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ALS LIMITED Annual Report 2018

May 27, 2018

64365_rns_2018-05-27_a989c487-7a72-46b4-b1b8-db67b5473d27.pdf

Annual Report

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Appendix 4E

Full year report for the Year Ending 31 March 2018

(the previous corresponding period is the Year Ended 31 March 2017) Results for announcement to the market

Results for announcement to the market
$A millions
Revenues from ordinary activities
Up
9.5%
to
1,495.1
Revenues from continuing operations
Up
14.7%
to
1,446.9
Underlying net profit after tax * from
continuing operations attributable to
members
Up
21.1%
to
142.2
Net profit (loss) from ordinary activities after
tax * attributable to equity holders
Down
36.5%
to
51.8
Net profit (loss) for the period * attributable to
equity holders
Down
36.5%
to
51.8
Basic underlying * earnings per share from
continuing operations attributable to
members
Up
21.9%
to
28.4¢
Basic earnings per share
Down
36.4%
to
10.3¢
Total dividend per share for the year (partly
franked)
Up
25.9%
at
17.0¢
ALS Limited (ASX Code: ALQ) today announced an underlying net profit after tax from
continuing operations of $142.2million for FY2018 and within the guidance range of $135
million to $145 million provided to the market in November 2017.
The result was 21.1% higher than the $117.4 million comparative underlying net profit after
tax earned in the previous corresponding period (pcp). This was primarily due to
improvements in market conditions for those businesses exposed to mineral commodities
markets and expansion in the less cyclical Life Sciences and Industrial operations with food,
environmental and tribology acquisitions in mainland Europe and South America.
The Group sold the majority of its Oil & Gas technical services business in July 2017
retaining only the laboratory testing component. In March 2018, following a further review
of the Group’s presence in the sector, Directors decided to exit the Oil & Gas laboratories
business. A number of options are currently being considered in this regard.
The FY2018 statutory result from all operations was a net profit after tax attributable to
equity holders of the Company of $51.8 million, compared with a net profit of $81.6 million
recorded in FY2017.
*Refer to page 8 of the attached Annual Financial Report for a reconciliation of Underlying
net profit after tax to Statutory net profit after tax.
  • See chapter 19 for defined terms

Appendix 4E Page 1

Results for announcement to the market for the year ended 31 March 2018

ALS Limited

Dividend Disclosures

Dividends (distributions) Amount per security Franked amount per security
Final dividend 9.0¢ 3.6¢
Interim dividend 8.0¢ 3.2¢
Date the final dividend (distribution) is payable 2 July 2018

+Record date to determine entitlements to the dividend (distribution) (i.e., on the basis of proper instruments of transfer received by 5.00 pm if +securities are not +CHESS approved, or 7 June 2018 security holding balances established by 5.00 pm or such later time permitted by SCH Business Rules if +securities are +CHESS approved)

DRP election date N/A

Dividend - Amount per security

Amount per security Amount per security of
conduitforeign income
Final dividend:Current year
Previous year
9.0¢
8.0¢
5.4¢
4.8¢
Interim dividend:Current year
Previous year
8.0¢
5.5¢
4.8¢
2.2¢

Total final dividend (distribution) on all securities

+Ordinary
securities
(each
class
separately)
Preference
+securities
(each
class
separately)
Other equity instruments_(each class_
separately)
Total
Current period
$A millions
Previous corresponding
period-$A millions
44.0
-
-
40.4
-
-
44.0 40.4

The 2018 final dividend will be franked to 40%. Subsequent dividends will be franked at the maximum level possible.

The Company’s dividend reinvestment plan has been suspended and will not be in operation for the final 2018 dividend due to the Company’s on-market share buyback program.

  • See chapter 19 for defined terms

Appendix 4E Page 2

Results for announcement to the market for the year ended 31 March 2018

ALS Limited

NTA backing

NTA backing
Current period Previous corresponding
period
Net tangible asset backing per
ordinary security
$0.29 $0.40

Audit

The report is based on the attached accounts which have been audited.

Signature: Date: 28[th] May 2018 Print name: Michael Pearson Company Secretary

  • See chapter 19 for defined terms

Appendix 4E Page 3

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Right Solutions • Right Partner alsglobal.com

ALS Limited ABN 92 009 657 489

ANNUAL FINANCIAL REPORT

for the Year Ended 31 March 2018

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2018 | Contents

ALS LIMITED AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

Contents

Contents Contents
Directors’ report ...................................................................................................................................................................... 5
Directors .......................................................................................................................................................... 5
Company Secretaries ...................................................................................................................................... 6
Principal activities ........................................................................................................................................... 7
Review of results and operations ................................................................................................................... 7
Group business summary ........................................................................................................................ 7
Divisional reviews ..................................................................................................................................... 9
Dividends ....................................................................................................................................................... 12
Debt profile ................................................................................................................................................... 12
Financial position .......................................................................................................................................... 13
Cashflow ........................................................................................................................................................ 13
Material business risks ................................................................................................................................. 14
State of affairs ............................................................................................................................................... 14
Remuneration report..................................................................................................................................... 15
1. Operational Performance Context 2017-18 — unaudited .................................................................... 16
2. Key Management Personnel — audited ................................................................................................. 17
3. Executive Remuneration Strategy — Summary 2017-18 — audited .................................................... 18
4. Non-Executive Director Remuneration — audited ................................................................................ 20
5. Actual Remuneration — FY 2017-18 — audited ................................................................................... 21
6. Short Term Incentive Plan — audited .................................................................................................... 24
7. Long Term Incentive Plan — audited..................................................................................................... 26
8. Company Performance and Link to Shareholder Wealth – audited ...................................................... 32
9. KMP Equity Instruments and Transactions — audited .......................................................................... 33
10. Outlook for 2018-19 FY Remuneration — unaudited ........................................................................... 35
Environmental regulation ............................................................................................................................. 36
Events subsequent to reporting date ........................................................................................................... 36
Likely developments ..................................................................................................................................... 36
Directors’ interests ....................................................................................................................................... 36
Directors’ meetings ...................................................................................................................................... 37
Indemnification and insurance of directors and officers ............................................................................ 37
Non-audit services ........................................................................................................................................ 37

Page 2 of 84

2018 | Annual report

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2018 | Contents

ALS LIMITED AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

Financial statements .......................................................................................................................................................... 39 Financial statements .......................................................................................................................................................... 39
Contents....................................................................................................................................................... 39
Consolidated statement of Profit and Loss and Other Comprehensive Income ........................................ 40
Consolidated balance sheet ......................................................................................................................... 41
Consolidated statement of changes in equity ............................................................................................. 42
Consolidated statement of cash flows ......................................................................................................... 43
Notes to the financial statements ................................................................................................................ 44
1. FINANCIAL OVERVIEW ............................................................................................................................. 44
1a. Operating segments ......................................................................................................................... 44
1b. Earnings per share ........................................................................................................................... 47
1c. Revenue and other income .............................................................................................................. 48
1d. Expenses (Continuing operations) .................................................................................................. 48
1e. Discontinued operations .................................................................................................................. 49
2. CAPITAL EMPLOYED: WORKING CAPITAL AND OTHER INSTRUMENTS ................................................. 50
2b. Inventories ........................................................................................................................................ 50
2c. Trade and other payables ................................................................................................................ 50
2d. Property, plant & equipment ........................................................................................................... 51
2e. Investment property ......................................................................................................................... 52
2f. Intangible assets ............................................................................................................................... 53
3. NET DEBT ................................................................................................................................................ 55
3a. Cash and cash equivalents............................................................................................................... 55
3b. Reconciliation of operating profit to net cash ................................................................................ 55
3c. Loans and borrowings ...................................................................................................................... 55
4. RISK & CAPITAL MANAGEMENT .............................................................................................................. 56
4a. Financial & Capital risk management .............................................................................................. 56
4b. Capital & reserves ............................................................................................................................ 58
4c. Financial Instruments ....................................................................................................................... 59
4d. Contingencies ................................................................................................................................... 61
4e. Capital commitments ....................................................................................................................... 61
4f. Operating leases ............................................................................................................................... 61
5. GROUP STRUCTURE ................................................................................................................................ 62
5a. Acquisition of Subsidiaries and Non-controlling interest ............................................................... 62
5b. Consolidated entities ....................................................................................................................... 63
5c. Deed of cross guarantee .................................................................................................................. 64
5d. Parent entity disclosures.................................................................................................................. 65
6. TAXATION ............................................................................................................................................... 66
6a. Income taxes .................................................................................................................................... 66
6b. Deferred tax assets and liabilities ................................................................................................... 67
7. OTHER INFORMATION ............................................................................................................................ 68

Page 3 of 84

2018 | Annual report

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2018 | Contents

ALS LIMITED AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

7a. Basis of preparation ......................................................................................................................... 68 7b. Significant accounting policies ........................................................................................................ 69 7c. Determination of fair value .............................................................................................................. 72 7d. Auditors’ remuneration ................................................................................................................... 73 7e. Events subsequent to balance date ................................................................................................. 73 8. EMPLOYMENT MATTERS ......................................................................................................................... 73 8a. Share-based payments ..................................................................................................................... 73 8b. Key management personnel disclosures ........................................................................................ 76 Directors’ declaration ........................................................................................................................................................ 78 Independent auditor’s report to the members of ALS Limited................................................................. 79 • Report on the financial report ...................................................................................................................... 79 • Report on the remuneration report .............................................................................................................. 83 Lead auditor’s independence declaration ............................................................................................................. 84

Page 4 of 84

2018 | Annual report

DIRECTORS’ REPORT | FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2018 | Directors |

ALS LIMITED AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

Directors’ report

For the year ended 31 March 2018

The directors present their report together with the financial report of the Group, comprising ALS Limited (“the Company”) and its subsidiaries, for the year ended 31 March 2018 and the auditor’s report thereon.

Directors

The directors of the Company at any time during or since the end of the financial year are:

BRUCE PHILLIPS B Sc (Hons) (Geology) Chairman and Independent Non-Executive Director Age 63

Bruce Phillips was appointed a non-executive director of the Company on 1 August 2015 and became Chairman on 26 July 2016 following the 2016 Annual General Meeting. Bruce is a qualified geophysicist with more than 35 years of technical, financial and managerial experience in the energy sector.

He founded Australian Worldwide Exploration Limited (ASX: AWE) in 1997 and was its Managing Director until his retirement in 2007. He re-joined as a non-executive director in 2009 and held the position of Chairman until his retirement from the Board in November 2017. He was previously Chairman of Platinum Capital Limited (October 2009 – June 2015) and a non-executive director of AGL Energy Limited (August 2007 – September 2016) and Sunshine Gas Limited.

He is a member of the People Committee.

RAJ NARAN B Sc (Chemistry), B A (Mathematics) Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer Age 56

Appointed Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer on 20 July 2017.

Raj founded e-LabAnalytical Inc which operated an environmental analytical testing business in Texas and Michigan until it was acquired by ALS in 2007. He was appointed to lead ALS’ USA Environmental business at that time and grew his role over the subsequent years to lead the global Life Sciences Division until his appointment to CEO in 2017.

MEL BRIDGES B AppSc, PhD, FAICD Independent Non-Executive Director Age 68

Mel Bridges was appointed a non-executive director of the Company in 2009. He has over 35 years’ experience founding and building international life science, diagnostic and medical device companies and commercialising a wide range of Australian technology. He is Chairman of Oventus Medical Limited (appointed October 2015).

Mel was previously Chairman of Alchemia Limited (September 2003 – July 2013) and Anatara Lifesciences Limited (October 2014 – 16 May 2018) and a non-executive director of Tissue Therapies Limited (March 2009 – November 2015), ImpediMed Limited (September 1999 – November 2013) and Benitec Limited (October 2007 – June 2014).

He is a member of the Audit and Risk and Sustainability Committees.

GRANT MURDOCH M COM (Hons), FAICD, FCA Independent Non-Executive Director Age 66

Grant Murdoch was appointed a non-executive director of the Company in 2011. He was formerly a Partner of Ernst & Young and Divisional Director of Ernst & Young Transaction Advisory Services Limited in Queensland. He has more than 37 years of chartered accountancy experience, specialising in mergers, acquisitions, takeovers, corporate restructures and share issues.

Grant is a non-executive director of Redbubble Limited (appointed February 2016), OFX Group Limited (formerly OzForex Limited) (appointed

Page 5 of 84

2018 | Annual report

DIRECTORS’ REPORT | FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2018 |

ALS LIMITED AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

Company Secretaries |

October 2013) and Lynas Corporation (appointed October 2017). He is Chairman of the Endeavour Foundation Challenge Fund, a senator of the University of Queensland, an Adjunct Professor at the University of Queensland Business School and a director of UQ Holdings Ltd. Grant is a member on the Queensland Council of the Australian Institute of Company Directors. He was previously a non-executive director of Queensland Investment Corporation until his retirement in September 2017 and Cardno Limited (January 2013 – November 2015).

He is Chairman of the Audit and Risk Committee.

JOHN MULCAHY PhD, B E (Civil Eng) (Hons), FIE Aust Independent Non-Executive Director Age 68

John Mulcahy was appointed a non-executive director of the Company in 2012. He is Chairman of Mirvac Group Limited (appointed November 2009 and Chair September 2013) and Orix Australia Corporation Limited, an unlisted public company (appointed March 2016), and Deputy Chairman of GWA Group Limited (appointed November 2010). In August 2017 he was appointed a non-executive director of Zurich Australia Insurance Limited and Zurich Financial Services Limited. John was previously a director and Chairman of Coffey International Limited (September 2009 – January 2016). He is a former Guardian of the Future Fund of Australia and former Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Suncorp-Metway Limited. Prior to Suncorp, John held a number of senior executive roles at the Commonwealth Bank and Lend Lease Corporation.

He is Chairman of the People Committee.

CHARLIE SARTAIN

B Eng (Hons) (Mining), FAusIMM, FTSE Independent Non-Executive Director Age 57

Charlie Sartain was appointed a non-executive director of the Company on 1 February 2015. He spent more than 30 years with MIM Holdings and then Xstrata after it acquired MIM. He led Xstrata’s global copper business as Chief Executive of Xstrata Copper for nine years from 2004 and prior to that held senior executive positions with the company in Latin America and Australia.

Charlie is currently a non-executive director of Goldcorp Inc. (appointed January 2017), Chairman of the Advisory Board of the Sustainable Minerals Institute at the University of Queensland and a Board Member of Wesley Medical Research. His previous roles included Chairman of the International Copper Association, a Member of the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade¹s Council on Australian Latin American Relations and a Director of Xstrata Schweiz Limited. He also served as a non-

executive director of Austin Engineering Limited between April 2015 and March 2018 and as a Member of the Senate of the University of Queensland from 2010 until December 2017.

He is Chairman of the Sustainability Committee and a member of the Audit and Risk Committee.

TONIANNE DWYER

B Juris (Hons), LLB (Hons), GAICD Independent Non-Executive Director Age 55

Tonianne Dwyer was appointed a non-executive director of the Company on 1 July 2016. She has significant experience as a company director and executive working in finance, corporate strategy and mergers and acquisitions across a variety of sectors and international markets.

She is an internationally experienced independent company director, having had a 25-year executive career in investment banking during which she held roles with Hambros Bank Limited and Societe General in the UK and Europe.

Tonianne currently holds non-executive directorships on ASX-listed companies OZ Minerals Limited (appointed March 2017), Metcash Limited (appointed June 2014), DEXUS Property Group and DEXUS Wholesale Property Fund (appointed August 2011). She is also a nonexecutive director of Queensland Treasury Corporation and is Deputy Chancellor of the Senate of the University of Queensland. She was previously a non-executive director of Cardno Limited (June 2012 – January 2016).

She is a member of the People and Sustainability Committees.

GREG KILMISTER

B Sc (Hons), FRACI, MAIG, CCEO Former Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer

Retired 20 July 2017.

Company Secretaries

MICHAEL PEARSON

LLB, B A, GAICD, GCIS, Dip Inv Rel (AIRA)

Michael Pearson was appointed Company Secretary & General Counsel of the Company on 1 December 2017.

Michael Pearson is a member of the Governance Institute, Australian Institute of Company Directors and Queensland Law Society. Mr Pearson is an experienced lawyer and corporate governance professional with over 15 years of experience as a Company Secretary and General Counsel with other ASX listed companies such as Cardno Limited and the Aveo Group.

