schemes) purchased on-market 5,454,684 shares 

of Telstra Corporation Limited (subsequently exchanged for shares 

in Telstra Group Limited as part of the Restructure) for the 

purposes of the employee incentive schemes for a total 

consideration of $21 million and at the average price per share of 

$3.90.

(c) Net services received under employee share plans

We measure the fair value of services received under employee 

share plans by reference to the fair value of the equity instruments 

granted. The net services received under employee share plans 

represent the share-based payment expense recognised after the 

establishment of Telstra Group Limited as the new parent entity 

This note provides information about our share capital and 

reserves presented in the statement of changes in equity.

We have established the Telstra Growthshare Trust to 

administer the Company's employee share schemes. The trust 

is consolidated as it is controlled by us. Shares held within the 

trust are used to satisfy future vesting of entitlements in these 

employee share schemes and reduce our contributed equity.

Table A details components of our share capital balance. 

4.3.1 Share capital

Table A

Telstra Group

As at 30 June

2023

2022

$m

3,130

(46)

11

$m

3,180

(36)

(46)

3,095

3,098

Contributed equity

Shares held by employee share plans

Net services received under employee 

share plans

(a) Contributed equity

Limited exchanged their shares in that company for shares in 

Telstra Group Limited. As a result, Telstra Group Limited became 

the parent entity of the Telstra Group. As at 31 October 2022, there 

were 11,554,427,353 fully paid ordinary shares of Telstra 

Corporation Limited on issue. Refer to note 7.3 for further details 

about the parent entity.

As at 30 June 2023, there were 11,554,427,353 authorised fully paid 

ordinary shares of Telstra Group Limited on issue (2022: 

11,554,427,353 fully paid ordinary shares were on issue in Telstra 

Corporation Limited, the then parent entity of the Telstra Group). 

Each of our fully paid ordinary shares carries the right to one vote on 

a poll at a meeting of the Company.

Holders of our shares also have the right to receive dividends and to 

participate in the proceeds from sale of all surplus assets in 

proportion to the total shares issued in the event of the Company 

winding up.

As detailed in note 1.2, on implementation of the top hat component 

(2022: the cumulative value of all instruments issued by Telstra 

of the Restructure, eligible shareholders of Telstra Corporation 

Corporation Limited).

2023.Financial Report.book  Page 51  Wednesday, August 16, 2023  4:21 PM

2023.Financial Report.book  Page 52  Wednesday, August 16, 2023  4:21 PM

Notes to the financial statements (continued)

Telstra Financial Report 2023

Notes to the financial statements (continued)

Section 4. Our capital and risk management (continued)

Section 4. Our capital and risk management (continued)

4.3 Equity

(b) Shares held by employee share plans

4.3 Equity (continued)

4.3.2 Reserves

Table B details our reserve balances. 

Table B                                                                                      

Telstra Group

Foreign 
currency 
transla- 
tion 
reserve

Cash flow 
hedging 
reserve

Foreign 
currency 
basis 
spread 
reserve

Fair value 
of equity 
instru- 
ments 
reserve

General 
reserve

Total 
reserves

Balance at 1 July 2021
Other comprehensive income
Transactions with non-controlling interests

Balance at 30 June 2022
Other comprehensive income
Transfer of fair value of equity instruments reserve to 
retained earnings

Balance at 30 June 2023

$m

35
49
-

84
50

-

134

$m

(126)
156
-

30
(79)

-

(49)

$m

(63)
55
-

(8)
(9)

-

(17)

$m

299
(149)
-

150
(23)

(76)

51

$m

(7)
-
2,084

2,077
-

-

$m

138
111
2,084
2,333
(61)

(76)

2,077

2,196

The table below details the nature and purpose of our reserves. 

Reserve

Nature and purpose

Foreign currency 
translation reserve

Represents exchange differences arising from the conversion of the non-Australian controlled entities’ 
financial statements into Australian dollars. This reserve is also used to record our percentage share of 
exchange differences arising from our equity accounted non-Australian investments in joint ventures 
and associated entities.

Cash flow hedging 
reserve

Represents the effective portion of gains or losses on remeasuring the fair value of hedge instruments, 
where a hedge qualifies for hedge accounting.

Foreign currency basis 
spread reserve

Represents changes in the fair value of our derivative financial instruments attributable to movements 
in foreign currency basis spread. Currency basis is included in interest on borrowings in the income 
statement over the life of the borrowing.

Fair value of equity 
instruments reserve

Represents changes in fair value of equity instruments we have elected to measure at fair value 
through other comprehensive income.

General reserve

Represents other items we have taken directly to equity.

4.3.3 Recognition and measurement

Issued and paid-up capital is recognised at the fair value of the 
consideration received by the Telstra Entity.

Any transaction costs arising on the issue of ordinary shares are 
recognised directly in equity, net of income tax, as a reduction of 
the share proceeds received.

Services received under employee share plans (i.e. share-based 
payments) increase our share capital balance and vested employee 
share plans decrease the share capital balance resulting in a net 
movement in our equity. 

We record purchases of the Telstra Entity shares underpinning our 
employee share plans as a reduction in share capital.

Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities | F51

F52 | Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities

Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities | 135

Telstra Financial Report 20232023.Financial Report.book  Page 53  Wednesday, August 16, 2023  4:21 PM

Notes to the financial statements (continued)

Telstra Financial Report 2023

Section 4. Our capital and risk management (continued)

4.4 Net debt

As part of our capital management we monitor net debt. Net 
debt equals total borrowings and derivative financial 
instruments, less cash and cash equivalents. 

This note provides information about components of our net 
debt and related finance costs.

Table A lists the carrying value of our net debt components (both 
current and non-current balances). 

Table A

Telstra Group

Lease liabilities
Borrowings
Net derivative financial instruments

Gross debt
Cash and cash equivalents

Net debt

As at 30 June

2023

$m
(3,191)
(12,675)
516

(15,350)
932

(14,418)

2022

$m
(3,287)
(10,982)
509

(13,760)
1,040

(12,720)

No components of net debt are subject to any externally imposed 
capital requirements except for a $200 million non-recourse facility 
entered into by Telstra PM Pty Ltd with Export Finance Australia. 
The facility contains a covenant for Telstra PM Pty Ltd to maintain 
a minimum debt service cover ratio (subject to cure rights). 

All amounts owing under or in relation to the borrowing facilities 
with Export Finance Australia in respect of the Digicel Pacific 
acquisition (referred to as ‘non-recourse borrowing facilities’ in 
Table B) are secured by:

• substantially all of the assets (including any shares) and 
undertakings of substantially all of the acquired entities, 
comprising Digicel Pacific Limited and each of its wholly-owned 
subsidiaries

• the assets (including any shares) and undertakings of Telstra PM 

Pty Ltd and BidCo (S) Pte. Ltd

• the shares in Telstra PM Pty Ltd held by Telstra PM Holdings Pty 

Ltd.

Refer to note 6.1.2 for further details on the acquisition of Digicel 
Pacific.

We did not have any defaults or breaches under any of our 
agreements with our lenders during the financial year 2023.

Table B summarises the key movements in net debt during the 
financial year and provides our gearing ratio. Our gearing ratio 
equals net debt divided by total capital, where total capital equals 
equity, as shown in the statement of financial position, plus net 
debt.

Table B

Telstra Group

Opening net debt at 1 July
Non-recourse borrowing facilities
Debt issuance
Drawings (bilateral bank loans)
Commercial paper (net)
Revolving bank facilities (net)
Debt repayments
Other borrowings
Lease liability payments

Net cash (inflow)/outflow
Fair value (loss)/gain impacting:
Equity
Other expenses
Finance costs
Other non-cash movements
Lease liability (Telstra as a lessee)
Other loans and derivatives

Total non-cash movements
Total (increase)/decrease in gross 
debt
Net decrease in cash and cash 
equivalents (including effects of 
foreign exchange rate changes)

Total (increase)/decrease in net 
debt
Closing net debt at 30 June
Total equity

Total capital

Gearing ratio

Year ended 30 June

2023

2022

Restated

$m

(12,720)
(1,127)
(1,487)
(2)
15
(904)
1,959
(14)
675

(885)

(127)
(25)
24

(579)
2

(705)

$m

(15,263)
-
-
(901)
415
(14)
2,795
(15)
697

2,977

284
1
23

(679)
22

(349)

(1,590)

2,628

(108)

(85)

(1,698)

2,543

(14,418)
(17,816)

(12,720)
(16,976)

(32,234)

(29,696)

%

%

44.7

42.8

The comparative amounts have been restated as detailed in note 
1.7.

During the financial year 2023 we issued debt of $2,614 million 
(Australian dollar equivalent), comprised of:

• non-recourse borrowing facilities of $1,127 million comprised of 
borrowing facilities from the Australian Government, through 
Export Finance Australia, which were used to fund part of the 
consideration for the acquisition of Digicel Pacific. Refer to note 
6.1.2 for further details on the acquisition of Digicel Pacific. These 
debt facilities are held by our wholly-owned subsidiary Telstra 
PM Pty Ltd. 

• 8 year €500 million Euro bond ($837 million Australian dollar 

equivalent)

• 5 year $650 million Australian dollar bond.

136 | Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities

Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities | F53

Opening net debt at 1 July

(12,720)

(15,263)

4.4 Net debt

As part of our capital management we monitor net debt. Net 

debt equals total borrowings and derivative financial 

instruments, less cash and cash equivalents. 

debt.

This note provides information about components of our net 

debt and related finance costs.

Table B

Telstra Group

Table A lists the carrying value of our net debt components (both 

current and non-current balances). 

Table A

Telstra Group

Lease liabilities

Borrowings

Net derivative financial instruments

Cash and cash equivalents

Gross debt

Net debt

As at 30 June

Non-recourse borrowing facilities

2023

2022

Debt issuance

$m

(3,191)

(12,675)

516

932

$m

(3,287)

(10,982)

509

1,040

(15,350)

(13,760)

(14,418)

(12,720)

Drawings (bilateral bank loans)

Commercial paper (net)

Revolving bank facilities (net)

Debt repayments

Other borrowings

Lease liability payments

Net cash (inflow)/outflow

Fair value (loss)/gain impacting:

No components of net debt are subject to any externally imposed 

Equity

capital requirements except for a $200 million non-recourse facility 

entered into by Telstra PM Pty Ltd with Export Finance Australia. 

The facility contains a covenant for Telstra PM Pty Ltd to maintain 

a minimum debt service cover ratio (subject to cure rights). 

Other expenses

Finance costs

All amounts owing under or in relation to the borrowing facilities 

with Export Finance Australia in respect of the Digicel Pacific 

acquisition (referred to as ‘non-recourse borrowing facilities’ in 

Total non-cash movements

Other non-cash movements

Lease liability (Telstra as a lessee)

Other loans and derivatives

Table B) are secured by:

• substantially all of the assets (including any shares) and 

undertakings of substantially all of the acquired entities, 

subsidiaries

• the assets (including any shares) and undertakings of Telstra PM 

Pty Ltd and BidCo (S) Pte. Ltd

• the shares in Telstra PM Pty Ltd held by Telstra PM Holdings Pty 

debt

debt

Net decrease in cash and cash 

foreign exchange rate changes)

Total (increase)/decrease in net 

Closing net debt at 30 June

Ltd.

Pacific.

Refer to note 6.1.2 for further details on the acquisition of Digicel 

We did not have any defaults or breaches under any of our 

agreements with our lenders during the financial year 2023.

Total equity

Total capital

Gearing ratio

1.7.

Year ended 30 June

2023

2022

Restated

$m

$m

(1,127)

(1,487)

(2)

15

(904)

1,959

(14)

675

(885)

(127)

(25)

24

(579)

2

(705)

-

-

(901)

415

(14)

2,795

(15)

697

2,977

284

1

23

(679)

22

(349)

(1,698)

2,543

(14,418)

(17,816)

(12,720)

(16,976)

(32,234)

(29,696)

%

%

44.7

42.8

comprising Digicel Pacific Limited and each of its wholly-owned 

equivalents (including effects of 

(108)

(85)

Total (increase)/decrease in gross 

(1,590)

2,628

2023.Financial Report.book  Page 53  Wednesday, August 16, 2023  4:21 PM

2023.Financial Report.book  Page 54  Wednesday, August 16, 2023  4:21 PM

Notes to the financial statements (continued)

Telstra Financial Report 2023

Notes to the financial statements (continued)

Section 4. Our capital and risk management (continued)

Section 4. Our capital and risk management (continued)

Table B summarises the key movements in net debt during the 

financial year and provides our gearing ratio. Our gearing ratio 

equals net debt divided by total capital, where total capital equals 

equity, as shown in the statement of financial position, plus net 

4.4 Net debt (continued)

4.4.1  Borrowings

Table C details the carrying and fair values of borrowings included 
in the statement of financial position.

As at 30 June 2023

As at 30 June 2022

Carrying 
value

Fair value

Carrying 
value

Fair value

$m

$m

$m

$m

1,814
410
431
6
1

2,662

7,198
1,257
1,143
415

10,013
12,675

1,812
411
432
6
1

2,662

7,044
1,336
1,114
297

9,791
12,453

2,035
206
448
-
1

2,690

7,137
739
-
416

8,292
10,982

2,033
208
448
-
1

2,690

7,177
751
-
346

8,274
10,964

Table C

Telstra Group

Current borrowings
Unsecured notes
Bank and other loans - unsecured
Commercial paper - unsecured
Non-recourse borrowing facilities
Other financial liabilities

Non-current borrowings
Unsecured notes
Bank and other loans - unsecured
Non-recourse borrowing facilities
Other financial liabilities

Total borrowings

Unsecured notes comprise bonds and private placements.

Our commercial paper is used principally to support working capital 
and short-term liquidity and continues to be supported by a 
combination of liquid financial assets, and access to committed 
bank facilities. 

Other financial liabilities represent amounts arising from sale and 
leaseback transactions accounted as financial liabilities under the 
accounting standards.

(a) Recognition and measurement

Recognition and measurement

The comparative amounts have been restated as detailed in note 

During the financial year 2023 we issued debt of $2,614 million 

(Australian dollar equivalent), comprised of:

• non-recourse borrowing facilities of $1,127 million comprised of 

borrowing facilities from the Australian Government, through 

Export Finance Australia, which were used to fund part of the 

consideration for the acquisition of Digicel Pacific. Refer to note 

6.1.2 for further details on the acquisition of Digicel Pacific. These 

debt facilities are held by our wholly-owned subsidiary Telstra 

• 8 year €500 million Euro bond ($837 million Australian dollar 

PM Pty Ltd. 

equivalent)

• 5 year $650 million Australian dollar bond.

Initial recognition and 
measurement

Borrowings are recognised initially on the trade date (the date on which we become a party to the 
contractual provisions of the instrument).

All loans and borrowings are initially recorded at fair value, which typically reflects the proceeds 
received, net of directly attributable transaction costs.

Subsequent 
measurement

After initial recognition, all borrowings are stated at amortised cost, using the effective interest 
method. Any difference between proceeds received net of direct transaction costs and the amount 
payable at maturity is recognised over the term of the borrowing using the effective interest method.

Borrowings that are in designated fair value hedge relationships are adjusted for fair value 
movements attributable to the hedged risk. 

Derecognition

Borrowings are derecognised when our contractual obligations are discharged, cancelled or expired. 
A gain or a loss is recognised in the income statement when the borrowing is derecognised.

Borrowings are classified as non-current borrowings except for 
those that mature in less than 12 months from the reporting date, 
which are classified as current borrowings.

Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities | F53

F54 | Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities

Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities | 137

Telstra Financial Report 20232023.Financial Report.book  Page 55  Wednesday, August 16, 2023  4:21 PM

2023.Financial Report.book  Page 56  Wednesday, August 16, 2023  4:21 PM

Notes to the financial statements (continued)

Telstra Financial Report 2023

Notes to the financial statements (continued)

Section 4. Our capital and risk management (continued)

Section 4. Our capital and risk management (continued)

4.4 Net debt (continued)

4.4.2 Derivatives

Derivatives are financial instruments that derive their value 
from the price of an underlying item such as interest rate, 
foreign currency exchange rate, credit spread or other index.

We enter into derivative transactions in accordance with 
policies approved by the Board to manage our exposure to 
market risks and volatility of financial outcomes that arise as 
part of our normal business operations. We do not 
speculatively trade in derivative financial instruments.

Table D shows the carrying value of each class of derivative 
financial instruments. 

Table D

Telstra Group

Current derivative financial instruments
Cross currency swaps
Interest rate swaps
Other derivatives

Non-current derivative financial instruments
Cross currency swaps
Interest rate swaps
Other derivatives

Total derivative financial instruments

The terms of a derivative contract are determined at inception, 
therefore any movements in the price of the underlying item over 
time will cause the contract value to fluctuate, which is reflected in 
the change in fair value of the derivative.

Where the fair value of a derivative is positive, it is carried as an 
asset, and where negative, as a liability. Both parties are therefore 
exposed to the credit quality of the counterparty. We are exposed 
to credit risk on derivative assets as a result of the potential failure 
of the counterparties to meet their contractual obligations. 

Refer to note 4.5.3 for information about our credit risk policies.

4.4 Net debt (continued)

4.4.2 Derivatives (continued)

(a) Recognition and measurement

Recognition and measurement

Initial recognition and 

Derivative financial instruments are initially recognised at fair value on the date on which a derivative 

contract is entered into and subsequently remeasured at fair value at each reporting date.

subsequent 

measurement

Recognition of resulting gains or losses depends on the designation of the derivative as a hedging 

instrument and the nature of the item being hedged. 

Right to set-off

We record derivative financial instruments on a net basis in our statement of financial position where 

we have a legally recognised right to set-off the derivative asset and the derivative liability, and we 

intend to settle on a net basis or simultaneously.

Derecognition

Derivative assets are derecognised when the rights to receive cash flows from the derivative assets 

have expired or have been transferred and we have transferred substantially all the risks and rewards 

of the asset. 

expired.

Derivative liabilities are derecognised when the contractual obligations are discharged, cancelled or 

Derivative financial instruments are included as non-current assets 

or liabilities, except for those that mature in less than 12 months 

from the reporting date, which are classified as current.

Derivatives embedded in host contracts that are financial assets are 

not separated from financial asset hosts and a hybrid contract is 

classified in its entirety at fair value.

Derivatives embedded in other financial liabilities or host contracts 

are treated as separate financial instruments when their risks and 

characteristics are not closely related to those of the host contracts 

and the host contracts are not measured at fair value through profit 

or loss. 

As at 30 June 2023

As at 30 June 2022

Assets

Liabilities

Assets

Liabilities

$m

389
23
33

445

286
33
14

333
778

$m

(68)
(5)
-

(73)

(187)
(2)
-

(189)
(262)

$m

$m

267
8
27

302

486
26
-

512
814

-
-
-

-

(292)
(13)
-

(305)
(305)

138 | Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities

Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities | F55

F56 | Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities

2023.Financial Report.book  Page 55  Wednesday, August 16, 2023  4:21 PM

2023.Financial Report.book  Page 56  Wednesday, August 16, 2023  4:21 PM

Notes to the financial statements (continued)

Telstra Financial Report 2023

Notes to the financial statements (continued)

Section 4. Our capital and risk management (continued)

Section 4. Our capital and risk management (continued)

4.4 Net debt (continued)

4.4.2 Derivatives

Derivatives are financial instruments that derive their value 

from the price of an underlying item such as interest rate, 

foreign currency exchange rate, credit spread or other index.

We enter into derivative transactions in accordance with 

policies approved by the Board to manage our exposure to 

market risks and volatility of financial outcomes that arise as 

part of our normal business operations. We do not 

speculatively trade in derivative financial instruments.

Table D shows the carrying value of each class of derivative 

financial instruments. 

Table D

Telstra Group

Cross currency swaps

Interest rate swaps

Other derivatives

Cross currency swaps

Interest rate swaps

Other derivatives

Current derivative financial instruments

Non-current derivative financial instruments

Total derivative financial instruments

The terms of a derivative contract are determined at inception, 

therefore any movements in the price of the underlying item over 

time will cause the contract value to fluctuate, which is reflected in 

the change in fair value of the derivative.

Where the fair value of a derivative is positive, it is carried as an 

asset, and where negative, as a liability. Both parties are therefore 

exposed to the credit quality of the counterparty. We are exposed 

to credit risk on derivative assets as a result of the potential failure 

of the counterparties to meet their contractual obligations. 

Refer to note 4.5.3 for information about our credit risk policies.

4.4 Net debt (continued)

4.4.2 Derivatives (continued)

(a) Recognition and measurement

Recognition and measurement

Initial recognition and 
subsequent 
measurement

Derivative financial instruments are initially recognised at fair value on the date on which a derivative 
contract is entered into and subsequently remeasured at fair value at each reporting date.

Recognition of resulting gains or losses depends on the designation of the derivative as a hedging 
instrument and the nature of the item being hedged. 

Right to set-off

Derecognition

We record derivative financial instruments on a net basis in our statement of financial position where 
we have a legally recognised right to set-off the derivative asset and the derivative liability, and we 
intend to settle on a net basis or simultaneously.

Derivative assets are derecognised when the rights to receive cash flows from the derivative assets 
have expired or have been transferred and we have transferred substantially all the risks and rewards 
of the asset. 

Derivative liabilities are derecognised when the contractual obligations are discharged, cancelled or 
expired.

Derivative financial instruments are included as non-current assets 
or liabilities, except for those that mature in less than 12 months 
from the reporting date, which are classified as current.

Derivatives embedded in host contracts that are financial assets are 
not separated from financial asset hosts and a hybrid contract is 
classified in its entirety at fair value.

Derivatives embedded in other financial liabilities or host contracts 
are treated as separate financial instruments when their risks and 
characteristics are not closely related to those of the host contracts 
and the host contracts are not measured at fair value through profit 
or loss. 

As at 30 June 2023

As at 30 June 2022

Assets

Liabilities

Assets

Liabilities

$m

$m

$m

389

23

33

445

286

33

14

333

778

$m

(68)

(5)

-

(73)

(187)

(2)

-

(189)

(262)

267

8

27

302

486

26

-

512

814

-

-

-

-

-

(292)

(13)

(305)

(305)

Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities | F55

F56 | Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities

Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities | 139

Telstra Financial Report 20232023.Financial Report.book  Page 57  Wednesday, August 16, 2023  4:21 PM

2023.Financial Report.book  Page 58  Wednesday, August 16, 2023  4:21 PM

Notes to the financial statements (continued)

Telstra Financial Report 2023

Notes to the financial statements (continued)

Section 4. Our capital and risk management (continued)

Section 4. Our capital and risk management (continued)

4.4 Net debt (continued)

4.4.3 Finance costs

4.5 Financial instruments and risk management

4.5 Financial instruments and risk management 

Table E presents our net finance costs. Interest expense on 
borrowings are net amounts after offsetting interest income and 
interest expense on associated derivative instruments.

Our underlying business activities result in exposure to 
operational risks and financial risks, including interest rate 
risk, foreign currency risk, credit risk and liquidity risk.

Table E

Telstra Group

Year ended 30 June

2023

2022

Interest income
Finance income from finance leases 
(Telstra as a lessor)
Finance income from contracts with 
customers
Net interest income on defined benefit 
plan

Total finance income
Interest expense on borrowings
Interest expense on lease liabilities

Gross interest on debt
Finance costs from contracts with 
customers
Net gains on financial instruments 
included in remeasurements

Interest capitalised

Total finance costs
Net finance costs

$m
45

10

34

12

101
(570)
(99)

(669)

(62)

30

(32)
71

(630)
(529)

$m
15

8

84

3

110
(444)
(78)

(522)

(100)

39

(61)
56

(527)
(417)

Net gains on derivative financial instruments included in 
remeasurements within net finance costs comprise unrealised 
valuation impacts on our borrowings and derivatives. These include 
net unrealised gains or losses which arise from changes in the fair 
value of derivative financial instruments to the extent that hedge 
accounting is not achieved or is not effective. These fair values 
increase or decrease because of changes in financial indices and 
prices over which we have no control. 

Our overall risk management program seeks to mitigate these 
risks in order to reduce volatility of our financial performance 
and to support the delivery of our financial targets. Financial 
risk management is carried out centrally by our treasury 
department under policies approved by the Board. 

Our financial risk management strategies ensure that we can 
withstand market disruptions for extended periods. 

This note summarises how we manage these financial risks. 
There have been no material changes to our risk management 
policies since 30 June 2022. 

4.5.1 Managing our interest rate risk

Interest rate risk arises from changes in market interest rates. 
Borrowings issued at fixed rates expose us to fair value interest 
rate risk. Variable rate borrowings give rise to cash flow 
interest rate risk, which is partially offset by cash and cash 
equivalents balances held at variable rates.

We manage interest rate risk on our net debt portfolio by:

• setting a target ratio of fixed interest debt to variable interest 

debt, as required by our debt management policy

• ensuring access to diverse sources of funding
• reducing risks of refinancing by establishing and managing our 

target maturity profiles

• entering into cross currency and interest rate swaps. Refer to 

note 4.4.2 for further details on derivatives.

(a) Exposure

The use of cross currency and interest rate swaps allows us to 
manage the level of exposure our borrowings have to interest rate 
risks. Table A shows our fixed to floating ratio based on the carrying 
value of our borrowings. The post hedge position differs from the 
pre hedge position where we have derivative hedging instruments in 
place. 

Table A

As at 30 June

Telstra Group

2023

2022

Pre 
hedge

Post 
hedge

Pre 
hedge

Post 
hedge

$m

$m

$m

$m

(3,105)

(3,660)

(1,217)

(3,611)

(9,151)

(8,596)

(9,348)

(6,954)

(419)

(419)

(417)

(417)

Floating rate 
borrowings
Fixed rate 
borrowings
Other financial 
liabilities

Total borrowings

(12,675)

(12,675)

(10,982)

(10,982)

Refer to note 4.4.1 for further details on our borrowings.

140 | Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities

Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities | F57

F58 | Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities

(continued)

4.5.1 Managing our interest rate risk (continued)

(a) Exposure (continued)

As at 30 June 2023, we held some floating rate derivative 

instruments hedging term debt issuances and bank facilities which 

have a reference to a benchmark rate.

We continue to monitor the developments of international 

regulations to ensure preparedness for any future changes relating 

to Interest Rate Benchmark Reform. None of these implemented 

amendments impacted the Telstra Group’s financial results for the 

financial year 2023. 

Table B summarises as at 30 June our floating rate derivative 

instruments showing estimated gross nominal floating rate interest 

cash flows until maturity, associated nominal amounts in the 

underlying currency and weighted average maturity.

Table B    

Telstra Group

Interest rate 

swaps

3MBBSW

3MBBSW

3MEURIBOR

3MLIBOR

6MLIBOR

Cross currency 

swaps

3MBBSW

3MEURIBOR

(b) Sensitivity

As at 30 June 2023

As at 30 June 2022

Native 

currency

Receive/

(pay)

Nominal 

interest 

flows 

Nominal/ 

Weighted 

Principal 

amounts

average 

maturity

Nominal 

Interest 

flows

Nominal/ 

Weighted 

Principal 

amounts

average 

maturity

$m

$m

years

$m

$m

years

AUD

AUD

EUR

USD

USD

AUD

EUR

Receive

Pay

Pay

Receive

Receive

Pay

Receive

1,568

(450)

-

100

450

(104)

90

-

18

60

-

1.1

4.2

-

4.7

2.8

3.5

-

(604)

(2,709)

-

(513)

3

(3,538)

1,000

50

(4)

(3)

-

36

1,268

(50)

(1,000)

-

300

1.2

1.5

0.2

-

3.8

2.5

0.2

We have performed a sensitivity analysis based on the interest rate 

risk exposures of our financial instruments as at 30 June. In 

accordance with our policy to swap foreign currency borrowings 

into Australian dollars, interest rate sensitivity relates primarily to 

movements in the Australian interest rates.

We have selected a sensitivity range of plus 100 basis points (2022: 

100 basis points) and minus 25 basis points (2022: 25 basis points) 

as a reasonably possible shift in interest rates taking into account 

the current level of both short-term and long-term interest rates, 

historical volatility and market expectations of future movements. 

The sensitivity reflects a change in benchmark rates only. This is not 

a forecast or prediction of future market conditions.

Table C shows the results of our sensitivity analysis on the impacts 

to profit after tax and on equity.

Table C

As at 30 June

Telstra Group

2023

2022

Gain/(loss)

Net 

profit

Equity

Equity

Net 

profit

$m

(31)

8

$m

2

-

$m

(20)

5

$m

(2)

1

Interest rates 

(+100bp)

Interest rates          

(-25bp)

following factors:

The results of the sensitivity analysis are driven primarily from the 

• any increase or decrease in interest rates will impact our net 

unhedged floating rate financial instruments and therefore will 

directly impact profit or loss

• changes in the fair value of derivatives which are part of effective 

cash flow hedge relationships are deferred in equity.

The analysis does not include the impact of any management action 

that might take place if the interest rate shifts were to occur.

2023.Financial Report.book  Page 57  Wednesday, August 16, 2023  4:21 PM

2023.Financial Report.book  Page 58  Wednesday, August 16, 2023  4:21 PM

Notes to the financial statements (continued)

Telstra Financial Report 2023

Notes to the financial statements (continued)

Section 4. Our capital and risk management (continued)

Section 4. Our capital and risk management (continued)

4.5 Financial instruments and risk management 
(continued)

4.5.1 Managing our interest rate risk (continued)

(a) Exposure (continued)

As at 30 June 2023, we held some floating rate derivative 
instruments hedging term debt issuances and bank facilities which 
have a reference to a benchmark rate.

We continue to monitor the developments of international 
regulations to ensure preparedness for any future changes relating 
to Interest Rate Benchmark Reform. None of these implemented 
amendments impacted the Telstra Group’s financial results for the 
financial year 2023. 

Table B summarises as at 30 June our floating rate derivative 
instruments showing estimated gross nominal floating rate interest 
cash flows until maturity, associated nominal amounts in the 
underlying currency and weighted average maturity.