Page 6 of 84

2018 | Annual report

DIRECTORS’ REPORT | FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2018 | Principal activities |

ALS LIMITED AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

TIM MULLEN

B Bus (Accounting), M Com Law, FCPA, FCIS, FCLA

Tim Mullen was Company Secretary of the Company from February 2007 until 30 November 2017.

Principal activities

The principal activities of the Group during the course of the financial year were the provision of professional technical services, primarily in the areas of testing, measurement and inspection, supporting:

  • environmental monitoring

  • food and pharmaceutical quality assurance

  • mining and mineral exploration

  • commodity certification

  • equipment maintenance

  • asset care operations and

  • oil and gas exploration and production.

During the year the Group expanded and diversified its technical service capabilities through acquisitions in food and environmental testing and oils analysis in mainland Europe and North and South America.

In July 2017 the Group divested the majority of its Oil & Gas technical services business, retaining only the laboratory services component. Following a further review of the Group’s presence in the sector, in March 2018 Directors decided to exit the Oil & Gas laboratories business. A number of options are currently being considered in this regard.

Otherwise there were no significant changes in the nature of the activities of the Group during the year.

Review of results and operations

Group business summary

The Group is committed to maintaining the strong and sustainable growth strategies which have made it a successful global company. ALS aims to be a leading provider of services to clients across the broad range of industry sectors nominated in Principal Activities above. We seek to build strong partnerships with our clients by delivering cost-effective solutions backed by the very best in quality, service and technical capabilities.

FY2018 saw continued improvement in market conditions for those businesses exposed to the mineral commodities cycle and a year of further expansion in the less cyclical Life Sciences and Industrial operations with food, environmental and tribology acquisitions in mainland Europe and South America.

The Group made a smooth transition in July 2017 to the new Managing Director / CEO, Raj Naran, who was promoted from within ALS. He is based in Houston, USA where we have established a new operational headquarters while the corporate governance functions have remained in Brisbane, Australia. As part of the transition, the Group’s senior management team was restructured – details of this are outlined later in the Remuneration Report.

In June 2017 the Company announced that following the receipt of inbound enquiries it was evaluating strategic options for the Asset Care business stream within the Industrial division. Following this review, which resulted in the Company receiving non-binding expressions of interest from a number of parties, Directors resolved in November 2017 to retain the Asset Care business. The Company remains supportive of the strategic growth plans of the Industrial division, including continued capital investment, geographic expansion and further development of technical and systems capabilities.

As previously announced, the Group sold the majority of its Oil & Gas technical services business in July 2017 retaining only the laboratory testing component. In March 2018, following a further review of the Group’s presence in the sector, Directors decided to exit the Oil & Gas laboratories business. A number of options are currently being considered in this regard. Refer financial statements note 1e.

In November 2017 following the divestment of the Oil & Gas business and a review of ongoing capital requirements, Directors announced an on-market share buyback of up to $175 million. As at 31 March 2018 a total of 15.5 million shares (representing 3.1% of the original base) have been bought back on-market for an overall consideration of $106.8 million.

The Group is confident that the quality of its assets, its operating model, and its strategic disciplined focus, will see it continue to increase its market share despite the challenges of current conditions. ALS continues to pursue growth opportunities in Life Sciences and Industrial divisions; particularly in the food, pharmaceutical and tribology sectors where it is evaluating a select number of high quality acquisition targets.

Page 7 of 84

2018 | Annual report

DIRECTORS’ REPORT | FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2018 |

ALS LIMITED AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

Review of results and operations |

The Group’s financial performance for the year to 31 March 2018 is summarised as follows:

Underlying results¹
Restructuring &
Amortisation
Divestments
Statutory
2018 ($m)
Continuing
Discontinued
other one-off
of
& Impairment
result
operations
operations²
items¹
intangibles
charges
Revenue
1,446.9
48.2


1,495.1
EBITDA³
289.3
0.3
(15.1)

0.9
FX losses transferred
from FCTR




(11.1)
Impairment charges




(63.0)
Depreciation &
amortisation
(68.0)
(4.9)

(2.6)
275.4
(11.1)
(63.0)
(75.5)
EBIT³
221.3
(4.6)
(15.1)
(2.6)
(73.2)
Interest expense
(25.8)




Tax expense
(51.7)
1.2
3.9

125.8
(25.8)
(46.6)
143.8
(3.4)
(11.2)
(2.6)
(73.2)
Non-controlling
interests
(1.6)



53.4
(1.6)
Net profit / (loss) after
tax (NPAT)
142.2
(3.4)
(11.2)
(2.6)
(73.2)
51.8
Basic EPS (cents)
28.4




Diluted EPS (cents)
28.3



10.3
10.3
Restated
Underlying results¹
Restructuring &
Amortisation
Impairment
Statutory
2017 ($m)
Continuing
Discontinued
other one-off
of
charges
result
operations
operations²
items¹
intangibles
Revenue
1,261.5
104.1


1,365.6
EBITDA³
257.6
(7.2)
(19.1)


Impairments





Depreciation &
amortisation
(65.2)
(13.6)

(1.5)
231.3

(80.3)
EBIT³
192.4
(20.8)
(19.1)
(1.5)

Interest expense
(27.3)




Tax expense
(46.5)
1.8
3.8

151.0
(27.3)
(40.9)
118.6
(19.0)
(15.3)
(1.5)

Non-controlling
interests
(1.2)



82.8
(1.2)
Net profit / (loss) after
tax (NPAT)
117.4
(19.0)
(15.3)
(1.5)
81.6
Basic EPS (cents)
23.3




Diluted EPS (cents)
23.2



16.2
16.1

¹ The terms ‘Underlying result’ and ‘Restructuring & other one-off Items’ are non-IFRS disclosures. They have been presented to assist in the assessment of the relative performance of the Group from period to period. The calculations thereof are based on non-IFRS information and are unaudited. Restructuring & Other One-Off Items in 2017 include a foreign exchange loss of $5.5 million realised on restructuring of intra-group loan balances. Refer note 1a to the financial statements.

  • ² On 31 July 2017 the Group divested the majority of its assets in the Oil & Gas technical services sector. In March 2018, following a further review of the Group’s presence in the sector, Directors decided to exit the remaining business – Oil & Gas laboratories. Refer financial statements note 1e – Discontinued Operations.

  • ³ EBITDA = EBIT plus depreciation and amortisation. EBIT = Earnings before interest and tax. The terms EBITDA and EBIT are non-IFRS disclosures. They have been presented to provide a measure of the Group’s performance before the impact of depreciation and amortisation (i.e. non-cash items) as well as that of interest and tax expenses. The calculations thereof are based on non-IFRS information and are unaudited.

Page 8 of 84

2018 | Annual report

DIRECTORS’ REPORT | FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2018 | Review of results and operations |

ALS LIMITED AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

The Group achieved underlying net profit after tax from continuing operations (attributable to equity holders of the Company, and excluding all Oil & Gas operations, restructuring and other one-off items, amortisation of acquired intangibles and impairment charges) of $142.2 million for FY2018. The result was 21.1% higher than the $117.4 million underlying net profit after tax measured comparably for FY2017. Revenue from continuing operations of $1,446.9 million was 14.7% up on the $1,261.5 million recorded from the same businesses in FY2017.

The result was a pleasing performance and was due primarily to improvements delivered by businesses servicing mineral commodities markets as exploration and development continued to recover in many parts of the world. Commodities division set underlying contribution was up 43.5% with higher revenue and EBIT coming across the board from the geochemistry, coal, inspection and metallurgy businesses. Life Sciences revenue increased in all regions during FY2018, however the effects of competition and integration disruptions saw underlying segment contribution for the year remain steady. Industrial division revenue was relatively flat year-on-year as increased sales from the Tribology business were largely offset by softer conditions experienced in Asset Care.

ALS remains focused on being ready to take advantage of future opportunities in Life Sciences and Industrial divisions; particularly in the food, pharmaceutical and tribology sectors where it is evaluating a select number of high quality acquisition targets.

The Group sold the majority of its Oil & Gas technical services business in July 2017 retaining only the laboratory testing component. The divestment resulted in a gain on sale after tax of $0.9 million and recognition in the profit and loss statement of foreign exchange losses (relating to inter-company balances previously recorded in the foreign currency translation reserve) of $11.1 million after tax. In March 2018, following a further review of the Group’s presence in the sector, Directors decided to exit the Oil & Gas laboratories business. Refer financial statements note 1e – Discontinued Operations.

The FY2018 statutory result from all operations was a net profit after tax attributable to equity holders of the Company (including all Oil & Gas businesses, restructuring and other one-off items, amortisation of acquired intangibles and impairment charges) of $51.8 million compared with a net profit after tax of $81.6 million recorded in FY2017. Total revenue from all operations was $1,495.1 million, up 9.5% on the $1,365.6 million generated in FY2017. A detailed summary of results is set out on page 8.

In recognition of uncertain market conditions being experienced in the sectors serviced by the Coal and Industrial businesses, goodwill impairment charges amounting to $63 million have been taken in respect of these cash generating units (refer note 2f): Coal – $40 million and Industrial – $23 million.

Directors have declared a final partly franked (40%) dividend for the year of 9.0 cents per share (2017: 8.0 cents, 40% franked). Together with the interim dividend of 8.0 cents per share (40% franked) the total partly franked dividend for the year will be 17.0 cents per share (2017: 13.5 cents). In light of the Company’s current on-market share buyback program the dividend reinvestment plan will not operate for the FY2018 final dividend.

The Group has three reportable operating segments as at 31 March 2018: Commodities, Life Sciences and Industrial. Following a decision by Directors in March 2018 to exit the Group’s Oil & Gas laboratory business, a fourth segment – Oil & Gas Laboratories – has been re-classified together with the other Oil & Gas services business sold in July 2017 as “discontinued operations”. Note that the results of this business for the half-year to September 2017 were reported within the Commodities segment in the interim financial report dated 20 November 2017.

Contributions from business segments are set out below.

Divisional reviews

Commodities

The Commodities division is a leading full-service provider of testing services for the global mining industry in four key service areas – Geochemistry, Metallurgy, Inspection and Coal Quality – with an extensive client base of explorers, miners and traders. Its testing and consulting services cover the entire resource life-cycle from exploration, feasibility, optimisation, production, design, development through to trade, and finally rehabilitation. The integrated field and laboratory services of the Coal business cover exploration,

bore core, testing, consulting, quality management and superintending services

The division’s strategy is to ensure all its business streams are equipped with the technical expertise and operational capacity required to provide its clients with a seamless suite of integrated services throughout market cycles. In particular the division is working hard to grow organically in the Commodity Inspection service sector by delivering quality, innovation and value to new and existing clients.

Page 9 of 84

2018 | Annual report

DIRECTORS’ REPORT | FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2018 | Review of results and operations |

ALS LIMITED AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

Commodities –
Financial performance

2018
($m)

2017
($m)

Variance
Revenue 518.9 427.2 21.5%
Segment contribution 119.4 84.7
Restructuring and
related costs
4.1 1.4
Underlying segment
contribution
123.5 86.1 43.5%
Margin (underlying
segment contribution 23.8% 20.2%
to revenue)
Underlying segment
EBITDA
146.3 109.8 33.2%
Margin (underlying
segment EBITDA to 28.2% 25.7%
revenue)

Stronger market conditions and scalable business models drove significant improvements the Commodities division’s financial results for the year. Geochemistry sample flows increased globally as both established mining clients and junior explorers continued to lift their activity spending levels.

Sample flow into the Geochemistry business stream was 26% higher than FY2017 which translated into a 46% improvement in underlying contribution at an underlying margin of 27%. While cost management remained a focus for the Geochemistry business, equal attention was paid to productivity and the timely injection of human and capital resources to service the increasing workloads. Management remains optimistic about a continued recovery and the likely demand for services and therefore is investing in capacity as required to ensure turnaround times continue to meet or exceed client expectations.

ALS Coal continues to operate well in what has been a constrained environment. Its markets started to show signs of improvement during the second half of the year in most of its geographies and business lines, however competitive pricing continues to be a feature of the operating landscape. Despite the first half being affected by Cyclone Debbie in Queensland the business continued to manage its cost base and productivity well, translating into a 13% improvement in underlying contribution.

While export demand levels are likely to be maintained over the short to medium term, there is significant uncertainty regarding future levels of domestic coal consumption as the emphasis continues to shift towards greater reliance on renewable and sustainable energy sources. In light of the impact of this increasing uncertainty on internal earnings projections, a goodwill impairment charge of $40 million was taken in September 2017 against the Coal cash generating unit.

Life Sciences

The Life Sciences division provides analytical testing and sampling services and remote monitoring for the Environmental, Food, Pharmaceutical and Consumer Products markets. It is a leader in global comprehensive analytical testing, demonstrating expertise in microbiological, physical and chemical testing services. The division continued to grow during FY2018, by strengthening its leadership position in existing markets. A strong strategic growth focus (both acquired and organic) continues to be placed on the food, pharmaceutical, and Consumer Products components of Life Sciences. Key building blocks to accommodate these newer businesses are in place ready for future growth.

Life Sciences –
Financial performance

2018
($m)

2017
($m)

Variance
Revenue 734.1 641.6 14.4%
Segment contribution 95.5 93.9
Restructuring and
related costs
6.6 5.9
Underlying segment
contribution
102.1 99.8 2.3%
Margin (underlying
segment contribution 13.9% 15.6%
to revenue)
Underlying segment
EBITDA
140.7 134.3 4.8%
Margin (underlying
segment EBITDA to 19.2% 20.9%
revenue)

While revenue increased in all regions of Life Sciences during FY2018, the effects of competition and integration disruptions saw underlying segment contribution for the year remain steady.

Successful cost management and rationalisation led to improved underlying EBIT contributions from most regions, though competitive pressures in the US resulted in lower earnings for the Americas.

The Australian and Asian regions performed as planned and achieved improved annual revenue and earnings contributions, particularly in their environmental testing operations.

Results for the UK Life Sciences group were impacted by the Alcontrol integration (acquired December 2016). Operational site combinations were completed during the first half and the final cost and process optimisation stages of the integration were completed by March 2018. The related operational disruptions meant that the overall European contribution margin weakened despite revenue increasing 25% during the year.

Both of the key Life Sciences business streams (Environmental and Food and Pharmaceutical) delivered solid revenue gains during the year.

Page 10 of 84

2018 | Annual report

DIRECTORS’ REPORT | FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2018 | Review of results and operations |

ALS LIMITED AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

While the Food and Pharmaceutical business recorded an underlying EBIT improvement of 27%, increased price competition in environmental testing markets produced a flat year-on-year underlying contribution for that business stream. All regions of the Food and Pharmaceutical testing business delivered significant revenue gains. Further food testing acquisitions in Europe and the Americas are planned for FY2019.

The general economic environment continues to be very price-sensitive requiring the business to make the cost adjustments necessary to continue its growth in existing markets. ALS Life Sciences is enhancing its capabilities to provide clients with a broad range of solutions and services, delivered with the superior turnaround time and quality on which ALS has built its reputation.

Industrial

Industrial is a leading provider of diagnostic testing and engineering solutions for the energy, resources, transportation and infrastructure sectors. The division’s international client base includes asset owners, operators, constructors and equipment manufacturers in the power, petrochemical, mining, minerals processing, water, infrastructure and transportation industries. It is comprised of two complementary business streams: Asset Care and Tribology.

Industrial – Financial
performance

2018
($m)

2017
($m)

Variance
Revenue 193.9 192.7 0.6%
Segment contribution 25.2 25.4
Restructuring and
related costs
1.0 1.1
Underlying segment
contribution
26.2 26.5 (1.1%)
Margin (underlying
segment contribution 13.5% 13.8%
to revenue)
Underlying segment
EBITDA
32.1 32.7 (1.8%)
Margin (underlying
segment EBITDA to 16.6% 17.0%
revenue)

The Industrial division revenue was relatively flat year-on-year as increased sales from the Tribology business were largely offset by softer conditions experienced in Asset Care.