Table B    

Telstra Group

Interest rate 
swaps
3MBBSW
3MBBSW
3MEURIBOR
3MLIBOR
6MLIBOR

Cross currency 
swaps
3MBBSW
3MEURIBOR

(b) Sensitivity

As at 30 June 2023

As at 30 June 2022

Native 
currency

Receive/
(pay)

Nominal 
interest 
flows 

Nominal/ 
Principal 
amounts

Weighted 
average 
maturity

Nominal 
Interest 
flows

Nominal/ 
Principal 
amounts

Weighted 
average 
maturity

$m

$m

years

$m

$m

years

AUD
AUD
EUR
USD
USD

AUD
EUR

Receive
Pay
Pay
Receive
Receive

Pay
Receive

90
(104)
-
18
60

1,568
(450)
-
100
450

(604)
-

(2,709)
-

1.1
4.2
-
4.7
2.8

3.5
-

50
(4)
(3)
-
36

1,268
(50)
(1,000)
-
300

(513)
3

(3,538)
1,000

1.2
1.5
0.2
-
3.8

2.5
0.2

We have performed a sensitivity analysis based on the interest rate 
risk exposures of our financial instruments as at 30 June. In 
accordance with our policy to swap foreign currency borrowings 
into Australian dollars, interest rate sensitivity relates primarily to 
movements in the Australian interest rates.

We have selected a sensitivity range of plus 100 basis points (2022: 
100 basis points) and minus 25 basis points (2022: 25 basis points) 
as a reasonably possible shift in interest rates taking into account 
the current level of both short-term and long-term interest rates, 
historical volatility and market expectations of future movements. 
The sensitivity reflects a change in benchmark rates only. This is not 
a forecast or prediction of future market conditions.

Table C shows the results of our sensitivity analysis on the impacts 
to profit after tax and on equity.

Table C

As at 30 June

Telstra Group

2023

2022

Gain/(loss)

Net 
profit

Equity

Net 
profit

Equity

$m

(31)

8

$m

2

-

$m

(20)

5

$m

(2)

1

Interest rates 
(+100bp)
Interest rates          
(-25bp)

The results of the sensitivity analysis are driven primarily from the 
following factors:

• any increase or decrease in interest rates will impact our net 

unhedged floating rate financial instruments and therefore will 
directly impact profit or loss

• changes in the fair value of derivatives which are part of effective 

cash flow hedge relationships are deferred in equity.

The analysis does not include the impact of any management action 
that might take place if the interest rate shifts were to occur.

Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities | F57

F58 | Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities

Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities | 141

4.4 Net debt (continued)

4.4.3 Finance costs

4.5 Financial instruments and risk management

Table E presents our net finance costs. Interest expense on 

borrowings are net amounts after offsetting interest income and 

interest expense on associated derivative instruments.

Our underlying business activities result in exposure to 

operational risks and financial risks, including interest rate 

risk, foreign currency risk, credit risk and liquidity risk.

Table E

Telstra Group

Interest income

Finance income from finance leases 

(Telstra as a lessor)

Finance income from contracts with 

customers

plan

Net interest income on defined benefit 

Total finance income

Interest expense on borrowings

Interest expense on lease liabilities

Gross interest on debt

Finance costs from contracts with 

customers

Net gains on financial instruments 

included in remeasurements

Interest capitalised

Total finance costs

Net finance costs

Year ended 30 June

2023

2022

$m

45

10

34

12

101

(570)

(99)

(669)

(62)

30

(32)

71

(630)

(529)

$m

15

8

84

3

110

(444)

(78)

(522)

(100)

39

(61)

56

(527)

(417)

Net gains on derivative financial instruments included in 

remeasurements within net finance costs comprise unrealised 

valuation impacts on our borrowings and derivatives. These include 

net unrealised gains or losses which arise from changes in the fair 

value of derivative financial instruments to the extent that hedge 

accounting is not achieved or is not effective. These fair values 

increase or decrease because of changes in financial indices and 

prices over which we have no control. 

Our overall risk management program seeks to mitigate these 

risks in order to reduce volatility of our financial performance 

and to support the delivery of our financial targets. Financial 

risk management is carried out centrally by our treasury 

department under policies approved by the Board. 

Our financial risk management strategies ensure that we can 

withstand market disruptions for extended periods. 

This note summarises how we manage these financial risks. 

There have been no material changes to our risk management 

policies since 30 June 2022. 

4.5.1 Managing our interest rate risk

Interest rate risk arises from changes in market interest rates. 

Borrowings issued at fixed rates expose us to fair value interest 

rate risk. Variable rate borrowings give rise to cash flow 

interest rate risk, which is partially offset by cash and cash 

equivalents balances held at variable rates.

We manage interest rate risk on our net debt portfolio by:

• setting a target ratio of fixed interest debt to variable interest 

debt, as required by our debt management policy

• ensuring access to diverse sources of funding

• reducing risks of refinancing by establishing and managing our 

target maturity profiles

• entering into cross currency and interest rate swaps. Refer to 

note 4.4.2 for further details on derivatives.

(a) Exposure

The use of cross currency and interest rate swaps allows us to 

manage the level of exposure our borrowings have to interest rate 

risks. Table A shows our fixed to floating ratio based on the carrying 

value of our borrowings. The post hedge position differs from the 

pre hedge position where we have derivative hedging instruments in 

place. 

Table A

Telstra Group

2023

2022

As at 30 June

Pre 

hedge

Post 

hedge

Pre 

hedge

Post 

hedge

$m

$m

$m

$m

(3,105)

(3,660)

(1,217)

(3,611)

(9,151)

(8,596)

(9,348)

(6,954)

(419)

(419)

(417)

(417)

Floating rate 

borrowings

Fixed rate 

borrowings

Other financial 

liabilities

Total borrowings

(12,675)

(12,675)

(10,982)

(10,982)

Refer to note 4.4.1 for further details on our borrowings.

Telstra Financial Report 20232023.Financial Report.book  Page 59  Wednesday, August 16, 2023  4:21 PM

2023.Financial Report.book  Page 60  Wednesday, August 16, 2023  4:21 PM

Notes to the financial statements (continued)

Telstra Financial Report 2023

Notes to the financial statements (continued)

Section 4. Our capital and risk management (continued)

Section 4. Our capital and risk management (continued)

4.5 Financial instruments and risk management 
(continued)

4.5.2 Managing our foreign currency risk

Foreign currency risk is our risk that the value of a financial 
commitment, forecast transaction, recognised asset or 
liability will fluctuate due to changes in foreign exchange 
rates. We issue debt offshore and operate internationally and 
hence we are exposed to foreign exchange risk from various 
currencies. 

This risk exposure arises primarily from:

• borrowings denominated in foreign currencies
• trade and other creditor balances denominated in foreign 

currencies

• firm commitments or highly probable forecast transactions 
for receipts and payments settled in foreign currencies or 
with prices dependent on foreign currencies

• translation risk associated with our net investments in 

foreign controlled entities (foreign operations).

(a) Borrowings 

We mitigate the foreign currency exposure on foreign currency 
denominated borrowings by converting these borrowings to 
Australian dollars using cross currency swaps.

Table D shows the cross currency swaps that are hedging our 
unsecured notes and forward foreign exchange contracts that are 
hedging United States dollar denominated commercial paper. 

Table D

Telstra Group

Exposure

As at 30 June 2023

Cross currency 
swap/forward 
foreign exchange 
contract receive/
(pay)

Carrying 
value

Exposure

As at 30 June 2022

Cross currency 
swap/forward 
foreign exchange 
contract receive/
(pay)

Carrying 
value

Euro
United States dollars
Japanese yen

Unsecured notes denominated 
in foreign currency
United States dollars

Commercial paper

Local currency

Australian dollars

Local currency

Australian dollars

m
(3,425)
(1,500)
(5,000)

m
3,425
1,500
5,000

$m
(5,159)
(1,958)
(62)

$m
(5,457)
(2,265)
(53)

m
(3,925)
(1,500)
(5,000)

m
3,925
1,500
5,000

-

-

(7,179)

(7,775)

-

-

-

-

(310)

310

$m
(5,569)
(1,958)
(62)

$m
(5,849)
(2,177)
(54)

(7,589)

(8,080)

(443)

(443)

(448)

(448)

4.5 Financial instruments and risk management 

4.5.2 Managing our foreign currency risk (continued)

(continued)

(b) Trading

We have some exposure to foreign currency risk from our operating 

(transactional) activities. We manage this risk by:

• hedging a proportion of the exposure of foreign exchange 

transaction risk arising from firm commitments or highly probable 

forecast transactions denominated in foreign currencies in 

accordance with our risk management policy. These transactions 

may be physically settled in a foreign currency or in Australian 

dollars but with direct reference to quoted currency rates in 

accordance with a contractual formula. 

• economically hedging a proportion of foreign currency risk 

associated with trade and other creditor balances.

We hedge the above risks using forward foreign exchange 

contracts. 

Table E summarises forward foreign exchange contracts that are 

hedging our transactional currency exposures.

Table E

Telstra Group

As at 30 June 2023

As at 30 June 2022

Exposure

Forward foreign exchange 

Exposure

Forward foreign exchange 

contract receive/(pay)

contract receive/(pay)

Local currency

Austra- 

Average 

Local currency

Austra- 

Average 

lian 

dollars

exchange 

rate

lian 

dollars

exchange 

rate

m

(43)

-

m

22

-

(391)

(11,966)

(1,136)

231

5,828

454

$m

(41)

16

(333)

(104)

(12)

$

0.54

-

0.69

55.99

38.06

m

(38)

-

m

18

-

(266)

(8,607)

(770)

165

4,165

308

$m

(32)

14

(227)

(72)

(8)

$

0.57

-

0.72

57.99

39.84

Transactions to and from WOCE

British pounds sterling

Other (various currencies)

Forecast transactions

United States dollars

Indian rupee

Philippine peso

Trade payables

United States dollars

(19)

19

(29)

0.67

(85)

85

(122)

0.70

At 30 June 2023, we also had a $710 million United States dollar 

(d) Sensitivity

(2022: $442 million United States dollar) liability exposure relating 

to transactions with wholly-owned controlled entities (WOCE) that 

is economically hedged with a $175 million (2022: $175 million) bank 

deposit in the same currency. 

(c) Natural offset

We have performed a sensitivity analysis based on our foreign 

currency risk exposures existing at balance date. Table F shows the 

impact that a 10 per cent shift in applicable exchange rates would 

have on our profit after tax and on equity.

Our direct foreign exchange exposure arising from the impact of 

Table F

As at 30 June

Telstra Group

2023

2022

translation of the results of our foreign entities to Australian dollars 

is, in part, naturally offset at the Group level by foreign currency 

denominated operating and capital expenditure of functions, for 

which we do not have hedges in place.

Equity

Equity

Net 

profit

$m

76

Gain/(loss)

Net 

profit

$m

42

$m

16

(87)

(20)

(47)

$m

3

(3)

Exchange rates 

(+10%)

(-10%)

Exchange rates 

142 | Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities

Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities | F59

F60 | Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities

2023.Financial Report.book  Page 59  Wednesday, August 16, 2023  4:21 PM

2023.Financial Report.book  Page 60  Wednesday, August 16, 2023  4:21 PM

Notes to the financial statements (continued)

Telstra Financial Report 2023

Notes to the financial statements (continued)

Section 4. Our capital and risk management (continued)

Section 4. Our capital and risk management (continued)

4.5 Financial instruments and risk management 

(continued)

4.5.2 Managing our foreign currency risk

Foreign currency risk is our risk that the value of a financial 

commitment, forecast transaction, recognised asset or 

liability will fluctuate due to changes in foreign exchange 

rates. We issue debt offshore and operate internationally and 

hence we are exposed to foreign exchange risk from various 

currencies. 

This risk exposure arises primarily from:

• borrowings denominated in foreign currencies

• trade and other creditor balances denominated in foreign 

currencies

• firm commitments or highly probable forecast transactions 

for receipts and payments settled in foreign currencies or 

with prices dependent on foreign currencies

• translation risk associated with our net investments in 

foreign controlled entities (foreign operations).

(a) Borrowings 

We mitigate the foreign currency exposure on foreign currency 

denominated borrowings by converting these borrowings to 

Australian dollars using cross currency swaps.

Table D shows the cross currency swaps that are hedging our 

unsecured notes and forward foreign exchange contracts that are 

hedging United States dollar denominated commercial paper. 

Table D

Telstra Group

Exposure

As at 30 June 2023

Cross currency 

swap/forward 

foreign exchange 

contract receive/

(pay)

Carrying 

Exposure

value

Carrying 

value

As at 30 June 2022

Cross currency 

swap/forward 

foreign exchange 

contract receive/

(pay)

Local currency

Australian dollars

Local currency

Australian dollars

m

(3,425)

(1,500)

(5,000)

m

3,425

1,500

5,000

$m

(5,159)

(1,958)

(62)

$m

(5,457)

(2,265)

(53)

m

(3,925)

(1,500)

(5,000)

m

3,925

1,500

5,000

-

-

(310)

310

(7,179)

(7,775)

-

-

-

-

$m

(5,569)

(1,958)

(62)

$m

(5,849)

(2,177)

(54)

(7,589)

(8,080)

(443)

(443)

(448)

(448)

Euro

United States dollars

Japanese yen

in foreign currency

United States dollars

Commercial paper

Unsecured notes denominated 

4.5 Financial instruments and risk management 
(continued)

4.5.2 Managing our foreign currency risk (continued)

(b) Trading

We have some exposure to foreign currency risk from our operating 
(transactional) activities. We manage this risk by:

• hedging a proportion of the exposure of foreign exchange 

transaction risk arising from firm commitments or highly probable 
forecast transactions denominated in foreign currencies in 
accordance with our risk management policy. These transactions 
may be physically settled in a foreign currency or in Australian 
dollars but with direct reference to quoted currency rates in 
accordance with a contractual formula. 

• economically hedging a proportion of foreign currency risk 

associated with trade and other creditor balances.

We hedge the above risks using forward foreign exchange 
contracts. 

Table E summarises forward foreign exchange contracts that are 
hedging our transactional currency exposures.

Table E

Telstra Group

Transactions to and from WOCE
British pounds sterling
Other (various currencies)
Forecast transactions
United States dollars
Indian rupee
Philippine peso
Trade payables
United States dollars

As at 30 June 2023

As at 30 June 2022

Exposure

Forward foreign exchange 
contract receive/(pay)

Exposure

Forward foreign exchange 
contract receive/(pay)

Local currency

Austra- 
lian 
dollars

Average 
exchange 
rate

Local currency

Austra- 
lian 
dollars

Average 
exchange 
rate

m

(43)
-

m

22
-

(391)
(11,966)
(1,136)

231
5,828
454

$m

(41)
16

(333)
(104)
(12)

$

0.54
-

0.69
55.99
38.06

m

(38)
-

m

18
-

(266)
(8,607)
(770)

165
4,165
308

$m

(32)
14

(227)
(72)
(8)

$

0.57
-

0.72
57.99
39.84

(19)

19

(29)

0.67

(85)

85

(122)

0.70

At 30 June 2023, we also had a $710 million United States dollar 
(2022: $442 million United States dollar) liability exposure relating 
to transactions with wholly-owned controlled entities (WOCE) that 
is economically hedged with a $175 million (2022: $175 million) bank 
deposit in the same currency. 

(c) Natural offset

Our direct foreign exchange exposure arising from the impact of 
translation of the results of our foreign entities to Australian dollars 
is, in part, naturally offset at the Group level by foreign currency 
denominated operating and capital expenditure of functions, for 
which we do not have hedges in place.

(d) Sensitivity

We have performed a sensitivity analysis based on our foreign 
currency risk exposures existing at balance date. Table F shows the 
impact that a 10 per cent shift in applicable exchange rates would 
have on our profit after tax and on equity.

Table F

As at 30 June

Telstra Group

2023

2022

Gain/(loss)

Net 
profit

Equity

Net 
profit

Equity

$m

76

$m

16

$m

42

(87)

(20)

(47)

$m

3

(3)

Exchange rates 
(+10%)
Exchange rates 
(-10%)

Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities | F59

F60 | Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities

Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities | 143

Telstra Financial Report 20232023.Financial Report.book  Page 61  Wednesday, August 16, 2023  4:21 PM

2023.Financial Report.book  Page 62  Wednesday, August 16, 2023  4:21 PM

Notes to the financial statements (continued)

Telstra Financial Report 2023

Notes to the financial statements (continued)

Section 4. Our capital and risk management (continued)

Section 4. Our capital and risk management (continued)

4.5 Financial instruments and risk management 
(continued)

4.5.2 Managing our foreign currency risk (continued)

(d) Sensitivity (continued)

A shift of 10 per cent has been selected as a reasonably possible 
change taking into account the current level of exchange rates and 
the volatility observed both on a historical basis and on market 
expectations of future movements. This is not a forecast or 
prediction of future market conditions. We have disclosed the 
sensitivity analysis on a total portfolio basis and not separately by 
currency.

Any unhedged foreign exchange positions associated with our 
transactional exposures will directly affect profit or loss as a result 
of foreign currency movements. 

There is no significant impact on profit or loss from foreign currency 
movements associated with our borrowings portfolio that are 
swapped to Australian dollars as an offsetting entry will be 
recognised on the associated hedging instrument.

We are exposed to equity impacts from foreign currency 
movements associated with our offshore investments and our 
derivatives in cash flow hedges. The translation of our foreign 
entities’ results into the Group’s presentation currency has not been 
included in the above sensitivity analysis as this represents 
translation risk rather than transaction risk.

We have a number of exposures to individual counterparties. To 
manage this risk, we have Board approved policies that limit the 
amount of credit exposure to any single counterparty. Counterparty 
credit ratings and market conditions are reviewed continually with 
limits being revised and utilisation adjusted where appropriate. 

We also manage our credit exposure using a value at risk (VaR) 
methodology, which is an industry standard measure that estimates 
the maximum potential exposure of our risk positions as a result of 
future movements in market rates. This helps to ensure that we do 
not underestimate credit exposure with any single counterparty. 
Using VaR analysis at 30 June 2023, 100 per cent (2022: 100 per 
cent) of our derivative credit exposure was with counterparties that 
have a credit rating of A- or better.

4.5.4 Managing our liquidity risk 

Our objective is to maintain a balance between continuity and 
flexibility of funding through the use of liquid financial instruments, 
long-term and short-term borrowings, and committed available 
bank facilities.

We manage liquidity risk by:

• defining minimum levels of cash and cash equivalents
• defining minimum levels of cash and cash equivalents plus 

undrawn bank facilities

• closely monitoring rolling forecasts of liquidity reserves on the 

basis of expected business cash flows

• using instruments which trade in highly liquid markets with highly 

The analysis does not include the impact of any management action 
that might take place if these events occurred.

rated counterparties

• investing surplus funds in liquid instruments.

4.5.3 Managing our credit risk

Credit risk is the risk that a counterparty will default on its 
contractual obligations resulting in a financial loss. We are 
exposed to credit risk from our operating activities (primarily 
customer credit risk) and financing activities. 

We manage credit risk by:

• applying Board approved credit policies
• monitoring exposure to high-risk debtors
• requiring collateral where appropriate
• assigning credit limits to all financial counterparties.

Our access to commercial paper programs continue to be supported 
by a combination of liquid financial assets, and access to 
committed bank facilities. 

Table G shows our total and undrawn committed bank facilities. As 
at 30 June 2023, we had total available facilities of $3,613 million, 
the majority of which were held by Telstra Corporation Limited, a 
wholly-owned subsidiary of Telstra Group Limited. Refer to note 1.2 
for further details on the Telstra Group restructure.

Our committed facilities mature on a staggered basis over the next 
5 years with $3,600 million maturing beyond 12 months. Drawings 
under our bank facilities and commercial paper issues are shown on 
a gross basis in the statement of cash flows.

As at 30 June

2023

2022

$m
3,613
(918)

2,695

$m
3,800
(14)

3,786

We may also be subject to credit risk on transactions not included 
in the statement of financial position, such as when we provide a 
guarantee for another party. Details of our contingent liabilities are 
disclosed in notes 7.3.1 and 7.4.2. 

Table G

Telstra Group

Facilities available
Facilities used

Facilities unused

(a) Customer credit risk

Trade and other receivables and contract assets consist of a large 
number of customers, spread across the consumer, business, 
enterprise, government and international sectors. Our credit 
management team assesses customers’ credit quality, and defines 
and monitors credit limits by customer. Sales to overdue customers 
are prohibited unless appropriately approved. Compliance with 
credit limits and approval process is regularly monitored. Other 
than nbn co, we do not have any significant credit risk exposure to a 
single customer or group of customers. 

Refer to note 3.3 for details about our trade and other receivables 
and contract assets.

(b) Treasury credit risk

We are exposed to credit risk from the investment of surplus funds 
(primarily deposits) and from the use of derivative financial 
instruments.

4.5 Financial instruments and risk management 

(continued)

4.5.4 Managing our liquidity risk (continued)

Table H shows the maturity profile of our financial liabilities 

including estimated interest payments. We reduce refinancing risk 

by ensuring that our borrowings mature in different periods. Table 

H also includes derivative financial assets as these assets have a 

direct relationship with an underlying financial liability and both the 

asset and the liability are managed together.

The amounts disclosed are undiscounted contractual future cash 

flows and therefore do not reconcile to the amounts in the 

statement of financial position. 

Contractual maturity

As at 30 June 2023

As at 30 June 2022 (restated)

Less 

than 1 

year

1 to 2 

years

2 to 5 

years

Total

More 

than 5 

years

Less 

than 1 

year

1 to 2 

years

2 to 5 

years

Total

More 

than 5 

years

$m

$m

$m

$m

$m

$m

$m

$m

$m

$m

(1,814)

(1,564)

(3,187)

(2,627)

(2,017)

(1,681)

(3,195)

(2,396)

(9,289)

(9,192)

(433)

(1,667)

-

-

(451)

(207)

(86)

(1,052)

(1,149)

-

(433)

(410)

(6)

(18)

-

-

(906)

(351)

(5)

(20)

(415)

(323)

-

-

-

-

-

(451)

(945)

-

(63)

(729)

(830)

(20)

(17)

(59)

(719)

(815)

(362)

(294)

(523)

(530)

(1,709)

(261)

(191)

(294)

(60)

(806)

(539)

(591)

(1,021)

(1,571)

(3,722)

(550)

(546)

(1,196)

(1,394)

(3,686)

(4,365)

(208)

-

-

(4,573)

(4,209)

(233)

-

(4,442)

-

-

-

Table H

Telstra Group

Unsecured notes

Commercial paper

Bank and other loans

Non-recourse borrowing 

facilities

Other financial liabilities

Interest on unsecured 

notes, non-recourse 

facilities, bank and other 

loans

Lease liabilities

Trade/other payables and 

accrued expenses

Derivative financial 

liabilities

Total

Derivative financial assets

2,529

1,753

2,321

2,750

9,353

2,668

1,787

2,860

2,456

9,771

(2,203)

(1,675)

(2,373)

(2,939)

(9,190)

(2,463)

(1,619)

(2,996)

(2,718)

(9,796)

(7,621)

(3,510)

(5,283)

(6,698)

(23,112)

(7,510)

(2,915)

(5,203)

(4,831)

(20,459)

The comparative amounts have been restated as a result of the prior 

period restatement of contract liabilities and related balances as 

detailed in note 1.7. 

4.5.5 Hedge accounting

Hedging refers to the way in which we use financial instruments, 

primarily derivatives, to manage our exposure to financial risks. The 

gain or loss on the underlying item (the ‘hedged item’) is expected 

to move in the opposite direction to the gain or loss on the derivative 

(the ‘hedging instrument’), therefore offsetting our risk position. 

Hedge accounting allows the matching of the gains and losses on 

hedged items and associated hedging instruments in the same 

accounting period to minimise volatility in the income statement. 

In order to qualify for hedge accounting, prospective hedge 

effectiveness testing must meet all of the following criteria:

• an economic relationship exists between the hedged item and 

hedging instrument

• the effect of credit risk does not dominate the value changes 

resulting from the economic relationship

• the hedge ratio is the same as that resulting from actual amounts 

of hedged items and hedging instruments for risk management.

144 | Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities

Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities | F61

F62 | Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities

2023.Financial Report.book  Page 61  Wednesday, August 16, 2023  4:21 PM

2023.Financial Report.book  Page 62  Wednesday, August 16, 2023  4:21 PM

Notes to the financial statements (continued)

Telstra Financial Report 2023

Notes to the financial statements (continued)

Section 4. Our capital and risk management (continued)

Section 4. Our capital and risk management (continued)

4.5 Financial instruments and risk management 
(continued)

4.5.4 Managing our liquidity risk (continued)

Table H shows the maturity profile of our financial liabilities 
including estimated interest payments. We reduce refinancing risk 
by ensuring that our borrowings mature in different periods. Table 
H also includes derivative financial assets as these assets have a 
direct relationship with an underlying financial liability and both the 
asset and the liability are managed together.

The amounts disclosed are undiscounted contractual future cash 
flows and therefore do not reconcile to the amounts in the 
statement of financial position. 

Table H

Telstra Group

As at 30 June 2023

As at 30 June 2022 (restated)

Contractual maturity

Less 
than 1 
year

$m
(1,814)
(433)
(410)

(6)

(18)

$m
(1,564)
-
(906)

(5)

(20)

1 to 2 
years

2 to 5 
years

More 
than 5 
years

$m
(2,627)
-
-

Total

$m

(9,192)
(433)
(1,667)

Less 
than 1 
year

$m
(2,017)
(451)
(207)

$m
(3,187)
-
(351)

1 to 2 
years

2 to 5 
years

More 
than 5 
years

$m
(2,396)
-
-

Total

$m

(9,289)
(451)
(945)

$m
(3,195)
-
(323)

(86)

(1,052)

(1,149)

-

(63)

(729)

(830)

(20)

-

-

-

(59)

(719)

(815)

$m
(1,681)
-
(415)

-

(17)

(362)

(294)

(523)

(530)

(1,709)

(261)

(191)

(294)

(60)

(806)

(539)

(591)

(1,021)

(1,571)

(3,722)

(550)

(546)

(1,196)

(1,394)

(3,686)

(4,365)

(208)

-

-

(4,573)

(4,209)

(233)

-

-

(4,442)

2,529

1,753

2,321

2,750

9,353

2,668

1,787

2,860

2,456

9,771

(2,203)

(1,675)

(2,373)

(2,939)

(9,190)

(2,463)

(1,619)

(2,996)

(2,718)

(9,796)

Unsecured notes
Commercial paper
Bank and other loans
Non-recourse borrowing 
facilities
Other financial liabilities
Interest on unsecured 
notes, non-recourse 
facilities, bank and other 
loans
Lease liabilities
Trade/other payables and 
accrued expenses
Derivative financial assets
Derivative financial 
liabilities

Total

(7,621)

(3,510)

(5,283)

(6,698)

(23,112)

(7,510)

(2,915)

(5,203)

(4,831)

(20,459)

The comparative amounts have been restated as a result of the prior 
period restatement of contract liabilities and related balances as 
detailed in note 1.7. 

4.5.5 Hedge accounting

Hedging refers to the way in which we use financial instruments, 
primarily derivatives, to manage our exposure to financial risks. The 
gain or loss on the underlying item (the ‘hedged item’) is expected 
to move in the opposite direction to the gain or loss on the derivative 
(the ‘hedging instrument’), therefore offsetting our risk position. 
Hedge accounting allows the matching of the gains and losses on 
hedged items and associated hedging instruments in the same 
accounting period to minimise volatility in the income statement. 

In order to qualify for hedge accounting, prospective hedge 
effectiveness testing must meet all of the following criteria:

• an economic relationship exists between the hedged item and 

hedging instrument

• the effect of credit risk does not dominate the value changes 

resulting from the economic relationship

• the hedge ratio is the same as that resulting from actual amounts 
of hedged items and hedging instruments for risk management.

Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities | F61

F62 | Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities

Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities | 145

4.5 Financial instruments and risk management 

(continued)

4.5.2 Managing our foreign currency risk (continued)

(d) Sensitivity (continued)

We have a number of exposures to individual counterparties. To 

manage this risk, we have Board approved policies that limit the 

amount of credit exposure to any single counterparty. Counterparty 

credit ratings and market conditions are reviewed continually with 

limits being revised and utilisation adjusted where appropriate. 

A shift of 10 per cent has been selected as a reasonably possible 

We also manage our credit exposure using a value at risk (VaR) 

change taking into account the current level of exchange rates and 

methodology, which is an industry standard measure that estimates 

the volatility observed both on a historical basis and on market 

the maximum potential exposure of our risk positions as a result of 

expectations of future movements. This is not a forecast or 

future movements in market rates. This helps to ensure that we do 

prediction of future market conditions. We have disclosed the 

not underestimate credit exposure with any single counterparty. 

sensitivity analysis on a total portfolio basis and not separately by 

Using VaR analysis at 30 June 2023, 100 per cent (2022: 100 per 

currency.

Any unhedged foreign exchange positions associated with our 

transactional exposures will directly affect profit or loss as a result 

4.5.4 Managing our liquidity risk 

of foreign currency movements. 

There is no significant impact on profit or loss from foreign currency 

flexibility of funding through the use of liquid financial instruments, 

movements associated with our borrowings portfolio that are 

long-term and short-term borrowings, and committed available 

Our objective is to maintain a balance between continuity and 

cent) of our derivative credit exposure was with counterparties that 

have a credit rating of A- or better.

swapped to Australian dollars as an offsetting entry will be 

bank facilities.

recognised on the associated hedging instrument.

We manage liquidity risk by:

We are exposed to equity impacts from foreign currency 

movements associated with our offshore investments and our 

derivatives in cash flow hedges. The translation of our foreign 

entities’ results into the Group’s presentation currency has not been 

included in the above sensitivity analysis as this represents 

translation risk rather than transaction risk.

• defining minimum levels of cash and cash equivalents

• defining minimum levels of cash and cash equivalents plus 

undrawn bank facilities

• closely monitoring rolling forecasts of liquidity reserves on the 

basis of expected business cash flows

• using instruments which trade in highly liquid markets with highly 

The analysis does not include the impact of any management action 

rated counterparties

that might take place if these events occurred.

• investing surplus funds in liquid instruments.

4.5.3 Managing our credit risk

Credit risk is the risk that a counterparty will default on its 

contractual obligations resulting in a financial loss. We are 

exposed to credit risk from our operating activities (primarily 

customer credit risk) and financing activities. 