In June 2017 the Company announced that following the receipt of inbound enquiries it was evaluating strategic options for the Asset Care business stream within the Industrial division. Following this review, which resulted in the Company receiving non-binding expressions of interest from a number of parties, Directors resolved in November 2017 to retain the Asset

Care business. The Company remains supportive of the strategic growth plans of Asset Care and the Industrial division, including continued capital investment, geographic expansion and further development of technical and systems capabilities. While Asset Care revenue and earnings were both slightly lower than last year, the business performed ahead of budget on both measures. Management responded well in Australia to anticipated pricing pressure and reduced activity levels in LNG construction and power station outage programs. Business development efforts led to these revenue shortfalls being largely replaced by the provision of maintenance-related services to the oil and gas, mining and water sectors. Underlying contribution margin in Australia remained above 10% in FY2018.

An increased focus on cost base discipline in Asset Care USA saw that business return to profitability in FY2018. However, the business continues to be affected by weaker than expected activity levels in the downstream oil and gas sector.

The Tribology business stream continued to yield strong profitably, with underlying contribution margin remaining at 24%. Revenue grew 9% across the global operations as a result of improved conditions in the Australian mining sector and the acquisition of Oilcheck in Brazil. Tribology continues to benefit from joint marketing and tendering efforts with the Asset Care business unit.

In recognition of the softer market conditions being experienced by the division and an increased uncertainty in earnings projections, a goodwill impairment charge of $23 million was taken in September 2017 against the Industrial cash generating unit.

Discontinued Operations (Oil & Gas)

Oil & Gas delivers quality technical solutions and products to the oil and gas industries. The division provides a comprehensive range of services and tools covering the solids, liquids and gas hydrocarbon markets. With integrated field and laboratory services and an extensive and growing range of specialist tools, Oil & Gas covers exploration, resource characterisation, production enhancement, quality management and traderelated services across the major energy industries.

As noted above the Group divested the majority of its assets in the Oil & Gas technical services sector in July 2017 and in March 2018 decided to exit the remaining laboratory services component. A number of options are currently being considered in this regard.

Page 11 of 84

2018 | Annual report

DIRECTORS’ REPORT | FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2018 | Dividends |

ALS LIMITED AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

Oil & Gas
Laboratories –
Financial
2018
($m)


2017
($m)

Variance
performance
Revenue 8.4
10.8
(22.2%)
Segment contribution
(5.4)

(6.4)
Restructuring and
related costs
0.5
0.1
Underlying segment
contribution
(4.9)
(6.3)
(22.2%)
Margin (underlying
segment contribution
(58.3%)

(58.3%)
to revenue)
Underlying segment
EBITDA
(3.5)
(4.5)
(22.2%)
Margin (underlying
segment EBITDA to (41.7%)
(41.7%)
revenue)

Dividends

Dividends paid or declared by the Company since the end of the previous financial year are:

Cents
per
share



Franked
amount
(cents)
Total
$m
Ordinary dividends declared and paid during the
year:
Final 2017, paid 3 July
2017
8
3.2
40.4
Interim 2018, paid 18
December 2017
8
3.2
40.4
Total amount 80.8
Ordinary dividend declared after the end of the
financial year:
Final 2018, to be paid
2 July 2018
9
3.6
44.0

The financial effect of this dividend has not been brought to account in the financial statements for the year ended 31 March 2018 and will be recognised in subsequent financial reports. The franked components of all dividends paid or declared since the end of the previous financial year were franked based on a tax rate of 30%.

Oil & Gas (non-
laboratories) –
Financial
2018
($m)

2017
($m)

Variance
performance
Revenue 39.8 93.3 (57.3%)
Segment contribution
0.3
(16.1)
Restructuring and
related costs
0.0 1.6
Underlying segment
contribution
0.3 (14.5) (102.1%)
Margin (underlying
segment contribution
0.8%
(15.5%)
to revenue)
Underlying segment
EBITDA
3.8 (2.7) (240.7%)
Margin (underlying
segment EBITDA to 9.6% (2.9%)
revenue)

Debt profile

The Group’s policy of ensuring a diversity of funding sources and maturities is a key element of its management of re-financing and liquidity risks and is reflected in the table below:

In millions of AUD
Source
Maturity
Facility
Drawn
Limit
Bank facilities
October 2018
US Private
Placement
Market
July 2019
US Private
Placement
Market
December
2020
US Private
Placement
Market
July 2022

52.1
246.0
246.0
199.6
199.6
247.4
247.4
693.0
745.1

ALS is party to multi-currency, revolving debt facility agreements with three Australian and international banks maturing in October 2018. The total capacity available from bank debt facilities is USD40 million (AUD52.1 million).

The Group has commenced discussions with its current financiers and other parties in relation to the replacement of the upcoming maturities of bank facilities (FY2019) and US PP notes (FY2020) listed above.

Page 12 of 84

2018 | Annual report

DIRECTORS’ REPORT | FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2018 | Financial position |

ALS LIMITED AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

Financial position

The major changes in the Group’s financial position during the year (refer summarised balance sheet below) were the result of:

  • expansion and diversification of technical service capabilities through acquisitions in food, environmental and tribology testing in mainland Europe and North and South America for a total consideration of $32.9 million which were financed from cash holdings;

  • debt repayments of $38.4 million (USPP);

  • impairment charges of $63.0 million taken against the Coal and Industrial CGUs;

  • on-market share buyback activity of $106.8 million to date; and

  • total cash dividend payments to shareholders of $80.8 million.

The overall effect of these transactions was:

  • an increase in net debt of $21.3 million;

  • intangible assets remained virtually unchanged at $980.6 million; and

  • total equity decreased by a net $63.2 million.

The Group remains committed to its strategy of maintaining a strong balance sheet throughout economic cycles as evidenced by the gearing (31.1%; 2017: 29.0%) and leverage (1.7 times; 2017: 2.1 times) measures noted below.

In millions of AUD
Note*
Trade and other
receivables
2a
Inventories
2b
Other current assets
Trade and other
payables
2c
Total working capital

Cash and cash
equivalents
3a
Loans and
borrowings
3c
Fair value derivatives
(non-current)
Net debt

Property, plant and
equipment
2d
Intangible assets
2f
Net deferred tax
assets
6b
Other assets
Employee benefits
Other liabilities
Consolidated
2018
2017
278.3
250.2
75.8
67.2
35.2
33.6
(169.8)
(140.1)
219.5
210.9
187.2
248.9
(695.6)
(741.1)
2.6
7.7
(505.8)
(484.5)
400.0
395.5
980.6
981.8
12.5
11.5
50.9
34.1
(53.3)
(49.0)
(7.0)
(9.9)
Net assets held for
sale

Net assets
Total equity
Gearing:Net debt to
Net debt + Equity
Leverage:Net debt to
EBITDA**
24.6
94.8
1,408.3 1,458.8
1,122.0 1,185.2
1,122.0 1,185.2
31.1%
29.0%
1.7
times
2.1
times
  • References are to Notes to the Financial Statements

  • ** EBITDA = Earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortisation, and impairment losses. The calculation of EBITDA is unaudited.

Cashflow

The Group’s operating cashflow was characterised by a solid conversion of earnings into cash with working capital being closely monitored and managed. At 94.2% the FY2018 ratio of cash from operations (before interest and tax) to EBITDA was pleasing in an environment of revenue growth and where clients are seeking to extend payment terms. EBITDA interest cover was 11.3 times (2017: 8.5 times).

Capital expenditure of $73.4 million, acquisitions of $31.8 million, on-market share buyback activity ($106.8 million) and dividends to shareholders ($80.8 million) drove investing and financing outflows during FY2018.

In millions of AUD
Net cash from operating
activities
Net cash from investing activities
Net cash from financing
activities
Net movement in cash and cash
equivalents
Cash and cash equivalents at 1
April
Effect of exchange rate
fluctuations on cash held
Cash and cash equivalents at
31 March
Cash conversion:
Cash from operations to EBITDA_
Interest cover:
_EBITDA
to Net finance expense
Consolidated
2018
2017
185.8
175.3

(17.1)
(104.4)
(227.0)
(113.7)
(58.3)
(42.8)
248.9
297.9
(3.4)
(6.2)
187.2
248.9
94.2%
105.3%
11.3
8.5
  • EBITDA = Earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortisation, and impairment losses. The calculation of EBITDA is unaudited.

Page 13 of 84

2018 | Annual report

DIRECTORS’ REPORT | FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2018 | Material business risks |

ALS LIMITED AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

Material business risks

The Group has an enterprise wide risk management framework that is structured to ensure its material business risks and controls are captured, assessed and regularly reviewed in a consistent manner.

The key material business risks and associated mitigation controls identified include:

  • ALS is exposed to financial risks such as liquidity risk, interest rate risk, foreign exchange risk, and credit risk (counterparty exposure). Group treasury and cash management policies are in place to mitigate these risks, and key indicators are monitored monthly including gearing and leverage ratios, interest cover by EBITDA, minimum liquidity reserves, weighted average debt maturity, and earnings at risk.

  • The Group’s success is dependent upon attracting and retaining staff in key technical and management roles. ALS mitigates this risk by striving to be an employer of choice, implementing its organisational development programs, monitoring and benchmarking its employee benefits, career progression and succession planning, and oversight by the Board People Committee.

requiring its businesses to obtain third party accreditation to international quality standards where available, and investing in custom built laboratory information management systems.

State of affairs

Changes in the state of affairs of the Group during the financial year resulted from its continued strategy of business expansion and diversification in Life Sciences and Industrial testing services. Specifically, the Group expanded and diversified its technical service capabilities through acquisitions in food, environmental and tribology testing in mainland Europe and North and South America.

In the opinion of the Directors there were no other significant changes in the state of affairs of the Group that occurred during the financial year under review not otherwise disclosed in this report or the consolidated financial statements.

  • The ALS Commodities business stream operates in a cyclical resources sector with fluctuations in commodity prices and global demand. ALS mitigates this risk by ensuring the Group has a diverse testing and inspection service offering across a range of industry sectors and geographies. Other controls include a business model that allows for scalability of services, a disciplined focus on operational costs, and close monitoring of economic trends.

  • ALS has a reliance on IT systems and infrastructure to manage and store its data. ALS mitigates this risk by having back-up systems and redundant servers located at offsite data centres, disaster recovery plans, and information management policies in place.

  • The Group operates across a number of industries that have inherent safety risks. ALS mitigates this risk by making “safety as a priority” a core value of the Group. Management have implemented a robust safety management system, employed significant HSE resources, and through their strong leadership are developing a culture of safety within their businesses, overseen by the Board Sustainability Committee.

  • ALS is a market leader in testing and inspection services. A loss of reputation due to poor quality service would erode market share. This risk is mitigated by implementing robust quality control policy and procedures,

Page 14 of 84

2018 | Annual report

DIRECTORS’ REPORT | FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2018 | Remuneration report |

ALS LIMITED AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

Remuneration report

Dear Shareholders

On behalf of the Directors at ALS I present the remuneration report for the Group’s Key Management Personnel (KMP) including executive management, the Managing Director & CEO (the “Executives”) and its Non-Executive Directors (the “Directors”).

With a change in company leadership, some restructuring has occurred to key roles this year, to delayer and to move the operational head office to Houston, USA. These changes resulted in four new KMP being reported this year and the departure of two KMP, Mr Greg Kilmister and Mr Brian Williams.

I am pleased to report improved overall financial performance again this year from the Group’s continuing operations. Underlying Net Profit After Tax (UNPAT), Underlying Earnings Per Share (EPS) and Dividends increased by 21.1%, 21.9% and 25.9% respectively. Vibrant operating conditions in the Commodities division more than offset the challenging business conditions for parts of the Life Sciences and Industrial divisions.

The improved corporate performance both in absolute terms and relative to our industry peers has resulted in an increase over last year in the overall at-risk remuneration earned by executives. The STI Plan was redesigned this financial year to place a stronger emphasis on Financial KPIs (70% this FY) and to provide for up to 50% reduction in payments for poor debtor collection. The plan also allows for outperformance payments to be deferred into equity. From a shareholder perspective, the outcome of the new plan demonstrates the alignment of executives’ STI payments to overall financial performance of the Company and the ensuing dividend return to its owners.

The executives’ long-term incentive (“LTI”) award which will vest on 1st July 2018 was achieved at the overall rate of 75% of the maximum potential as three of the four performance hurdles (TSR relative to industry peers, TSR relative to the ASX100, and EBITDA relative to industry peers) were fully achieved. The EPS performance hurdle was not achieved and no award vested for this portion.

Accordingly, executive pay outcomes for FY2017-18 demonstrate an alignment with shareholders’ outcomes and confirm that current remuneration policies along with adjusted at-risk remuneration programs are working properly to ensure there is a correlation to company performance.

The Non-Executive Directors’ overall fee pool remained unchanged during the year and for the sixth year running. The minimum shareholding guidelines for non-executive directors, who are now expected to build a minimum shareholding of the equivalent of 50% of one year’s fees after tax, were implemented and then reviewed during March 2018. The non-executive directors’ holdings currently meet the guidelines.

Examples of the executive KMP’s STI Plan KPIs are included in the report to demonstrate the link between company strategy, executive performance and reward, and the outcomes for shareholders.

The LTI Plan Rules continued to include the four hurdles of TSR, EPS, EBITDA and ROCE. The current mix of performance hurdles ensures active capital management and will drive sustainable financial performance over the longer term as well as ensure a fair outcome for shareholders and executives alike.

Finally, the outlook for next year’s remuneration is provided at the conclusion of this report.

Yours faithfully

Bruce Phillips

Chairman

Page 15 of 84

2018 | Annual report

DIRECTORS’ REPORT | FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2018 |

ALS LIMITED AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

Remuneration report | Operational Performance Context 2017-18 — unaudited

Table of contents

  1. Operational Performance Context 2017-18 — unaudited ................................................................... 16 2. Key Management Personnel — audited ................................................................................................. 17 3. Executive Remuneration Strategy — Summary 2017-18 — audited .................................................... 18 4. Non-Executive Director Remuneration — audited ................................................................................ 20 5. Actual Remuneration — FY 2017-18 — audited ................................................................................... 21 6. Short Term Incentive Plan — audited .................................................................................................... 24 7. Long Term Incentive Plan — audited .................................................................................................... 26 8. Company Performance and Link to Shareholder Wealth – audited ...................................................... 32 9. KMP Equity Instruments and Transactions — audited ......................................................................... 33 10. Outlook for 2018-19 FY Remuneration — unaudited ......................................................................... 35

1. OPERATIONAL PERFORMANCE CONTEXT 2017-18 — UNAUDITED

The new five-year strategy was launched by Raj Naran in his new role of Managing Director and CEO. Several key elements of the strategy were progressed, notably the sale of the majority of the Oil & Gas businesses and the purchase of further businesses in the Food and Pharmaceutical industries in Europe and North America.

During the year, the company maintained a focus on cost management and cash/debtor management. With the exception of Oil & Gas, all businesses delivered sound financial performance. The continuing poor performance of the Oil & Gas laboratories business has led to a decision to divest this remaining Oil & Gas asset.

A summary of our financial performance from continuing operations is provided below and in more detail on page 8:

more detail on page 8:
FY16-17 FY17-18
Revenue ($m) 1,261.5 1,446.9
Underlying NPAT ($m) 117.4 142.2
Underlying EBIT ($m) 192.4 221.3
Underlying EPS 23.3 cents 28.4 cents
Underlying EBIT 15.3% 15.3%
margin
Dividends per share 13.5 cents 17.0 cents

Executive remuneration strategy and instruments received some adjustments, in particular the STI Plan. Actual pay outcomes during the year continued to be aligned to shareholder outcomes.

Changes impacting Remuneration

Following the appointment of Mr Naran, an organisational restructure took place to better align the company with its new strategic plan. A number of senior roles moved away from the Brisbane Head Office and a new Operations Head Office was set up in Houston. The organisational

structure was simplified, a layer of management removed and several new senior appointments were made. The KMP listed in this Remuneration Report reflect the restructure.

Fixed remuneration for executive KMPs other than the CEO was increased by an average of 4%. Maximum potential STI increased to reflect a new “Outperformance” element that enables up to 150% of STI quantum to be achieved for exceptional financial performance. LTI components as a percentage of fixed pay were unchanged.

Short term incentives earned by executives for FY2018-19 reflect financial performance and the achievement of key performance indicators (“KPIs”) demonstrating an alignment with outcomes for shareholders.

The executives’ long-term incentive (“LTI”) award which will vest on 1st July 2018 was achieved at the overall rate of 75% of the maximum potential as three of the four performance hurdles were fully achieved.

For the Non-Executive Directors the fee pool which was last increased in the 2012 FY was maintained at the current quantum. Fees were restructured during FY 2016-17, to allow for the addition of a new committee and changed committee memberships. There was no overall increase in fees resulting from these changes.

Page 16 of 84

2018 | Annual report

DIRECTORS’ REPORT | FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2018 |

ALS LIMITED AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

Remuneration report | Key Management Personnel — audited

2. KEY MANAGEMENT PERSONNEL — AUDITED

Name Position Term as KMP in 2017-18 Term as KMP in 2017-18
Non-executive directors
Bruce Phillips Chairman
Member of People Committee Full year
Mel Bridges Member of Audit and Risk Committee
Member of Sustainability Committee Full Year
Grant Murdoch Chairman of Audit and Risk Committee Full Year
John Mulcahy Chairman of People Committee Full Year
Charlie Sartain Chairman of Sustainability Committee
Member of Audit and Risk Committee Full Year
Tonianne Dwyer Member of People Committee
Member of Sustainability Committee Full Year
Executive KMPs
Raj Naran Executive Director
Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer (apptd 20 July 2017)
(Deputy CEO and Group GM Life Sciences until 20 July 2017) Full Year
Bruce McDonald General Manager, Geochemistry Full Year
Andreas Jonsson General Manager, Life Sciences Europe Full Year
Tim Kilmister General Manager, Life Sciences APAC Full Year
David Prince General Manager, Life Sciences Americas Apptd 2 October 2017
Kristen Walsh General Manager, Industrial Full Year
Richard Stephens Chief Financial Officer Full Year
Former Executives
Greg Kilmister Former Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Retired 20 July 2017
Brian Williams Former Group General Manager Commodities (until 3 July 2017)

Note: references in this remuneration report to “Executives” are references to those executives who are KMPs as listed above, including where relevant, the CEO

Service Contracts

The Group has formal service agreements with its non-executive directors. Non-executive directors are not entitled to any retirement or termination benefits. Executives have continuous service agreements that can be terminated by either party. In the event of termination without cause, the Group is required to pay Executives between three and twelve months of salary.

Unvested equity grants may lapse, remain on foot, or vest on termination, depending on the circumstances, in accordance with the LTI Plan Rules, at the Board’s discretion and in accordance with section 200B and section 200E of the Corporations Act. Termination on the basis of redundancy, death or from an age or illhealth retirement allows for proportionate vesting of the grants. Grants do not vest in the event of voluntary termination or termination with cause.

Page 17 of 84

2018 | Annual report

DIRECTORS’ REPORT | FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2018 |

ALS LIMITED AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

Remuneration report | Executive Remuneration Strategy — Summary 2017-18 — audited

3. EXECUTIVE REMUNERATION STRATEGY — SUMMARY 2017-18 — AUDITED

ALS Group
Vision
Group
Strategy
Executive
Reward
Strategy
Remuneration
Components
Managing
Risk
Alignment
with
Shareholders
Short Term
Incentives
Long Term
Incentives
Governance
ALS is committed to maintaining the sound and sustainable growth strategies which have made
us a successful global Company. We maintain the rewarding partnerships we share with our
clients, business partners, shareholders and communities whilst identifying and developing new
opportunities.
Translated into Group Strategy and developed into group structure, plans and policies:
The Group’s five-year Strategic Plan drives all activities in the business. Each year an annual
business plan is prepared for each Business Unit which examines the components that will need
to be achieved during the year; and longer term goals are recalibrated and adjusted as required.
The Group’s five-year Strategic Plan is translated to the remuneration strategy that will
assist the Group in achieving its financial and other business goals

Transparent link to individual performance

Adjusted annually in response to external changes

Reasonable, fair and equitable

Provides sustainable platform forgrowth
Delivered through the remuneration components of Fixed and Variable remuneration (at
target):
Managing Director
Executive KMP (Average)
Fixed Remuneration (including cash, pension and benefits)
46%
60%
Short Term Incentives – cash based, at target
27%
20%
LongTerm Incentives – equity based
27%
20%
Operational Risk Management is built into the remuneration policies:

STI forfeiture, deferral and clawback
provisions

Board discretion for unforeseen
conditions

KPIs include safety

Financial gateways ensure affordability

Aligns to external peer pay levels for executive attraction and retention
Remuneration is designed to align executive reward to growth in shareholder value:

STI Financial KPIs require financial growth against last year’s performance to pay out at
target

Use of four balanced LTI Plan measures: TSR, EBITDA, EPS and ROCE – promotes sustainable
performance.

Global and local Peer performance comparisons for fair assessment

Remuneration partly received in equity
STI KPIs reward improved financial and HSE outcomes:

1 Year performance Period
The LTI is contingent on multiple performance measures to ensure sustainable
performance and aligns key executives’ financial outcomes with Shareholder interests:

3 Year performance Period

Hurdle 3:Relative EBITDA margin –
against industry peers

Hurdle 1:EPS Growth

Hurdle 2:TSR – against ASX100 peers

Hurdle 4:ROCE
Strengthened through robust governance:

Independent Directors

Board has ultimate discretion over all reward components

External remuneration advisors are appointed and report to the Board

Table 2

Page 18 of 84

2018 | Annual report

DIRECTORS’ REPORT | FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2018 |

ALS LIMITED AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

Remuneration report | Executive Remuneration Strategy — Summary 2017-18 — audited

People Committee

The Board operates a People Committee which consists of three independent non-executive directors. The committee considers all aspects of remuneration strategy, policy and process for executive key management personnel and nonexecutive directors. The committee also considers broader remuneration strategy and has oversight of key remuneration programs for the Company globally. Remuneration changes for all nonexecutive directors, the Managing Director and executive KMPs are considered and approved by the Board after receiving recommendations from the committee.

The committee remit also includes performance management for the CEO and oversight of executive management, workplace culture, key talent development and succession planning, diversity and broader human resources risk management.

The committee conducts annual reviews of its charter, the Group remuneration and benefits policies and plans, the structure and details of all Directors’ fees, remuneration packages, market and industry sector trends in relation to Director and executive remuneration practices and remuneration levels.

Fixed versus Variable Remuneration

The breakdown of the fixed remuneration and atrisk remuneration for the Managing Director and Executive KMPs, is shown in Table 2 above. The components of variable remuneration show maximum potential outcome for target performance. 40 percent or more of pay is at risk to ensure that executives will benefit from achieving strong company performance but receive less pay if company performance falls below expectations. The costs of executive pay therefore vary directly with shareholder interests and the capacity to pay, ensuring fair pay outcomes.

External Remuneration Consultants

ALS engages with Korn Ferry to provide benchmark data, as well as market practice input to remuneration strategy and mechanisms from time to time.

Korn Ferry also provides job evaluation and global remuneration data for middle manager up to Chief Executive Officer level roles; their PayNet (remuneration) database is used across key geographies. To ensure their independence from executive management, Korn Ferry was engaged directly by the Board for the CEO and KMP remuneration advice.

EY (Australia) provide valuation services in respect of our Long-Term Incentive Plan.

Fees paid for remuneration advice during the financial year were: Korn Ferry – $152,029 (2017: $7,150), EY (Australia) – $56,900 (2017: $19,000). Fees paid to these providers for other services during the year: Korn Ferry – $120,803 (2017: Nil), EY (Australia) – $75,000 (2017: Nil)

Page 19 of 84

2018 | Annual report

DIRECTORS’ REPORT | FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2018 | Remuneration report | Non-Executive Director Remuneration — audited

ALS LIMITED AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

4. NON-EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR REMUNERATION — AUDITED

With five new Directors appointed in the last six years, the Company is satisfied that the Board is independent.

Key Components of Non-Executive Director Remuneration

No element of Non-Executive Director remuneration is ‘at risk’. Fees are fixed and not based on the performance of the Company or equity-based. Directors’ fees are reviewed annually and increased if appropriate. Directors are paid base fees and if applicable, a fee for membership of a committee. The Chairman does not receive committee fees.

The fixed fee pool for Directors has remained unchanged for six years at a maximum of $1,500,000. The fee structure is set out in Table 3. Fees and the pool are inclusive of mandatory superannuation contributions.

Non-Executive Director – Fee Structure * Fixed Pool: $1,500,000 per annum * Fixed Pool: $1,500,000 per annum
Base Director Fees
Chairman Annual fee compensates for all Board & Committee $321,000
activities
Non-executive directors Annual fee $165,000
Committee Fees
Chair of Audit & Risk Committee $25,000
Chairs of People Committee and Sustainability Committee $12,500
Committee Fees Flat fee for each Committee membership $6,000
* Pool and fees include superannuation benefits Table 3

Page 20 of 84

2018 | Annual report

DIRECTORS’ REPORT | FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2018 | Remuneration report | Actual Remuneration — FY 2017-18 — audited

ALS LIMITED AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

5. ACTUAL REMUNERATION — FY 2017-18 — AUDITED

Non-Executive directors

The current remuneration pool, including superannuation, for all non-executive directors is $1,500,000 per annum as approved by shareholders at the 2012 AGM. Non-executive directors are paid base and committee membership fees only, which are fixed by the Board. The directors are entitled to be reimbursed for all travel and related expenses properly incurred in connection with the business of the Company.

During 2016 the Company introduced minimum shareholding guidelines for non-executive directors who are now expected to build a minimum shareholding of the equivalent of 50% of one year’s after-tax fees – this may be built up over a three-year period from date of commencement. The quantum of the shareholding will be based on cost outlay made to acquire the shares and the fees quantum will be based on net fees assuming the top marginal PAYG Taxation rate. This requirement is monitored annually.

The levels of Directors’ remuneration are set as of 1 July every year, following reviews of publicly available information about fees paid to non-executive directors in comparable companies. Details of the nature and actual amount of each element of remuneration of each non-executive director are set out below.

Directors: In
AUD
Short-term
(Salary & fees)
$
Long term
(D&O
insurance
premiums)
$
Post-employment
(Superannuation
benefits)
$
Total
$
Non-executive directors
Bruce Phillips
(apptd Chair 26 Jul 2016)
Mel Bridges
Grant Murdoch
John Mulcahy
Charlie Sartain
Tonianne Dwyer
(appointed 1 July 2016)
Nerolie Withnall
(retired 26 July 2016)
2018
293,151
686
27,849 321,686
2017
251,127
661
23,857 275,645
2018
161,644
686
15,356 177,686
2017
165,734
661
15,745 182,140
2018
173,516
686
16,484 190,686
2017
173,649
661
16,497 190,807
2018
162,100
686
15,399 178,185
2017
162,224
661
15,411 178,296
2018
167,580
686
15,920 184,186
2017
165,877
661
15,758 182,296
2018
161,644
686
15,356 177,686
2017
121,233
496
11,517 133,246
2018

2017
96,127
220
9,132 105,479
Total: 2018
1,119,635
4,116
106,364 1,230,115
Non-executive directors 2017
1,135,971
4,021
107,917 1,247,909

Table 4

Executive KMPs

Executives receive fixed remuneration, an STI paid in cash (and from FY2018, share-based compensation deferred for two years for STI outperformance where earned – refer section 6 of the Remuneration Report) and an LTI in the form of performance rights that vest three years later, subject to meeting performance hurdles and continued employment conditions. The Group’s practice is to review fixed remuneration for executives as of 1 July every year.

Table 5.1 below lists the remuneration actually received in relation to the financial years ending March 2017 and 2018, comprising fixed remuneration, cash STIs relating to each year and the value of LTI grants that vest during each year. This information differs from that provided in the statutory remuneration Table 5.2 which shows the accounting expense of remuneration in respect of each year, determined in accordance with accounting standards rather than the value of remuneration (including LTI grants that vested) received during the year.

Page 21 of 84

2018 | Annual report

DIRECTORS’ REPORT | FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2018 | Remuneration report | Actual Remuneration — FY 2017-18 — audited

ALS LIMITED AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

Remuneration actually received:

Directors: In
AUD
Fixed remuneration
(Salary, allowances
and
superannuation /
pension benefits)
$
STI (a)
$
Termi-
nation
benefits
$
Total cash
payments
received
$
Equity
vested
during
year (b)
$
Total
remune-
ration
received
$
Executive director:
Raj Naran (c)
(apptd MD & CEO
20 Jul 2017)
2018
1,267,418
728,888

1,996,306
65,013
2,061,319
2017
1,010,920


1,010,920
13,835
1,024,755
Executives:
Bruce McDonald
(d)
Andreas Jonsson
(d)
Tim Kilmister(d)
David Prince(d)
(commc'd 2 Oct
2017)
Kristen
Walsh
Richard Stephens
2018
576,793
231,621

808,414
63,631
872,045
2017




2018
438,029
50,372

488,401
25,179
513,580
2017




2018
388,615
140,000

528,615
29,256
557,871
2017




2018
194,074
6,778

200,852
200,852
2017




2018
575,000
116,620

691,620
48,758
740,378
2017
575,000
20,000

595,000
9,830
604,830
2018
574,998
130,012

705,010
40,634
745,644
2017
566,500
70,716

637,216
8,190
645,406
Sub-total:
Continuing
Executives
2018
4,014,927
1,404,291

5,419,218
272,471
5,691,689
2017
2,152,420
90,716

2,243,136
31,855
2,274,991
Former Executive director:
Greg
Kilmister(c)
2018
1,324,904

1,576,451
2,901,355
274,677
(retired 20 July
2017)
2017
1,596,500
664,299

2,260,799
55,360
3,176,032
2,316,159
Former Executive:
Brian
Williams(e)
2018
374,906

552,673
927,579
71,514
2017
721,000
203,250

924,250
14,415
999,093
938,665
Total: All
executives
2018
5,714,737
1,404,291
2,129,124
9,248,152
618,662
9,866,814
2017
4,469,920
958,265

5,428,185
101,630
5,529,815

Table 5.1

(a) Accrued STI cash component which is paid following the end of the financial year to which it relates.

(b) Performance rights are granted annually under the LTI Plan to executives – refer note 8a for details. The amounts above represent the value of performance rights granted in previous years which vested and were exercised during the year. It is calculated as the number of shares allocated to executives multiplied by the closing market price of ALS shares on the vesting date.

(c) Raj Naran was appointed Managing Director and CEO on 20 July 2017 replacing Greg Kilmister who retired on that date. He held the positions of Deputy CEO and Group General Manager Life Sciences until 20 July 2017. He is based in the USA and is paid in US dollars. Relevant portions of Mr Naran’s salary, STI and pension benefits have been translated into Australian dollars above.

(d) Following a management restructure Bruce McDonald, Andreas Jonsson and Tim Kilmister were promoted to become executive KMPs effective 1 April 2017. David Prince commenced with the Group on 2 October 2017. Messrs McDonald (Canada) Jonsson (Sweden) and Prince (USA) are employed outside Australia. Relevant portions of their salaries, STIs and pension benefits have been translated into Australian dollars above.

  • (e) Brian Williams ceased employment with the Group on 3 July 2017.