We manage credit risk by:

• applying Board approved credit policies

• monitoring exposure to high-risk debtors

• requiring collateral where appropriate

• assigning credit limits to all financial counterparties.

Our access to commercial paper programs continue to be supported 

by a combination of liquid financial assets, and access to 

committed bank facilities. 

Table G shows our total and undrawn committed bank facilities. As 

at 30 June 2023, we had total available facilities of $3,613 million, 

the majority of which were held by Telstra Corporation Limited, a 

wholly-owned subsidiary of Telstra Group Limited. Refer to note 1.2 

for further details on the Telstra Group restructure.

Our committed facilities mature on a staggered basis over the next 

5 years with $3,600 million maturing beyond 12 months. Drawings 

under our bank facilities and commercial paper issues are shown on 

a gross basis in the statement of cash flows.

We may also be subject to credit risk on transactions not included 

in the statement of financial position, such as when we provide a 

guarantee for another party. Details of our contingent liabilities are 

Table G

Telstra Group

Facilities available

Facilities used

Facilities unused

As at 30 June

2023

2022

$m

3,613

(918)

2,695

$m

3,800

(14)

3,786

disclosed in notes 7.3.1 and 7.4.2. 

(a) Customer credit risk

Trade and other receivables and contract assets consist of a large 

number of customers, spread across the consumer, business, 

enterprise, government and international sectors. Our credit 

management team assesses customers’ credit quality, and defines 

and monitors credit limits by customer. Sales to overdue customers 

are prohibited unless appropriately approved. Compliance with 

credit limits and approval process is regularly monitored. Other 

than nbn co, we do not have any significant credit risk exposure to a 

single customer or group of customers. 

Refer to note 3.3 for details about our trade and other receivables 

and contract assets.

(b) Treasury credit risk

We are exposed to credit risk from the investment of surplus funds 

(primarily deposits) and from the use of derivative financial 

instruments.

Telstra Financial Report 20232023.Financial Report.book  Page 63  Wednesday, August 16, 2023  4:21 PM

2023.Financial Report.book  Page 64  Wednesday, August 16, 2023  4:21 PM

Notes to the financial statements (continued)

Telstra Financial Report 2023

Notes to the financial statements (continued)

Section 4. Our capital and risk management (continued)

Section 4. Our capital and risk management (continued)

4.5 Financial instruments and risk management 
(continued)

4.5.5 Hedge accounting (continued)

To the extent permitted by Australian Accounting Standards, we 
formally designate and document our financial instruments by 
hedge type as follows: 

Fair value hedges

Cash flow hedges

Objectives of this hedging 
arrangement

To hedge the exposure to changes in the 
fair value of borrowings which are issued at 
a fixed rate, or denominated in foreign 
currency, by converting to floating rate 
borrowings denominated in Australian 
dollars.

Instruments used

We enter into cross currency and interest 
rate swaps to mitigate our exposure to 
changes in the fair value of our long-term 
borrowings.

To hedge the exposure to changes in cash 
flows from borrowings that bear floating 
interest rates or are denominated in foreign 
currency. Cash flow hedging is also used to 
mitigate the foreign currency exposure 
arising from highly probable and 
committed future foreign currency cash 
flows.

We enter into cross currency and interest 
rate swaps to hedge future cash flows 
arising from our borrowings. 

We use forward foreign exchange contracts 
to hedge a portion of firm commitments 
and highly probable forecast transactions.

Economic relationships

In all our hedge relationships, the critical terms of the hedging instrument and hedged item 
(including face values, cash flows and currency) are generally aligned.

Discontinuation of hedge 
accounting

Hedge accounting is discontinued when a hedging instrument expires, is sold, terminated, or 
no longer meets the criteria for hedge accounting. At that time, any cumulative gains or 
losses relating to cash flow hedges recognised in equity are initially retained in equity and 
subsequently recognised in the income statement as the previously hedged item affects 
profit or loss. 

For fair value hedges, the cumulative adjustment recorded against the carrying value of the 
hedged item at the date hedge accounting ceases is amortised to the income statement 
using the effective interest method. 

4.5 Financial instruments and risk management 

(b) Fair value hedges

(continued)

4.5.5 Hedge accounting (continued)

Table I shows the carrying value of each component of our gross 

debt including derivative financial instruments categorised by 

All changes in the fair value of the underlying item relating to the 

hedged risk are recognised in the income statement together with 

the changes in the fair value of derivatives. The net difference is 

recorded in the income statement as ineffectiveness. The carrying 

value of borrowings in effective fair value hedge relationships is 

adjusted for gains or losses attributable to the risk(s) being hedged.

hedge type.

Table I

Telstra Group

Borrowings by hedge designation

Not in an accounting hedge 

Fair value hedges

Cash flow hedges

relationship

Total borrowings

Lease liabilities

Total borrowings and lease 

liabilities

Derivative assets by hedge 

designation

Fair value hedges

Cash flow hedges

Not in an accounting hedge 

relationship

Total derivative assets

Derivative liabilities by hedge 

designation

Fair value hedges

Cash flow hedges

Not in an accounting hedge 

relationship

Total derivative liabilities

Total gross debt

As at 30 June

Table J outlines the cumulative amount of fair value hedge 

adjustments that are included in the carrying amount of borrowings 

2023

2022

in the statement of financial position. 

$m

$m

(1,391)

(6,526)

(2,392)

(5,733)

Table J

Telstra Group

(4,758)

(2,857)

Principal value

(12,675)

(10,982)

(3,191)

(3,287)

(15,866)

(14,269)

Unamortised discounts/premiums

Amortised cost

Cumulative fair value hedge 

adjustments

Carrying amount

As at 30 June

2023

2022

(1,557)

(2,493)

(1,549)

(2,486)

$m

8

158

$m

7

94

(1,391)

(2,392)

Table K shows the ineffectiveness recognised in the income 

statement. We have excluded foreign currency basis spreads from 

our designated fair value and cash flow hedge relationships.

24

713

41

778

(242)

(17)

(3)

293

511

10

814

(240)

(65)

-

(262)

(305)

(15,350)

(13,760)

Table K

Telstra Group

Remeasurement of hedged item used 

to measure ineffectiveness

Change in value of hedging 

instruments

Net gain before tax from 

ineffectiveness

Net gain after tax

Year ended 30 June

2023

2022

(Gain)/

(Gain)/

loss

loss

$m

1

(6)

(5)

(4)

$m

(325)

302

(23)

(16)

The principal value of our gross debt on an equivalent basis was 

$15,260 million (2022: $13,758 million). Principal value represents 

contractual obligations less future finance charges, excluding fair 

value remeasurements and for foreign denominated balances 

equates to the principal value in the underlying currency converted 

at the spot exchange rate as at 30 June 2023.

(a) Derivatives not in an accounting hedge relationship

Some derivatives may not qualify for hedge accounting or are 

specifically not designated as a hedge as natural offset achieves 

substantially the same accounting results. This includes forward 

foreign currency contracts that are used to economically hedge 

exchange rate fluctuations associated with trade payables or other 

liability and asset balances denominated in a foreign currency.

146 | Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities

Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities | F63

F64 | Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities

Notes to the financial statements (continued)2023.Financial Report.book  Page 63  Wednesday, August 16, 2023  4:21 PM

2023.Financial Report.book  Page 64  Wednesday, August 16, 2023  4:21 PM

Notes to the financial statements (continued)

Telstra Financial Report 2023

Notes to the financial statements (continued)

Section 4. Our capital and risk management (continued)

Section 4. Our capital and risk management (continued)

4.5 Financial instruments and risk management 

(continued)

4.5.5 Hedge accounting (continued)

To the extent permitted by Australian Accounting Standards, we 

formally designate and document our financial instruments by 

hedge type as follows: 

Fair value hedges

Cash flow hedges

Objectives of this hedging 

To hedge the exposure to changes in the 

To hedge the exposure to changes in cash 

arrangement

fair value of borrowings which are issued at 

flows from borrowings that bear floating 

Instruments used

a fixed rate, or denominated in foreign 

currency, by converting to floating rate 

borrowings denominated in Australian 

dollars.

interest rates or are denominated in foreign 

currency. Cash flow hedging is also used to 

mitigate the foreign currency exposure 

arising from highly probable and 

committed future foreign currency cash 

flows.

We enter into cross currency and interest 

We enter into cross currency and interest 

rate swaps to mitigate our exposure to 

rate swaps to hedge future cash flows 

changes in the fair value of our long-term 

arising from our borrowings. 

borrowings.

We use forward foreign exchange contracts 

to hedge a portion of firm commitments 

and highly probable forecast transactions.

Economic relationships

In all our hedge relationships, the critical terms of the hedging instrument and hedged item 

(including face values, cash flows and currency) are generally aligned.

Discontinuation of hedge 

Hedge accounting is discontinued when a hedging instrument expires, is sold, terminated, or 

accounting

no longer meets the criteria for hedge accounting. At that time, any cumulative gains or 

losses relating to cash flow hedges recognised in equity are initially retained in equity and 

subsequently recognised in the income statement as the previously hedged item affects 

profit or loss. 

For fair value hedges, the cumulative adjustment recorded against the carrying value of the 

hedged item at the date hedge accounting ceases is amortised to the income statement 

using the effective interest method. 

(b) Fair value hedges

All changes in the fair value of the underlying item relating to the 
hedged risk are recognised in the income statement together with 
the changes in the fair value of derivatives. The net difference is 
recorded in the income statement as ineffectiveness. The carrying 
value of borrowings in effective fair value hedge relationships is 
adjusted for gains or losses attributable to the risk(s) being hedged.

Table J outlines the cumulative amount of fair value hedge 
adjustments that are included in the carrying amount of borrowings 
in the statement of financial position. 

Table J

Telstra Group

Principal value
Unamortised discounts/premiums

Amortised cost
Cumulative fair value hedge 
adjustments

Carrying amount

As at 30 June

2023

2022

$m
(1,557)
8

(1,549)

$m
(2,493)
7

(2,486)

158

94

(1,391)

(2,392)

Table K shows the ineffectiveness recognised in the income 
statement. We have excluded foreign currency basis spreads from 
our designated fair value and cash flow hedge relationships.

Table K

Telstra Group

Remeasurement of hedged item used 
to measure ineffectiveness
Change in value of hedging 
instruments

Net gain before tax from 
ineffectiveness
Net gain after tax

Year ended 30 June

2023

(Gain)/
loss

2022

(Gain)/
loss

$m

1

(6)

(5)

(4)

$m

(325)

302

(23)

(16)

4.5 Financial instruments and risk management 
(continued)

4.5.5 Hedge accounting (continued)

Table I shows the carrying value of each component of our gross 
debt including derivative financial instruments categorised by 
hedge type.

Table I

Telstra Group

Borrowings by hedge designation
Fair value hedges
Cash flow hedges
Not in an accounting hedge 
relationship

Total borrowings
Lease liabilities

Total borrowings and lease 
liabilities
Derivative assets by hedge 
designation
Fair value hedges
Cash flow hedges
Not in an accounting hedge 
relationship

Total derivative assets
Derivative liabilities by hedge 
designation
Fair value hedges
Cash flow hedges
Not in an accounting hedge 
relationship

Total derivative liabilities
Total gross debt

As at 30 June

2023

2022

$m

$m

(1,391)
(6,526)

(2,392)
(5,733)

(4,758)

(2,857)

(12,675)
(3,191)

(10,982)
(3,287)

(15,866)

(14,269)

24
713

41

778

(242)
(17)

(3)

293
511

10

814

(240)
(65)

-

(262)
(15,350)

(305)
(13,760)

The principal value of our gross debt on an equivalent basis was 
$15,260 million (2022: $13,758 million). Principal value represents 
contractual obligations less future finance charges, excluding fair 
value remeasurements and for foreign denominated balances 
equates to the principal value in the underlying currency converted 
at the spot exchange rate as at 30 June 2023.

(a) Derivatives not in an accounting hedge relationship

Some derivatives may not qualify for hedge accounting or are 
specifically not designated as a hedge as natural offset achieves 
substantially the same accounting results. This includes forward 
foreign currency contracts that are used to economically hedge 
exchange rate fluctuations associated with trade payables or other 
liability and asset balances denominated in a foreign currency.

Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities | F63

F64 | Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities

Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities | 147

Telstra Financial Report 20232023.Financial Report.book  Page 65  Wednesday, August 16, 2023  4:21 PM

Notes to the financial statements (continued)

Telstra Financial Report 2023

Section 4. Our capital and risk management (continued)

Table M shows when the cash flows are expected to occur with 
respect to items in cash flow hedges (i.e. notional cash outflows). 
These amounts are the undiscounted cash flows reported in 
Australian dollars.

Table M

Telstra Group

Non-capital items
Within 1 year
Within 1 to 5 years
Capital items
Within 1 year
Within 1 to 5 years
Borrowings
Within 1 year
Within 1 to 5 years
After 5 years

As at 30 June

2023

2022

$m

$m

(695)
(13)

(132)
(2)

(1,798)
(3,776)
(1,455)

(7,871)

(466)
-

(99)
-

(132)
(4,421)
(1,674)

(6,792)

Non-capital items will be recognised in the income statement in the 
same period in which the cash flows are expected to occur. For 
capital items, the hedged assets affect the income statement as 
the assets are depreciated over their useful lives.

4.5 Financial instruments and risk management 
(continued)

4.5.5 Hedge accounting (continued)

(c) Cash flow hedges

The portion of the gain or loss on the hedging instrument that is 
effective (i.e. offsets the movement on the hedged item) is 
recognised directly in the cash flow hedging reserve in equity and 
any ineffective portion is recognised within net finance costs 
directly in the income statement.

Gains or losses deferred in the cash flow hedging reserve are 
subsequently:

• transferred to the income statement when the hedged 

transaction affects profit or loss

• included in the measurement of the initial cost of the assets 

where the hedged item is for purchases of property, plant and 
equipment

• transferred immediately to the income statement if a forecast 

hedged transaction is no longer expected to occur.

During the current and prior financial years, there was no material 
impact on profit or loss resulting from ineffectiveness of our cash 
flow hedges or from discontinuing hedge accounting for forecast 
transactions no longer expected to occur.

Table L presents the hedge gains or losses transferred to and from 
the cash flow hedging reserve.

Table L

Telstra Group

Year ended 30 June

2023

2022

Changes in fair value of cash flow 
hedges
Changes in fair value transferred to 
other expenses
Changes in fair value transferred to 
goods and services purchased
Changes in fair value transferred to 
finance costs
Changes in fair value transferred to 
property, plant and equipment

Cash flow hedging reserve
Income tax on movements in the cash 
flow hedging reserve

$m

193

(389)

(10)

98

(4)

(112)

33

(79)

$m

152

(43)

(11)

107

(1)

204

(54)

150

148 | Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities

Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities | F65

4.5 Financial instruments and risk management 

(continued)

4.5.5 Hedge accounting (continued)

(c) Cash flow hedges

The portion of the gain or loss on the hedging instrument that is 

Table M

effective (i.e. offsets the movement on the hedged item) is 

recognised directly in the cash flow hedging reserve in equity and 

any ineffective portion is recognised within net finance costs 

directly in the income statement.

Gains or losses deferred in the cash flow hedging reserve are 

subsequently:

• transferred to the income statement when the hedged 

transaction affects profit or loss

• included in the measurement of the initial cost of the assets 

where the hedged item is for purchases of property, plant and 

equipment

• transferred immediately to the income statement if a forecast 

hedged transaction is no longer expected to occur.

Telstra Group

Non-capital items

Within 1 year

Within 1 to 5 years

Capital items

Within 1 year

Within 1 to 5 years

Borrowings

Within 1 year

Within 1 to 5 years

During the current and prior financial years, there was no material 

After 5 years

impact on profit or loss resulting from ineffectiveness of our cash 

flow hedges or from discontinuing hedge accounting for forecast 

transactions no longer expected to occur.

Table L presents the hedge gains or losses transferred to and from 

the cash flow hedging reserve.

Table L

Telstra Group

Year ended 30 June

2023

2022

Changes in fair value of cash flow 

hedges

Changes in fair value transferred to 

other expenses

Changes in fair value transferred to 

goods and services purchased

Changes in fair value transferred to 

finance costs

Changes in fair value transferred to 

property, plant and equipment

Cash flow hedging reserve

Income tax on movements in the cash 

flow hedging reserve

$m

193

(389)

(10)

98

(4)

(112)

33

(79)

$m

152

(43)

(11)

107

(1)

204

(54)

150

2023.Financial Report.book  Page 65  Wednesday, August 16, 2023  4:21 PM

2023.Financial Report.book  Page 66  Wednesday, August 16, 2023  4:21 PM

Notes to the financial statements (continued)

Telstra Financial Report 2023

Notes to the financial statements (continued)

Section 4. Our capital and risk management (continued)

Section 4. Our capital and risk management (continued)

Table M shows when the cash flows are expected to occur with 

respect to items in cash flow hedges (i.e. notional cash outflows). 

These amounts are the undiscounted cash flows reported in 

Australian dollars.

4.5 Financial instruments and risk management 
(continued)

4.5.6 Valuation and disclosures within fair value hierarchy

As at 30 June

2023

2022

$m

$m

(695)

(13)

(132)

(2)

(1,798)

(3,776)

(1,455)

(7,871)

(466)

-

-

(99)

(132)

(4,421)

(1,674)

(6,792)

The financial instruments included in the statement of 
financial position are measured either at fair value or their 
carrying value approximates fair value, with the exception of 
borrowings, which are held at amortised cost.

To determine fair value, we use both observable and 
unobservable inputs. We classify the inputs used in the 
valuation of our financial instruments according to a three 
level hierarchy as shown below. The classification is based on 
the lowest level input that is significant to the fair value 
measurement as a whole.

During the financial year 2023, there were no changes in valuation 
techniques for recurring fair value measurements of our financial 
instruments. There were also no transfers between fair value 
hierarchy levels.

The table below summaries the methods used to estimate the fair 
value of our financial instruments. As at 30 June 2023, there were no 
financial instruments measured using level 1 inputs.

Non-capital items will be recognised in the income statement in the 

same period in which the cash flows are expected to occur. For 

capital items, the hedged assets affect the income statement as 

the assets are depreciated over their useful lives.

Level

Financial instrument

Fair value

Level 1: quoted (unadjusted) 
market prices in active 
markets for identical assets 
or liabilities

Level 2: the lowest level 
input that is significant to 
the fair value measurement 
is directly (as prices) or 
indirectly (derived from 
prices) observable

Listed investments in equity 
instruments

Quoted prices in active markets.

Borrowings, cross currency and 
interest rate swaps

Valuation techniques maximising the use of observable 
market data. Present value of the estimated future cash 
flows using appropriate market-based yield curves, 
which are independently derived. Yield curves are 
sourced from readily available market data quoted for 
all major currencies.

Forward contracts

Quoted forward rates at reporting date for contracts 
with similar maturity profiles.

Level 3: one or more key 
inputs for the instrument are 
not based on observable 
market data (unobservable 
inputs)

Unlisted investments in equity 
instruments

Valuation techniques (where one or more of the 
significant inputs is not based on observable market 
data) include reference to discounted cash flows and 
fair values of recent orderly sell transactions between 
market participants involving instruments that are 
substantially the same.

Contingent consideration

Initial recognition: expectations of future performance 
of the business. Subsequent measurement: present 
value of the future expected cash flows.

Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities | F65

F66 | Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities

Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities | 149

Telstra Financial Report 20232023.Financial Report.book  Page 67  Wednesday, August 16, 2023  4:21 PM

2023.Financial Report.book  Page 68  Wednesday, August 16, 2023  4:21 PM

Notes to the financial statements (continued)

Telstra Financial Report 2023

Notes to the financial statements (continued)

Section 4. Our capital and risk management (continued)

Section 4. Our capital and risk management (continued)

4.5 Financial instruments and risk management 
(continued)

4.5.6 Valuation and disclosures within fair value hierarchy 
(continued)

Table N categorises our financial instruments which are measured 
at fair value, according to the valuation methodology applied. 

Table N

Telstra Group

As at 30 June 2023

As at 30 June 2022

Level 2

Level 3

Total

Level 2

Level 3

Total

Assets
Derivative financial instruments
Investments in unlisted securities

Liabilities
Derivative financial instruments
Contingent consideration

Total

$m

767
-

767

(262)
-

(262)
505

$m

11
22

33

-
(251)

(251)
(218)

$m

778
22
800

(262)
(251)
(513)
287

$m

814
-

814

(305)
-

(305)
509

$m

-
15

15

-
(72)

(72)
(57)

$m

814
15
829

(305)
(72)
(377)
452

Fair value of borrowings presented in Table C in note 4.4.1 was 
measured using level 2 inputs.

Table O details movements in contingent consideration measured 
using level 3 inputs.

Table O

Telstra Group

Year ended 30 June

2023

2022

Opening balance at 1 July
Amounts recognised on acquisition
Cash settlements made during the 
period
Remeasurements recognised in the 
income statement
Interest recognised in the income 
statement
Translation impacts recognised in 
foreign currency translation reserve

$m

(72)
(243)

88

(10)

(10)

(4)

$m

(4)
(60)

-

(8)

-

-

Closing balance at 30 June

(251)

(72)

Additions in contingent consideration measured using level 3 inputs 
resulted from $243 million recognised on the acquisition of Digicel 
Pacific. Refer to note 6.1.2 for further details.

4.5 Financial instruments and risk management 

(continued)

4.5.7 Offsetting and netting arrangements

Table P presents financial assets and financial liabilities that are 

offset, or subject to enforceable master netting arrangements or 

other similar agreements but not offset. 

The column ‘net amounts’ shows the impact on the statement of 

financial position if all set-off rights were exercised. ‘Related 

amounts not offset in the statement of financial position’ reflect 

amounts subject to conditional offsetting arrangements.

Table P                                         

Effects of offsetting in the statement of 

Related amounts not offset in the 

financial position

statement of financial position

Telstra Group

Gross 

amounts

Gross 

Net amounts 

Financial 

Collateral 

Net amounts

amounts 

presented in 

instruments

received or 

pledged

offset in the 

the 

statement of 

statement of 

financial 

position

financial 

position

$m

$m

$m

$m

$m

$m

A

B

C=A-B

D

E

F=C-D-E

As at 30 June 2023

Cash and cash equivalents

Borrowings

Trade and other receivables and 

contract assets

Trade and other payables

Derivative financial assets

Derivative financial liabilities

Total

Trade and other receivables and 

contract assets

Trade and other payables

Derivative financial assets

Derivative financial liabilities

Total

250

(204)

319

(207)

752

(262)

648

309

(210)

814

(305)

608

204

(204)

102

(102)

-

-

-

-

-

-

68

(68)

46

-

217

(105)

752

(262)

648

241

(142)

814

(305)

608

As at 30 June 2022

-

-

50

(50)

171

(171)

-

53

(53)

204

(204)

-

-

-

8

-

-

-

8

9

-

-

-

9

46

-

159

(55)

581

(91)

640

179

(89)

610

(101)

599

During the financial year 2023, a number of the Telstra Group 

Our rights of set-off that are not otherwise included in column B of 

wholly-owned subsidiaries entered into customary multi-entity 

Table P, related to:

bank account set-off facilities, under which bank accounts are 

managed on an aggregated basis. As a result, as at 30 June 2023 

cash and overdraft balance sheet positions of different legal 

entities were presented net in the statement of financial position.   

• our inter-operative tariff arrangements with some of our 

international roaming partners, where we have executed 

agreements that allow the netting of amounts payable and 

receivable by us on cessation of the contract

• our wholesale customers, where we have executed Customer 

Relationship Agreements that allow for the netting of amounts 

payable and receivable by us in certain circumstances where 

there is a right to suspend the supply of services or on the 

expiration or termination of the agreement

• our derivative financial instruments, where we have executed 

master netting arrangements under our International Swaps and 

Derivatives Association agreements. These agreements allow for 

the netting of amounts payable and receivable by us or the 

counterparty in the event of default or a credit event. In line with 

contractual provisions, in the event of insolvency all derivatives 

with a positive or negative fair value that exist with the respective 

counterparty are offset against each other, leaving a net 

receivable or liability.

150 | Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities

Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities | F67

F68 | Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities

2023.Financial Report.book  Page 67  Wednesday, August 16, 2023  4:21 PM

2023.Financial Report.book  Page 68  Wednesday, August 16, 2023  4:21 PM

Notes to the financial statements (continued)

Telstra Financial Report 2023

Notes to the financial statements (continued)

Section 4. Our capital and risk management (continued)

Section 4. Our capital and risk management (continued)

Table N

Telstra Group

As at 30 June 2023

As at 30 June 2022

Level 2

Level 3

Total

Level 2

Level 3

Total

$m

778

22

800

(262)

(251)

(513)

287

$m

814

-

814

(305)

-

(305)

509

$m

-

15

15

-

(72)

(72)

(57)

$m

814

15

829

(305)

(72)

(377)

452

4.5 Financial instruments and risk management 

4.5.6 Valuation and disclosures within fair value hierarchy 

(continued)

(continued)

Table N categorises our financial instruments which are measured 

at fair value, according to the valuation methodology applied. 

Assets

Derivative financial instruments

Investments in unlisted securities

Liabilities

Derivative financial instruments

Contingent consideration

Total

using level 3 inputs.

Table O

Telstra Group

Opening balance at 1 July

Amounts recognised on acquisition

Cash settlements made during the 

period

Remeasurements recognised in the 

income statement

Interest recognised in the income 

statement

Translation impacts recognised in 

foreign currency translation reserve

$m

767

-

767

(262)

-

(262)

505

$m

(72)

(243)

88

(10)

(10)

(4)

$m

11

22

33

-

(251)

(251)

(218)

$m

(4)

(60)

(8)

-

-

-

Fair value of borrowings presented in Table C in note 4.4.1 was 

measured using level 2 inputs.

Table O details movements in contingent consideration measured 

Year ended 30 June

2023

2022

Closing balance at 30 June

(251)

(72)

Additions in contingent consideration measured using level 3 inputs 

resulted from $243 million recognised on the acquisition of Digicel 

Pacific. Refer to note 6.1.2 for further details.

4.5 Financial instruments and risk management 
(continued)

4.5.7 Offsetting and netting arrangements

Table P presents financial assets and financial liabilities that are 
offset, or subject to enforceable master netting arrangements or 
other similar agreements but not offset. 

The column ‘net amounts’ shows the impact on the statement of 
financial position if all set-off rights were exercised. ‘Related 
amounts not offset in the statement of financial position’ reflect 
amounts subject to conditional offsetting arrangements.

Table P                                         

Telstra Group

Effects of offsetting in the statement of 
financial position

Related amounts not offset in the 
statement of financial position

Gross 
amounts

Gross 
amounts 
offset in the 
statement of 
financial 
position

Net amounts 
presented in 
the 
statement of 
financial 
position

Financial 
instruments

Collateral 
received or 
pledged

Net amounts

$m

$m

$m

$m

$m

$m

A

B

C=A-B

D

E

F=C-D-E

Cash and cash equivalents
Borrowings
Trade and other receivables and 
contract assets
Trade and other payables
Derivative financial assets
Derivative financial liabilities

Total

Trade and other receivables and 
contract assets
Trade and other payables
Derivative financial assets
Derivative financial liabilities

Total

250
(204)

319

(207)
752
(262)

648

309

(210)
814
(305)

608

204
(204)

102

(102)
-
-

-

68

(68)
-
-

-

As at 30 June 2023

46
-

217

(105)
752
(262)
648

-
-

50

(50)
171
(171)

-

As at 30 June 2022

241

(142)
814
(305)
608

53

(53)
204
(204)

-

-
-

8

-
-
-

8

9

-
-
-

9

46
-

159

(55)
581
(91)
640

179

(89)
610
(101)
599

During the financial year 2023, a number of the Telstra Group 
wholly-owned subsidiaries entered into customary multi-entity 
bank account set-off facilities, under which bank accounts are 
managed on an aggregated basis. As a result, as at 30 June 2023 
cash and overdraft balance sheet positions of different legal 
entities were presented net in the statement of financial position.   

Our rights of set-off that are not otherwise included in column B of 
Table P, related to:

• our inter-operative tariff arrangements with some of our 
international roaming partners, where we have executed 
agreements that allow the netting of amounts payable and 
receivable by us on cessation of the contract

• our wholesale customers, where we have executed Customer 

Relationship Agreements that allow for the netting of amounts 
payable and receivable by us in certain circumstances where 
there is a right to suspend the supply of services or on the 
expiration or termination of the agreement

• our derivative financial instruments, where we have executed 

master netting arrangements under our International Swaps and 
Derivatives Association agreements. These agreements allow for 
the netting of amounts payable and receivable by us or the 
counterparty in the event of default or a credit event. In line with 
contractual provisions, in the event of insolvency all derivatives 
with a positive or negative fair value that exist with the respective 
counterparty are offset against each other, leaving a net 
receivable or liability.

Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities | F67

F68 | Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities

Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities | 151

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2023.Financial Report.book  Page 70  Wednesday, August 16, 2023  4:21 PM

Notes to the financial statements (continued)

Section 5. Our people

We are working to attract and retain employees with the 
skills and passion to best serve our markets. This section 
provides information about our employee benefits 
obligations. It also includes details of our employee share 
plans and compensation paid to key management 
personnel.

SECTION 5. OUR PEOPLE

5.1 Employee benefits

5.1.1 Aggregate employee benefits

Our employee related obligations include: 

• liabilities for wages and salaries and related on-costs (presented 

within current trade and other payables)

• annual leave, long service leave and employee incentives 

(presented within current and non-current employee benefits) 
and

• redundancy provisions (presented within current other 

provisions).

Table A provides a summary of all these employee obligations.

Table A

Telstra Group

Accrued labour and on-costs
Current employee benefits
Non-current employee benefits
Current redundancy provisions

As at 30 June

2023

2022

$m
520
684
125
-

$m
489
667
132
11

1,329

1,299

Long service leave provision

We applied judgement to determine the following key 
assumptions used in the calculation of long service leave 
entitlements: 

• 3.8 per cent (2022: 3.5 per cent) weighted average projected 

increases in salaries

• 5.6 per cent (2022: 5.2 per cent) discount rate.