Page 22 of 84

2018 | Annual report

DIRECTORS’ REPORT | FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2018 | Remuneration report | Actual Remuneration — FY 2017-18 — audited

ALS LIMITED AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

Remuneration as determined in accordance with accounting standards (c) :

Short-term Short-term Long-term
Postemployment
Superannuation &
pension benefits
$
Termination benefits
$
Total remuneration
received
$
Directors:
In
AUD
Salary
$
STI (a)
$
Non-monetary
benefits(b)
$
Value of share-
based awards(c)
$
D&O insurance
premiums
$
Executive director:
Raj Naran
(d)
(apptd MD
& CEO 20
Jul 2017)
2018
1,244,632
728,888
8,924
266,136
457
13,862
2,262,899
2017
996,050


115,409
316
14,870
1,126,645
Executives:
Bruce
McDonald
(e)
Andreas
Jonsson(e)
Tim
Kilmister
(e)
David
Prince(e)
(commc'd 2
Oct 2017)
Kristen
Walsh
Richard
Stephens
2018
571,210
231,621
5,583
171,026
341

979,781
2017






2018
414,373
50,372
12,458
72,657
341
11,198
561,399
2017






2018
362,269
140,000

78,849
341
26,346
607,805
2017






2018
186,200
6,778
7,874

341

201,193
2017






2018
553,618
116,620

126,854
341
21,382
818,815
2017
550,000
20,000

100,790
316
25,000
696,106
2018
548,248
130,012

110,597
341
26,750
815,948
2017
532,000
70,716

70,571
316
34,500
708,103
Sub-total:
Continuing
Executives
2018
3,880,550
1,404,291
34,839
826,119
2,503
99,538
6,247,840
2017
2,078,050
90,716

286,770
948
74,370
2,530,854
Former Executive director:
Greg
Kilmister
(d)
2018
1,314,808


166,044
229
10,096
1,576,451
(retired 20
July 2017)
2017
1,561,500
664,299

215,200
661
35,000
3,067,628
2,476,660
Former Executive:
Brian
Williams(f)
2018
347,471


32,000
341
27,435
552,673
2017
686,349
203,250

57,433
316
34,651
959,920
981,999
Total: All
executives
2018
5,542,829
1,404,291
34,839
1,024,163
3,073
137,069
2,129,124
10,275,388
2017
4,325,899
958,265

559,403
1,925
144,021

5,989,513

Table 5.2

  • (a) Accrued STI cash component which is paid following the end of the financial year to which it relates.

  • (b) Non-monetary benefits include the payment of allowances and provision of motor vehicles.

  • (c) Performance rights are granted annually under the LTI Plan to executives – refer financial statements note 8a for details. The fair value of performance rights granted is calculated using Binomial Tree (EPS, EBITDA and ROCE hurdles) and Monte-Carlo Simulation (TSR hurdle) valuation methodologies and allocated to each financial year evenly over the period from grant date to vesting date. Note that the valuation is not reflective of actual remuneration received by the executive. For FY2018 the value of share-based awards also includes an accrual to March 2018 of the estimated value of any deferred compensation earned for STI outperformance – refer section 6 of the Remuneration Report and financial statements note 8a for details.

  • (d) Raj Naran was appointed Managing Director and CEO on 20 July 2017 replacing Greg Kilmister who retired on that date. He held the positions of Deputy CEO and Group General Manager Life Sciences until 20 July 2017. He is based in the USA and is paid in US dollars. Relevant portions of Mr Naran’s salary, STI and pension benefits have been translated into Australian dollars above.

Page 23 of 84

2018 | Annual report

DIRECTORS’ REPORT | FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2018 |

ALS LIMITED AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

Remuneration report | Short Term Incentive Plan — audited

  • (e) Following a management restructure Bruce McDonald, Andreas Jonsson and Tim Kilmister were promoted to become executive KMPs effective 1 April 2017. David Prince commenced with the Group on 2 October 2017. Messrs McDonald (Canada) Jonsson (Sweden) and Prince (USA) are employed outside Australia. Relevant portions of their salaries, STIs and pension benefits have been translated into Australian dollars above.

  • (f) Brian Williams ceased employment with the Group on 3 July 2017.

6. SHORT TERM INCENTIVE PLAN — AUDITED

The Board sets the maximum amounts which can be earned as an STI for each executive and also approves executive KMPs’ STI Plan scorecards annually. KPIs are structured so that they are heavily weighted to financial performance with safety also a mandatory KPI. There is a portion of the total potential payment that is discretionary.

Payments to the CEO, at target are set at 60% of his fixed remuneration and payments for other executive KMP, at target, are between 25% and 40% of their fixed remuneration.

STI payments are contingent on the achievement of specified financial and other performance indicators (KPIs) for the financial year, as follows.

Outperformance and Equity Deferral

During the year, the Company introduced some changes to the program. This year the plan includes a deferred equity component if certain “outperformance” stretch targets are achieved and a service condition is met.

Those who also attain the “outperformance” financial KPIs will have additional STI payments deferred into Service Rights (rights to ALS shares upon maturity). The period of deferral will be two years and the executive must be still employed on 1 April two years hence (2020 in the case of the 2017-18 FY) to receive the shares. Refer financial statements note 8a for further details.

Where the country of assignment has legislation that would prevent allocation of shares, this would be held as deferred cash for the same period.

Executives are able to earn up to 150% of their target STI quantum for outperformance, including the deferred element.

Gateway

In order to ensure that Shareholder reward is aligned to the executives’ own reward, the Group overall must have met or exceeded the underlying NPAT achieved the previous FY, before the executive’s own KPIs will yield a payment. Exceptions may be made by the Board where an individual executive has achieved an outstanding financial result.

Financial KPIs

For the executive KMP’s the financial hurdles worth 70% of the target quantum are set for the business units that are within the executive’s sphere of control. The financial KPIs including the outperformance KPIs are NPAT/EBIT growth oriented.

Non-Financial KPIs

Approximately 30% of the potential STI target quantum is dependent on non-financial KPIs. However, if threshold financial performance is not met as noted above, there is no STI payment despite the executive having achieved their nonfinancial KPIs.

Health, safety, the environment and risk management is a mandatory KPI as in previous years. This KPI, which is set at 10% of the target STI quantum is measured against the Positive Performance Indicator (PPI) Scorecard of health, safety and environmental lead indicators. A minimum score of 90% on the PPI is required to achieve the HSE KPI.

20% of the target STI quantum is at the discretion of the CEO and for the CEO at the discretion of the Board. This portion allocates specific strategic plan KPI(s) that need to be achieved.

In order to better manage cash flow and potential bad debts in the Company, a debtor-days KPI was also included for relevant executive KMPs. Where failed, this may result in a 50% reduction in any STI payment that would have otherwise been earned.

Non-Payment and Clawbacks

Payments are not made to executives found to have misrepresented their financial and nonfinancial KPI results; misrepresentations discovered after an STI payment has been made will require the executive having to return the payment to the Company.

Page 24 of 84

2018 | Annual report

DIRECTORS’ REPORT | FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2018 |

ALS LIMITED AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

Remuneration report | Short Term Incentive Plan — audited

CEO Key Performance Indicator outcomes

The CEO’s ‘gateway’ NPAT target was fully met as was his HSE and Debtor Management KPI. The second NPAT hurdle was only partially met and the new outperformance hurdle was not met. An STI payment is due at 94.1% of the total potential.

The CEO’s other non-financial KPIs are not provided as they contain commercially sensitive information.

2017-18 KMP executives’ Key Performance Indicators

STI Plan KPIs and
Structure
Applicable to:
Achievements
Outcome for Shareholders
Growth and
profitability
**

70% of STI
Payment**
Life Sciences
(Three regional groups)
1. Threshold achieved,
Target partially
achieved.
2. Threshold and
Target achieved and
Outperformance
partially achieved.
3. Threshold not
achieved. HSE targets
exceeded.
Market share growth, improved
ROS/EBIT through cost savings.
Industrial
Threshold achieved,
Target partially
achieved.
ROS remained steady for the
Tribology business.
HSE
**

10% of STI
Payment**
Strategic Plan
Objectives
**

20% of STI
Payment**
Cost Base
Management
**

Up to 50%
reduction in STI
Payment earned**

Table 6

Page 25 of 84

2018 | Annual report

DIRECTORS’ REPORT | FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2018 |

ALS LIMITED AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

Remuneration report | Long Term Incentive Plan — audited

Executive STI Performance vested / forfeited

Below are details of the outcomes of the STI Plan, for 2017-18 and the previous year, awarded as remuneration to each of the named Executives:

Included in
remuneration $ (a)
Included in
remuneration $ (a)
Included in
remuneration $ (a)
%
earned
%
forfeited
(b)
Executives
2018 728,888 94.1 5.9
Raj Naran
2017 - - 100
Bruce
McDonald
2018 231,621 100.0 0.0
(c) 2017 n/a n/a n/a
Andreas 2018 50,372 33.3 66.7
Jonsson (c) 2017 n/a n/a n/a
Tim
Kilmister
2018 140,000 100.0 0.0
(c) 2017 n/a n/a n/a
David 2018 6,778 10.0 90.0
Prince (c) 2017 n/a n/a n/a
Kristen 2018 116,620 58.3 41.7
Walsh 2017 20,000 10 90
Richard 2018 130,012 90.0 10.0
Stephens 2017 70,716 51 49
Greg
Kilmister
2018 n/a n/a n/a
(d) 2017 664,299 71 29
Brian 2018 n/a n/a n/a
Williams (d) 2017 203,250 81 19
Table 7a
  • (a) Amounts included in remuneration for the financial year represent the STI cash components which vested in the financial year based on the achievement of personal goals and satisfaction of specified performance criteria. They do not include the values of any deferred compensation earned for STI outperformance. These values are shown in Table 7b below and are included in the values of share-based awards in table 5.2 and the percentages calculated in table 10 – refer section 6 of the Remuneration Report and financial statements note 8a for details.

  • (b) The amounts forfeited are due to the performance or service criteria not being met in relation to the financial year.

  • (c) Bruce McDonald, Andreas Jonsson, Tim Kilmister and David Prince were not KMPs in FY2017.

  • (d) Greg Kilmister and Brian Williams were not participants in the STI Plan during FY2018.

Below are details regarding deferred

compensation earned for any STI outperformance. Accruals to March 2018 are included in the values of share-based awards in table 5.2 and the percentages calculated in table 10 – refer section 6 of the Remuneration Report and financial statements note 8a for details.

==> picture [54 x 97] intentionally omitted <==

2018 390,523
Raj Naran 2017 n/a
n/a
n/a
Bruce 2018 116,021
116,021
38,674
McDonald 2017 n/a
n/a
n/a
Andreas 2018 75,894
Jonsson 2017 n/a
n/a
n/a
Tim 2018 70,000
18,668
6,223
Kilmister 2017 n/a
n/a
n/a
David 2018 34,171
Prince 2017 n/a
n/a
n/a
Kristen 2018 100,000
Walsh 2017 n/a
n/a
n/a
Richard 2018 72,229
65,006
21,669
Stephens 2017 n/a
n/a
n/a

Table 7b

7. LONG TERM INCENTIVE PLAN — AUDITED

Long Term Incentive Plan Hurdles

Following review of the feedback from Shareholder groups and a review of current best practice, the Board undertook to review and overhaul the LTI Plan. From the 2016 awards, LTI Plan hurdles added a Return on Capital Employed (ROCE) hurdle worth 25% of the total award, replacing the Total Shareholder Return (TSR) hurdle that used an industry peer group as a comparator for company performance. The other hurdles are TSR relative to the ASX100 Index, relative EBITDA, and underlying earnings per share (EPS) growth.

The structure and substance of hurdles for the 2015, 2016 and 2017 awards are set out on the following pages.

The LTI Plan is designed to reward and motivate our senior executives for superior company performance over a three-year performance period.

The principal goals of the LTI Plan are to:

  • (a) Focus executives on long term outcomes required by the Board;

Page 26 of 84

2018 | Annual report

DIRECTORS’ REPORT | FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2018 |

ALS LIMITED AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

Remuneration report | Long Term Incentive Plan — audited

  • (b) Minimise risk by ensuring performance was measured across multiple factors important to shareholder value, rather than a single measure, and provide a counter balance for any tendency to focus on short term outcomes;

  • (c) Retain key, high performing executives;

  • (d) Align executives’ reward with shareholders’ interests by payment in equity;

  • (e) Encourage share ownership in ALS; and

  • (f) Encourage teamwork through company performance hurdles.

Remuneration under the LTI Plan is in the form of equity-settled performance rights; and in jurisdictions where securities legislation does not permit this, the rights are cash-settled.

The number of performance rights granted to an executive is calculated by dividing the amount of the executive’s LTI maximum potential payment by the volume weighted average price (VWAP) of the Company’s shares over the 10 trading days following the date of announcement of the final full year results for the financial year preceding the period to which the grant of performance rights relate.

Performance Hurdles

a very competitive environment (noting however that this hurdle has been discontinued from the 2016 awards). The other peer group comprises the ASX100 index companies. These companies represent the alternative investment choices for many of our investors.

The relative EBITDA margin hurdle was chosen because it is focused on driving cash earnings and productivity. The EBITDA hurdle measures ALS’ relative EBITDA margin against the EBITDA margins of its key global competitors. It is a measure over which management has direct influence and provides for a fair assessment of performance against our global competitors. A ROCE hurdle was introduced from 2016 as it is a relevant measure to use when assessing the Company’s success or otherwise in increasing its net worth – i.e. it needs to generate returns in excess of its cost of capital in order to add to its value. In order to provide an incentive for superior performance, the respective ROCE hurdles are set each year at 2% and 7% above the weighted average cost of capital (WACC) as at 31 March with straight line vesting in between the lower and upper hurdles.

The performance hurdles and vesting proportions for the awards granted in 2015, 2016 and 2017 are as follows:

Performance hurdles are assessed at the end of the performance period and the performance rights become exercisable, in whole or in part, or lapse from 1 July following the end of the performance period.

Each equity-settled performance right which vests and is exercised converts to an ordinary share in the Company at nil exercise price; the amount payable per each vested cash-settled performance right is the VWAP of the Company’s shares over the 20 trading days following the release of the Company’s full year results for the final year of the performance period.

The LTI plan rules prohibit those who are granted performance rights from entering into arrangements that limit their exposure to share price decreases and the executive must be employed in the Group on the vesting date to be eligible for issue of the shares (equity-settled rights) or receipt of payment (cash-settled rights).

Compound annual underlying EPS growth on a fully diluted basis was chosen because it provides a good indicator of the shareholder value derived from earnings growth and can be directly influenced by management.

Relative TSR provides a good indicator of the value derived from capital growth and distributions to shareholders. Two peer groups are used. One peer group comprises ALS’ direct global competitors, and so reflects how well ALS management does in

Page 27 of 84

2018 | Annual report

DIRECTORS’ REPORT | FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2018 |

ALS LIMITED AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

Remuneration report | Long Term Incentive Plan — audited

2015 Award Hurdles

Compound annual diluted
Underlying EPS growth
(April 2015 to March
2018)
Proportion of
performance rights
that may be exercised
if Underlying EPS
growth hurdle is met
Less than 5% per annum 0%
Between 5% and 9% per
annum
Straight line vesting
between 12.5% and 25%
of total grant
9% or higher per annum 25% of total grant
Underlying EBITDA
margin of ALS relative to
Underlying EBITDA
margin of comparator
peer companies (April
2015 to March 2018)
Proportion of
performance rights
that may be exercised
if Underlying EBITDA
hdl i
ure s met
Less than the 50th
percentile
0%
50th percentile or higher 25% of total grant
Comparator peer companies: Bureau Veritas (France),
Core Laboratories (USA), Eurofins (France), Intertek
(UK), SGS (Switzerland), Mistras (USA), Applus (Spain)
and Exova (UK).

TSR of ALS relative to TSR Proportion of of companies in ASX 100 performance rights Index over the period that may be exercised April 2015 to March 2018 if TSR hurdle is met

TSR of ALS relative to TSR
of companies in ASX 100
Index over the period
April 2015 to March 2018
Proportion of
performance rights
that may be exercised
if TSR hurdle is met
Less than the 50th
percentile
0%
Between 50th percentile
and 75th percentile
Straight line vesting
between 12.5% and 25%
of total grant
75th percentile or higher 25% of total grant
TSR of ALS relative to TSR
of comparator peer
companies over the
period April 2015 to
March 2018
Proportion of
performance rights
that may be exercised
if TSR hurdle is met
Less than the 50th
percentile
0%
Between 50th percentile
and 75th percentile
Straight line vesting
between 12.5% and 25%
of total grant
75th percentile or higher 25% of total grant
Comparator peer companies: Bureau Veritas (France),
Core Laboratories (USA), Eurofins (France), Intertek
(UK), SGS (Switzerland), Mistras (USA), Applus (Spain)
and Exova (UK).

2016 Award Hurdles

Compound annual
diluted Underlying EPS
growth (April 2016 to
March 2019)
Proportion of
performance rights that
may be exercised if
Underlying EPS growth
hurdle is met
Less than 5% per annum 0%
Between 5% and 9% per
annum
Straight line vesting
between 12.5% and 25%
of total grant
9% or higher per annum 25% of total grant

Underlying EBITDA Proportion of margin of ALS relative to performance rights that Underlying EBITDA may be exercised if margin of comparator Underlying EBITDA peer companies (April hurdle is met 2016 to March 2019) Less than the 50th 0% percentile 50th percentile or 25% of total grant higher Comparator peer companies: Bureau Veritas (France), Core Laboratories (USA), Eurofins (France), Intertek (UK), SGS (Switzerland), Mistras (USA), Applus (Spain) and Exova (UK).

TSR of ALS relative to Proportion of TSR of companies in ASX performance rights that 100 Index over the may be exercised if TSR period April 2016 to hurdle is met March 2019 Less than the 50th 0% percentile Straight line vesting Between 50th percentile between 12.5% and 25% and 75th percentile of total grant 75th percentile or 25% of total grant higher

ROCE Performance (3
year average over the
period April 2016 to
March 2019)
Proportion of
performance rights that
may be exercised if
ROCE hurdle is met
Below 11.2% 0%
Between 11.2% and
16.2%
Straight line vesting
between 0% and 25% of
total grant
At or above 16.2% 25% of total grant

* Based on ALS’ March 2016 pre-tax Nominal WACC (midpoint)

Page 28 of 84

2018 | Annual report

DIRECTORS’ REPORT | FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2018 |

ALS LIMITED AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

Remuneration report | Long Term Incentive Plan — audited

2017 Award Hurdles

Compound annual
diluted Underlying EPS
growth (April 2017 to
March 2020)
Proportion of
performance rights that
may be exercised if
Underlying EPS growth
hurdle is met
Less than 5% per annum 0%
Between 5% and 9% per
annum
Straight line vesting
between 12.5% and 25% of
total grant
9% or higher per annum 25% of total grant
Underlying EBITDA
margin of ALS relative to
Underlying EBITDA
margin of comparator
peer companies (April
2017 to March 2020)
Proportion of
performance rights that
may be exercised if
Underlying EBITDA hurdle
is met
Less than the 50th
percentile
0%
Between the 50th and
75th percentile
Straight line vesting
between 12.5% and 25% of
total grant
75th percentile or higher 25% of total grant
Comparator peer companies: Bureau Veritas (France),
Core Laboratories (USA), Eurofins (France), Intertek (UK),
SGS (Switzerland), Mistras (USA) and Applus (Spain).
TSR of ALS relative to
TSR of companies in ASX
100 Index over the
period April 2017 to
March 2020
Proportion of
performance rights that
may be exercised if TSR
hurdle is met
Less than the 50th
percentile
0%
Between 50th percentile
and 75th percentile
Straight line vesting
between 12.5% and 25% of
total grant
75th percentile or higher 25% of total grant
ROCE Performance (3
year average over the
period April 2017 to
March 2020)
Proportion of
performance rights that
may be exercised if ROCE
hurdle is met
Below 12.2% 0%
Between 12.2% and 17.2% Straight line vesting
between 0% and 25% of
total grant
At or above 17.2% 25% of total grant

* Based on ALS’ March 2017 pre-tax Nominal WACC (midpoint)

Page 29 of 84

2018 | Annual report

DIRECTORS’ REPORT | FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2018 | Remuneration report | Long Term Incentive Plan — audited

ALS LIMITED AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

Measurement of the LTI Plan Hurdles

Underlying Earnings per Share (EPS)

The growth in earnings per share is calculated by comparing the diluted underlying EPS from continuing operations achieved by the Group in the base year (e.g. year to March 2017) with that achieved in the final year of the performance period (e.g. year to March 2020).

Diluted EPS is calculated by dividing the underlying net profit after tax attributable to shareholders of ALS Limited by the weighted average number of ordinary shares on issue for the year being measured (diluted for outstanding equity-settled performance rights).

Following finalisation of ALS’ financial results for FY2017-18 the compound annual growth rate (CAGR) in the Company’s diluted underlying EPS over the three-year period to March 2018 was negative 4% (from 31.9 cents to 28.3 cents) which is below the minimum threshold of a 5% increase. Thus, no rights subject to the EPS hurdle will vest on 1 July 2018.

Underlying Earnings before Interest, Tax, Depreciation and Amortisation (EBITDA)

The EBITDA margin measurement is contingent upon performance of the Company against a group of comparator peer companies that are comprised of our key global competitors. It is calculated on the following basis:

Cumulative Underlying Earnings before Interest, Tax, Depreciation and Amortisation (EBITDA) is calculated as a percentage of Revenue over the three-year performance period. This is compared with the cumulative EBITDA margins reported by each of the peer companies for the three financial years ending on or before 31 March of the year of vesting.

Following finalisation of ALS’ financial results for FY2017-18 the underlying EBITDA margin achieved by the Company over the three-year period to March 2018 was 19.0%. As shown below this placed ALS at the 50th percentile when ranked within the group of industry peer companies. Thus, all the rights subject to the EBITDA hurdle (25% of the total number possible) will vest on 1 July 2018.

Company Currency
Cumulative
underlaying EBITDA (m)
Cumulative
Revenue (m)
EBITDA
Margin %
Rank Percentile
Core Laboratories
USD
439 2052 21.4% 1 100.0%
SGS CHF 3,636 18,046 20.1% 2 87.5%
Intertek GBP 1,490 7,502 19.9% 3 75.0%
Exova GBP 124 625 19.8% 4 62.5%
ALS AUD 804 4,226 19.0% 5 50.0%
Bureau Veritas EUR 2,626 13,873 18.9% 6 37.5%
Eurofins EUR 1,339 7,458 18.0% 7 25.0%
Applus EUR 587 4,871 12.1% 8 12.5%
Mistras USD 242 2,536 9.6% 9 9.5%
Table 8

Total Shareholder Return (TSR)

TSR measures the growth over the performance period in the price of shares plus dividends notionally reinvested in shares.

In order for any of the TSR Hurdle Rights to vest under the TSR performance hurdle, ALS’ TSR for the Performance Period must be at the 50th percentile or higher against the TSRs of the nominated groups of comparator companies for the same period. The comparator groups may be adjusted from time to time by the Board in its discretion (for example, if one of those companies is delisted in the future or it’s TSR is no longer ascertainable).

The Company’s performance over the three-year period to March 2018 relative to the ASX100 comparator group was at the 80th percentile, therefore all the rights subject to the ASX100 TSR hurdle (25% of the total number possible) will vest on 1 July 2018. ALS’ performance over the three-year period to March 2018 relative to the industry peer group was at the 75th percentile, therefore all the rights relating to this peer group TSR hurdle (25% of the total number possible) will vest on 1 July 2018.

2015 TSR grant performance: international peers

Page 30 of 84

2018 | Annual report

DIRECTORS’ REPORT | FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2018 |

ALS LIMITED AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

Remuneration report | Long Term Incentive Plan — audited

Rank Entity name TSR Percentile Potential level
of vesting
1 Interek Group Public Limited Company 101.79% 100.0% 100.0%
2 Eurofins Scientific AG 89.41% 87.5% 100.0%
3 ALS Limited 63.65% 75.0% 100.0% 75th
percentile
4 Exova Group Limited Company 53.06% 62.5% 75.0%
5 SGS SA 36.07% 50.0% 50.0% Median
6 Bureau Veritas International 12.77% 37.5% 0.0%
7 Core Laboratories 9.97% 25.0% 0.0% 25th
percentile
8 Mistras Group Incorporated 7.41% 12.5% 0.0%
9 Applus Services SA 3.96% 0.0% 0.0%

Table 9

Therefore, performance against the two TSR hurdles will result in vesting of 50% of the total award on 1 July 2018. Together with the 25% vesting achieved for the relative EBITDA hurdle, a total of 75% of available rights will vest on 1 July 2018.

Return on Capital Employed (ROCE) – 2016 Awards Onwards

A ROCE hurdle was used for the 2016 and 2017 awards. It provides a useful measure to assess the Company’s success or otherwise in increasing its net worth – i.e. it needs to generate returns in excess of its cost of capital in order to add to its value. In order to provide an incentive for superior performance, the respective ROCE hurdles were set at 2% and 7% above the previous March weighted average cost of capital (WACC) with straight line vesting in between the lower and upper hurdles.

ROCE is calculated as Underlying Earnings before Interest and Tax (“EBIT”) over the three-year performance period divided by Capital Employed expressed as a percentage. Capital Employed is defined as Total Shareholders’ Equity plus Net Debt and is calculated as the sum of the simple averages of the balances at the beginning and end of each year during the performance period. If material funding transactions (for example, significant additional borrowings, equity issuances or asset impairments) occur such that the simple average for any year during the performance period is not representative of capital actually employed, the average capital employed for the year may be adjusted for the effect of these transactions.

Page 31 of 84

2018 | Annual report

DIRECTORS’ REPORT | FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2018 |

ALS LIMITED AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

Remuneration report | Company Performance and Link to Shareholder Wealth – audited

8. COMPANY PERFORMANCE AND LINK TO SHAREHOLDER WEALTH – AUDITED

Proportion of performance related and equity based remuneration

Details of each of the named Executives’ performance related and equity based remuneration as a proportion of their total remuneration is detailed below.

Proportion of all at risk remuneration (STI &
LTI) as a percentage of total remuneration
Proportion of share-based awards (LTI
and deferred STI) as a percentage of
total remuneration (a)
Calculated on
remuneration actually
received
Per accounting
standards
Calculated on
remuneration
actually received
Per accounting
standards
(table 5.1)%
(table 5.2) %
(table 5.1)%
(table 5.2) %
Executives
Raj Naran
Bruce
McDonald
(b)
Andreas
Jonsson(b)
Tim
Kilmister
(b)
David
Prince(b)
Kristen
Walsh
Richard
Stephens
Greg
Kilmister
(c)
Brian
Williams(c)
2018 38.5
44.0
3.2
11.8
2017 1.4
10.2
1.4
10.2
2018 33.9
41.1
7.3
17.5
2017 n/a
n/a
n/a
n/a
2018 14.7
21.9
4.9
12.9
2017 n/a
n/a
n/a
n/a
2018 30.3
36.0
5.2
13.0
2017 n/a
n/a
n/a
n/a
2018 3.4
3.4
0.0
0.0
2017 n/a
n/a
n/a
n/a
2018 22.3
29.7
6.6
15.5
2017 4.9
17.4
1.6
14.5
2018 22.9
29.5
5.4
13.6
2017 12.2
20
1.3
10
2018 8.6
5.4
8.6
5.4
2017 31.1
35.5
2.4
8.7
2018 7.2
3.3
7.2
3.3
2017 23.2
26.5
1.5
5.8

Table 10

(a) Amounts related to deferred compensation earned for STI outperformance are included in the values of share-based awards used to calculate the above percentages – refer section 6 of the Remuneration Report and financial statements note 8a for details.

  • (b) Bruce McDonald, Andreas Jonsson, Tim Kilmister and David Prince were not KMPs in FY2017.

  • (c) Greg Kilmister and Brian Williams were not participants in the STI Plan during FY2018.

Consequences of performance on shareholders’ wealth

The Board considers that the previous and current remuneration strategy including adjustments to the STI Plan KPI structure and the LTI Plan EBITDA hurdle revision results in executive pay that aligns with performance. The financial data in respect of the current and previous four financial years, and its relationship to executive pay, is set out below:

Measure of financial
performance
Fluctuation in financial
performance is reflected in
**executives' pay via: **
2018
2017
2016
2015
2014
$m
$m
$m
$m
$m
Underlying profit * attributable to
equity holders of the Company
STI gateway, STI KPIs and LTI
financial measures
Profit / (loss) attributable to
equity holders of the Company
STI gateway, STI KPIs and LTI
financial measures
Dividends paid or payable
LTI TSR measures
Share price at balance date)
LTI TSR measures
142.2 117.4
108.4
135.4
171.9
51.8
81.6
(240.7)
(174.5)
154.4
TBD
68.0
60.8
84.5
152.0
$7.42 $6.14
$3.99
$4.96
$7.33

*Underlying profit is a non-IFRS disclosure and is unaudited.

Table 11

Page 32 of 84

2018 | Annual report

DIRECTORS’ REPORT | FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2018 | Remuneration report | KMP Equity Instruments and Transactions — audited

ALS LIMITED AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

9. KMP EQUITY INSTRUMENTS AND TRANSACTIONS — AUDITED

Ordinary shares

The movement during the year in the number of ordinary shares in ALS Limited held directly, indirectly or beneficially by each key management person, including their related parties, is as follows:

Opening
Balance
Purchases
(1)
Acquired due to vesting
of performance rights
Sales (1) Other
Closing
Balance
Directors
Bruce Phillips 31,000 29,160
60,160
Mel Bridges 51,793 5,649
57,442
Grant Murdoch 72,242 829
73,071
John Mulcahy 54,027
54,027
Charlie Sartain 122,524 15,000 (37,524)
100,000
Tonianne Dwyer 12,948 4,200
17,148
Raj Naran 44,632 39,300 8,611
92,543
GregKilmister(2) 974,625 8,408 36,381 0 (1,019,414)
Executives
Bruce McDonald 16,147 8,428 (13,259)
11,316
Andreas Jonsson 3,335
3,335
Tim Kilmister 126,957 35 3,875 (123,810)
7,057
David Prince
Kristen Walsh 4,435 44 6,458
10,937
Richard Stephens 49,164 277 5,382 (7,000)
47,823
Brian Williams(2) 140,775 9,472 (150,247)
Table 12.1

(1) Includes shares acquired via the dividend reinvestment plan. All purchases and sales complied with the Board’s Securities Trading Policy which permits trading by directors and executives during certain periods in the absence of knowledge of price-sensitive information.

(2) Greg Kilmister and Brian Williams ceased employment with the Group in July 2017.

Performance rights over ordinary shares granted as remuneration

The movement during the year in the number of performance rights over ordinary shares in the Company held directly, indirectly or beneficially by each key management person, including their related parties:

Opening
Balance
Granted as
compensation
Vested and
exercised
Lapsed(a) Closing
Balance
Directors
Raj Naran 112,478 117,010 (8,611) (14,351) 206,526
Greg Kilmister(b) 271,418 (36,381) (60,634) 174,403
Executives
Bruce McDonald 103,260 32,046 (8,428) (14,046) 112,832
Andreas Jonsson 49,395 20,587 (3,335) (5,558) 61,089
Tim Kilmister 50,801 18,778 (3,875) (6,458) 59,246
Kristen Walsh 96,791 29,806 (6,458) (10,764) 109,375
Richard Stephens 69,054 21,107 (5,382) (8,969) 75,810
Brian Williams(b) 72,140 (9,472) (20,804) 41,864
Table 12.2

(a) The number of rights lapsed represents those rights which lapsed due to performance hurdles not being met and/or upon cessation of employment.

(b) Greg Kilmister and Brian Williams ceased employment with the Group in July 2017. In accordance with the LTI Plan Rules the rights attaching to some of their performance rights remain available for vesting on the pre-existing vesting dates subject to the achievement of performance hurdles.