The discount rate used to calculate the present value has been 
determined by reference to market yields at 30 June 2023 on 
nine year (2022: nine year) high quality corporate bonds which 
have due dates similar to those of our liabilities.

Notes to the financial statements (continued)

Section 5. Our people (continued)

5.2 Employee share plans

We have a number of employee share plans pursuant to which 

equity is awarded to executives as part of their total 

remuneration. Active share plans are conducted through the 

Telstra Growthshare Trust (Growthshare). Telstra wholly 

owns Telstra Growthshare Pty Ltd, the corporate trustee for 

Growthshare (the Trustee). The results of the Trustee are 

consolidated into our Telstra Group Financial Report.

A transaction will be classified as share-based compensation 

where the Group receives services from employees and pays 

for these either in shares or similar equity instruments or in 

cash but the amounts due are based on the Telstra share price.

This note summarises the primary employee share plans 

conducted through Growthshare and the key events in the 

share-based payment arrangements that have occurred 

during the financial year.

We have granted the following types of equity instruments as part 

of our equity-settled employee share plans:

• restricted shares

• performance rights.

period. 

Performance rights are rights to Telstra shares subject to the 

satisfaction of certain performance measures and service 

conditions over a defined performance period.

Telstra has discretion to provide the holder of a performance right 

with a share or a cash amount equivalent to the value of a share on 

vesting of a performance right. Further information can be found in 

The table below provides a summary of the instruments granted 

under the main equity-settled employee share plans outstanding at 

note 5.2.2.

30 June 2023.

Type of 

equity 

instrument

Executive 

Variable 

Remuneration 

Plan (EVP) 

restricted 

shares

For the amounts of the provision presented as current, we do not 
have the right at the end of the financial year to defer settlement for 
any of these obligations. However, based on experience, we do not 
expect all employees to take the full amount of accrued leave or 
require payment within the next 12 months. Amounts disclosed in 
Table B have been determined in accordance with an actuarial 
assessment and reflect leave that is not expected to be taken or 
paid within the next 12 months.

Table B

Telstra Group

Leave obligations expected to be 
settled after 12 months

As at 30 June

2023

2022

$m

363

$m

354

5.1.2 Recognition and measurement

Restricted shares are Telstra shares that are subject to a restriction 

The liabilities for employee benefits relating to wages and salaries, 
annual leave and other current employee benefits are accrued at 
their nominal amounts. These are calculated based on 
remuneration rates expected to be current at the settlement date 
and include related costs.

Certain employees who have been employed by Telstra for at least 
10 years are entitled to long service leave of three months or more 
depending on the actual length of employment. We accrue 
liabilities for long service leave not expected to be paid or settled 
within 12 months of the reporting date at present values of future 
amounts expected to be paid. This is based on the projected 
increases in wage and salary rates over an average of 10 years, 
experience of employee departures and periods of service.

Provisions are recognised when:

• the Telstra Group has a present legal or constructive obligation to 
make a future sacrifice of economic benefits as a result of past 
transactions or events

• it is probable that a future sacrifice of economic benefits will arise
• a reliable estimate can be made of the amount of the obligation.

We recognise a provision for redundancy costs when a detailed 
formal plan for the redundancies has been developed and a valid 
expectation has been created that the redundancies will be carried 
out in respect of the employees likely to be affected. 

152 | Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities

Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities | F69

F70 | Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities

Financial 

year granted

Restriction 

period

Performance 

hurdles

Date of 

testing 

against 

performance 

hurdles

n/a

n/a

n/a

n/a

n/a

n/a

n/a

n/a

Number of 

instruments 

allocated and 

outstanding at 

30 June 2023

The restricted 

shares for FY23 are 

expected to be 

allocated in the 

first half of FY24

1,471,276

1,448,708

847,394

Four equal tranches 

with the respective 

tranches restricted 

from one to four 

years from the end 

of the initial 

performance period

FY23

FY22

FY21

FY20

2023.Financial Report.book  Page 69  Wednesday, August 16, 2023  4:21 PM

2023.Financial Report.book  Page 70  Wednesday, August 16, 2023  4:21 PM

Notes to the financial statements (continued)

Section 5. Our people

We are working to attract and retain employees with the 

skills and passion to best serve our markets. This section 

provides information about our employee benefits 

obligations. It also includes details of our employee share 

plans and compensation paid to key management 

personnel.

SECTION 5. OUR PEOPLE

5.1 Employee benefits

5.1.1 Aggregate employee benefits

Our employee related obligations include: 

• liabilities for wages and salaries and related on-costs (presented 

within current trade and other payables)

• annual leave, long service leave and employee incentives 

(presented within current and non-current employee benefits) 

• redundancy provisions (presented within current other 

Table A provides a summary of all these employee obligations.

and

provisions).

Table A

Telstra Group

As at 30 June

2023

2022

$m

520

684

125

-

$m

489

667

132

11

Accrued labour and on-costs

Current employee benefits

Non-current employee benefits

Current redundancy provisions

Long service leave provision

We applied judgement to determine the following key 

assumptions used in the calculation of long service leave 

entitlements: 

• 3.8 per cent (2022: 3.5 per cent) weighted average projected 

increases in salaries

• 5.6 per cent (2022: 5.2 per cent) discount rate.

The discount rate used to calculate the present value has been 

determined by reference to market yields at 30 June 2023 on 

nine year (2022: nine year) high quality corporate bonds which 

have due dates similar to those of our liabilities.

For the amounts of the provision presented as current, we do not 

have the right at the end of the financial year to defer settlement for 

any of these obligations. However, based on experience, we do not 

expect all employees to take the full amount of accrued leave or 

require payment within the next 12 months. Amounts disclosed in 

Table B have been determined in accordance with an actuarial 

assessment and reflect leave that is not expected to be taken or 

paid within the next 12 months.

Table B

Telstra Group

Leave obligations expected to be 

settled after 12 months

5.1.2 Recognition and measurement

As at 30 June

2023

2022

$m

363

$m

354

The liabilities for employee benefits relating to wages and salaries, 

annual leave and other current employee benefits are accrued at 

their nominal amounts. These are calculated based on 

remuneration rates expected to be current at the settlement date 

and include related costs.

10 years are entitled to long service leave of three months or more 

depending on the actual length of employment. We accrue 

liabilities for long service leave not expected to be paid or settled 

within 12 months of the reporting date at present values of future 

amounts expected to be paid. This is based on the projected 

increases in wage and salary rates over an average of 10 years, 

experience of employee departures and periods of service.

Provisions are recognised when:

• the Telstra Group has a present legal or constructive obligation to 

make a future sacrifice of economic benefits as a result of past 

transactions or events

• it is probable that a future sacrifice of economic benefits will arise

• a reliable estimate can be made of the amount of the obligation.

We recognise a provision for redundancy costs when a detailed 

formal plan for the redundancies has been developed and a valid 

expectation has been created that the redundancies will be carried 

out in respect of the employees likely to be affected. 

1,329

1,299

Certain employees who have been employed by Telstra for at least 

Notes to the financial statements (continued)

Section 5. Our people (continued)

5.2 Employee share plans

We have a number of employee share plans pursuant to which 
equity is awarded to executives as part of their total 
remuneration. Active share plans are conducted through the 
Telstra Growthshare Trust (Growthshare). Telstra wholly 
owns Telstra Growthshare Pty Ltd, the corporate trustee for 
Growthshare (the Trustee). The results of the Trustee are 
consolidated into our Telstra Group Financial Report.

A transaction will be classified as share-based compensation 
where the Group receives services from employees and pays 
for these either in shares or similar equity instruments or in 
cash but the amounts due are based on the Telstra share price.

This note summarises the primary employee share plans 
conducted through Growthshare and the key events in the 
share-based payment arrangements that have occurred 
during the financial year.

We have granted the following types of equity instruments as part 
of our equity-settled employee share plans:

• restricted shares
• performance rights.

Restricted shares are Telstra shares that are subject to a restriction 
period. 

Performance rights are rights to Telstra shares subject to the 
satisfaction of certain performance measures and service 
conditions over a defined performance period.

Telstra has discretion to provide the holder of a performance right 
with a share or a cash amount equivalent to the value of a share on 
vesting of a performance right. Further information can be found in 
note 5.2.2.

The table below provides a summary of the instruments granted 
under the main equity-settled employee share plans outstanding at 
30 June 2023.

Type of 
equity 
instrument

Executive 
Variable 
Remuneration 
Plan (EVP) 
restricted 
shares

Financial 
year granted

Restriction 
period

Four equal tranches 
with the respective 
tranches restricted 
from one to four 
years from the end 
of the initial 
performance period

FY23

FY22

FY21

FY20

Performance 
hurdles

Date of 
testing 
against 
performance 
hurdles

n/a

n/a

n/a

n/a

n/a

n/a

n/a

n/a

Number of 
instruments 
allocated and 
outstanding at 
30 June 2023

The restricted 
shares for FY23 are 
expected to be 
allocated in the 
first half of FY24

1,471,276

1,448,708

847,394

Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities | F69

F70 | Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities

Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities | 153

Telstra Financial Report 20232023.Financial Report.book  Page 71  Wednesday, August 16, 2023  4:21 PM

Notes to the financial statements (continued)

Telstra Financial Report 2023

Section 5. Our people (continued)

5.2 Employee share plans (continued)

Type of 
equity 
instrument

Short-term 
incentive (STI) 
restricted 
shares

Financial 
year granted

Restriction 
period

FY23

FY22

FY21

FY20

Three equal 
tranches with the 
respective tranches 
restricted from one 
to three years from 
the end of the 
performance period

One tranche 
restricted for three 
years from the end 
of the performance 
period

Performance 
hurdles

Date of 
testing 
against 
performance 
hurdles

n/a

n/a

n/a

n/a

n/a

n/a

n/a

n/a

Number of 
instruments 
allocated and 
outstanding at 
30 June 2023

The STI restricted 
shares for FY23 are 
expected to be 
allocated in the 
first half of FY24

1,804,327

1,914,950

2,031,844

EVP 
performance 
rights

FY23

n/a

30 June 2027

Relative Total 
Shareholder 
Return (RTSR)

The performance 
rights for FY23 are 
expected to be 
allocated in the 
first half of FY24

FY22

FY21

FY20

FY19

n/a

n/a

n/a

n/a

We will also grant cash rights in lieu of restricted shares and 
performance rights under the FY23 EVP to Andrew Penn and Alex 
Badenoch, who ceased employment as CEO and Group Executive, 
Transformation, Communications and People respectively during 
the financial year 2023. The cash rights are expected to be allocated 
in the first half of the financial year 2024. The cash rights provided 
in lieu of restricted shares are subject to the same time condition as 
restricted shares and the cash rights provided in lieu of 
performance rights are subject to the same performance hurdle as 
performance rights.

Provided they have not been forfeited earlier, the EVP and STI 
restricted shares, as well as shares allocated on the vesting of EVP 
performance rights, will be transferred to the relevant executive on 
the first day of the first trading window occurring under Telstra’s 
Securities Trading policy following the end of the relevant 
restriction period or the vesting date, as applicable. 

30 June 2026

RTSR

30 June 2025

RTSR

1,681,460

2,207,550

30 June 2024

RTSR

1,936,886

30 June 2023

RTSR

1,878,032

The definition of Relative Total Shareholder Return (RTSR) is set 
out in the Remuneration Report Glossary (the Remuneration Report 
forms part of the Directors’ Report). 

5.2.1 Telstra Group restructure

Following the establishment of Telstra Group Limited as the new 
parent entity of the Telstra Group, on 30 November 2022 Telstra 
Corporation Limited transferred all of its shares in Telstra 
Growthshare Pty Ltd, to Telstra Group Limited, so that Telstra 
Group Limited wholly owns Telstra Growthshare Pty Ltd. 

154 | Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities

Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities | F71

2023.Financial Report.book  Page 71  Wednesday, August 16, 2023  4:21 PM

2023.Financial Report.book  Page 72  Wednesday, August 16, 2023  4:21 PM

Notes to the financial statements (continued)

Telstra Financial Report 2023

Notes to the financial statements (continued)

Section 5. Our people (continued)

Section 5. Our people (continued)

FY23

FY22

FY21

FY20

FY22

FY21

FY20

FY19

5.2 Employee share plans (continued)

Financial 

year granted

Restriction 

period

Performance 

hurdles

Date of 

testing 

against 

performance 

hurdles

n/a

n/a

Type of 

equity 

instrument

Short-term 

incentive (STI) 

restricted 

shares

Three equal 

tranches with the 

respective tranches 

restricted from one 

to three years from 

the end of the 

performance period

One tranche 

restricted for three 

years from the end 

of the performance 

period

n/a

n/a

n/a

n/a

n/a

n/a

Number of 

instruments 

allocated and 

outstanding at 

30 June 2023

The STI restricted 

shares for FY23 are 

expected to be 

allocated in the 

first half of FY24

1,804,327

1,914,950

2,031,844

EVP 

rights

performance 

FY23

n/a

30 June 2027

Relative Total 

Shareholder 

Return (RTSR)

The performance 

rights for FY23 are 

expected to be 

allocated in the 

first half of FY24

n/a

n/a

n/a

n/a

30 June 2026

RTSR

30 June 2025

RTSR

1,681,460

2,207,550

30 June 2024

RTSR

1,936,886

30 June 2023

RTSR

1,878,032

We will also grant cash rights in lieu of restricted shares and 

The definition of Relative Total Shareholder Return (RTSR) is set 

performance rights under the FY23 EVP to Andrew Penn and Alex 

out in the Remuneration Report Glossary (the Remuneration Report 

Badenoch, who ceased employment as CEO and Group Executive, 

forms part of the Directors’ Report). 

Transformation, Communications and People respectively during 

the financial year 2023. The cash rights are expected to be allocated 

5.2.1 Telstra Group restructure

in the first half of the financial year 2024. The cash rights provided 

Following the establishment of Telstra Group Limited as the new 

in lieu of restricted shares are subject to the same time condition as 

parent entity of the Telstra Group, on 30 November 2022 Telstra 

restricted shares and the cash rights provided in lieu of 

Corporation Limited transferred all of its shares in Telstra 

performance rights are subject to the same performance hurdle as 

Growthshare Pty Ltd, to Telstra Group Limited, so that Telstra 

performance rights.

Group Limited wholly owns Telstra Growthshare Pty Ltd. 

Provided they have not been forfeited earlier, the EVP and STI 

restricted shares, as well as shares allocated on the vesting of EVP 

performance rights, will be transferred to the relevant executive on 

the first day of the first trading window occurring under Telstra’s 

Securities Trading policy following the end of the relevant 

restriction period or the vesting date, as applicable. 

5.2 Employee share plans (continued)

5.2.1 Telstra Group restructure (continued)

There were no changes to the restriction periods, performance 
periods and performance measures applying to our employee share 
plans as a result of the Restructure. However, from 31 October 2022 
performance rights and restricted shares have been granted by 
Telstra Group Limited (the new parent entity) and a fully paid 
ordinary share in Telstra Group Limited (or at Telstra Group 
Limited's discretion, a cash amount equivalent to the value of a 
Telstra Group Limited share) will be provided on vesting of a 
performance right. For the purpose of assessing the RTSR 
performance condition applying to performance rights, Telstra 
Corporation Limited is the relevant entity for the portion of the 
performance period up to (but excluding) 31 October 2022 and 
Telstra Group Limited will be the relevant entity for the portion of 
the performance period from and including 31 October 2022. 

We continue to account for the employee share plans using the 
original grant date fair value as there is no overall change to these 
awards as a result of the Restructure.

The results of the Trustee continue to be consolidated into the 
Telstra Group Financial Report.

5.2.2 Description of share-based payment arrangements 

(a) Executive Variable Remuneration Plan (EVP) 

Under the EVP, the amount earned by the CEO and eligible Group 
Executives is determined at the end of an initial one year 
performance period based on certain factors, including Telstra’s 
performance against certain predetermined performance measures 
and the executive’s individual performance (including their 
performance relative to other executives), with the Board retaining 
discretion to adjust the outcome to ensure it is appropriate. A 
component of the amount earned under the EVP is provided in 
restricted shares and a component in performance rights. 

Refer to the Remuneration Report for further details on the FY23 
EVP structure.

The FY23, FY22, FY21 and FY20 EVP performance rights will vest on 
a straight-line scale, with 50 per cent of the performance rights 
vesting if Telstra’s RTSR ranks at the 50th percentile against a 
comparator group comprising the ASX100, excluding resource 
companies (Comparator Group) over the performance period, up to 
100 per cent of the performance rights vesting where Telstra’s 
RTSR ranks at the 75th percentile of the Comparator Group or 
above.

No performance rights will vest if Telstra’s RTSR ranks below the 
50th percentile of the Comparator Group. Any performance rights 
that do not vest following testing against the RTSR measure will 
lapse. 

Testing of the outstanding FY19 EVP performance rights as at 30 
June 2023 resulted in all of those performance rights vesting due to 
the RTSR performance hurdle being met. Telstra ranked at the 93rd 
percentile against the Comparator Group over the performance 
period.

No dividends are paid on performance rights prior to vesting. For 
performance rights that do vest, a cash payment equivalent to 
dividends paid by Telstra during the period between allocation of 
the performance rights and vesting will be made at or around the 
time of vesting, subject to applicable taxation. This cash 
entitlement is not included in the grant date fair values of the 
performance rights as this is accounted for separately.

(iii) Cash rights (cash-settled)

Under the EVP, the executives who cease employment for a 
Permitted Reason before allocation of the restricted shares and 
performance rights will receive cash rights in lieu of restricted 
shares and performance rights.

As at 30 June 2023, we recorded a $7 million liability (2022: $5 
million) pertaining to the outstanding cash rights issued to certain 
former executives that ceased employment for a Permitted Reason 
in prior financial years.

(b) STI restricted shares

The allocation of restricted shares and performance rights under 
the FY23 EVP is expected to be made shortly after the 2023 Annual 
General Meeting. Shareholder approval will be sought at the 2023 
Annual General Meeting for the CEO’s FY23 EVP equity allocation.

Under the STI arrangements, 25 per cent of an eligible executive’s 
actual STI payment is provided as restricted shares. The table 
summarising the instruments granted under the employee share 
plans lists the restriction periods for each STI restricted share plan. 

If an executive leaves Telstra other than for a Permitted Reason 
(the definition of which is set out in the Remuneration Report 
Glossary) before the end of the relevant performance or restriction 
period, their performance rights will lapse and restricted shares will 
be forfeited. Performance rights and restricted shares may also 
lapse or be forfeited if certain clawback (malus) events occur 
before the performance rights vest or restricted shares are 
transferred to the executive following the end of the relevant 
restriction period.

(i) Restricted shares (equity-settled)

The table summarising the instruments granted under the 
employee share plans lists the restriction periods for each EVP 
restricted share plan. No further performance hurdles will apply 
once the restricted shares are allocated. During the restriction 
period, executives are entitled to vote and earn dividends on their 
restricted shares from the actual allocation date. However, they are 
restricted from dealing with the shares during this period.    

(ii) Performance rights (equity-settled)

Once allocated, the EVP performance rights are tested against a 
RTSR measure over a five year period inclusive of the initial one year 
performance period (refer to the table summarising the instruments 
granted under the employee share plans for testing dates).

Performance hurdles are applied in determining the number of 
restricted shares allocated to executives, and therefore, restricted 
shares are not subject to any other performance hurdles once they 
have been allocated. During the restriction period, from the actual 
grant date, executives are entitled to vote and earn dividends on 
their restricted shares. However, they are restricted from dealing 
with the shares during this period.

If an executive leaves Telstra other than for a Permitted Reason 
before the end of the relevant restriction period, their restricted 
shares are forfeited. Restricted shares may also be forfeited if 
certain clawback (malus) events occur before the restricted shares 
are transferred to the executive following the end of the relevant 
restriction period.

5.2.3 Fair value measurement

(a) EVP restricted shares

EVP restricted shares were measured based on the Board approved 
dollar amount outcome for the financial year 2023, with a final 
number of shares to be allocated shortly after Telstra’s 2023 Annual 
General Meeting. The estimated fair value per share granted in the 
financial year 2023 was $4.24 (2022: $3.91).

Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities | F71

F72 | Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities

Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities | 155

Telstra Financial Report 20232023.Financial Report.book  Page 73  Wednesday, August 16, 2023  4:21 PM

2023.Financial Report.book  Page 74  Wednesday, August 16, 2023  4:21 PM

Notes to the financial statements (continued)

Telstra Financial Report 2023

Notes to the financial statements (continued)

Section 5. Our people (continued)

Section 5. Our people (continued)

5.2 Employee share plans (continued)

5.3 Post-employment benefits

5.3 Post-employment benefits (continued)

(b) Present value of the wholly funded defined benefit 

5.2.3 Fair value measurement (continued)

(b) EVP performance rights

Table A provides a weighted average of the inputs used in 
measuring the fair value of EVP performance rights at grant date. 

Table A

Telstra Group
Share price
Risk free rate
Dividend yield
Expected life in years
Expected stock volatility
Fair value ($)

Year ended 30 June 

2023

$3.98
3.27%
5.04%
4.7 years
22%
$2.03

2022

$3.84
0.62%
5.21%
4.6 years
22%
$1.78

We participate in, or sponsor, defined benefit and defined 
contribution schemes for our employees. This note provides 
details of our Telstra Superannuation Scheme (Telstra Super) 
defined benefit plan.

Our employer contributions to Telstra Super are based on the 
recommendations from the actuary of Telstra Super in line 
with any legislative requirements. The net defined benefit 
asset/(liability) at balance date is also affected by the 
valuation of Telstra Super’s investments and our obligations 
to members of Telstra Super.

5.3.2 Telstra Superannuation Scheme (Telstra Super) 

obligation

(continued)

Telstra Super is exposed to inflation, credit risk, liquidity risk and 

market risk. Market risk includes interest rate risk, equity price risk 

and foreign currency risk. The strategic investment policy of the 

fund is to build a diversified portfolio of assets to match the 

projected liabilities of the defined benefit plan.

Table C

Telstra Super

As part of the Restructure, an internal funding policy has been put 

in place between the sponsoring employer (i.e. the Telstra Entity) 

and the associated employers (i.e. other legal entities under 

common control which participate in Telstra Super). Refer to note 

year

Present value of defined benefit 

obligation at the beginning of the 

7.3.2 for further details.

Table C provides a reconciliation of the present value of defined 

benefit obligation from the opening to the closing balance. 

5.3.1 Net defined benefit plan asset/(liability)

(a)  Fair value of defined benefit plan assets

Table A details our net defined benefit plan asset/(liability) 
recognised in the statement of financial position.

Table B provides a reconciliation of fair value of defined benefit plan 

assets from the opening to the closing balance. 

The expected stock volatility is a measure of the amount by which 
the price is expected to fluctuate during a period. This is based on 
an annualised historical daily volatility of closing share prices over 
a certain period to the measurement date.

Table A

Telstra Group

5.2.4 Expense recognised in the income statement

Refer to note 2.3 for details about the related employee benefit 
expenses.

5.2.5 Recognition and measurement

For each of our equity-settled share plans, we measure the fair 
value of the equity instrument at grant date and recognise in the 
income statement the expense over the relevant vesting period with 
a corresponding increase in equity (i.e. share capital). The expense 
is adjusted to reflect actual and expected levels of vesting.

Grant date is the date when there is a shared understanding 
between employees and Telstra of the terms and conditions of the 
plan and the employees have accepted the offer. This often occurs 
prior to the allocation of equity instruments to the employees. 

The fair values of our equity instruments are calculated by taking 
into account the terms and conditions of the individual plan and as 
follows:

Equity instrument

Fair value approach

Restricted shares

Performance rights

By reference to the dollar 
amount outcome approved 
by the Board

Black-Scholes methodology 
and utilises Monte Carlo 
simulations

A liability is recognised for the fair value of cash-settled 
transactions. The fair value is measured initially and at each 
reporting date up to and including the settlement date, with 
changes in fair value recognised in employee benefits expense in 
the income statement.

Fair value of defined benefit plan 
assets
Present value of the defined benefit 
obligation

Net defined benefit asset
Attributable to:
Telstra Super
Other

As at 30 June

2023

2022

$m

$m

1,529

1,552

1,255

274

285
(11)

274

1,288

264

274
(10)

264

5.3.2 Telstra Superannuation Scheme (Telstra Super)

As detailed in note 1.2, on 30 November 2022, Telstra Group Limited 
became the sponsoring employer in Telstra Super, a regulated fund 
in accordance with the Superannuation Industry Supervision Act 
governed by the Australian Prudential Regulation Authority. On the 
same date, Telstra Corporation Limited became an associated 
employer participating in Telstra Super. 

Telstra Super’s board of directors operates and governs the plan, 
including making investment decisions.

Telstra Super has both defined benefit and defined contribution 
divisions. The defined benefit divisions, which are closed to new 
members, provide benefits based on years of service and final 
average salary paid as a lump sum. Post-employment benefits do 
not include payments for medical costs.

On an annual basis, we engage qualified actuaries to calculate the 
present value of the defined benefit obligations. 

Contribution levels made to the defined benefit divisions are 
determined by the Telstra Entity after obtaining the advice of the 
actuary and in consultation with Telstra Super Pty Ltd (the 
Trustee). These are designed to ensure that benefits accruing to 
members and beneficiaries are fully funded as they fall due. The 
benefits received by members of each defined benefit division take 
into account factors such as each employee’s length of service, 
final average salary, and employer and employee contributions.

156 | Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities

Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities | F73

F74 | Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities

As at 30 June

2023

2022

$m

$m

1,278

1,549

39

63

7

9

(123)

(9)

1

(21)

50

34

7

2

(144)

(221)

(1)

2

Current service cost

Interest cost

Member contributions

Past service cost

Benefits paid

Table B

Telstra Super

Fair value of defined benefit plan 

assets at the beginning of the year

Employer contributions

Member contributions

Benefits paid (including contributions 

tax)

Plan expenses after tax

Interest income on plan assets

Actual asset loss

Fair value of defined benefit plan 

assets at the end of the year

As at 30 June

2023

2022

$m

$m

1,552

1,704

Actuarial gain due to change in 

financial assumptions

Actuarial loss/(gain) due to change in 

demographic assumptions

Actuarial (gain)/loss due to 

experience

Present value of wholly funded 

(123)

(144)

of the year

12

18

(4)

75

(1)

12

18

(4)

37

(71)

1,529

1,552

defined benefit obligation at the end 

1,244

1,278

The actual return on defined benefit plan assets was 5.2 per cent 

gain (2022: 2.8 per cent loss). Net actuarial gain recognised in other 

comprehensive income for Telstra Super amounted to $28 million 

(2022: $149 million). 

2023.Financial Report.book  Page 73  Wednesday, August 16, 2023  4:21 PM

2023.Financial Report.book  Page 74  Wednesday, August 16, 2023  4:21 PM

Notes to the financial statements (continued)

Telstra Financial Report 2023

Notes to the financial statements (continued)

Section 5. Our people (continued)

Section 5. Our people (continued)

5.3 Post-employment benefits (continued)

5.3.2 Telstra Superannuation Scheme (Telstra Super) 
(continued)

Telstra Super is exposed to inflation, credit risk, liquidity risk and 
market risk. Market risk includes interest rate risk, equity price risk 
and foreign currency risk. The strategic investment policy of the 
fund is to build a diversified portfolio of assets to match the 
projected liabilities of the defined benefit plan.

As part of the Restructure, an internal funding policy has been put 
in place between the sponsoring employer (i.e. the Telstra Entity) 
and the associated employers (i.e. other legal entities under 
common control which participate in Telstra Super). Refer to note 
7.3.2 for further details.

(a)  Fair value of defined benefit plan assets

Table B provides a reconciliation of fair value of defined benefit plan 
assets from the opening to the closing balance. 

(b) Present value of the wholly funded defined benefit 
obligation

Table C provides a reconciliation of the present value of defined 
benefit obligation from the opening to the closing balance. 

Table C

Telstra Super

Present value of defined benefit 
obligation at the beginning of the 
year
Current service cost
Interest cost
Member contributions
Past service cost
Benefits paid
Actuarial gain due to change in 
financial assumptions
Actuarial loss/(gain) due to change in 
demographic assumptions
Actuarial (gain)/loss due to 
experience

Present value of wholly funded 
defined benefit obligation at the end 
of the year

As at 30 June

2023

2022

$m

$m

1,278

1,549

39
63
7
9
(123)

(9)

1

(21)

50
34
7
2
(144)

(221)

(1)

2

1,244

1,278

As at 30 June

2023

2022

$m

$m

1,552

1,704

12
18

12
18

(123)

(144)

Table B

Telstra Super

Fair value of defined benefit plan 
assets at the beginning of the year
Employer contributions
Member contributions
Benefits paid (including contributions 
tax)
Plan expenses after tax
Interest income on plan assets
Actual asset loss

Fair value of defined benefit plan 
assets at the end of the year

(4)
75
(1)

(4)
37
(71)

The actual return on defined benefit plan assets was 5.2 per cent 
gain (2022: 2.8 per cent loss). Net actuarial gain recognised in other 
comprehensive income for Telstra Super amounted to $28 million 
(2022: $149 million). 

1,529

1,552

5.2 Employee share plans (continued)

5.3 Post-employment benefits

5.2.3 Fair value measurement (continued)

(b) EVP performance rights

Table A provides a weighted average of the inputs used in 

measuring the fair value of EVP performance rights at grant date. 

Table A

Telstra Group

Share price

Risk free rate

Dividend yield

Expected life in years

Expected stock volatility

Fair value ($)

Year ended 30 June 

2023

2022

$3.98

3.27%

5.04%

22%

$2.03

$3.84

0.62%

5.21%

22%

$1.78

We participate in, or sponsor, defined benefit and defined 

contribution schemes for our employees. This note provides 

details of our Telstra Superannuation Scheme (Telstra Super) 

defined benefit plan.

Our employer contributions to Telstra Super are based on the 

recommendations from the actuary of Telstra Super in line 

with any legislative requirements. The net defined benefit 

asset/(liability) at balance date is also affected by the 

valuation of Telstra Super’s investments and our obligations 

to members of Telstra Super.