Page 33 of 84

2018 | Annual report

DIRECTORS’ REPORT | FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2018 |

ALS LIMITED AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

Remuneration report | KMP Equity Instruments and Transactions — audited

Details of vested and outstanding performance rights over ordinary shares in the Company that were granted as remuneration to each KMP under the LTI Plan are presented in the table below:

Directors /
Executives
Grant
date
Number
of rights
granted
(a)
Fair
value per
right at
grant
date(b)

Issue price
used to
determine no.
of rights
granted(b)

Vesting
date
Number
of rights
vested &
exercised


Number
of rights
lapsed
% of
rights
lapsed
20-Jul-17
117,010

$6.21
$6.71 1-Jul-20 - - -
Raj Naran 26-Jul-16
52,448
$4.30 $4.29 1-Jul-19 - - -
(Director) 30-Jul-15
37,068
$4.04 $6.07 1-Jul-18 - - -
29-Jul-14
22,962
$5.40 $8.71 1-Jul-17 (8,611) (14,351) 62%
Greg 26-Jul-16
216,783

$4.30
$4.29 1-Jul-19 - (144,522)
66%
Kilmister (c)
(Former
30-Jul-15
153,213

$4.04
$6.07 1-Jul-18 - (51,071) 33%
Director) 29-Jul-14
97,015
$5.40 $8.71 1-Jul-17 (36,381)
(60,634)
62%
20-Jul-17
32,046
$6.21 $6.71 1-Jul-20 - - -
Bruce 26-Jul-16
46,765
$4.30 $4.29 1-Jul-19 - - -
McDonald 30-Jul-15
34,021
$4.04 $6.07 1-Jul-18 - - -
29-Jul-14
22,474
$5.40 $8.71 1-Jul-17 (8,428) (14,046) 62%
20-Jul-17
20,587
$6.21 $6.71 1-Jul-20 - - -
Andreas 26-Jul-16
24,219
$4.30 $4.29 1-Jul-19 - - -
Jonsson 30-Jul-15
16,283
$4.04 $6.07 1-Jul-18 - - -
29-Jul-14
8,893
$5.40 $8.71 1-Jul-17 (3,335) (5,558) 62%
20-Jul-17
18,778
$6.21 $6.71 1-Jul-20 - - -
Tim Kilmister
26-Jul-16

25,641
$4.30 $4.29 1-Jul-19 - - -
30-Jul-15
14,827
$4.04 $6.07 1-Jul-18 - - -
29-Jul-14
10,333
$5.40 $8.71 1-Jul-17 (3,875) (6,458) 62%
20-Jul-17
29,806
$6.21 $6.71 1-Jul-20 - - -
Kristen Walsh
26-Jul-16

46,620
$4.30 $4.29 1-Jul-19 - - -
30-Jul-15
32,949
$4.04 $6.07 1-Jul-18 - - -
29-Jul-14
17,222
$5.40 $8.71 1-Jul-17 (6,458) (10,764) 63%
20-Jul-17
21,107
$6.21 $6.71 1-Jul-20 - - -
Richard 26-Jul-16
32,051
$4.30 $4.29 1-Jul-19 - - -
Stephens 30-Jul-15
22,652
$4.04 $6.07 1-Jul-18 - - -
29-Jul-14
14,351
$5.40 $8.71 1-Jul-17 (5,382) (8,969) 62%
26-Jul-16
58,275
$4.30 $4.29 1-Jul-19 - (43,868) 75%
Brian Williams
(c)

30-Jul-15

41,186
$4.04 $6.07 1-Jul-18 - (13,729) 33%
29-Jul-14
25,258
$5.40 $8.71 1-Jul-17 (9,472) (15,786) 62%
  • (a) All performance rights granted to the executives named above are equity-settled rights.

(b) The number of rights issued to participants in July 2017 was determined using the volume weighted average price of the Company’s shares during the ten trading days following the announcement of the Group’s annual financial results (July 2015: twenty days). The calculation for those rights awarded in July 2016 differed because of the approach received on 1 June 2016 from Advent/Bain to acquire the Company for $5.30 per share. The Board exercised its discretion under the LTI Plan to review the trading period used to determine the number of performance rights to be issued and adopted the 20 trading days VWAP for the period up to and including 31 May 2016 (being the day before trading was halted at $4.05 per share just before the approach was announced to the market).

The grant dates and corresponding fair values per right in the above table have been determined in accordance with Australian Accounting Standards and are dependent on the dates on which individual executives are deemed to have received their offers to participate in the Plan. Fair values have been calculated using Binomial Tree (EPS, EBITDA and ROCE hurdles) and Monte-Carlo Simulation (TSR hurdle) valuation methodologies.

  • (c) Greg Kilmister and Brian Williams ceased employment with the Group in July 2017. In accordance with the LTI Plan Rules the rights attaching to some of their performance rights remain available for vesting on the pre-existing vesting dates subject to the achievement of performance hurdles.

Page 34 of 84

2018 | Annual report

DIRECTORS’ REPORT | FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2018 |

ALS LIMITED AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

Remuneration report | Outlook for 2018-19 FY Remuneration — unaudited

Property leases

The Group had previously entered into property lease agreements in the USA with a company in which Raj Naran (Managing Director and CEO) holds a controlling interest. The property was sold by that company in January 2018; such transaction having been approved in advance by the ALS Limited Board. Lease rental expense in AUD during the year to the date of disposal was $590,844 (2017: $808,436) and the amount outstanding at the end of the year was Nil (2017: Nil).

10. OUTLOOK FOR 2018-19 FY REMUNERATION — UNAUDITED

The remuneration instruments of STI and LTI were only slightly adjusted this year, following the 2016-17 overhaul. With adjustments over the last two financial years, the FY2018-19 remuneration strategy and instruments will be delivered under the structure used for the FY2017-18.

The LTI Plan hurdles, comprising EPS, Relative TSR, Relative EBITDA and ROCE, will continue for the 2018 awards.

The STI Plan for KMPs and other senior executives will continue. Those who also attain the “outperformance” stretch financial KPIs will continue to have additional STI payments deferred into Service Rights (rights to ALS shares upon maturity) for a period of two years.

The STI Plan KPIs are as follows and will continue for the FY2018-19:

Financial KPIs – at least 70% of the STI payment will be dependent on the financial performance of the Company or Business Stream results relevant to the executive’s role.

In addition to Financial KPIs, to achieve their full STI payment executives will need to achieve:

Total fees for Directors have remain unchanged since 2012. With the improved performance coupled with the increased size and complexity of the business, it is planned to ask the Shareholders for a 10% increase in the Directors’ Fee Pool. This increase will be used to provide moderate fee increases for the current non-executive directors and Chairman and will provide the headroom required to recruit new non-executive directors to fulfil succession requirements.

The Directors believe that these future adjustments will continue to deliver a fair outcome for executives with a strong link to shareholder value and long term sustainable growth. Consultation with shareholder advisory groups and use of external specialist consultants will continue to be a feature of our remuneration strategy and process to ensure that fair and affordable remuneration continues into the future.

End of remuneration report

  • a) A Health Safety & Environmental KPI, worth 10% of the STI payment.

  • b) Discretionary KPIs – 20% of the STI payment will be discretionary to allocate reward against specific KPIs or projects and to allow for unforeseen circumstances. Within this 20% portion, a Debtors KPI worth 10%, may be allocated, if required.

Following the experience of using this structure for the 2017-18 year, the 2018-19 STI plan will continue to reward only when there is an acceptable financial result for shareholders.

With the organisational restructure undertaken, and some roles redesigned it has been necessary to closely examine remuneration packages to ensure that they reflect market practise and so that internal parity may be established. Korn Ferry were engaged by the Board to conduct job sizing for the KMP roles and they provided updated remuneration benchmarks. External competitor remuneration was also reviewed and used as an input. Total fixed remuneration for Executive KMPs including the CEO for the 2018-19 FY will be adjusted on average by 6% as a consequence.

Page 35 of 84

2018 | Annual report

DIRECTORS’ REPORT | FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2018 |

ALS LIMITED AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

Environmental regulation

Environmental regulation

The Group is committed to complying with environmental legislation, standards, and codes of practice relevant to the particular business in the areas in which it operates. A number of hub laboratories are regulated under State and local government legislation predominately for their hazardous waste generation and disposal. Each hub laboratory holds a current licence and or consent from the relevant environment protection authority or local council where required.

Environmental management

As part of the Group’s compliance program, environmental matters are reported on monthly by all divisional managers. In addition, internal signoffs are completed by all managers on a yearly basis, reporting on performance against relevant environmental legislation and key environmental risks in their area of operations. Apart from complying with local legal requirements each site location across the world operates under the corporate health safety and environment minimum standard which sets out 17 key standards including identification and management of key environmental risks, emergency planning, reporting environmental incidents, and conducting regular audits.

Initiatives

There were a number of environmental initiatives implemented during the year across the Group. These are summarised under the sustainability section of the annual report and explained in detail in the Sustainability Report for 2018.

Performance against environmental compliance requirements

There were no material breaches of environmental statutory requirements and no fines, penalties or prosecutions launched against the Group during the reporting period.

Events subsequent to reporting date

There has not arisen in the interval between the end of the financial year and the date of this report any item, transaction or event of a material and unusual nature likely, in the opinion of the directors of the company, to affect significantly the operations of the Group, the results of those operations, or the state of affairs of the Group, in future financial years.

Likely developments

The Group’s objective during the next financial year will be to maximise earnings and investment returns across all the business units in its diversified portfolio. For comments on divisional outlooks refer to the review of results and operations in this report.

Directors’ interests

The relevant interest of each director in the share capital of the Company as notified by the directors to the Australian Securities Exchange in accordance with section 205G(1) of the Corporations Act 2001 as at the date of this report is:

:
Bruce Phillips
Raj Naran
Mel Bridges
Grant Murdoch
John Mulcahy
Charlie Sartain
Tonianne Dwyer
No. of Ordinary shares
60,160
92,543
57,442
73,071
54,027
100,000
17,148

Refer to the Remuneration Report above for details of performance rights held by Mr Naran.

Internal and external audits and internal reporting and monitoring have indicated a high level of compliance with site licence conditions, relevant legislation and corporate minimum standards.

Page 36 of 84

2018 | Annual report

DIRECTORS’ REPORT | FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2018 |

ALS LIMITED AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

Directors’ meetings

Directors’ meetings

The number of directors’ meetings (including meetings of committees of directors) and number of meetings attended by each of the directors of the Company during the financial year are:

Board Meetings Board Meetings Audit and Risk
Committee
Meetings (1)
Audit and Risk
Committee
Meetings (1)

People Committee
Meetings (1)

People Committee
Meetings (1)
Sustainability
Committee
Meetings (1)
Sustainability
Committee
Meetings (1)
A B A B A B A B
Bruce Phillips 9 9 - - 4 4 - -
Raj Naran (2) 6 6 - - - - - -
Mel Bridges 9 9 4 4 - - 2 2
Grant Murdoch 9 9 4 4 - - - -
John Mulcahy 9 9 - - 4 4 - -
Charlie Sartain 9 9 4 4 - - 2 2
Tonianne Dwyer 9 9 - - 4 3 2 2
Greg Kilmister (3) 3 3 - - - - - -
  • A – Number of meetings held during the time the director held office during the year

  • B – Number of meetings attended

  • (1) – All non-member directors are permitted by the Committee Charters to attend meetings on a standing invitation basis.

  • (2) – appointed Managing Director and CEO effective 20 July 2017.

  • (3) – Greg Kilmister retired as Managing Director and CEO on 20 July 2017.

  • every person and employee who is or has been an officer of the Company or of a Group entity where requested to do so, including a director or secretary, against reasonable legal costs incurred in defending an action for a liability incurred by that person or employee as an officer of the Company or of a Group entity (including such legal costs incurred by that person or employee as an officer of the Company or of a Group entity where the Company requested that person or employee to accept that appointment).

Insurance premiums

During the financial year, the Company paid insurance premiums in respect of directors’ and officers’ liability and personal accident insurance contracts, for current and former directors and senior executives, including senior executives of its controlled entities. The current directors are listed elsewhere in this report. The insurance relates to:

  • costs and expenses incurred by the relevant officers in defending proceedings, whether civil or criminal and whatever their outcome; and

  • other liabilities that may arise from their position, with the exception of conduct involving a wilful breach of duty or improper use of information or position to gain a personal advantage.

It is a condition of the policies that premiums paid and terms and conditions of the policies are not to be disclosed.

Non-audit services

Indemnification and insurance of directors and officers

Indemnification

Under its Constitution, and by resolution of the Board, the Company has agreed to indemnify to the extent permitted by law and the Corporations Act 2001:

  • every person and employee who is or has been an officer of the Company or of a Group entity where requested to do so, including a director or secretary, against any liability (other than for legal costs) incurred by that person or employee as an officer of the Company or of a Group entity (including liabilities incurred by that person or employee as an officer of the Company or of a Group entity where the Company requested that person or employee to accept that appointment).

During the year KPMG, the Company’s auditor, has performed certain other services in addition to statutory duties.

The Board has considered the non-audit services provided during the year by the auditor and in accordance with written advice provided by resolution of the Audit and Risk Committee, is satisfied that the provision of those non-audit services during the year by the auditor is compatible with, and did not compromise, the auditor independence requirements of the Corporations Act 2001 for the following reasons:

  • all non-audit services were subject to the corporate governance procedures adopted by the Company and have been reviewed by the Audit and Risk Committee to ensure they do not impact the integrity and objectivity of the auditor; and

  • the non-audit services provided do not undermine the general principles relating to

Page 37 of 84

2018 | Annual report

DIRECTORS’ REPORT | FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2018 |

ALS LIMITED AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

Non-audit services

auditor independence as set out in APES 110 Code of Ethics for Professional Accountants, as they did not involve reviewing or auditing the auditor’s own work, acting in a management or decision making capacity for the Company, acting as an advocate for the Company or jointly sharing risks and rewards.

Details of the amounts paid to the auditor of the Company, KPMG, and its related practices for audit and non-audit services provided during the year are set out in note 7d.

ear are set out in note 7d.
In thousands of AUD
Services other than audit and review of
financial statements:
Other assurance and investigation services
Taxation services
2018
394.9
548.3
943.2

Lead auditor’s independence declaration

The Lead auditor’s independence declaration is set out on page 84 and forms part of the directors’ report for the financial year ended 31 March 2018.

Rounding off

The Company is of a kind referred to in ASIC Corporations (Rounding in Financial/Directors’ Reports) Instrument 2016/191 dated 24 March 2016 and in accordance with that Instrument, amounts in the financial report and directors’ report have been rounded off to the nearest one hundred thousand dollars, unless otherwise stated.

Signed in accordance with a resolution of the directors:

==> picture [83 x 50] intentionally omitted <==

==> picture [136 x 34] intentionally omitted <==

Bruce Phillips Chairman Brisbane 28 May 2018

Raj Naran Managing Director Brisbane 28 May 2018

Page 38 of 84

2018 | Annual report

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS | FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2018 | Contents

ALS LIMITED AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

Financial statements

For the year ended 31 March 2018

Contents

Consolidated statement of Profit Consolidated statement of Profit
and Loss and Other
Comprehensive Income 40
Consolidated Balance sheet 41
Consolidated Statement of
Changes in Equity 42
Consolidated Cash Flow Statement 43
Notes to the Financial Statements 44
1 Financial overview 44-49
1a Operating segments
1b Earnings per share
1c Revenue and other income
1e Discontinued operations
1d Expenses
2 Capital employed: Working Capital
& other instruments 50-54
2a Trade and other receivables
2b Inventories
2c Trade and other payables
2d Property, plant & equipment
2e Investment property
2f Intangible assets
3 Net debt 55-56
3a Cash & cash equivalents
3b Reconciliation of operating profit to
net cash
  • 3c Loans & borrowings

  • 4 Risk & Capital Management 56-62 • 4a Financial & capital risk management

  • • 4b Capital & Reserves

  • • 4c Financial instruments

  • 4d Contingencies

  • 4e Capital commitments

  • • 4f Operating leases

  • 5 Group structure 62-66 • 5a Acquisition of subsidiaries and NCI

  • 5b Consolidated entities

  • 5c Deed of cross guarantee

  • 5d Parent entity

  • 6 Taxation 66-68 • 6a Income taxes • 6b Deferred tax assets and liabilities 7 Other information 68-73 • 7a Basis of preparation

  • • 7b Significant accounting policies

  • • 7c Determination of fair value • 7d Auditors’ remuneration • 7e Events subsequent to balance date

8 Employment matters 73-76

8 Employment matters 73-76

8a Share based payments

8b Key management personnel
Signed reports
Directors’ declaration 78
Independent auditor’s report 79
Lead auditor’s independence
declaration 84

Page 39 of 84

2018 | Annual report

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS | FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2018 | Consolidated statement of Profit and Loss and Other Comprehensive Income

ALS LIMITED AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

Consolidated statement of Profit and Loss and Other Comprehensive Income

In millions of AUD
Note
**Restated ***
2018
2017
Continuing operations
Revenue
1c
Expenses
1d
Share of profit of equity-accounted investees, net of tax
0
1,446.9
1,261.5
(1,236.7)
(1,023.5)
1.6
2.1
Profit before financing costs, depreciation and amortisation (EBITDA)
0
Amortisation and depreciation
0
211.8
240.1
(70.6)
(66.7)
Profit before net financing costs (EBIT)
0
141.2
173.4
Finance income
0
Finance cost
0
3.9
3.6
(29.7)
(30.9)
Net financing costs
0
(25.8)
(27.3)
Profit before tax
0
Income tax expense
6a
115.4
146.1
(48.0)
(42.6)
Profit from continuing operations
0
67.4
103.5
Discontinued operations
0
Loss of discontinued operations, net of tax
1e
0.0
0.0
(14.0)
(20.7)
Profit for the year
0
53.4
82.8
Profit attributable to:
Equity holders of the company
Non-controlling interest
0.0
0.0
51.8
81.6
1.6
1.2
Profit for theyear
3b
53.4
82.8
Other comprehensive income
Items that are or may be reclassified subsequently to the profit and loss (net of
tax)
Foreign exchange translation
Gain/(Loss) on hedge of net investments in foreign subsidiaries, net of tax
Gain on cash flow hedges taken to equity, net of tax
70.2
(29.0)
(1.1)
0.9
(0.3)
0.1
Other comprehensive income for the year, net of tax 68.8
(28.0)
Total comprehensive income for the year 122.2
54.8
Total comprehensive income attributable to:
Equity holders of the company
Non-controlling interest
120.6
53.6
1.6
1.2
Total comprehensive income for the year 122.2
54.8
Earnings per share
Basic earnings per share attributable to equity holders
1b
Diluted earnings per share attributable to equity holders
1b
Basic earnings per share attributable to equity holders from continuing
operations
1b
Diluted earnings per share attributable to equity holders from continuing
operations
1b
10.34c
16.18c
10.30c
16.13c
13.13c
20.29c
13.09c
20.22c

* See discontinued operations note 1e

The notes on pages 44 to 77 are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.