4.7 years

4.6 years

5.3.1 Net defined benefit plan asset/(liability)

Table A details our net defined benefit plan asset/(liability) 

recognised in the statement of financial position.

The expected stock volatility is a measure of the amount by which 

the price is expected to fluctuate during a period. This is based on 

an annualised historical daily volatility of closing share prices over 

a certain period to the measurement date.

Table A

Telstra Group

5.2.4 Expense recognised in the income statement

Refer to note 2.3 for details about the related employee benefit 

assets

expenses.

5.2.5 Recognition and measurement

For each of our equity-settled share plans, we measure the fair 

value of the equity instrument at grant date and recognise in the 

income statement the expense over the relevant vesting period with 

Telstra Super

a corresponding increase in equity (i.e. share capital). The expense 

is adjusted to reflect actual and expected levels of vesting.

Other

Fair value of defined benefit plan 

Present value of the defined benefit 

obligation

Net defined benefit asset

Attributable to:

As at 30 June

2023

2022

$m

$m

1,529

1,552

1,255

274

285

(11)

274

1,288

264

274

(10)

264

Grant date is the date when there is a shared understanding 

between employees and Telstra of the terms and conditions of the 

plan and the employees have accepted the offer. This often occurs 

prior to the allocation of equity instruments to the employees. 

The fair values of our equity instruments are calculated by taking 

into account the terms and conditions of the individual plan and as 

follows:

Equity instrument

Fair value approach

Restricted shares

Performance rights

By reference to the dollar 

amount outcome approved 

by the Board

Black-Scholes methodology 

and utilises Monte Carlo 

simulations

A liability is recognised for the fair value of cash-settled 

transactions. The fair value is measured initially and at each 

reporting date up to and including the settlement date, with 

changes in fair value recognised in employee benefits expense in 

the income statement.

5.3.2 Telstra Superannuation Scheme (Telstra Super)

As detailed in note 1.2, on 30 November 2022, Telstra Group Limited 

became the sponsoring employer in Telstra Super, a regulated fund 

in accordance with the Superannuation Industry Supervision Act 

governed by the Australian Prudential Regulation Authority. On the 

same date, Telstra Corporation Limited became an associated 

employer participating in Telstra Super. 

Telstra Super’s board of directors operates and governs the plan, 

including making investment decisions.

Telstra Super has both defined benefit and defined contribution 

divisions. The defined benefit divisions, which are closed to new 

members, provide benefits based on years of service and final 

average salary paid as a lump sum. Post-employment benefits do 

not include payments for medical costs.

On an annual basis, we engage qualified actuaries to calculate the 

present value of the defined benefit obligations. 

Contribution levels made to the defined benefit divisions are 

determined by the Telstra Entity after obtaining the advice of the 

actuary and in consultation with Telstra Super Pty Ltd (the 

Trustee). These are designed to ensure that benefits accruing to 

members and beneficiaries are fully funded as they fall due. The 

benefits received by members of each defined benefit division take 

into account factors such as each employee’s length of service, 

final average salary, and employer and employee contributions.

Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities | F73

F74 | Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities

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2023.Financial Report.book  Page 76  Wednesday, August 16, 2023  4:21 PM

Notes to the financial statements (continued)

Telstra Financial Report 2023

Notes to the financial statements (continued)

Section 5. Our people (continued)

Section 5. Our people (continued)

5.3 Post-employment benefits (continued)

(d) Actuarial assumptions and sensitivity analysis

5.3 Post-employment benefits (continued)

5.4 Key management personnel compensation

5.3.2 Telstra Superannuation Scheme (Telstra Super) 
(continued)

(c) Categories of plan assets

Table D details the weighted average allocation as a percentage of 
the fair value of total defined benefit plan assets by class based on 
their nature and risks. 

Table D

Telstra Super

Asset allocations
Equity instruments
Australian equity1
International equity1
Debt instruments
Fixed interest1
Other
Property
Cash and cash equivalents
Other

As at 30 June

2023

2022

%

%

10

12

62

10
4
2

9

11

61

11
5
3

100

100

1  These assets have quoted prices in active markets.

(i) Related party disclosures

The related party disclosures below relate to Telstra Super as a 
whole, rather than just the defined benefit plan. 

As at 30 June 2023, Telstra Super owned 37,615,162 shares in the 
Telstra Entity (2022: 44,202,865 shares in Telstra Corporation 
Limited) at a cost of $146 million (2022: $169 million) and a market 
value of $162 million (2022: $170 million). All these shares were fully 
paid at 30 June 2023. During the financial year 2023, we paid a 
dividend to Telstra Super of $7 million (2022: $8 million). We own 
100 per cent of the equity of Telstra Super Pty Ltd, the Trustee of 
Telstra Super.

Telstra Super also holds fixed interest securities issued by Telstra 
Corporation Limited and the Telstra Entity. As at 30 June 2023, 
these securities had a cost of $1 million (2022: $5 million) and a 
market value of $1 million (2022: $5 million).

All purchases and sales of Telstra shares and fixed interest 
securities by Telstra Super are on an arm’s length basis and are 
determined by the Trustee and/or its investment managers on 
behalf of the members of Telstra Super.

Defined benefit plan

The following key assumptions were used in the calculation of 
our defined benefit obligations: 

• 3.3 per cent (2022: 3.0 per cent) average expected rate of 

increase in future salaries

• 5.5 per cent (2022: 5.1 per cent) discount rate.

We have used a seven year (2022: seven year) high quality 
corporate bond rate to determine the discount rate as the term 
matches closest to the term of the defined benefit obligations.

Our assumption for the salary inflation rate for Telstra Super 
reflects our long-term expectation for salary increases.

If the estimates prove to be different to actual experience, this 
may materially affect balances in the next reporting period.

Table E summarises how the defined benefit obligation as at 30 
June 2023 would have increased/(decreased) as a result of a 
change in the respective assumptions by one percentage point 
(1pp).

Table E                                                   

Telstra Super

Discount rate
Expected rate of increase in future 
salaries

(e) Employer contributions

Defined benefit 
obligation

1pp 
increase

1pp 
decrease

$m
(70)

69

$m
78

(63)

During the financial year 2023, we paid contributions totalling $12 
million (2022: $12 million) at the average rate of five per cent (2022: 
five per cent) to our defined benefit divisions, following 
recommendations from the actuary of Telstra Super.

The current five per cent contribution rate is expected to be 
reviewed in the next triennial actuarial review as at 30 June 2024, to 
be completed by 31 December 2024, although the review could be 
brought forward (due to, for example but not limited to, the defined 
benefit obligation’s financial position) that could result in a change 
in the contribution rate.

Table F shows the expected proportion of benefits paid from the 
defined benefit obligation in future years.

Table F

Telstra Super

Year ended 30 June

2023

2022

Within 1 year
Between 1 and 4 years
Between 5 and 9 years
Between 10 and 19 years
After 20 years

%
8
24
29
36
3

%
8
23
27
38
4

100

100

Key management personnel (KMP) refer to those who have 

authority and responsibility for planning, directing and 

controlling the activities of the Telstra Group. KMP are 

deemed to include the following:

• the non-executive Directors of the Telstra Entity

• certain executives in the Chief Executive Officer’s (CEO’s) 

senior leadership team, including the CEO.

5.4.1 KMP aggregate compensation

During the financial years 2023 and 2022, the aggregate 

compensation of our KMP was:

Short-term employee benefits

Post-employment benefits

Other long-term benefits

Termination benefits

Share-based payments

Year ended 30 June

2023

2022

$000

18,469

331

1,094

838

10,426

31,158

$000

19,080

348

1,019

-

11,065

31,512

Refer to the Remuneration Report, which forms part of the 

Directors’ Report for further details regarding KMP remuneration.

5.4.2 Other transactions with our KMP and their related parties

During the financial years 2023 and 2022, apart from transactions 

trivial and domestic in nature and on normal commercial terms and 

conditions, there were no other transactions with our KMP and their 

related parties.

Our commitment to defined contribution plans is limited to making 

Telstra Group

5.3.2 Telstra Superannuation Scheme (Telstra Super) 

(continued)

(e) Employer contributions (continued)

The weighted average duration of the defined benefit plan 

obligations at the end of the reporting period was seven years 

(2022: seven years).

5.3.3 Other defined benefit schemes

Our controlled entities also participate in both funded and 

unfunded defined benefit schemes, which are individually and in 

aggregate immaterial.

5.3.4 Recognition and measurement

(a) Defined contribution plans

contributions in accordance with our minimum statutory 

requirements and other obligations. The contributions are recorded 

as an expense in the income statement as they become payable. We 

recognise a liability when we are required to make future payments 

as a result of employee services provided.

(b) Defined benefit plans - Telstra Superannuation Scheme 

We currently sponsor a post-employment defined benefit plan 

under the Telstra Superannuation Scheme. 

At a reporting date, where the fair value of the plan assets is less 

than the present value of the defined benefit obligations, the net 

deficit is recognised as a liability. In the reverse situation, the net 

surplus is recognised as an asset. We recognise the asset to the 

extent that we have the ability to control this surplus to generate 

future funds that will be available to us in the form of reductions in 

future contributions or as a cash refund.

The actuaries use the projected unit credit method to estimate the 

present value of the defined benefit obligations of the plan. This 

method determines each year of service as giving rise to an 

additional unit of benefit entitlement. Each unit is measured 

separately to calculate the final obligation. The present value is 

determined by discounting the estimated future cash outflows 

using rates based on high quality corporate bonds.

We recognise all our defined benefit costs in the income statement, 

with the exception of actuarial gains and losses that are recognised 

directly in other comprehensive income. 

Actuarial gains and losses are based on an actuarial valuation of 

each defined benefit plan at a reporting date. Actuarial gains and 

losses represent the differences between previous actuarial 

assumptions of future outcomes and the actual outcome, in 

addition to the effect of changes in actuarial assumptions.

158 | Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities

Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities | F75

F76 | Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities

2023.Financial Report.book  Page 75  Wednesday, August 16, 2023  4:21 PM

2023.Financial Report.book  Page 76  Wednesday, August 16, 2023  4:21 PM

Notes to the financial statements (continued)

Telstra Financial Report 2023

Notes to the financial statements (continued)

Section 5. Our people (continued)

Section 5. Our people (continued)

5.3 Post-employment benefits (continued)

(d) Actuarial assumptions and sensitivity analysis

5.3 Post-employment benefits (continued)

5.4 Key management personnel compensation

5.3.2 Telstra Superannuation Scheme (Telstra Super) 

(continued)

(c) Categories of plan assets

Defined benefit plan

Table D details the weighted average allocation as a percentage of 

the fair value of total defined benefit plan assets by class based on 

The following key assumptions were used in the calculation of 

our defined benefit obligations: 

their nature and risks. 

Table D

Telstra Super

Asset allocations

Equity instruments

Australian equity1

International equity1

Debt instruments

Fixed interest1

Other

Property

Other

Cash and cash equivalents

• 3.3 per cent (2022: 3.0 per cent) average expected rate of 

increase in future salaries

• 5.5 per cent (2022: 5.1 per cent) discount rate.

We have used a seven year (2022: seven year) high quality 

corporate bond rate to determine the discount rate as the term 

matches closest to the term of the defined benefit obligations.

Our assumption for the salary inflation rate for Telstra Super 

reflects our long-term expectation for salary increases.

If the estimates prove to be different to actual experience, this 

may materially affect balances in the next reporting period.

Table E summarises how the defined benefit obligation as at 30 

June 2023 would have increased/(decreased) as a result of a 

change in the respective assumptions by one percentage point 

(1pp).

As at 30 June

2023

2022

%

%

10

12

62

10

4

2

9

11

61

11

5

3

100

100

Table E                                                   

Defined benefit 

Telstra Super

1  These assets have quoted prices in active markets.

(i) Related party disclosures

The related party disclosures below relate to Telstra Super as a 

whole, rather than just the defined benefit plan. 

As at 30 June 2023, Telstra Super owned 37,615,162 shares in the 

Telstra Entity (2022: 44,202,865 shares in Telstra Corporation 

Limited) at a cost of $146 million (2022: $169 million) and a market 

value of $162 million (2022: $170 million). All these shares were fully 

paid at 30 June 2023. During the financial year 2023, we paid a 

Discount rate

salaries

Expected rate of increase in future 

(e) Employer contributions

obligation

1pp 

1pp 

increase

decrease

$m

(70)

69

$m

78

(63)

dividend to Telstra Super of $7 million (2022: $8 million). We own 

During the financial year 2023, we paid contributions totalling $12 

100 per cent of the equity of Telstra Super Pty Ltd, the Trustee of 

million (2022: $12 million) at the average rate of five per cent (2022: 

Telstra Super.

five per cent) to our defined benefit divisions, following 

recommendations from the actuary of Telstra Super.

Telstra Super also holds fixed interest securities issued by Telstra 

Corporation Limited and the Telstra Entity. As at 30 June 2023, 

The current five per cent contribution rate is expected to be 

these securities had a cost of $1 million (2022: $5 million) and a 

reviewed in the next triennial actuarial review as at 30 June 2024, to 

market value of $1 million (2022: $5 million).

All purchases and sales of Telstra shares and fixed interest 

securities by Telstra Super are on an arm’s length basis and are 

determined by the Trustee and/or its investment managers on 

be completed by 31 December 2024, although the review could be 

brought forward (due to, for example but not limited to, the defined 

benefit obligation’s financial position) that could result in a change 

in the contribution rate.

behalf of the members of Telstra Super.

Table F shows the expected proportion of benefits paid from the 

defined benefit obligation in future years.

Table F

Telstra Super

Year ended 30 June

2023

2022

Within 1 year

Between 1 and 4 years

Between 5 and 9 years

Between 10 and 19 years

After 20 years

%

8

24

29

36

3

100

%

8

23

27

38

4

100

Key management personnel (KMP) refer to those who have 
authority and responsibility for planning, directing and 
controlling the activities of the Telstra Group. KMP are 
deemed to include the following:

• the non-executive Directors of the Telstra Entity
• certain executives in the Chief Executive Officer’s (CEO’s) 

senior leadership team, including the CEO.

5.4.1 KMP aggregate compensation

During the financial years 2023 and 2022, the aggregate 
compensation of our KMP was:

Telstra Group

Short-term employee benefits
Post-employment benefits
Other long-term benefits
Termination benefits
Share-based payments

Year ended 30 June

2023

2022

$000
18,469
331
1,094
838
10,426

31,158

$000
19,080
348
1,019
-
11,065

31,512

Refer to the Remuneration Report, which forms part of the 
Directors’ Report for further details regarding KMP remuneration.

5.4.2 Other transactions with our KMP and their related parties

During the financial years 2023 and 2022, apart from transactions 
trivial and domestic in nature and on normal commercial terms and 
conditions, there were no other transactions with our KMP and their 
related parties.

5.3.2 Telstra Superannuation Scheme (Telstra Super) 
(continued)

(e) Employer contributions (continued)

The weighted average duration of the defined benefit plan 
obligations at the end of the reporting period was seven years 
(2022: seven years).

5.3.3 Other defined benefit schemes

Our controlled entities also participate in both funded and 
unfunded defined benefit schemes, which are individually and in 
aggregate immaterial.

5.3.4 Recognition and measurement

(a) Defined contribution plans

Our commitment to defined contribution plans is limited to making 
contributions in accordance with our minimum statutory 
requirements and other obligations. The contributions are recorded 
as an expense in the income statement as they become payable. We 
recognise a liability when we are required to make future payments 
as a result of employee services provided.

(b) Defined benefit plans - Telstra Superannuation Scheme 

We currently sponsor a post-employment defined benefit plan 
under the Telstra Superannuation Scheme. 

At a reporting date, where the fair value of the plan assets is less 
than the present value of the defined benefit obligations, the net 
deficit is recognised as a liability. In the reverse situation, the net 
surplus is recognised as an asset. We recognise the asset to the 
extent that we have the ability to control this surplus to generate 
future funds that will be available to us in the form of reductions in 
future contributions or as a cash refund.

The actuaries use the projected unit credit method to estimate the 
present value of the defined benefit obligations of the plan. This 
method determines each year of service as giving rise to an 
additional unit of benefit entitlement. Each unit is measured 
separately to calculate the final obligation. The present value is 
determined by discounting the estimated future cash outflows 
using rates based on high quality corporate bonds.

We recognise all our defined benefit costs in the income statement, 
with the exception of actuarial gains and losses that are recognised 
directly in other comprehensive income. 

Actuarial gains and losses are based on an actuarial valuation of 
each defined benefit plan at a reporting date. Actuarial gains and 
losses represent the differences between previous actuarial 
assumptions of future outcomes and the actual outcome, in 
addition to the effect of changes in actuarial assumptions.

Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities | F75

F76 | Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities

Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities | 159

Telstra Financial Report 20232023.Financial Report.book  Page 77  Wednesday, August 16, 2023  4:21 PM

Notes to the financial statements (continued)

Section 6. Our investments

This section outlines our group structure and includes 
information about our controlled entities, joint ventures and 
associated entities. It provides details of changes to these 
investments and their effect on our financial position and 
performance during the financial year. It also includes the 
results of our material joint ventures and associated 
entities.

SECTION 6. OUR INVESTMENTS

6.1 Changes in the group structure

6.1.1 Changes due to the Telstra Group restructure 

As detailed in note 1.2, during the financial year 2023 the Telstra 
Group completed the Restructure, which resulted in the following 
changes to our Group structure:

• Telstra Group Limited was established as the new parent entity of 

the Telstra Group

• the following controlled entities became wholly-owned 

subsidiaries of Telstra Group Limited:
-  Telstra Corporation Limited
-  Telstra ESOP Trustee Pty Limited
-  Telstra Finance Limited
-  Telstra Foundation Ltd
-  Telstra Growthshare Pty Ltd
-  Telstra International Holdings Pty Ltd
-  Telstra Limited
-  Telstra Towerco No.2 Pty Ltd, being the wholly-owned entity 
which holds an interest in the Amplitel towers business and 
related investments

• Telstra Corporation Limited and its controlled entities 

transferred the retail and active wholesale business assets and 
liabilities and related investments to Telstra Limited and its 
controlled entities

• Telstra Corporation Limited and its controlled entities 

transferred the international business assets and liabilities and 
related investments to Telstra International Holdings Pty Ltd and 
its controlled entities.

6.1.2 Current year acquisitions

During the financial year 2023, we acquired controlling interests in 
Digicel Pacific Limited and Media Innovations Holdings Pty Ltd and 
their controlled entities; and other individually immaterial 
businesses. Details of the significant acquisitions have been 
disclosed below.

(a) Digicel Pacific

On 13 July 2022, we completed the acquisition of 100 per cent of the 
shares in Digicel Pacific Limited and its controlled entities (Digicel 
Pacific). 

Digicel Pacific is a leading provider of communication services 
across Papua New Guinea (PNG), Fiji, Nauru, Samoa, Tonga and 
Vanuatu. The acquisition of Digicel Pacific expands our 
international footprint and supports our growth strategy. 

The final consideration paid and payable consisted of $2,378 million 
upfront cash payment, and up to $370 million deferred payments 
contingent on Digicel Pacific’s performance over the financial years 
2022, 2023 and 2024. The consideration was funded by Telstra’s 
contribution of $400 million and a combination of non-recourse 
debt facilities from, and equity-like securities issued by the Telstra 
Group to, the Australian Government, through Export Finance 
Australia. The total acquisition costs for the acquisition were $22 
million, of which, $7 million was incurred and paid during the 
financial year 2022.

Equity-like securities issued to the 
Australian Government 

On 13 July 2022 and on 2 September 2022, we issued 
respectively $903 million and $20 million of equity-like 
securities to the Australian Government, through Export 
Finance Australia. The securities are perpetual, subordinated, 
unsecured and redeemable in certain circumstances. The 
securities do not grant the Australian Government any 
recourse, voting rights, or earnings in respect of the Telstra 
Group.

We applied judgement to classify the issued securities as 
equity and present them as non-controlling interests in our 
consolidated statement of changes in equity.

As at 30 June 2023, the non-controlling interests related to the 
equity-like securities issued to the Australian Government 
were $923 million.

The vendor has entered into legal arrangements with the PNG tax 
authorities in relation to the additional PKG350 million company 
tax, which had been adopted by PNG before completion of the sale. 
We have recognised a liability of $149 million included in other 
provisions. Telstra is not part of this process, and the outcomes of 
this process are a matter for the vendor. The vendor has provided an 
indemnity to Telstra against the outcome of the legal process 
without further recourse to Digicel Pacific or its related entities, and 
an indemnification asset of $149 million was recognised in trade 
and receivables on completion. This amount is held in escrow. 

We have also recognised a $42 million liability (included in other 
provisions) for other tax matters. The vendor has provided an 
indemnity to Telstra against the outcome of those tax matters and 
an indemnification asset of $42 million was recognised in trade and 
receivables on completion. This amount is held in escrow.

The accounting for this acquisition gave rise to $1,580 million 
goodwill reflecting revenue growth opportunities, cost synergies 
and profitability of the acquired business. The goodwill is not 
deductible for income tax purposes.

160 | Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities

Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities | F77

2023.Financial Report.book  Page 77  Wednesday, August 16, 2023  4:21 PM

2023.Financial Report.book  Page 78  Wednesday, August 16, 2023  4:21 PM

Notes to the financial statements (continued)

Section 6. Our investments (continued)

6.1 Changes in the group structure (continued)

(b) Fetch TV

6.1.2 Current year acquisitions (continued)

(a) Digicel Pacific (continued)

Table A summarises the effects of the accounting for this 
acquisition.

Table A                                                                                  

SECTION 6. OUR INVESTMENTS

6.1 Changes in the group structure

6.1.1 Changes due to the Telstra Group restructure 

As detailed in note 1.2, during the financial year 2023 the Telstra 

Group completed the Restructure, which resulted in the following 

changes to our Group structure:

Equity-like securities issued to the 

Australian Government 

On 13 July 2022 and on 2 September 2022, we issued 

• Telstra Group Limited was established as the new parent entity of 

respectively $903 million and $20 million of equity-like 

the Telstra Group

securities to the Australian Government, through Export 

• the following controlled entities became wholly-owned 

Finance Australia. The securities are perpetual, subordinated, 

Notes to the financial statements (continued)

Section 6. Our investments

This section outlines our group structure and includes 

information about our controlled entities, joint ventures and 

associated entities. It provides details of changes to these 

investments and their effect on our financial position and 

performance during the financial year. It also includes the 

results of our material joint ventures and associated 

entities.

subsidiaries of Telstra Group Limited:

-  Telstra Corporation Limited

-  Telstra ESOP Trustee Pty Limited

-  Telstra Finance Limited

-  Telstra Foundation Ltd

-  Telstra Growthshare Pty Ltd

-  Telstra International Holdings Pty Ltd

-  Telstra Limited

-  Telstra Towerco No.2 Pty Ltd, being the wholly-owned entity 

which holds an interest in the Amplitel towers business and 

related investments

• Telstra Corporation Limited and its controlled entities 

transferred the retail and active wholesale business assets and 

liabilities and related investments to Telstra Limited and its 

controlled entities

• Telstra Corporation Limited and its controlled entities 

transferred the international business assets and liabilities and 

related investments to Telstra International Holdings Pty Ltd and 

its controlled entities.

6.1.2 Current year acquisitions

During the financial year 2023, we acquired controlling interests in 

Digicel Pacific Limited and Media Innovations Holdings Pty Ltd and 

their controlled entities; and other individually immaterial 

businesses. Details of the significant acquisitions have been 

disclosed below.

(a) Digicel Pacific

Pacific). 

On 13 July 2022, we completed the acquisition of 100 per cent of the 

shares in Digicel Pacific Limited and its controlled entities (Digicel 

Digicel Pacific is a leading provider of communication services 

across Papua New Guinea (PNG), Fiji, Nauru, Samoa, Tonga and 

Vanuatu. The acquisition of Digicel Pacific expands our 

international footprint and supports our growth strategy. 

The final consideration paid and payable consisted of $2,378 million 

upfront cash payment, and up to $370 million deferred payments 

contingent on Digicel Pacific’s performance over the financial years 

2022, 2023 and 2024. The consideration was funded by Telstra’s 

contribution of $400 million and a combination of non-recourse 

debt facilities from, and equity-like securities issued by the Telstra 

Group to, the Australian Government, through Export Finance 

Australia. The total acquisition costs for the acquisition were $22 

million, of which, $7 million was incurred and paid during the 

financial year 2022.

unsecured and redeemable in certain circumstances. The 

securities do not grant the Australian Government any 

recourse, voting rights, or earnings in respect of the Telstra 

Group.

We applied judgement to classify the issued securities as 

equity and present them as non-controlling interests in our 

consolidated statement of changes in equity.

As at 30 June 2023, the non-controlling interests related to the 

equity-like securities issued to the Australian Government 

were $923 million.

The vendor has entered into legal arrangements with the PNG tax 

authorities in relation to the additional PKG350 million company 

tax, which had been adopted by PNG before completion of the sale. 

We have recognised a liability of $149 million included in other 

provisions. Telstra is not part of this process, and the outcomes of 

this process are a matter for the vendor. The vendor has provided an 

indemnity to Telstra against the outcome of the legal process 

without further recourse to Digicel Pacific or its related entities, and 

an indemnification asset of $149 million was recognised in trade 

and receivables on completion. This amount is held in escrow. 

We have also recognised a $42 million liability (included in other 

provisions) for other tax matters. The vendor has provided an 

indemnity to Telstra against the outcome of those tax matters and 

an indemnification asset of $42 million was recognised in trade and 

receivables on completion. This amount is held in escrow.

The accounting for this acquisition gave rise to $1,580 million 

goodwill reflecting revenue growth opportunities, cost synergies 

and profitability of the acquired business. The goodwill is not 

deductible for income tax purposes.

Digicel Pacific

Consideration for acquisition
Cash consideration
Contingent consideration

Total purchase consideration
Cash balances acquired
Contingent consideration payable

Outflow of cash on acquisition
Acquisition costs incurred included in other 
expenses in the income statement

Assets/(liabilities) at acquisition date
Cash and cash equivalents
Trade and other receivables
Inventories
Prepayments
Investments - accounted for using the equity 
method
Property, plant and equipment
Right-of-use assets
Intangible assets
Trade and other payables
Employee benefits
Other provisions
Lease liabilities
Contract liabilities and other revenue received in 
advance
Deferred tax liabilities

Net assets
Adjustments to reflect non-controlling interests
Goodwill on acquisition

Total purchase consideration
Contributions to the Group's performance from 
acquisition date to 30 June 2023
Income
Profit before income tax expense

Year 
ended     
30 June

2023

$m

2,378
243

2,621
(30)
(169)

2,422

15

Fair value

Fetch TV

On 2 August 2022, we completed the acquisition of a 51.4 per cent 
controlling interest in Media Innovations Holdings Pty Ltd and its 
controlled entities (Fetch TV) for a total consideration of $47 
million upfront cash payment and a commitment to onboard Telstra 
TV customers onto the Fetch TV platform. The customer transition 
is yet to commence and is planned to be completed by the end of 
the financial year 2025. 

Fetch TV is a subscription-based TV service provider based in 
Australia which operates its own proprietary streaming aggregation 
platform. Its services are distributed in partnership with internet 
service providers and major retailers. Fetch TV will be the new 
platform for Telstra TV and will strengthen Telstra’s home and 
entertainment offering. 

The accounting for this acquisition gave rise to $32 million goodwill 
reflecting cost and revenue synergies and revenue growth 
opportunities. The goodwill is not deductible for income tax 
purposes.

Table B summarises the effects of the accounting for this 
acquisition.

Table B                                                                                         

Year 
ended     
30 June

30
246
11
15

8

522
52
1,125
(108)
(12)
(248)
(52)

(55)

(476)

1,058
(17)
1,580

2,621

719
167

Consideration for acquisition
Total purchase consideration - cash
Cash balances acquired

Outflow of cash on acquisition
Acquisition costs incurred included in other 
expenses in the income statement

Assets/(liabilities) at acquisition date
Cash and cash equivalents
Trade and other receivables
Inventories
Property, plant and equipment
Right-of-use assets
Intangible assets
Trade and other payables
Deferred tax liabilities
Employee benefits
Lease liabilities

Net assets
Adjustments to reflect non-controlling interests
Goodwill on acquisition

Total purchase consideration
Contributions to the Group's performance from 
acquisition date to 30 June 2023
Income
Loss before income tax expense

2023

$m

47
(14)

33

1

Fair value

14
10
3
1
5
32
(21)
(7)
(3)
(5)

29
(14)
32

47

63
(7)

Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities | F77

F78 | Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities

Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities | 161

Telstra Financial Report 20232023.Financial Report.book  Page 79  Wednesday, August 16, 2023  4:21 PM

Notes to the financial statements (continued)

Telstra Financial Report 2023

Section 6. Our investments (continued)

6.1 Changes in the group structure (continued)

6.2 Investments in controlled entities

6.1.2 Current year acquisitions (continued)

6.2.1 Investments in controlled entities 

(c) Telstra Group result if all acquisitions occurred on 1 July 
2022

If all the acquisitions made during the financial year 2023 had 
occurred on 1 July 2022, our adjusted consolidated income and 
consolidated profit before income tax expense for the financial year 
2023 would have been $23,282 million and $2,867 million, 
respectively.

6.1.3 Current year disposals 

During the financial year 2023, we have not disposed of any 
controlled entities or businesses but we have sold some other 
investments. These transactions had no significant financial impact 
on our results. 

6.1.4 Prior year disposals 

On 30 June 2021, we announced that a consortium comprising the 
Future Fund, Commonwealth Superannuation Corporation and 
Sunsuper agreed to acquire a 49 per cent interest and become a 
strategic partner in Telstra’s towers business.

On 31 August 2021, the towers business became operational 
following a transfer of business assets and liabilities to Towers 
Business Operating Trust (Trust). The Trust also incurred $90 
million estimated stamp duty costs related to the establishment of 
the business. The trustee of the Trust is our subsidiary Amplitel Pty 
Ltd (Amplitel).

The sale of 49 per cent interests in the Trust and Amplitel to the 
consortium was completed on 1 September 2021 and resulted in 
$2,883 million net cash proceeds. We retain control of the Trust and 
Amplitel and thus we continue to consolidate these entities. 

At the Telstra Group level, transactions with non-controlling 
interests that do not result in a loss of control are treated as 
transactions with equity owners of the towers business. As at 1 
September 2021, we recognised $798 million non-controlling 
interests reflecting the consortium’s relative interests in the Trust 
and Amplitel as at the date of the transaction. The $2,085 million 
difference between the amount recognised as non-controlling 
interests and the consideration received was recognised in general 
reserve within equity attributable to the Telstra Group.

Telstra Group has a direct or indirect interest in over 210 
subsidiaries with our international presence spanning over 30 
countries. We have controlled entities in Australia, Asia, the South 
Pacific, New Zealand, Europe, Middle East and the United States of 
America. We conduct most of our business through our controlled 
entities Telstra Limited and Telstra Corporation Limited, which in 
total constituted 98 per cent of the Group’s EBITDA. 

A complete list of our controlled entities is available online at 
www.telstra.com/financialresults. 

(a) Power Health

On 9 November 2021, we completed the acquisition of 70 per cent 
of the shares in Power Solutions Holdings Pty Ltd and its 
subsidiaries (Power Health). On acquisition, we recognised a 
financial liability for our commitment to purchase the remaining 30 
per cent of the shares in Power Health between the end of years two 
and five from completion or otherwise obligatory acquisition by year 
five. 

The acquisition of Power Health is accounted as a 100 per cent 
wholly-owned group as detailed below. 

Determining non-controlling interests in 
Power Health 

On 9 November 2021, we acquired 70 per cent of shares in 
Power Health, however, we applied judgement to determine 
that we control 100 per cent on the acquisition date. This is 
because we have a contractual obligation to purchase the 
remaining 30 per cent interest from the founding shareholder 
by 2026. Therefore, the non-controlling interest is deemed to 
have been acquired at the acquisition date.

We account for our obligation to purchase the remaining 
interest as a financial liability.

This liability is remeasured to its fair value at each reporting date, 
with any remeasurements recognised in the income statement. No 
earnings are attributed to the non-controlling interests. As at 30 
June 2023, the fair value of the financial liability was $35 million 
(2022: $46 million). 

162 | Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities

Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities | F79

2023.Financial Report.book  Page 79  Wednesday, August 16, 2023  4:21 PM

2023.Financial Report.book  Page 80  Wednesday, August 16, 2023  4:21 PM

Notes to the financial statements (continued)

Telstra Financial Report 2023

Notes to the financial statements (continued)

Section 6. Our investments (continued)

Section 6. Our investments (continued)

6.1 Changes in the group structure (continued)

6.2 Investments in controlled entities

6.2 Investments in controlled entities (continued)

6.1.2 Current year acquisitions (continued)

6.2.1 Investments in controlled entities 

6.2.2 Deed of cross guarantee

The following entities are party to the Deed and part of the Closed 
Group:

(c) Telstra Group result if all acquisitions occurred on 1 July 

Telstra Group has a direct or indirect interest in over 210 

2022

If all the acquisitions made during the financial year 2023 had 

occurred on 1 July 2022, our adjusted consolidated income and 

consolidated profit before income tax expense for the financial year 

2023 would have been $23,282 million and $2,867 million, 

respectively.

6.1.3 Current year disposals 

subsidiaries with our international presence spanning over 30 

countries. We have controlled entities in Australia, Asia, the South 

Pacific, New Zealand, Europe, Middle East and the United States of 

America. We conduct most of our business through our controlled 

entities Telstra Limited and Telstra Corporation Limited, which in 

total constituted 98 per cent of the Group’s EBITDA. 

A complete list of our controlled entities is available online at 

www.telstra.com/financialresults. 

During the financial year 2023, we have not disposed of any 

controlled entities or businesses but we have sold some other 

(a) Power Health

investments. These transactions had no significant financial impact 

On 9 November 2021, we completed the acquisition of 70 per cent 

on our results. 

6.1.4 Prior year disposals 

of the shares in Power Solutions Holdings Pty Ltd and its 

subsidiaries (Power Health). On acquisition, we recognised a 

financial liability for our commitment to purchase the remaining 30 

On 30 June 2021, we announced that a consortium comprising the 

per cent of the shares in Power Health between the end of years two 

Future Fund, Commonwealth Superannuation Corporation and 

and five from completion or otherwise obligatory acquisition by year 

Sunsuper agreed to acquire a 49 per cent interest and become a 

five. 

strategic partner in Telstra’s towers business.

On 31 August 2021, the towers business became operational 

wholly-owned group as detailed below. 

The acquisition of Power Health is accounted as a 100 per cent 

following a transfer of business assets and liabilities to Towers 

Business Operating Trust (Trust). The Trust also incurred $90 

million estimated stamp duty costs related to the establishment of 

the business. The trustee of the Trust is our subsidiary Amplitel Pty 

Ltd (Amplitel).

The sale of 49 per cent interests in the Trust and Amplitel to the 

consortium was completed on 1 September 2021 and resulted in 

$2,883 million net cash proceeds. We retain control of the Trust and 

Amplitel and thus we continue to consolidate these entities. 

At the Telstra Group level, transactions with non-controlling 

interests that do not result in a loss of control are treated as 

transactions with equity owners of the towers business. As at 1 

September 2021, we recognised $798 million non-controlling 

interests reflecting the consortium’s relative interests in the Trust 

and Amplitel as at the date of the transaction. The $2,085 million 

difference between the amount recognised as non-controlling 

interests and the consideration received was recognised in general 

reserve within equity attributable to the Telstra Group.

Determining non-controlling interests in 

Power Health 

On 9 November 2021, we acquired 70 per cent of shares in 

Power Health, however, we applied judgement to determine 

that we control 100 per cent on the acquisition date. This is 

because we have a contractual obligation to purchase the 

remaining 30 per cent interest from the founding shareholder 

by 2026. Therefore, the non-controlling interest is deemed to 

have been acquired at the acquisition date.

We account for our obligation to purchase the remaining 

interest as a financial liability.

This liability is remeasured to its fair value at each reporting date, 

with any remeasurements recognised in the income statement. No 

earnings are attributed to the non-controlling interests. As at 30 

June 2023, the fair value of the financial liability was $35 million 

(2022: $46 million). 

Telstra Group Limited and each of the wholly-owned 
subsidiaries set out below (together the ‘Closed Group’), are 
party to a deed of cross guarantee (Deed), as defined in 
Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) 
legislative instrument: ‘ASIC Corporations (Wholly-owned 
Companies) Instrument 2016/785’ (ASIC Instrument).

The effect of the Deed is that each entity in the Closed Group 
guarantees the payment in full of all debts of the other entities 
in the Closed Group in the event of their winding up.

Pursuant to the ASIC Instrument, the wholly-owned 
subsidiaries within the Closed Group that are eligible for the 
benefit of the ASIC Instrument are relieved from the 
requirement to prepare and lodge separate financial 
statements, directors’ reports and auditors’ reports.

The statement of comprehensive income and statement of 
financial position disclosed in this section present 
consolidated results of the Closed Group.

As disclosed in the 2022 Annual Report, Telstra Corporation Limited 
(as the then holding entity of the Telstra Group), certain of its 
wholly-owned subsidiaries and Telstra Finance Limited (as trustee) 
were party to a deed of cross guarantee (Previous Deed), as defined 
in Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) 
legislative instrument: ‘ASIC Corporations (Wholly-owned 
Companies) Instrument 2016/785’. 

As detailed in note 1.2, during the financial year 2023 the Telstra 
Group had completed the Restructure, with the following changes 
occurring in relation to the deed of cross guarantee: 

• on 23 November 2022, a revocation deed was lodged with ASIC to 
revoke the Previous Deed. The revocation was effective on 24 
May 2023 (being the day following the expiration of six months 
from the date of lodgement with ASIC).

• on 23 November 2022, the Deed was lodged with ASIC. 

• Telstra Group Limited (holding entity)
• Alliance Automation Pty Ltd
• Aqura Technologies Pty Ltd
• Clinical Technology Holdings Pty Limited
• Clinical Technology Systems Pty Limited
• DLM Automation Pty Ltd
• Epicon IT Solutions Pty. Ltd.
• Fone Zone Pty Ltd
• Health Communication Network Pty Limited
• Merricks NewCo Pty Ltd
• Mobile Tracking and Data Pty Ltd
• MTData Holdings Pty Ltd
• muru-D Pty Ltd
• Pacnet Internet (A) Pty Ltd
• Pacnet Services (A) Pty. Ltd.
• Service Potential Pty Ltd
• Telstra 3G Spectrum Holdings Pty Ltd
• Telstra Australia Networks Pty Limited
• Telstra Broadcast Services Pty Limited
• Telstra Communications Limited 
• Telstra Corporation Limited
• Telstra Energy (Generation) Pty Ltd
• Telstra Energy (Holdings) Pty Ltd
• Telstra Energy (Retail) Pty Ltd
• Telstra Health Pty Ltd
• Telstra Health Services Pty Ltd
• Telstra Holdings Pty Ltd
• Telstra International (Aus) Limited
• Telstra International Holdings Pty Ltd
• Telstra International Networks Pty Limited
• Telstra International Operations Pty Limited
• Telstra Limited
• Telstra Multimedia Pty Limited
• Telstra OnAir Holdings Pty Ltd
• Telstra Pay TV Pty Ltd
• Telstra Plus Pty Ltd
• Telstra Purple Pty Ltd
• Telstra Reach Holdings Pty Ltd
• Telstra Services Solutions Holdings Limited
• Telstra Software Group Pty Ltd
• Telstra Towerco No.2 Pty Ltd
• Telstra Ventures Pty Limited.

There were no financial impacts on the Telstra Group resulting from 
the revocation of the Previous Deed and the establishment of the 
Deed. 

There are no other members of the Extended Closed Group (as 
defined in the ASIC instrument). Telstra Finance Limited is trustee 
under the Deed, however, it is not a member of the Closed Group or 
the Extended Closed Group. 

Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities | F79

F80 | Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities

Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities | 163

Telstra Financial Report 20232023.Financial Report.book  Page 81  Wednesday, August 16, 2023  4:21 PM

2023.Financial Report.book  Page 82  Wednesday, August 16, 2023  4:21 PM

Notes to the financial statements (continued)

Telstra Financial Report 2023

Notes to the financial statements (continued)

Section 6. Our investments (continued)

Section 6. Our investments (continued)

6.2 Investments in controlled entities (continued)

6.2.2 Deed of cross guarantee (continued)

Financial information of the members of the Closed Group 
presented in Tables A to C excludes Telstra Finance Limited. 
Transactions between the members have been eliminated. 

Table A                                                                                         

As at        

Closed Group

Current assets
Cash and cash equivalents
Trade and other receivables and contract assets
Deferred contract costs
Inventories
Derivative financial assets
Current tax receivables
Prepayments

Total current assets
Non-current assets
Trade and other receivables and contract assets
Deferred contract costs
Inventories
Investments – controlled entities
Investments – accounted for using the equity 
method
Investments – other
Property, plant and equipment
Right-of-use assets
Intangible assets
Derivative financial assets
Defined benefit asset

Total non-current assets
Total assets
Current liabilities
Trade and other payables
Employee benefits
Other provisions
Lease liabilities
Borrowings
Derivative financial liabilities
Contract liabilities and other revenue received in 
advance

Total current liabilities

30 June

2023

$m

530
3,963
110
513
421
136
255

5,928

1,057
1,088
36
6,137

680

22
19,507
2,313
7,196
300
285

38,621
44,549

3,893
657
106
363
4,138
73

1,336

10,566

Table A (continued)                                                

Closed Group

Non-current liabilities
Other payables
Employee benefits
Other provisions
Lease liabilities
Borrowings
Derivative financial liabilities
Deferred tax liabilities
Contract liabilities and other revenue received in 
advance

Total non-current liabilities
Total liabilities
Net assets
Equity
Share capital
Reserves
Retained profits

Equity available to the closed group

As at        

30 June

2023

$m

102
122
115
2,259
11,529
189
1,602

791

16,709
27,275
17,274

3,095
79
14,100

17,274

Table B                                                                                  

Closed Group

Year 
ended     
30 June

Profit for the year for the Closed Group
Total other comprehensive income for the Closed 
Group
Total comprehensive income for the year for the 
Closed Group

2023

$m

1,680

(92)

1,588

Table C provides a reconciliation of retained profits of the Closed 
Group from the opening to the closing balance.

Table C                                                                                  

Closed Group

Year 
ended     
30 June

Retained profits at the beginning of the financial 
year available to the Closed Group
Effect on retained profits from addition of entities to 
the Closed Group
Total comprehensive income recognised in retained 
profits
Dividend

Retained profits at the end of the financial year 
available to the Closed Group

2023

$m

-

14,365

1,699

(1,964)

14,100

6.3 Non-controlling interests

6.3.2 Telstra PM Pty Ltd and its controlled entities (Telstra PM 

Summarised financial information of the Telstra Group entities 

Group)

which have material non-controlling interests is detailed below. 

As detailed in note 6.1.2, during the financial year 2023 we acquired 

6.3.1 Amplitel business

Digicel Pacific and our controlled entity within the Telstra PM 

Group issued $923 million of equity-like securities to the Australian 

Table A summarises financial information of the entities which have 

Government, through Export Finance Australia. The issued 

material non-controlling interests, i.e. the Trust and Amplitel 

securities are classified as equity and recognised as non-controlling 

(Amplitel business), amalgamated for the year ended and as at 30 

interest.

June 2023. It represents the amounts before inter-company 

eliminations of transactions with other entities within the Telstra 

Group, with the exception of the transactions within the Amplitel 

business which have been eliminated.

Table B summarises financial information for the year ended and as 

at 30 June 2023 of Telstra PM Group which have material non-

controlling interests. The financial information represents the 

amounts before inter-company eliminations of transactions with 

other entities within the Telstra Group, with the exception of the 

Table A                                                    

Year ended/as at          

transactions within the Telstra PM Group which have been 

Amplitel business

30 June

eliminated.

2023

2022

$m

$m

Telstra PM Group

Table B                                                                                        

Year 

Statement of financial position

Current assets

Non-current assets

Total assets

Current liabilities

Non-current liabilities

764

794

Total liabilities

Net assets

Statement of financial position

Current assets

Non-current assets

Total assets

Current liabilities

Non-current liabilities

Total liabilities

Net assets

Accumulated non-controlling 

Statement of comprehensive 

interests

income

Revenue

Profit/(loss)/total comprehensive 

income for the period

Profit allocated to non-controlling 

interests

Distributions paid/payable to non-

controlling interests

Statement of cash flows

Net cash inflow from operating 

activities

activities

activities

Net cash inflow from investing 

Net cash outflow from financing 

Net cash (outflow)/inflow

262

2,015

2,277

170

814

984

1,293

198

155

90

120

54

138

(270)

(78)

339

2,071

2,410

217

809

1,026

1,384

141

(157)

83

87

82

129

(81)

130

Accumulated non-controlling interests

Statement of comprehensive income

Revenue

Loss/total comprehensive income for the period 

attributable to Telstra PM Group

Profit allocated to non-controlling interests

Statement of cash flows

Net cash inflow from operating activities

Net cash outflow from investing activities

Net cash inflow from financing activities

Net cash inflow

6.3.3 The Exchange Trust

As at 30 June 2023, our controlled entity The Exchange Trust, which 

holds a portfolio of 36 Telstra exchanges in Australia, had a 49 per 

cent (2022: 49 per cent) non-controlling interest balance of $701 

million (2022: $700 million). The trustee of the Exchange Trust is 

Merricks NewCo Pty Ltd, our wholly-owned controlled entity. 

During the financial year 2023, we paid the minority unit holder of 

the trust a $33 million (2022: $32 million) dividend. 

ended/as 

at 30 June

2023

$m

460

3,353

3,813

537

1,861

2,398

1,415

938

738

(7)

1

216

(2,525)

2,402

93

164 | Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities

Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities | F81

F82 | Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities

2023.Financial Report.book  Page 81  Wednesday, August 16, 2023  4:21 PM

2023.Financial Report.book  Page 82  Wednesday, August 16, 2023  4:21 PM

Notes to the financial statements (continued)

Telstra Financial Report 2023

Notes to the financial statements (continued)

Section 6. Our investments (continued)

Section 6. Our investments (continued)

6.3 Non-controlling interests

Summarised financial information of the Telstra Group entities 
which have material non-controlling interests is detailed below. 

6.3.1 Amplitel business

Table A summarises financial information of the entities which have 
material non-controlling interests, i.e. the Trust and Amplitel 
(Amplitel business), amalgamated for the year ended and as at 30 
June 2023. It represents the amounts before inter-company 
eliminations of transactions with other entities within the Telstra 
Group, with the exception of the transactions within the Amplitel 
business which have been eliminated.

Table A                                                    

Year ended/as at          

6.3.2 Telstra PM Pty Ltd and its controlled entities (Telstra PM 
Group)

As detailed in note 6.1.2, during the financial year 2023 we acquired 
Digicel Pacific and our controlled entity within the Telstra PM 
Group issued $923 million of equity-like securities to the Australian 
Government, through Export Finance Australia. The issued 
securities are classified as equity and recognised as non-controlling 
interest.

Table B summarises financial information for the year ended and as 
at 30 June 2023 of Telstra PM Group which have material non-
controlling interests. The financial information represents the 
amounts before inter-company eliminations of transactions with 
other entities within the Telstra Group, with the exception of the 
transactions within the Telstra PM Group which have been 
eliminated.

Table B                                                                                        

30 June

2023

2022

$m

$m

262
2,015

2,277
170
814

984
1,293

339
2,071

2,410
217
809

1,026
1,384

764

794

Telstra PM Group

Statement of financial position
Current assets
Non-current assets

Total assets
Current liabilities
Non-current liabilities

Total liabilities
Net assets

198

155

90

120

54

138

(270)

(78)

141

(157)

Accumulated non-controlling interests
Statement of comprehensive income
Revenue

Loss/total comprehensive income for the period 
attributable to Telstra PM Group

Profit allocated to non-controlling interests
Statement of cash flows
Net cash inflow from operating activities
Net cash outflow from investing activities
Net cash inflow from financing activities

Net cash inflow

6.3.3 The Exchange Trust

83

87

82

129

(81)

130

As at 30 June 2023, our controlled entity The Exchange Trust, which 
holds a portfolio of 36 Telstra exchanges in Australia, had a 49 per 
cent (2022: 49 per cent) non-controlling interest balance of $701 
million (2022: $700 million). The trustee of the Exchange Trust is 
Merricks NewCo Pty Ltd, our wholly-owned controlled entity. 
During the financial year 2023, we paid the minority unit holder of 
the trust a $33 million (2022: $32 million) dividend. 

Year 
ended/as 
at 30 June

2023

$m

460
3,353

3,813
537
1,861

2,398
1,415

938

738

(7)

1

216
(2,525)
2,402

93

Amplitel business

Statement of financial position
Current assets
Non-current assets

Total assets
Current liabilities
Non-current liabilities

Total liabilities
Net assets

Accumulated non-controlling 
interests
Statement of comprehensive 
income
Revenue

Profit/(loss)/total comprehensive 
income for the period

Profit allocated to non-controlling 
interests
Distributions paid/payable to non-
controlling interests
Statement of cash flows
Net cash inflow from operating 
activities
Net cash inflow from investing 
activities
Net cash outflow from financing 
activities

Net cash (outflow)/inflow

Trade and other receivables and contract assets

Contract liabilities and other revenue received in 

6.2 Investments in controlled entities (continued)

6.2.2 Deed of cross guarantee (continued)

Financial information of the members of the Closed Group 

presented in Tables A to C excludes Telstra Finance Limited. 

Transactions between the members have been eliminated. 

Table A                                                                                         

As at        

Closed Group

Table A (continued)                                                

Closed Group

As at        

30 June

2023

Trade and other receivables and contract assets

Investments – controlled entities

Investments – accounted for using the equity 

method

Investments – other

Property, plant and equipment

Current assets

Cash and cash equivalents

Deferred contract costs

Inventories

Derivative financial assets

Current tax receivables

Prepayments

Total current assets

Non-current assets

Deferred contract costs

Inventories

Right-of-use assets

Intangible assets

Derivative financial assets

Defined benefit asset

Total non-current assets

Total assets

Current liabilities

Trade and other payables

Employee benefits

Other provisions

Lease liabilities

Borrowings

Derivative financial liabilities

Contract liabilities and other revenue received in 

advance

Total current liabilities

30 June

2023

$m

530

3,963

110

513

421

136

255

5,928

1,057

1,088

36

6,137

680

22

19,507

2,313

7,196

300

285

38,621

44,549

3,893

657

106

363

4,138

73

1,336

Non-current liabilities

Other payables

Employee benefits

Other provisions

Lease liabilities

Borrowings

Derivative financial liabilities

Deferred tax liabilities

advance

Total non-current liabilities

Total liabilities

Net assets

Equity

Share capital

Reserves

Retained profits

Closed Group

Equity available to the closed group

Table B                                                                                  

Year 

Profit for the year for the Closed Group

Total other comprehensive income for the Closed 

Group

Closed Group

Total comprehensive income for the year for the 

Table C provides a reconciliation of retained profits of the Closed 

Group from the opening to the closing balance.

Table C                                                                                  

Year 

Closed Group

$m

102

122

115

2,259

11,529

189

1,602

791

16,709

27,275

17,274

3,095

79

14,100

17,274

ended     

30 June

2023

$m

1,680

(92)

1,588

ended     

30 June

2023

$m

-

14,365

1,699

(1,964)

14,100

10,566

Retained profits at the beginning of the financial 

year available to the Closed Group

Effect on retained profits from addition of entities to 

Total comprehensive income recognised in retained 

the Closed Group

profits

Dividend

Retained profits at the end of the financial year 

available to the Closed Group

Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities | F81

F82 | Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities

Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities | 165

Telstra Financial Report 20232023.Financial Report.book  Page 83  Wednesday, August 16, 2023  4:21 PM

2023.Financial Report.book  Page 84  Wednesday, August 16, 2023  4:21 PM

Notes to the financial statements (continued)

Telstra Financial Report 2023

Notes to the financial statements (continued)

Section 6. Our investments (continued)

Section 6. Our investments (continued)

6.4 Investments in joint ventures and associated entities

6.4 Investments in joint ventures and associated entities 

We account for joint ventures and associated entities using 
the equity method. Under this method, we recognise the 
investment at cost and subsequently adjust it for our share of 
profits or losses, which are recognised in the income 
statement and our share of other comprehensive income, 
which is recognised in the statement of comprehensive 
income. Generally, dividend received reduces the carrying 
value of the investment.

The movements in the carrying amount of equity accounted 
investments in our joint ventures and associated entities are 
summarised in Table A.

Table A

Telstra Group

Carrying amount of investments at beginning of year
Additions
Additions obtained via acquisition of controlled entity
Gain on dilution of shareholding recognised in other comprehensive income

Share of net loss
Share of distributions
Share of reserves

Carrying amount of investments at end of year

Additions of associated entities include $27 million (2022: $71 
million) of new investments in Telstra Ventures Fund III, L.P.

Share of joint ventures’ reserves includes $83 million loss (2022: 
$199 million) in our share of other comprehensive income.

As at 30 June

Joint ventures

Associated entities

2023

2022

2023

2022

$m

284
6
-
-

290
(3)
(45)
(83)

159

$m

578
13
-
-

591
(4)
(104)
(199)

284

$m

530
27
8
7

572
(24)
-
(21)

527

$m

440
101
-
-

541
(27)
-
16

530

6.4.1 List of our investments in joint ventures and associated 

Table B presents a list of our investments in joint ventures and 

associated entities, their principal place of business/country of 

incorporation and our ownership interest.

Name of entity

Principal activities

(continued)

entities

Table B

Telstra Group

Joint ventures

3GIS Pty Ltd

Reach Limited

Management of former 3GIS 

Partnership (non-operating)

Australia

International connectivity services

Bermuda

Telstra Ventures Fund II, L.P. 

Venture capital

Associated entities

ACN 147 190 118 Pty Ltd1

Software service provider

Asia Netcom Philippines Corporation

Ownership of physical property

Australia-Japan Cable Holdings Limited

Network cable provider

Dacom Crossing Corporation

Network cable provider

NXE Australia Pty Limited

Pay television

Pacific Carriage Holdings Limited Inc.

Network cable provider

United States

Pivotal Labs Sydney Pty Ltd

Software development

Samoa Submarine Cable Company Limited Network cable provider

Southern Cross Cables Holdings Limited

Network cable provider

Telstra Converge Inc. (formerly Digitel 

Telecommunication services

Philippines

Crossing Inc.)

Telstra Super Pty Ltd

Superannuation trustee

Telstra Ventures Fund III, L.P.

Venture capital

Tianjin TenLink Electronic Technology Co., 

Control system of industrial internet 

China

Ltd.

supplier

Tonga Cable Limited

Network cable provider

Tonga

Guernsey

Australia

Philippines

Bermuda

Korea

Australia

Australia

Samoa

Bermuda

Australia

Guernsey

1   During the year, Telstra Limited’s ownership interest in ACN 147 190 118 Pty Ltd 

(immediate parent of Neto (US) Inc. prior to its deregistration on 7 July 2022) was 

reduced from 74% to 20% due to a capital return completed on 8 June 2023. Accordingly, 

ACN 147 190 118 Pty Ltd is no longer considered a controlled entity and is included in our 

list of investments in associated entities in Table B.

Ownership interest

As at 30 June

2023

2022

%

%

Principal place of 

business/country of 

incorporation

50.0

50.0

62.5

20.0

40.0

46.9

49.0

35.0

25.0

20.0

16.7

25.0

48.0

100.0

50.0

10.0

16.6

50.0

50.0

62.5

74.0

40.0

46.9

49.0

35.0

25.0

20.0

-

25.0

48.0

100.0

50.5

10.0

-

166 | Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities

Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities | F83

F84 | Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities

2023.Financial Report.book  Page 83  Wednesday, August 16, 2023  4:21 PM

2023.Financial Report.book  Page 84  Wednesday, August 16, 2023  4:21 PM

Notes to the financial statements (continued)

Telstra Financial Report 2023

Notes to the financial statements (continued)

Telstra Financial Report 2023

Section 6. Our investments (continued)

Section 6. Our investments (continued)

6.4 Investments in joint ventures and associated entities

We account for joint ventures and associated entities using 

the equity method. Under this method, we recognise the 

investment at cost and subsequently adjust it for our share of 

profits or losses, which are recognised in the income 

statement and our share of other comprehensive income, 

which is recognised in the statement of comprehensive 

income. Generally, dividend received reduces the carrying 

value of the investment.

The movements in the carrying amount of equity accounted 

investments in our joint ventures and associated entities are 

summarised in Table A.

Table A

Telstra Group

Carrying amount of investments at beginning of year

Additions

Additions obtained via acquisition of controlled entity

Gain on dilution of shareholding recognised in other comprehensive income

Share of net loss

Share of distributions

Share of reserves

Carrying amount of investments at end of year

Additions of associated entities include $27 million (2022: $71 

million) of new investments in Telstra Ventures Fund III, L.P.

Share of joint ventures’ reserves includes $83 million loss (2022: 

$199 million) in our share of other comprehensive income.

As at 30 June

Joint ventures

Associated entities

2023

2022

2023

2022

$m

284

6

-

-

290

(3)

(45)

(83)

159

$m

578

13

-

-

591

(4)

(104)

(199)

284

$m

530

27

8

7

-

572

(24)

(21)

527

$m

440

101

-

-

541

(27)

-

16

530

6.4 Investments in joint ventures and associated entities 
(continued)

6.4.1 List of our investments in joint ventures and associated 
entities

Table B presents a list of our investments in joint ventures and 
associated entities, their principal place of business/country of 
incorporation and our ownership interest.

Table B

Telstra Group

Name of entity

Principal activities

Ownership interest

As at 30 June

2023

2022

%

%

Principal place of 
business/country of 
incorporation

Joint ventures
3GIS Pty Ltd

Reach Limited
Telstra Ventures Fund II, L.P. 

Management of former 3GIS 
Partnership (non-operating)
International connectivity services
Venture capital

Australia

Bermuda
Guernsey

Associated entities
ACN 147 190 118 Pty Ltd1
Software service provider
Asia Netcom Philippines Corporation
Ownership of physical property
Australia-Japan Cable Holdings Limited
Network cable provider
Dacom Crossing Corporation
Network cable provider
NXE Australia Pty Limited
Pay television
Pacific Carriage Holdings Limited Inc.
Network cable provider
Software development
Pivotal Labs Sydney Pty Ltd
Samoa Submarine Cable Company Limited Network cable provider
Network cable provider
Southern Cross Cables Holdings Limited
Telecommunication services
Telstra Converge Inc. (formerly Digitel 
Crossing Inc.)
Telstra Super Pty Ltd
Telstra Ventures Fund III, L.P.
Tianjin TenLink Electronic Technology Co., 
Ltd.
Tonga Cable Limited

Superannuation trustee
Venture capital
Control system of industrial internet 
supplier
Network cable provider

Australia
Philippines
Bermuda
Korea
Australia
United States
Australia
Samoa
Bermuda
Philippines

Australia
Guernsey
China

Tonga

1   During the year, Telstra Limited’s ownership interest in ACN 147 190 118 Pty Ltd 
(immediate parent of Neto (US) Inc. prior to its deregistration on 7 July 2022) was 
reduced from 74% to 20% due to a capital return completed on 8 June 2023. Accordingly, 
ACN 147 190 118 Pty Ltd is no longer considered a controlled entity and is included in our 
list of investments in associated entities in Table B.

50.0

50.0
62.5

20.0
40.0
46.9
49.0
35.0
25.0
20.0
16.7
25.0

48.0

100.0
50.0

10.0

16.6

50.0

50.0
62.5

74.0
40.0
46.9
49.0
35.0
25.0
20.0
-
25.0

48.0

100.0
50.5

10.0

-

Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities | F83

F84 | Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities

Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities | 167

2023.Financial Report.book  Page 85  Wednesday, August 16, 2023  4:21 PM

Notes to the financial statements (continued)

Telstra Financial Report 2023

Section 6. Our investments (continued)

6.4 Investments in joint ventures and associated entities 
(continued)

6.4.1 List of our investments in joint ventures and associated 
entities (continued)

We apply judgement to determine if we have significant influence or 
joint control over our investments as detailed below. 

Joint control of Telstra Ventures Fund II, 
L.P.

We applied judgement to determine that we have joint control 
of our investment in Telstra Ventures Fund II, L.P.. While we 
hold 62.5 per cent of the partnership interest on a fully 
committed basis, key decisions for the entity require the 
unanimous approval of the Advisory Committee, on which we 
hold one of the two seats, or a majority of at least 75.0 per cent 
of the fully committed capital.

Significant influence over Telstra Super 
Pty Ltd

We applied judgement to determine that we do not control 
Telstra Super Pty Ltd even though we own 100.0 per cent of its 
equity.

Telstra Super Pty Ltd is a trustee for the Telstra 
Superannuation Scheme. We do not consolidate Telstra Super 
Pty Ltd as we do not control the board of directors. The board 
of directors consists of an equal number of employer and 
member representatives and an independent chairman. Our 
voting power over the relevant activities is 44.0 per cent, 
which is equivalent to our representation on the board. The 
entity is therefore classified as an associated entity as we have 
significant influence over it.

Significant influence over Telstra 
Ventures Fund III, L.P.

We applied judgement to determine that we have significant 
influence of our investment in Telstra Ventures Fund III, L.P.. 
While we hold 50.0 per cent (2022: 50.5 per cent) on a 
committed capital amount basis, we have a seat on the 
Advisory Committee. This gives us the power to participate in 
the financial and operating policy decisions of the investment.

(a) NXE Group

Telstra has a 35 per cent interest in NXE Australia Pty Limited and 
its controlled entities (NXE Group), an associated entity which 
provides subscription TV and streaming services. In the 
consolidated financial statements Telstra's interest in NXE 
Australia Pty Limited is accounted for using the equity method. 

Financial information of NXE Group for the financial year 2023 is 
summarised in Table C based on their consolidated management 
financial statements prepared in accordance with the Australian 
Accounting Standards. The information disclosed reflects the 
amounts presented in the financial statements of NXE Group and 
not Telstra’s share of those amounts. The management financial 
information has been adjusted to reflect adjustments made by 
Telstra when using the equity accounting method, including fair 
value adjustments and modifications for differences in accounting 
policy and impairment of our investment.

Table C

NXE Group

Current assets
Non-current assets
Current liabilities
Non-current liabilities

Equity
Telstra's share in equity 35% (2022: 
35%)
Equity accounting adjustments

Telstra's carrying amount of the 
investment
Revenue
Operating expenses

Loss before tax
Income tax benefit

Loss for the year
Other comprehensive income

Total comprehensive income for the 
year
Equity accounting adjustments
Adjusted comprehensive income for 
the period

Telstra's share of comprehensive 
income for the year (35%)

Year ended 30 June

2023

2022

$m
682
3,542
(1,360)
(1,992)

872

305

83

388

$m
705
3,793
(1,224)
(2,319)

955

334

68

402

2,866
(2,979)

2,775
(2,887)

(113)
36

(77)
(7)

(84)

44

(40)

(14)

(112)
40

(72)
16

(56)

19

(37)

(13)

168 | Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities

Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities | F85

2023.Financial Report.book  Page 85  Wednesday, August 16, 2023  4:21 PM

2023.Financial Report.book  Page 86  Wednesday, August 16, 2023  4:21 PM

Notes to the financial statements (continued)

Telstra Financial Report 2023

Notes to the financial statements (continued)

Telstra Financial Report 2023

Section 6. Our investments (continued)

Section 6. Our investments (continued)

6.4 Investments in joint ventures and associated entities 
(continued)

6.4.4 Transactions with our joint ventures and associated 
entities

6.4.1 List of our investments in joint ventures and associated 

its controlled entities (NXE Group), an associated entity which 

6.4.2 Other joint ventures and associated entities

Table D presents our share of the aggregate financial information of 
joint ventures and associated entities.

Table D

Year ended/As at 30 June

Telstra Group

Joint ventures

Associated 
entities

2023

2022

2023

2022

$m

159

$m

284

$m

527

$m

530

(3)

(4)

(24)

(27)

(83)

(199)

(14)

16

(86)

(203)

(38)

(11)

Carrying amount of 
investment
Group's share of:
Loss
Other 
comprehensive 
income

Total 
comprehensive 
income

6.4.3 Suspension of equity accounting 

Table E presents our unrecognised share of losses for the financial 
year and cumulatively for our entities where equity accounting has 
ceased and the investment is recorded at zero due to losses made 
by these entities and/or reductions in the equity accounted carrying 
amount.

2,866

(2,979)

2,775

(2,887)

Table E

Year ended 30 June

Telstra Group

Period Cumula 

Period Cumula 

6.4 Investments in joint ventures and associated entities 

(a) NXE Group

(continued)

entities (continued)

We apply judgement to determine if we have significant influence or 

joint control over our investments as detailed below. 

Telstra has a 35 per cent interest in NXE Australia Pty Limited and 

provides subscription TV and streaming services. In the 

consolidated financial statements Telstra's interest in NXE 

Australia Pty Limited is accounted for using the equity method. 

Financial information of NXE Group for the financial year 2023 is 

summarised in Table C based on their consolidated management 

financial statements prepared in accordance with the Australian 

Accounting Standards. The information disclosed reflects the 

amounts presented in the financial statements of NXE Group and 

not Telstra’s share of those amounts. The management financial 

information has been adjusted to reflect adjustments made by 

Telstra when using the equity accounting method, including fair 

value adjustments and modifications for differences in accounting 

policy and impairment of our investment.

Table C

NXE Group

Current assets

Non-current assets

Current liabilities

Non-current liabilities

Equity

35%)

Telstra's share in equity 35% (2022: 

Equity accounting adjustments

Telstra's carrying amount of the 

investment

Revenue

Operating expenses

Loss before tax

Income tax benefit

Loss for the year

Other comprehensive income

Total comprehensive income for the 

year

Equity accounting adjustments

Adjusted comprehensive income for 

the period

Telstra's share of comprehensive 

income for the year (35%)

Year ended 30 June

2023

2022

$m

682

3,542

(1,360)

(1,992)

872

305

83

388

(113)

36

(77)

(7)

(84)

44

(40)

(14)

$m

705

3,793

(1,224)

(2,319)

955

334

68

402

(112)

40

(72)

16

(56)

19

(37)

(13)

Joint control of Telstra Ventures Fund II, 

L.P.

We applied judgement to determine that we have joint control 

of our investment in Telstra Ventures Fund II, L.P.. While we 

hold 62.5 per cent of the partnership interest on a fully 

committed basis, key decisions for the entity require the 

unanimous approval of the Advisory Committee, on which we 

hold one of the two seats, or a majority of at least 75.0 per cent 

of the fully committed capital.

Significant influence over Telstra Super 

Pty Ltd

equity.

We applied judgement to determine that we do not control 

Telstra Super Pty Ltd even though we own 100.0 per cent of its 

Telstra Super Pty Ltd is a trustee for the Telstra 

Superannuation Scheme. We do not consolidate Telstra Super 

Pty Ltd as we do not control the board of directors. The board 

of directors consists of an equal number of employer and 

member representatives and an independent chairman. Our 

voting power over the relevant activities is 44.0 per cent, 

which is equivalent to our representation on the board. The 

entity is therefore classified as an associated entity as we have 

significant influence over it.

Significant influence over Telstra 

Ventures Fund III, L.P.

We applied judgement to determine that we have significant 

influence of our investment in Telstra Ventures Fund III, L.P.. 

While we hold 50.0 per cent (2022: 50.5 per cent) on a 

committed capital amount basis, we have a seat on the 

Advisory Committee. This gives us the power to participate in 

the financial and operating policy decisions of the investment.

-tive

2023

2022

-tive

2022

2023

$m

$m

$m

$m

(5)

(558)

-

(553)

Joint ventures
Reach Limited
Associated entities
Australia-Japan 
Cable Holdings 
Limited

Details of key transactions with our joint ventures and associated 
entities recorded in the income statement and statement of 
financial position are provided below.

(a) Sale and purchase of goods and services 

We sold and purchased goods and services, and earned interest 
from our associated entities. These transactions were in the 
ordinary course of business and on normal commercial terms and 
conditions.

Details of individually significant transactions were as follows:

• we purchased from NXE Group pay television services amounting 
to $540 million (2022: $536 million). The purchases enabled 
resale of Foxtel services, including Pay TV content, to our existing 
customers as part of our ongoing product bundling initiatives.

• we sold to NXE Group broadband system services, network 

access services and other professional services totalling $69 
million (2022: $95 million) and wholesale services totalling $68 
million (2022: $66 million).

(b) Amounts owed by joint ventures and associated entities

In February 2020, we entered into a subordinated loan agreement 
with NXE Australia Pty Limited under which we made available to 
NXE Australia Pty Limited a loan facility of up to $170 million at 
commercial rates of interest. The facility matures on 22 December 
2027. As at 30 June 2023 the outstanding balance drawn under this 
facility was $143 million (2022: $132 million).

(c) Trade and other payables

As at 30 June 2023, we had $39 million (2022: $50 million) trade 
payables to NXE Group for purchases of pay television services.

As at 30 June 2023, we had nil (2022: $74 million) other payables to 
Telstra Ventures Fund III, L.P. for new investments in the Fund.

6.4.5 Recognition and measurement

(a) Investments in joint ventures

A joint venture is a joint arrangement whereby the parties that have 
joint control of the arrangement have rights to the net assets of the 
arrangement. Our interests in joint ventures are accounted for using 
the equity method of accounting.

(b) Investments in associated entities

(1)

(70)

(6)

(628)

(1)

(1)

(69)

(622)

These are investments in entities over which we have the ability to 
exercise significant influence but we do not control the decisions of 
the entity. Our interests in associated entities are accounted for 
using the equity method of accounting. 

(c) Equity method of accounting

Investments in associated entities and joint ventures are carried in 
the consolidated balance sheet at cost plus post-acquisition 
changes in our share of the investment’s net assets and net of 
impairment loss. Goodwill relating to an investment in an 
associated entity or joint venture is included in the carrying value of 
the investment and is not amortised. When Telstra’s share of losses 
exceeds our investment in an associated entity or joint venture, the 
carrying amount of the investment is reduced to nil and no further 
losses are recognised.

The equity accounted investments are assessed for impairment 
annually or when there are impairment indicators.

Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities | F85

F86 | Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities

Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities | 169

7.2 Other provisions

The table below provides a summary of our current and non-current 
other provisions. 

Telstra Group

Current other provisions
Non-current other provisions

As at 30 June

2023

2022

$m
327
186

513

$m
160
119

279

Other provisions include $191 million provisions for tax matters 
related to the acquisition of Digicel Pacific. Refer to note 6.1.2 for 
further details. 

2023.Financial Report.book  Page 87  Wednesday, August 16, 2023  4:21 PM

Notes to the financial statements (continued)

Section 7. Other information

This section provides information and disclosures not 
included in the other sections, for example our external 
auditor’s remuneration, commitments and contingencies, 
parent entity disclosures and significant events occurring 
after reporting date.

SECTION 7. 

7.1 Auditor’s remuneration

OTHER INFORMATION

Our external auditor of the Group is Ernst & Young (EY). In 
addition to the audit and review of our financial reports, EY 
provides other services throughout the year. This note details 
the total fees to our external auditors.

Telstra Group

Fees to Ernst & Young (Australia)
Category 1
Category 2
Category 3
Category 4

Total fees to Ernst & Young 
(Australia)
Fees to other overseas member 
firms of Ernst & Young (Australia)
Category 1
Category 2
Category 3
Category 4

Total fees to other overseas member 
firms of Ernst & Young (Australia)
Total auditor’s remuneration

Year ended 30 June

2023

2022

$m

$m

9.692
0.043
2.505
0.359

8.814
0.040
3.254
0.448

12.599

12.556

4.703
0.052
0.030
0.099

4.884

2.475
0.049
-
0.082

2.606

17.483

15.162

Audit and non-audit fees are disclosed in the following categories:

• Category 1: fees to the group auditor for auditing the statutory 

financial report of the parent covering the group, and for auditing 
the statutory financial report of any controlled entities

• Category 2: fees for assurance services that are required by 

legislation to be provided by the auditor

• Category 3: fees for other assurance and agreed-upon 

procedures services where there is discretion as to whether the 
service is provided by the auditor or another firm

• Category 4: fees for other services (e.g. tax compliance).

Services in Category 3 included IT security control assessments, 
various assurance and agreed-upon procedures services. 

Services in Category 4 included tax and other advisory services. 

We have processes in place to maintain the independence of our 
external auditor, including the nature of expenditure on non-audit 
services. EY also has specific internal processes and policies in 
place to ensure auditor independence.

170 | Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities

Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities | F87

Notes to the financial statements (continued)2023.Financial Report.book  Page 88  Wednesday, August 16, 2023  4:21 PM

Notes to the financial statements (continued)

Section 7. Other information (continued)

7.3 Parent entity disclosures

7.3.1 Contingent liabilities and guarantees

This note provides details of Telstra Entity’s financial 
performance and financial position as a standalone entity. The 
results include transactions with its controlled entities.

As detailed in note 1.2, on 31 October 2022 Telstra Group Limited 
became the parent entity of the Telstra Group.

Tables A and B provide a summary of the financial information for 
the Telstra Entity. 

As detailed in note 1.2, Telstra Group Limited became the Telstra 
Entity in the Telstra Group and the operating businesses are carried 
out by separate legal entities controlled by it. As a result, the 
performance obligations under a number of our existing contractual 
arrangements now apply to these separate legal entities. Where 
contractually required or otherwise agreed with counterparties, the 
Telstra Entity has provided parent company guarantees, however 
those guarantees did not change the overall economic exposure the 
Telstra Group had under these arrangements prior to the 
Restructure. 

(a) Intra-group debt guarantees

Table A                                                                                                                

As at                

Telstra Entity

Statement of financial position
Total current assets
Total non-current assets

Total assets
Total current liabilities
Total non-current liabilities

Total liabilities
Share capital
Reorganisation reserve
Cash flow hedging reserve
Retained profits

Total equity

30 June

2023

$m

2,355
44,334

46,689
24,112
1,660

25,772
3,095
(53)
9
17,866

20,917

Reorganisation reserve represents the amounts recognised as a 
result of the establishment of the new parent entity and other 
Restructure steps described in note 1.2.

Table B                                                                                  

Telstra Entity

Statement of comprehensive income
Profit for the year
Total comprehensive income

Year 
ended 
30 June

2023

$m

5,924
5,919

Total current assets include $34 million of provision for impairment 
losses recognised during the financial year 2023 relating to 
impairment of intercompany receivables due from certain 
subsidiaries within our Australian tax consolidated group under the 
tax funding agreement. This impairment has been eliminated on 
consolidation of the Telstra Group.

As at 30 June 2023, the Telstra entity did not have any capital 
commitments. Refer to note 7.4.1 for details about the Group 
capital commitments.

As part of the Restructure, the Telstra Entity has entered into the 
following intra-group debt guarantees: 

• a debt guarantee in favour of holders of specified debt issued by 
Telstra Corporation Limited (including unsecured notes, bank 
loans, commercial paper and derivatives covering cross currency 
swaps, interest rate swaps and forward foreign exchange 
contracts) under which each of Telstra Group Limited and Telstra 
Limited guarantee all amounts due and payable but unpaid by 
Telstra Corporation Limited in respect of the guaranteed debt. 
The guarantee will apply for the term of the guaranteed debt, 
subject to early release in certain circumstances, including if the 
guaranteed debt is repaid, redeemed, purchased, exchanged, 
transferred or substituted (or similar) earlier, and, subject to 
certain applicable limitations and conditions, may also be 
released early in respect of the guarantee given by Telstra Group 
Limited. When the guarantee was issued, Telstra Group Limited 
recognised a financial guarantee liability (measured at fair value), 
and a contribution increasing its investment in Telstra 
Corporation Limited. 

• a debt guarantee in favour of holders of specified debt issued by 
Telstra Group Limited under which each of Telstra Limited and 
Telstra Corporation Limited guarantee all amounts due and 
payable but unpaid by Telstra Group Limited in respect of the 
guaranteed debt. Guaranteed debt entered into by Telstra Group 
Limited comprises of unsecured notes, a bank loan, commercial 
paper, derivatives covering cross currency swaps and forward 
foreign exchange contracts. The guarantee will apply for the term 
of the guaranteed debt, subject to early release in certain 
circumstances, including if the guaranteed debt is repaid, 
redeemed, purchased, exchanged, transferred or substituted (or 
similar) earlier, and, subject to certain applicable limitations and 
conditions, may also be released early in respect of the guarantee 
given by Telstra Corporation Limited. When the guarantee was 
issued, it was measured at fair value and accounted for as an 
adjustment to the guaranteed debt of Telstra Group Limited, with 
a corresponding reduction in its investments in Telstra 
Corporation Limited and Telstra Limited.

The financial impact of all intra-group debt guarantees has been 
eliminated at the Telstra Group level. 

F88 | Telstra Group Limited and controlled entities

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Telstra Financial Report 20232023.Financial Report.book  Page 89  Wednesday, August 16, 2023  4:21 PM

Notes to the financial statements (continued)

Telstra Financial Report 2023

Section 7. Other information (continued)

7.3 Parent entity disclosures (continued)

7.4 Commitments and contingencies

7.3.1 Contingent liabilities and guarantees (continued)

(b) Contingent liabilities and other guarantees

We have also provided the following indemnities, performance 
guarantees and financial support through the Telstra Entity: 

• guarantees to nbn co in respect of payment obligations of Telstra 
Limited or Telstra Corporation Limited to nbn co up to a maximum 
of $2.5 billion in respect of the Subscriber Agreement, and $2.5 
billion in respect of the Infrastructure Services Agreement. At the 
reporting date, the likelihood of any claims under these 
guarantees is considered remote.

• Telstra Group Limited, Telstra Limited, and Telstra Corporation 
Limited have entered into (i) a multi entity bank account set off 
facility; and (ii) banking services agreement, for their 
transactional banking requirements. A cross guarantee and 
indemnity has been provided by each of Telstra Group Limited, 
Telstra Limited and Telstra Corporation Limited in respect of 
amounts due and payable to the applicable bank counterparty 
under each of these arrangements. 

• parent guarantee under which the Telstra Entity has provided a 

guarantee in favour of Amplitel Pty Ltd as trustee for the Towers 
Business Operating Trust in respect of obligations from Telstra 
Limited under the Master Services Agreement.

• guarantees in favour of counterparties in respect of specified 
obligations of two of our controlled entities under contracts 
executed under the International Swaps and Derivatives 
Association agreement (ISDA) between the controlled entity and 
the swap counterparty. As at 30 June 2023, there was no exposure 
under those contracts.

7.3.2 Recognition and measurement

The accounting policies for the Telstra Entity are consistent with 
those of the Telstra Group, except for those noted below:

• under our tax funding agreement, amounts receivable (or 

payable) recognised by the Telstra Entity for the current tax 
payable (or receivable) assumed from our Australian wholly-
owned entities are booked as current assets or liabilities. Refer to 
note 2.4.2 for details about amounts receivable and payable by 
the Telstra Entity under the tax funding agreement.

• investments in controlled entities, included within non-current 
assets, are recorded at cost less impairment of the investment 
value

• under an internal funding policy between the sponsoring 
employer of Telstra Super (i.e. the Telstra Entity) and the 
associated employers (i.e. other legal entities under common 
control which participate in Telstra Super) each entity recognises 
the net defined benefit cost related to its employees who are 
members of Telstra Super. Both the Telstra Entity and the 
associated employers account for their share of the net deficit 
(i.e. net defined benefit liability) where the fair value of the plan 
assets allocated to that entity based on the defined benefit 
obligations of the employees who are members of Telstra Super 
is less than the present value of the defined benefit obligations of 
those employees. The Telstra Entity also accounts for any surplus 
(i.e. net defined benefit asset) where the fair value of the total 
plan assets exceeds the total present value of the defined benefit 
obligations of Telstra Super as a whole.

• where the Telstra Entity grants its equity instruments to 

employees of a subsidiary, the subsidiary records an expense, 
with a corresponding credit to equity, representing a capital 
contribution from the Telstra Entity and the Telstra Entity records 
an increase in its investment in the subsidiary equivalent to the 
expense in the subsidiary, with a corresponding credit to equity.

This note provides details of our commitments for capital 
expenditure arising from our contractual agreements.

This note also includes information about contingent liabilities 
for which no provisions have been recognised due to the 
uncertainty regarding the outcome of future events and/or 
inability to reliably measure such liabilities.

7.4.1 Capital expenditure commitments 

Table A shows capital expenditure commitments contracted for at 
balance date but not recorded in the financial statements.

Table A

Telstra Group

Property, plant and equipment 
commitments
Intangible assets commitments

As at 30 June

2023

2022

$m

772

716

$m

169

774

Intangible assets commitments include $616 million commitment 
to purchase spectrum in the Australian Communications and Media 
Authority’s 850/950 MHz auction. Payment for the 20-year 
spectrum licences is not expected until shortly before they 
commence in mid-2024.

7.4.2 Contingent liabilities and contingent assets 

Details and estimated maximum amounts (where reasonable 
estimates can be made) of contingent liabilities for the Telstra 
Entity are disclosed in note 7.3.1. 

(a) Investigations by regulators

The Telstra Group is subject to a range of laws and regulations in 
Australia and overseas, including in the areas of 
telecommunications, corporate law, consumer and competition law 
and occupational health and safety. In Australia, the principal 
regulators who enforce these laws and regulations and who Telstra 
Group interacts with are the Australian Competition and Consumer 
Commission (ACCC), the Australian Communications and Media 
Authority (ACMA), the Office of the Australian Information 
Commissioner (OAIC), the Australian Securities and Investments 
Commission (ASIC), the Australian Securities Exchange (ASX), and 
Comcare.

The Telstra Group is subject to investigations and reviews from time 
to time by regulators, including certain current investigations into 
whether the Telstra Group has complied with relevant laws and 
regulations. These are taking place in an environment of heightened 
scrutiny and regulator expectation and include where the Telstra 
Group has self-reported issues where it has not complied with 
relevant laws and regulations. In the ordinary course of our 
business, we identify, and may continue to identify, issues that have 
the potential to impact our customers and reputation, which do not 
meet relevant laws or regulations, or which do not meet our 
standards. Where we identify these issues, we make disclosures in 
accordance with the accounting standards, or our other legal 
disclosure obligations, or provide for such liabilities as required.

Regulatory investigations and reviews may result in enforcement 
action, litigation (including class action proceedings), and penalties 
(both civil and in limited circumstances, criminal).

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2023.Financial Report.book  Page 90  Wednesday, August 16, 2023  4:21 PM

Notes to the financial statements (continued)

Section 7. Other information (continued)

7.4 Commitments and contingencies (continued)

7.4.2 Contingent liabilities and contingent assets (continued)

(b) Common law claims

Certain common law claims by employees and third parties are yet 
to be resolved. As at 30 June 2023, management believes that the 
resolution of these contingencies will not have a significant effect 
on the Telstra Group’s financial results.

(c) Indemnities, performance guarantees and financial 
guarantees 

In addition to the items disclosed in note 7.3.1, we have provided the 
following indemnities, performance guarantees and financial 
support through our controlled entities: 

• indemnities to financial institutions to support bank guarantees 
to the value of $254 million (2022: $303 million) in respect of the 
performance of contracts

• indemnities and corporate guarantees to financial institutions 
and other third parties in respect of performance and other 
obligations of our controlled entities, with the maximum amount 
of our contingent liabilities of $274 million (2022: $232 million)

• letters of comfort to indicate support for certain controlled 

entities to the amount necessary to enable those entities to meet 
their obligations as and when they fall due, subject to certain 
conditions (including that the entity remains our controlled 
entity)

• an internal indemnity arrangement in connection to bank 

guarantees procured from, and indemnities granted to, financial 
institutions to the value of $254 million in respect of the 
performance of contracts.

(d) Other contingent liabilities

Other contingent liabilities identified for the Telstra Group relate to 
the ASIC deed of cross guarantee. A list of the companies that are 
party to the deed and part of the Closed Group are included in note 
6.2.2. Each of these companies that are part of the Closed Group 
guarantees the payment in full of the debts of the other companies 
in the Closed Group in the event of their winding up.

In addition to the above matters, entities within the Telstra Group 
may be recipients of, or defendants in, certain claims, regulatory or 
legal proceedings and/or complaints made, commenced or 
threatened. At 30 June 2023, management believes that the 
resolution of these contingencies are not at a stage which supports 
a reasonable evaluation of the likely outcome of the matter and 
therefore, no provision has been made.

(e) Contingent assets

We had no significant contingent assets as at 30 June 2023.

7.5 Events after reporting date

We are not aware of any matter or circumstance that has occurred 
since 30 June 2023 that, in our opinion, has significantly affected or 
may significantly affect in future years:

• our operations
• the results of those operations, or 
• the state of our affairs 

other than the following:

7.5.1 Final dividend

The details of the final dividend for the financial year 2023 are 
disclosed in note 4.2.

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Telstra Financial Report 2023DirectorsDec with signatures for Print Report.fm  Page 91  Wednesday, August 16, 2023  5:03 PM

Directors’ 
Declaration

Directors’ Declaration

This Directors’ Declaration is required by the Corporations Act 2001 
of Australia.

The Directors of Telstra Group Limited have made a resolution that 
declared:

(a) in the Directors’ opinion, the financial statements and 

notes of the Telstra Group for the financial year ended 30 
June 2023 as set out in the financial report are in 
accordance with the Corporations Act 2001, including:
(i)

complying with the Accounting Standards applicable 
in Australia, International Financial Reporting 
Standards and Interpretations (as disclosed in note 
1.1 to the financial statements), and Corporations 
Regulations 2001

(ii) giving a true and fair view of the financial position of 
Telstra Group Limited and the Telstra Group as at 30 
June 2023 and of the performance of Telstra Group 
Limited and the Telstra Group, for the year ended 30 
June 2023

(b) they have received declarations as required by section 

295A of the Corporations Act 2001

(c) at the date of this declaration, in the Directors’ opinion, 
there are reasonable grounds to believe that Telstra 
Group Limited will be able to pay its debts as and when 
they become due and payable

(d) at the date of this declaration there are reasonable 

grounds to believe that the members of the extended 
closed group identified in note 6.2.2 to the financial 
statements, as parties to a Deed of Cross Guarantee, will 
be able to meet any liabilities to which they are, or may 
become, subject to because of the Deed of Cross 
Guarantee described in note 6.2.2. 

For and on behalf of the board

John P Mullen
Chairman

17 August 2023

Vicki Brady
Chief Executive Officer and 
Managing Director

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Notes to the financial statements (continued)SignOffs with signatures for Print Report.fm  Page 92  Wednesday, August 16, 2023  5:22 PM

Ernst & Young
8 Exhibition Street
Melbourne VIC 3000 Australia
GPO Box 67 Melbourne VIC 3001

Tel: +61 3 9288 8000
Fax: +61 3 8650 7777
ey.com/au

Independent Auditor’s Report to the Shareholders of Telstra Group Limited

Report on the audit of the financial report

Opinion

We have audited the financial report of Telstra Group Limited (the Company) and its subsidiaries (collectively the Group), which 
comprises the consolidated statement of financial position as at 30 June 2023, the consolidated income statement, the consolidated 
statement of comprehensive income, the consolidated statement of changes in equity and the consolidated statement of cash flows for 
the year then ended, notes to the financial statements, including a summary of significant accounting policies, and the Directors' 
Declaration.

In our opinion, the accompanying financial report of the Group is in accordance with the Corporations Act 2001, including:

a. Giving a true and fair view of the consolidated financial position of the Group as at 30 June 2023 and of its consolidated financial 

performance for the year ended on that date; and 

b. Complying with Australian Accounting Standards and the Corporations Regulations 2001.

Basis for opinion

We conducted our audit in accordance with Australian Auditing Standards. Our responsibilities under those standards are further 
described in the Auditor’s responsibilities for the audit of the financial report section of our report. We are independent of the Group in 
accordance with the auditor independence requirements of the Corporations Act 2001 and the ethical requirements of the Accounting 
Professional and Ethical Standards Board’s APES 110 Code of Ethics for Professional Accountants (including Independence Standards) 
(the Code) that are relevant to our audit of the financial report in Australia. We have also fulfilled our other ethical responsibilities in 
accordance with the Code.

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

Key audit matters

Key audit matters are those matters that, in our professional judgement, were of most significance in our audit of the financial report of 
the current year. These matters were addressed in the context of our audit of the financial report as a whole, and in forming our opinion 
thereon, but we do not provide a separate opinion on these matters. For each matter below, our description of how our audit addressed 
the matter is provided in that context.

We have fulfilled the responsibilities described in the Auditor’s responsibilities for the audit of the financial report section of our report, 
including in relation to these matters. Accordingly, our audit included the performance of procedures designed to respond to our 
assessment of the risks of material misstatement of the financial report. The results of our audit procedures, including the procedures 
performed to address the matters below, provide the basis for our audit opinion on the accompanying financial report.

Revenue recognition

Why significant

How our audit addressed the key audit matter

The Group exercises significant judgement relating to revenue 
recognition in the following areas:

• Accounting for new products and plans including bundles of 

products and/or services; 

• Accounting for large Network Application Services (NAS) 

contracts; and

• Accounting for NBN revenue under the revised Definitive 
Agreements (DAs) with nbn co and the Commonwealth 
Government.

The accuracy of amounts recorded as revenue is an inherent 
industry risk due to the complexity of billing systems, the 
complexity of products and services, and the combination of 
products sold and price changes in the year.

The complexity of the billing systems was also considered as part 
of the reliance on automated processes and controls Key Audit 
Matter outlined below. 

Disclosures relating to revenue recognition can be found at Section 
2.2 Income. 

We evaluated the design and operating effectiveness of key 
controls over the capture and measurement of revenue 
transactions across all significant revenue streams, including 
evaluating the relevant IT systems.

We examined the processes and controls over the capture and 
assessment of the timing of revenue recognised for new products 
and plans.

We assessed the Group accounting policies as set out in Section 
2.2, and the adequacy of disclosures for compliance with the 
revenue recognition requirements of Australian Accounting 
Standards. 

For all significant revenue streams, we selected a sample of 
revenue transactions recorded during the year and obtained 
supporting evidence such as customer contracts, statements of 
work, other contractual agreements, service detail records and 
evidence of customer payment. 

For customer contracts that include NAS revenues, we focused our 
work on those which we regarded as higher risk because of the 
nature of the contract, its stage of delivery and those which were 
significant by size. 

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Revenue recognition (continued)

Why significant

How our audit addressed the key audit matter

In performing this testing, we assessed the appropriateness of the 
assumptions and estimates supporting the accounting for these 
contracts as follows:

• We tested the effectiveness of controls that operate across 

the contract life cycle.

• We obtained and read the relevant sections of certain 

contracts, to identify the contracted revenues, key provisions 
in the event of contract termination (such as penalties or the 
ability for the Group to recover costs) and assessed the 
appropriateness of identified performance obligations, 
contract transaction price and fulfilment costs.

• For a sample of contracts where performance obligations are 

met at a point in time, we obtained evidence to support 
delivery and/or customer acceptance for recorded revenue 
transactions.

• For those contracts where performance obligations were met 
over a period of time, we obtained evidence to support how the 
respective performance obligations were transferred. This 
included customer acknowledgement of service delivery and 
comparison of actual contract costs incurred with estimated 
costs to complete.

• We considered the future forecast profitability and the 

contractual terms to assess the recoverability of the contract-
specific assets and to determine if any contracts required loss 
provisions.

• We assessed the appropriateness of the assumptions and 
estimates supporting the accounting for the revised DAs 
including understanding the timing of disconnections, the 
progress of the NBN rollout and the transfer of the copper and 
Hybrid Fibre Coaxial (HFC) networks to nbn co.

Reliance on automated processes and controls

Why significant

How our audit addressed the key audit matter

A significant part of the Group’s financial processes is reliant on IT 
systems with automated processes and controls over the valuation 
and recording of transactions. This is a key part of our audit 
because of the:

• Complex IT environment supporting diverse business 

processes;

• Mix of manual and automated controls;
• Multiple internal and outsourced support arrangements; and
• Complexity of the billing systems which calculate the revenue 

being recognised.

The Group continued its implementation of new IT systems during 
the year, a number of which were significant to our audit.

Our IT specialists assessed the Group’s manual and automated 
controls relating to IT systems relevant to financial reporting, 
including the recognition of revenue. When testing controls was not 
considered an appropriate or efficient testing approach, alternative 
audit procedures were performed on the financial information 
being produced by those systems.

Our IT specialists analysed the impact on our audit strategy of new 
systems that are significant to our audit. This included assessing 
the design of relevant automated processes and controls and 
evaluating the effectiveness of those controls in new systems.

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Notes to the financial statements (continued)SignOffs with signatures for Print Report.fm  Page 94  Wednesday, August 16, 2023  5:22 PM

Capitalisation of assets, including useful lives and amortisation

Why significant

How our audit addressed the key audit matter

There are a number of areas where judgements significantly impact 
the carrying value of property, plant and equipment, software 
intangible assets and their respective depreciation and 
amortisation profiles. These areas are as follows:
• The decision to capitalise or expense costs;
• The annual assessment of useful lives;
• The timeliness of the transfer from assets in the course of 

construction; and

• Significant changes that have taken place during the period or 
are expected to take place in the near future, which will impact 
the extent to which, or manner in which, an asset is used or is 
expected to be used.

Changes in these judgements can have a significant impact on the 
results of the Group. Accordingly, this was considered a key audit 
matter.

Disclosures relating to the capitalisation of assets can be found at 
Section 3.1 Property, Plant and Equipment and Intangible Assets.

Our audit procedures included the following:

• Assessed the effectiveness of the Group’s controls over the 

acquisition and disposal of assets and the transfer from assets 
in the course of construction.

• Evaluated the appropriateness of capitalisation policies.
• Selected a sample of costs capitalised during the year to 

determine whether capitalisation was appropriate.

• Assessed the appropriateness of the date from which assets 

commenced being depreciated.

We assessed the application of the Group’s annual assessment of 
useful lives. This included assessing judgements made by the 
Group on:

• The nature of underlying costs capitalised; and
• The appropriateness of asset lives applied in the calculation of 

depreciation and amortisation.

We evaluated the adequacy of disclosures included in Section 3.1.

Information other than the financial report and auditor’s report thereon

The directors are responsible for the other information. The other information comprises the information included in the Group’s 2023 
Annual Report other than the financial report and our auditor’s report thereon. We obtained the Directors’ Report that is to be included in 
the Annual Report, prior to the date of this auditor’s report, and we expect to obtain the remaining sections of the Annual Report after the 
date of this auditor’s report. 

Our opinion on the financial report does not cover the other information and we do not and will not express 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 and, in doing so, 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.

If, based on the work we have performed on the other information obtained prior to the date of this auditor’s report, we conclude that there 
is a material misstatement of this other information, we are required to report that fact. We have nothing to report in this regard.

Responsibilities of the directors for the financial report

The directors of the Company are responsible for the preparation of the financial report that gives a true and fair view in accordance with 
Australian Accounting Standards and the Corporations Act 2001 and for such internal control as the directors determine is necessary to 
enable the preparation of the financial report that gives a true and fair view and is free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud 
or error.

In preparing the financial report, the directors are responsible for assessing the Group’s ability to continue as a going concern, disclosing, 
as applicable, matters relating to going concern and using the going concern basis of accounting unless the directors either intend to 
liquidate the Group or to cease operations, or have no realistic alternative but to do so.

Auditor’s responsibilities for the audit of the financial report

Our objectives are 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 the Australian Auditing Standards will always detect a material 
misstatement when it exists. Misstatements can arise from fraud or error and are considered material if, individually or in the aggregate, 
they could reasonably be expected to influence the economic decisions of users taken on the basis of this financial report.

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Auditor’s responsibilities for the audit of the financial report (continued)

As part of an audit in accordance with the Australian Auditing Standards, we exercise professional judgement and maintain professional 
scepticism throughout the audit. We also:

• Identify and assess the risks of material misstatement of the financial report, whether due to fraud or error, design and perform audit 
procedures responsive to those risks, and obtain audit evidence that is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for our opinion. The 
risk of not detecting a material misstatement resulting from fraud is higher than for one resulting from error, as fraud may involve 
collusion, forgery, intentional omissions, misrepresentations, or the override of internal control.

• Obtain an understanding of internal control relevant to the audit in order to design audit procedures that are appropriate in the 

circumstances, but not for the purpose of expressing an opinion on the effectiveness of the Group’s internal control.

• Evaluate the appropriateness of accounting policies used and the reasonableness of accounting estimates and related disclosures made 

by the directors.

• Conclude on the appropriateness of the directors’ use of the going concern basis of accounting and, based on the audit evidence 

obtained, whether a material uncertainty exists related to events or conditions that may cast significant doubt on the Group’s ability to 
continue as a going concern. If we conclude that a material uncertainty exists, we are required to draw attention in our auditor’s report 
to the related disclosures in the financial report or, if such disclosures are inadequate, to modify our opinion. Our conclusions are based 
on the audit evidence obtained up to the date of our auditor’s report. However, future events or conditions may cause the Group to cease 
to continue as a going concern.

• Evaluate the overall presentation, structure and content of the financial report, including the disclosures, and whether the financial 

report represents the underlying transactions and events in a manner that achieves fair presentation.

• Obtain sufficient appropriate audit evidence regarding the financial information of the entities or business activities within the Group to 
express an opinion on the financial report. We are responsible for the direction, supervision and performance of the Group audit. We 
remain solely responsible for our audit opinion.

We communicate with the directors regarding, among other matters, the planned scope and timing of the audit and significant audit 
findings, including any significant deficiencies in internal control that we identify during our audit.

We also provide the directors with a statement that we have complied with relevant ethical requirements regarding independence, and to 
communicate with them all relationships and other matters that may reasonably be thought to bear on our independence, and where 
applicable, actions taken to eliminate threats or safeguards applied.

From the matters communicated to the directors, we determine those matters that were of most significance in the audit of the financial 
report of the current year and are therefore the key audit matters. We describe these matters in our auditor’s report unless law or 
regulation precludes public disclosure about the matter or when, in extremely rare circumstances, we determine that a matter should not 
be communicated in our report because the adverse consequences of doing so would reasonably be expected to outweigh the public 
interest benefits of such communication.

Report on the audit of the Remuneration Report

Opinion on the Remuneration Report

We have audited the Remuneration Report included in the Directors' Report for the year ended 30 June 2023.

In our opinion, the Remuneration Report of Telstra Group Limited for the year ended 30 June 2023, complies with section 300A of the 
Corporations Act 2001.

Responsibilities

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

Ernst & Young

Sarah Lowe
Partner
Melbourne
17 August 2023

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Notes to the financial statements (continued)Shareholder 
information

179

Shareholder 
information

Listing information

Voting rights

Stock Exchange Listing
Telstra Group Limited is listed, and its issued shares are quoted, 
on the Australian Securities Exchange (ASX). On 31 October 
2022, Telstra Corporation Limited ordinary shares were 
exchanged for Telstra Group Limited ordinary shares on a 1:1 
basis for eligible Telstra Corporation Limited shareholders 
under the scheme of arrangement between Telstra Corporation 
Limited and its shareholders.

Markets on which our debt securities are listed
Telstra Group Limited also has debt securities listed on the 
ASX. In addition, Telstra Corporation Limited has debt securities 
listed on the ASX, the London Stock Exchange and the 
Singapore Stock Exchange.

Shareholders (whether residents or non-residents of Australia) 
may vote at a meeting of shareholders in person, directly or by 
proxy, attorney or representative, depending on whether the 
shareholder is an individual or a company.

Subject to any rights or restrictions attaching to our shares, on 
a show of hands each shareholder present in person or by proxy, 
attorney or representative has one vote and, on a poll, has one 
vote for each fully paid share held. Presently, we have only one 
class of fully paid ordinary shares and these do not have any 
voting restrictions. If shares are not fully paid, on a poll the 
number of votes attaching to the shares is pro-rated 
accordingly.

Distribution of securities and security holdings

The following table shows the number of listed shares on issue at 31 July 2023:

Title of class

Identity of person or group

Amount owned

Listed shares

Listed shareholders

11,554,427,353

%

100%

Distribution of shares

The following table summarises the distribution of our listed shares as at 31 July 2023:

Size of holding

Number of shareholders

%

Number of shares

%

1–1,000

1,001–5,000

5,001–10,000

10,001–100,000

100,001 and over

Total

 566,761

48.36%

 307,498,143

2.66%

 411,754

35.14%

 979,294,647

8.48%

 101,311

8.65%

 725,123,885

6.28%

 89,066

7.60%

 2,133,132,398

18.46%

 2,978

0.25%

 7,409,378,280

64.13%

1,171,870

100.00%

11,554,427,353

100.00%

The number of shareholders holding less than a marketable parcel of shares was 25,562 holding 1,668,412 shares (based on the 
closing market price on 31 July 2023).

180
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Shareholder information | Telstra Annual Report 2023

Substantial shareholders

As at 31 July 2023, we are not aware of any substantial shareholders.

Twenty largest shareholders as at 31 July 2023

The following table sets out the Top 20 holders of our shares (when multiple holdings are grouped together):

Shareholder name

1 HSBC CUSTODY NOMINEES (AUSTRALIA) LIMITED

2 J P MORGAN NOMINEES AUSTRALIA LIMITED

3 CITICORP NOMINEES PTY LIMITED

4 BNP PARIBAS NOMINEES PTY LIMITED

5 NATIONAL NOMINEES LIMITED

6 AUSTRALIAN FOUNDATION INVESTMENT COMPANY LIMITED

7 ARGO INVESTMENTS LIMITED

8 BNP PARIBAS NOMS PTY LTD DEUTSCHE BANK TCA 

9 NETWEALTH INVESTMENTS LIMITED

10 BNP PARIBAS NOMS(NZ) LTD

11

IOOF INVESTMENT SERVICES 

12 NETWEALTH INVESTMENTS LIMITED 

13 NEWECONOMY COM AU NOMINEES PTY LIMITED <900 ACCOUNT>

14 CUSTODIAL SERVICES LIMITED

15 NULIS NOMINEES (AUSTRALIA) LIMITED

16 UBS NOMINEES PTY LTD

17 NAVIGATOR AUSTRALIA LTD

18 TELSTRA GROWTHSHARE PTY LTD

19 MCCUSKER HOLDINGS PTY LTD

20 SARGENTS CHARITY LIMITED

Total for Top 20

Total other Investors

Grand Total

Amount owned

 2,559,137,014

 1,363,031,713

 1,187,108,735

 746,645,745

 411,126,602

 48,680,221

 48,514,800

 47,495,140

 41,623,734

 20,683,926

 20,374,548

 16,825,040

 15,607,917

 14,983,104

 14,536,290

 14,115,136

 13,018,559

 12,571,257

 10,000,000

 10,000,000

 6,616,079,481

 4,938,347,872

%

22.15%

11.80%

10.27%

6.46%

3.56%

0.42%

0.42%

0.41%

0.36%

0.18%

0.18%

0.15%

0.14%

0.13%

0.13%

0.12%

0.11%

0.11%

0.09%

0.09%

57.26%

42.74%

 11,554,427,353

100.00%

181
181

182182

Reference 
tables

Guidance versus reported results

This schedule details adjustments made to the reported results for the current and comparative periods to reflect the performance 
of the business on the basis on which we provided guidance to the market, which excludes material one-offs, such as mergers and 
acquisitions, disposals, impairments, spectrum, restructuring costs and such other items as determined by the Board and 
management. Underlying EBITDA excludes net one-off nbn DA receipts less nbn net C2C and guidance adjustments. Free 
cashflow after lease payments (FCFaL) defined as ‘operating cash flows’ less ‘investing cash flows’ less ‘payments for lease 
liabilities’, and excludes spectrum and guidance adjustments.

The following adjustments provide a detailed reconciliation from reported to guidance results for each guidance measure:

Total 
Income

FY22
$m

FY23
$m

Underlying 
EBITDA

FY22
$m

FY23
$m

Reported 
Total Income

22,045

23,245

Reported 
EBITDA

7,256

7,862

Reported 
Free Cashflow

Adjustments

Free 
Cashflow

FY22
$m

FY23
$m

3,854

851

M&A adjustment1

(87)

0 M&A adjustment1

34 M&A adjustment1

841

2,595

Restructuring costs2

Net one-off 
NBN receipts3

Spectrum payments4

Lease5

n/a

n/a

n/a

n/a

157

71

n/a

Restructuring costs2

91

Restructuring costs2

n/a

Net one-off 
NBN receipts3

(233)

(37)

Net one-off 
NBN receipts3

n/a

n/a

41

n/a

n/a

112

n/a

Spectrum payments4

n/a

Lease5

n/a

0

0

0

Spectrum payments4

Lease5

(775)

(774)

Guidance 
Total Income

21,958

23,245

Guidance 
Underlying EBITDA

7,251

7,950

Guidance 
Free Cashflow

3,961

2,784

The adjustments set out in the above tables have been reviewed by our auditor for consistency with the guidance basis as set out 
on this page.

Notes:

1.   Adjustments relating to acquisitions and disposals of controlled entities, joint ventures, associates and other investments and any associated net gains or losses and 
contingent consideration. Consistent with the guidance we provided to the market we are not adjusting (removing) FY23 Income, EBITDA or Free Cashflow for the 
trading results of these acquisitions.

  During FY22 we disposed of a 49 per cent interest in our towers business to non-controlling interests and acquired:
  – Power Solutions Holdings Pty Ltd and its subsidiaries (PowerHealth);
  – Clinical Technology Holdings Pty Ltd and its subsidiaries (MedicalDirector);
  – Alliance Automation Pty Ltd and its subsidiary;
  – Aqura Technologies Pty Ltd; and
  – Fone Zone Pty Ltd (Fone Zone) and its controlled entities and multiple individually immaterial retail stores from various licensees.

  During FY23 we paid stamp duty relating to Amplitel Pty Ltd (Amplitel) and acquired:
  – Digicel Pacific Limited and its subsidiaries (Digicel Pacific);
  – Media Innovations Holdings Pty Ltd and its subsidiaries (Fetch TV).

2.   Adjustments for the strategic focus (T22 program) to establish a standalone infrastructure business, simplify structure, improve customer experience and cut costs. 

FY23 adjustments include costs for Telstra's legal restructure including legal and IT costs.

3.   Adjustments for net one-off nbn receipts which is defined as net nbn one off Definitive Agreement receipts (consisting of PSAA and Infrastructure Ownership) less nbn 

net cost to connect.

4.   Adjustment relating to the impact on free cashflow associated with our spectrum purchases and renewals for FY23 including:
  – $29M for renewal of our national spectrum licence in the 900 MHz band. We surrendered this licence in December 2022 and received a refund from ACMA of $16m
  – $57M for renewal of our national spectrum licence in the 26 GHz band
  – $23M for renewal of our national spectrum licence in the 3.6 GHz band
  – $3M spectrum licence in the 850 MHz band
  – $16M payments for spectrum and apparatus licences in various spectrum bands

5.  Adjustment is not relevant to the respective guidance measure.

n/a Adjustment is not relevant to the respective guidance measure.

183
183

Task Force on Climate-related Financial Disclosures Index

For information on Telstra’s climate-related governance, planning, strategy, activities and results for the financial year 2023 please 
refer to the Understanding our climate risks section of this report. The Understanding our climate risks section aligns with the 
Task Force on Climate-related Financial Disclosures (TCFD) framework. The location of the TCFD recommended disclosures are 
summarised in the table below.

TCFD Recommendations

Governance

Disclose the organisation’s 
governance around 
climate-related risks and 
opportunities

Strategy

Disclose the actual and 
potential impacts of 
climate-related risks and 
opportunities on the 
organisation’s businesses, 
strategy, and financial 
planning where such 
information is material

Risk Management

Disclose how the 
organisation identifies, 
assesses, and manages 
climate-related risks

2023 Annual Report 
page number

a)  Describe the board’s oversight of climate-related risks and 

36

opportunities.

b)  Describe management’s role in assessing and managing 

37

climate-related risks and opportunities.

a)  Describe the climate-related risks and opportunities the 
organisation has identified over the short, medium, and 
long term.

37–39

b)  Describe the impact of climate-related risks and 

37–41

opportunities on the organisation’s businesses, strategy, 
and financial planning.

c)  Describe the resilience of the organisation’s strategy, 
taking into consideration different climate-related 
scenarios, including a 2°C or lower scenario.

37–40

a)  Describe the organisation’s processes for identifying and 

41

assessing climate-related risks.

b)  Describe the organisation’s processes for managing 

climate-related risks.

c)  Describe how processes for identifying, assessing, and 
managing climate-related risks are integrated into the 
organisation’s overall risk management.

41

41

Metrics & Targets

Disclose the metrics and 
targets used to assess and 
manage relevant 
climate-related risks and 
opportunities where such 
information is material

a)  Disclose the metrics used by the organisation to assess 
climate-related risks and opportunities in line with its 
strategy and risk management process.

42–43

b)  Disclose Scope 1, Scope 2, and if appropriate, Scope 3 

42–43

greenhouse gas emissions, and the related risks.

c)  Describe the targets used by the organisation to manage 
climate-related risks and opportunities and performance 
against targets.

42–43

184

Glossary

Reference tables | Telstra Annual Report 2022

185

Glossary

4G

Carbon neutral

Dark fibre

The fourth generation of wireless mobile 
networks, with typically faster download 
and upload speeds and better response 
times than previous generations.

5G

The fifth generation of wireless mobile 
networks, 5G delivers a step change in 
typical network speeds, with lower 
latency and much greater capacity to 
help address the explosion in wireless 
devices and data usage.

Agile

Agile is a way of working that brings 
people with different skills into one team 
and where work is performed in short 
sprints to deliver faster speed to market, 
at a lower cost, and with a better 
experience for our people and customers.

To become carbon neutral, organisations 
calculate the greenhouse gas emissions 
generated by their activity, such as fuel or 
electricity use and travel. They reduce 
these emissions as much as possible by 
investing in new technology or changing 
the way they operate. Any remaining 
emissions are then offset by purchasing 
carbon credits to become carbon neutral.

Cleaner Pipes

An initiative to help reduce instances of 
customer data being compromised 
through malware, ransomware and 
phishing. It involves significantly 
upscaling our Domain Name System 
(DNS) filtering, where millions of 
malware communications are being 
proactively and automatically blocked 
every week as they try to cross Telstra’s 
infrastructure.

Average Revenue Per User (ARPU)

Cloud

The measure of the average revenue 
generated per unit or user.

Broadband

Describes a class of internet access 
technologies, such as ADSL, fibre, HFC 
cable and Wi-Fi, offering a data rate 
significantly higher than narrowband 
services. These services typically do not 
tie up a telephone line exclusively for 
data.

Bundle

A combination of products. For example, 
a customer can bundle a fixed-line home 
phone service and internet connection.

C2C

Cost to connect.

The provision of services, software, 
storage and security over the internet, 
typically on a pay-for-use basis. Cloud 
can allow access to information and 
programs on multiple devices in multiple 
locations.

COVID-19

The name of the illness caused by the 
coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 virus.

Corporate Restructure

The legal re-organisation of the Telstra 
Group. Under the Corporate Restructure, 
a new structure was established with 
Telstra Group Limited as the head entity 
of the Telstra Group. Four key 
subsidiaries sit under Telstra Group 
Limited: Telstra Limited, Telstra InfraCo, 
Amplitel and Telstra International.

Capital expenditure (capex)

Funds invested to purchase, upgrade or 
improve long-term assets such as 
property, infrastructure or equipment to 
create future benefit.

Cyber security

The safe use of information and 
telecommunications technology 
(including mobile phones) and the 
internet.

Fibre optic cables are made up of 
hundreds, sometimes thousands, of 
smaller fibre optic strands arranged in 
pairs. Dark Fibre are pairs that haven’t 
been ‘lit up’ and can be licensed to 
organisations that require very high 
bandwidth.

Definitive Agreements (DAs)

The documents that record the final, 
binding arrangements between Telstra 
and nbn co for Telstra’s participation in 
the nbnTM network rollout.

Digital transformation

The adoption of digital technologies to 
improve processes and productivity, and 
deliver better customer and employee 
experiences.

Dividend per share (DPS)

A dividend is a payment of a portion of 
our earnings to our shareholders and is 
most often quoted in terms of the 
amount each share receives.

Earnings before interest, income 
tax expense, depreciation and 
amortisation (EBITDA)

An indicator of a company’s operational 
profitability.

Earnings per share (EPS)

The portion of profit allocated to each 
share.

Episode Net Promoter Score 
(eNPS)

A measurement of customer advocacy as 
a result of their experience with Telstra 
during a pre-defined episode – this is 
determined by their likelihood to 
recommend or promote Telstra.

Fixed line

Refers to the delivery of telephone and/
or internet services over a cable, rather 
than the mobile or wireless phone 
network. Fixed line is also a term used to 
describe a customer segment, for 
example ‘fixed line customers’.

186

Glossary | Telstra Annual Report 2023

Free cashflow

Millimetre wave (mmWave)

Service in Operation (SIO)

The cash that a company is able to 
generate from its operations after 
spending money required to maintain or 
expand its asset base.

A technology that operates on short 
range, high-frequency spectrum and will 
play an important role in delivering on 
5G’s full potential with faster speeds and 
greater capacity.

Geostationary (GEO) satellite

A telecommunications satellite that is in 
a fixed position and does not rotate with 
the earth.

Hybrid Fibre Coaxial (HFC)

A way of delivering video, voice and data 
using both coaxial and fibre optic cables.

Hybrid working

A way of working which enhances our 
flexibility to include working from home 
or the office.

Internet of Things (IoT)

The connectedness of ‘things’ (for 
example machinery, vehicles, appliances) 
to the internet via sensors and actuators 
that collect information about the state 
and condition of those things, and 
transmit that data to software platforms 
that can help people make sense of the 
information and take appropriate action.

Mobile data

Wireless internet access delivered over 
the mobile network to computers and 
other digital devices using portable 
modems.

Mobile Virtual Network Operator 
(MVNO)

Mobile providers re-selling services via 
the Telstra wholesale mobile network.

Narrowband (NB) IoT

An Internet of Things (IoT) technology 
that operates over Telstra’s mobile 
network. Narrowband IoT is suited to 
stationary applications that send very 
small amounts of data infrequently and 
operate with longer battery life.

Net profit after tax (NPAT)

The total revenue minus all expenses and 
taxes.

Low earth orbit (LEO) satellites

Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP)

A telecommunications satellite that is in 
low-earth orbit can provide broadband 
services to areas where fixed cables or 
cellular can’t reach. It rotates with the 
earth and, compared to traditional GEO 
satellites, more are required in a 
constellation to provide near total 
coverage.

Memorandum of Understanding 
(MoU)

A document describing the broad 
outlines of an agreement that two or 
more parties have reached.

Messaging

A way for Telstra customers to 
communicate with a Telstra consultant 
via the My Telstra app regarding queries 
with billing, service, faults, and sales for 
consumer and small business customers.

A three-year plan which outlines our 
commitment and actions built around 
better connectivity, better digital literacy 
and inclusion, more employment and 
training opportunities and more spending 
with First Nations businesses.

Return on Invested Capital (ROIC)

A measure of how efficiently a company 
is using capital to generate income. If 
ROIC is greater than a company’s 
weighted average cost of capital (WACC), 
value is being created for investors.

Roaming

A service which allows customers to use 
their mobile phone while in a service area 
of another carrier.

Refers to an active telecommunications 
service to an end-user.

Strategic Net Promoter Score 
(sNPS)

A measurement of customer advocacy as 
a result of their overall experience with 
Telstra – this is determined by their 
likelihood to recommend or promote 
Telstra.

Spectrum

Wireless communications signals travel 
through the air via radio frequency, 
known also as spectrum. The government 
grants licences for dedicated use of 
portions (bands) of spectrum.

T25

Telstra’s current strategy, announced in 
September 2021, to focus on growth. It 
aims to enhance customer experiences, 
continue our network and technology 
leadership and capitalise on permanent 
shifts in how people work and live.

Transacting Minimum Monthly 
Commitment (TMMC)

This represents the average minimum 
monthly commitment, excluding 
hardware, of new and existing customers 
that have taken up new plans in the 
period.

Universal service obligation (USO)

Obligations placed on Telstra to ensure 
that standard telephone services, 
payphones and prescribed carriage 
services are reasonably accessible to all 
people in Australia on an equitable basis, 
wherever they reside or carry on business.

Wi-Fi

The most prevalent form of wireless local 
area network (WLAN) technology. 
WLANs are small-scale wireless networks 
with a typical radius of several hundred 
feet.

187

2024 
indicative 
financial 
calendar1

Half Year Results announcement

Thursday 15 February 2024

Ex-dividend share trading commences

Wednesday 28 February 2024

Record date for interim dividend

Thursday 29 February 2024

DRP election date

Friday 1 March 2024

Interim dividend paid

Thursday 28 March 2024

Director nominations open

Friday 7 June 2024

Director nominations close (by 5pm)

Friday 9 August 2024

Annual Results announcement

Thursday 15 August 2024

Ex-dividend share trading commences

Wednesday 28 August 2024

Record date for final dividend

Thursday 29 August 2024

DRP election date

Final dividend paid

Friday 30 August 2024

Thursday 26 September 2024

Annual General Meeting

Tuesday 15 October 2024

1.   Timing of events may be subject to change. Any change will be notified to the Australian Securities Exchange 

(ASX).

Contact details

Registered Office

Online Shareholder information

Level 41, 242 Exhibition Street 
Melbourne, Victoria 3000 Australia 
Sue Laver 
Company Secretary 
Email: companysecretary@team.telstra.com

General Enquiries – Registered Office

Website: telstra.com.au/aboutus/contactus
Customer enquiries: 13 2200

Shareholder Enquiries

Australia: 1300 88 66 77 
All Other: +61 1300 88 66 77 
Fax: +61 2 9287 0303 
Email: telstra@linkmarketservices.com.au 
Website: linkmarketservices.com.au/telstra
Link Market Services Limited 
PO Box A942, Sydney South, NSW 1234 Australia

Telstra’s Investor Centre at telstra.com/investor has the latest 
news and information available for shareholders.

Shareholders can also easily manage their shareholding online 
at linkmarketservices.com.au/telstra. Use the Portfolio Login 
to securely access your shareholding. If you do not have a 
Portfolio Login, please click 'Register Now' to create your login. 
To add your Telstra shareholding to your portfolio you need your 
SRN or HIN. This can be found on your Holding Statement.

Select the following menu to access or update your details:

•  Payments & Tax – for dividend payment history, tax 

information, payment instructions and to provide your TFN. 
This is where you update your payment instructions (bank 
account details or register for the DRP if eligible. Please read 
the DRP rules at telstra.com/drp). A foreign currency 
payment service is also available to individual registered 
holders to pay dividends in various currencies.

•  Communication – to update your postal and email 

addresses.

Investor Relations

Telstra Group Limited

Level 28, 242 Exhibition Street 
Melbourne, Victoria 3000 Australia 
Australia: 1800 880 679 
All Other: +61 3 8647 4954 
Email: investor.relations@team.telstra.com

Sustainability

Level 28, 242 Exhibition Street
Melbourne, Victoria 3000 Australia
Email: sustainability@team.telstra.com

188

ABN 56 650 620 303 
Incorporated in Victoria. Telstra Group Limited’s shares are 
listed on the Australian Securities Exchange.

Websites

Telstra Investor Centre: telstra.com/investor
Telstra Sustainability: telstra.com/sustainability/report
Telstra Corporate Governance: telstra.com/governance
Telstra Customer Enquiries: telstra.com
Contact Telstra: telstra.com.au/aboutus/contactus

Keeping informed
To keep up to date with the latest news about Telstra:

• follow us on Twitter @Telstra_news

• follow us on LinkedIn at linkedin.com/company/telstra

• find our latest media releases at telstra.com.au/aboutus/media/media-releases

•  subscribe to our sustainability newsletter by emailing us at sustainability@team.telstra.com

• visit Telstra Exchange at telstra.com/exchange

189

  telstra.com/investor