Page 40 of 84

2018 | Annual report

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS | FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2018 | Consolidated balance sheet

ALS LIMITED AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

Consolidated balance sheet

As at 31 March 2018

In millions of AUD Note 2018 2017
Current assets
Cash and cash equivalents 3a 187.6
249.3
Trade and other receivables 2a 278.3
250.2
Inventories 2b 75.8
67.2
Other assets 35.2
33.6
Assets held for sale 1e 25.3
109.7
Total current assets 602.2
710.0
Non-current assets
Investment property 2e 10.2
10.4
Deferred tax assets 6b 22.0
20.5
Property, plant and equipment 2d 400.0
395.5
Intangible assets 2f 980.6
981.8
Other assets 43.3
31.4
Total non-current assets 1,456.1
1,439.6
Total assets 2,058.3
2,149.6
Current liabilities
Bank overdraft 3a 0.4
0.4
Trade and other payables 2c 169.8
140.1
Loans and borrowings 3c 40.2
Employee benefits 44.7
41.0
Other liabilities 0.6
Liabilities held for sale 1e 0.7
14.9
Total current liabilities 216.2
236.6
Non-current liabilities
Loans and borrowings 3c 695.6
700.9
Deferred tax liabilities 6b 9.5
9.0
Employee benefits 8.6
8.0
Other 6.4
9.9
Total non-current liabilities 720.1
727.8
Total liabilities 936.3
964.4
Net assets 1,122.0
1,185.2
Equity
Share capital 4b 1,348.1
1,453.4
Reserves (8.9) (77.6)
Retained earnings (229.1) (200.2)
Total equity attributable to equity holders of the company 1,110.1
1,175.6
Non-controlling interest 11.9
9.6
Total equity 1,122.0
1,185.2

The notes on pages 44 to 77 are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.

Page 41 of 84

2018 | Annual report

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS | FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2018 | Consolidated statement of changes in equity

ALS LIMITED AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

Consolidated statement of changes in equity

In millions of AUD Note Share
Capital
Foreign Currency Translation Other reserves Employee share-based awards Retained
earnings
Total Non- controlling
Interest
Total
Equity
Balance 1 April 2016 1,452.7 (57.4)
3.6
2.4 (224.3) 1,177.0 8.6
1,185.6
Profit for the year 81.6 81.6 1.2
82.8
Other comprehensive income (28.0)
0.1
(27.9)
(27.9)
Total comprehensive income
for the period
(28.0)
0.1
81.6 53.7 1.2
54.9
Transactions with owners in
their capacity as owners:
Dividends provided for or paid 4b (58.0) (58.0) (0.3)
(58.3)
Issue of ordinary shares 4b
Fair value movement in reserve
Equity-settled performance rights
awarded and vested

4b,
8a
0.7 1.7
0.3
2.7
2.7
Total contributions and
distributions to owners
0.7 1.7
(57.7)
(55.3) (0.3)
(55.6)
Changes in ownership interests
Wound up of non-controlling
interest
0.1 0.1 0.1
0.2
Non-controlling interest
ownership of subsidiary acquired
Total changes in ownership
interests
0.1 0.1 0.1
0.2
Total transactions with owners 0.7 1.7
(57.6)
(55.2) (0.2)
(55.4)
Balance at 31 March 2017 1,453.4 (85.4)
3.7
4.1
(200.2)
1,175.6 9.6
1,185.2
Profit for the year 51.8 51.8 1.6
53.4
Other comprehensive income 69.1
(0.3)
68.8
68.8
Total comprehensive income
for the period
69.1
(0.3)
51.8 120.6 1.6
122.2
Transactions with owners in
their capacity as owners:
Dividends to equity holders 4b (80.8) (80.8)
(80.8)
Share buyback (106.8) (106.8)
(106.8)
Equity-settled performance rights
awarded and vested

4b,
8a
1.5
(0.1)
0.1 1.5
1.5
Total contributions and
distributions to owners
(105.3)
(0.1)
(80.7) (186.1)
(186.1)
Changes in ownership interests
Acquisition of non-controlling
interest without change in
control
Non-controlling interest
ownershipof subsidiaryacquired
0.7
0.7
Total changes in ownership
interests
0.7
0.7
Total transactions with owners (105.3)
(0.1)
(80.7) (186.1) 0.7
(185.4)
Balance at 31 March 2018 1,348.1 (16.3)
3.4
4.0
(229.1)
1,110.1 11.9
1,122.0

The notes on pages 44 to 77 are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.

Page 42 of 84

2018 | Annual report

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS | FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2018 | Consolidated statement of cash flows

ALS LIMITED AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

Consolidated statement of cash flows

In millions of AUD Note 2018 2017
Cash flows from operating activities
Cash receipts from customers 1,652.0
1,520.3
Cash paid to suppliers and employees (1,392.7) (1,276.7)
Cash generated from operations 259.3
243.6
Interest paid (29.7) (30.9)
Interest received 3.5
3.6
Income taxes paid (47.3) (41.0)
Net cash from operating activities 3b 185.8
175.3
Cash flows from investing activities
Payments for property, plant and equipment (73.4) (58.7)
Loans to associate entities (0.1) -
Payments for net assets on acquisition of businesses and subsidiaries
(net of cash acquired)
(31.8) (30.4)
Acquisition of minority interest equity - (20.9)
Net proceeds from sale of Oil & Gas operations 79.5
-
Dividend from associate 2.6
2.1
Proceeds from sale of other non-current assets 6.1
3.5
Net cash (used in) investing activities (17.1) (104.4)
Cash flows from financing activities
Proceeds from borrowings - -
Repayment of borrowings (38.4) (55.1)
Issued capital bought back on-market (106.8) -
Lease payments (1.0) (0.6)
Dividends paid (80.8) (58.0)
Net cash (used in)/from financing activities (227.0) (113.7)
Net movement in cash and cash equivalents (58.3) (42.8)
Cash and cash equivalents at 1 April 248.9
297.9
Effect of exchange rate fluctuations on cash held (3.4) (6.2)
Cash and cash equivalents at 31 March 3a 187.2
248.9

The notes on pages 44 to 77 are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.

Page 43 of 84

2018 | Annual report

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS | FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2018 | Notes to the financial statements FINANCIAL OVERVIEW | 1a. Operating segments

ALS LIMITED AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

|

Notes to the financial statements

About this report

ALS Limited (the “Company”) is a for-profit company domiciled in Australia. The consolidated financial report of the Company for the year ended 31 March 2018 comprises the Company and its subsidiaries (together referred to as the “Group”) and the Group’s interest in associates and jointly controlled entities.

Throughout this document, non-International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) financial indicators are included to assist with understanding the Group’s performance. The primary non-IFRS information is Underlying earnings before income tax, depreciation and amortisation (EBITDA), Underlying earnings before interest and tax (EBIT) and Underlying net profit after tax (NPAT).

Management believes Underlying EBITDA, Underlying EBIT and Underlying NPAT are appropriate indicators of the ongoing operational earnings of the business and its segments because these measures do not include significant one-off items (both positive and negative) that relate to disposed or discontinued operations, preacquisition legal settlement costs and cost incurred to restructure the business in the current period. A reconciliation of non-IFRS to IFRS information is included in the Directors’ Report on page 5.

1. FINANCIAL OVERVIEW

This section provides information that is most relevant to explaining the group’s performance during the year, and where relevant includes the accounting policies that have been applied and significant estimates and judgements made.

  • 1a. Operating segments

  • 1b. Earnings per share

  • 1c. Revenue and other income

  • 1d. Expenses

  • 1e. Discontinued operations

1a. Operating segments

The Group has three reportable segments, as described below, representing three distinct strategic business units each of which is managed separately and offers different products and services. For each of the strategic business units, the CEO reviews internal management reports on at least a monthly basis. Following a decision by Directors in March 2018 to exit the Group’s Oil & Gas Laboratory business, a fourth segment – Oil & Gas Laboratories – has been re-classified together with the other Oil & Gas services business sold in July 2017 as “discontinued operations”. The following summary describes the operations in each of the Group’s reportable segments:

  • Commodities – provides assaying and analytical testing services and metallurgical services for mining and mineral exploration companies and provides specialist services to the coal industry such as coal sampling, analysis and certification, formation evaluation services, and related analytical testing.

  • Life Sciences – provides analytical testing data to assist consulting and engineering firms, industry, and governments around the world in making informed decisions about environmental, food and pharmaceutical, electronics, and animal health testing matters.

  • Industrial – provides the energy, resources and infrastructure sectors with asset care and tribology testing services.

Page 44 of 84

2018 | Annual report

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS | FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2018 |

ALS LIMITED AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

Notes to the financial statements FINANCIAL OVERVIEW | 1a. Operating segments

|

2018
In millions of AUD
Commodities
Life
Sciences
Industrial
Other
(1)
Total
Continuing
Operations
Discon-
tinued
operations
Conso-
lidated
Revenue 518.9
734.1
193.9

1,446.9
48.2
1,495.1
Underlying EBITDA (2)
Depreciation and
amortisation
146.3
140.7
32.1
(29.8)
289.3
0.3
289.6
(22.8)
(38.6)
(5.9)
(0.7)
(68.0)
(4.9)
(72.9)
Underlying EBIT (2)
Impairment
Restructuring & other
one-off items
Amortisation of
intangibles
Net financing costs
123.5
102.1
26.2
(30.5)
221.3
(4.6)
216.7
(40.0)

(23.0)

(63.0)

(63.0)
(4.1)
(6.6)
(1.0)
(2.9)
(14.6)
(10.7)
(25.3)
(2.6)
(2.6)
(2.6)
(25.7)
(25.7)
(25.7)
Statutory profit before
income tax
79.4
95.5
2.2
(61.7)
115.4
(15.3)
100.1
Underlying EBIT
margin (2)
Underlying EBITDA
margin (2)
Segment assets
Cash and cash
equivalents
Tax Assets
23.8%
13.9%
13.5%

15.3%
-9.5%
14.5%
28.2%
19.2%
16.6%

20.0%
0.7%
19.4%
717.4
841.4
222.4
43.5
1,824.7
22.1
1,846.8
187.6
23.9
Total assets per the
balance sheet
2,058.3
Segment liabilities
Loans and borrowings
Deferred tax liabilities
(74.8)
(101.6)
(33.6)
(19.6)
(229.6)
(0.6)
(230.2)
(696.0)
(10.1)
Total liabilities per the
balance sheet
(936.3)

1 Represents unallocated corporate costs. Net expenses of $30.5 million in 2018 comprise net foreign exchange losses of $4.0 million and other corporate costs of $26.5 million.

2 Underlying EBITDA = Underlying EBIT plus depreciation and amortisation. Underlying EBIT = Underlying Earnings before interest and tax. The terms EBITDA and EBIT are non-IFRS disclosures.

Page 45 of 84

2018 | Annual report

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS | FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2018 |

ALS LIMITED AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

Notes to the financial statements FINANCIAL OVERVIEW | 1a. Operating segments

|

2017(restated)
In millions of AUD
Commodities Life
Sciences
Industrial Other
(1)
Total
Continuing
Operations
Discon-
tinued
opera-
tions
Conso-
lidated
Revenue 427.2
641.6

192.7

-
1,261.5 104.1
1,365.6
Underlying EBITDA (2) 109.8
134.3

32.7

(19.2)
257.6 (7.2) 250.4
Depreciation and
amortisation
(23.7) (34.5) (6.2) (0.8) (65.2) (13.6) (78.8)
Underlying EBIT (2) 86.1
99.8

26.5

(20.0)
192.4 (20.8) 171.6
Restructuring & other
one-off Items
(1.4) (5.9) (1.1) (3.5) (11.9) (1.7) (13.6)
Intra-group FX gain (3) (5.5) (5.5) (5.5)
Amortisation of
intangibles
(1.5) (1.5) (1.5)
Net financing costs (27.3) (27.3) (27.3)
Statutory profit before
income tax
84.7
93.9

25.4

(57.8)
146.2 (22.5) 123.7
Underlying EBIT margin
(2)
16.7% 17.4% 13.5% - 15.3% (20.0%) 12.6%
Underlying EBITDA
margin (2)
25.7% 20.9% 17.0% - 20.4% (6.9%) 18.3%
Segment assets 723.6
752.1

241.4

29.1

1,746.2
123.6
1,869.8
Cash and cash
equivalents
249.3
Tax Assets 30.5
Total assets per the
balance sheet
2,149.6
Segment liabilities (62.7) (85.2) (26.5) (22.7) (197.1) (17.1) (214.2)
Loans and borrowings (742.7)
Deferred tax liabilities (7.5)
Total liabilities per the
balance sheet
(964.4)

1 Represents unallocated corporate costs. Net expenses of $20.0 million in 2017 comprise net foreign exchange gains of $1.2 million and other corporate costs of $21.2 million.

2 Underlying EBITDA = Underlying EBIT plus depreciation and amortisation. Underlying EBIT = Underlying Earnings before interest and tax. The terms EBITDA and EBIT are non-IFRS disclosures.

3 Foreign exchange gains of $5.5 million realised on restructuring of intra-group loan balances.

Page 46 of 84

2018 | Annual report

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS | FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2018 |

ALS LIMITED AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

Notes to the financial statements FINANCIAL OVERVIEW | 1b. Earnings per share

|

Geographical segments

In presenting information on a geographical basis segment revenue from external customers is by geographical location of customers. Segment assets are attributed based on geographic location of the business unit.

Consolidated

In millions of AUD

2018 2018 2017 2017
Reve-
nues
Non-
current
assets
Reve-
nues
Non-
current
assets
Australia 466.1 493.5 443.5 570.7
Canada 188.3 172.3 177.8 174.4
USA 220.5 225.4 216.4 271.4
Other
countries
620.2 584.9 527.9 462.3
Total 1,495.1 1,476.1 1,365.6 1,478.8

Accounting policy – Operating segments

The Group determines and presents operating segments based on information that is reported internally to the Chief Executive Officer (CEO), who is the Group’s chief operating decision maker.

An operating segment is a component of the Group that engages in business activities from which it may earn revenues and incur expenses, including revenues and expenses that relate to transactions with any of the Group’s other components. An operating segment’s operating results are reviewed regularly by the CEO to make decisions about resources to be allocated to the segment and to assess its performance, and for which discrete financial information is available.

Segment results that are reported to the CEO include items directly attributed to the segment as well as those that can be allocated on a reasonable basis. Underlying EBIT is calculated as earnings before interest, foreign currency gains and losses, and income tax.

Items not allocated to segments comprise corporate costs, foreign currency gains or losses, amortisation of intangibles and net financing costs before income tax. Inter-segment pricing is determined on an arm’s length basis.

1b. Earnings per share

Cents per share
Basic earnings per share
Diluted earnings per share
Consolidated
Restated
2018
2017
10.34c
16.18c
10.30c
16.13c
Basic earnings per share from
continuing operations
Diluted earnings per share
from continuing operations
Basic earnings per share from
discontinued operations
Diluted earnings per share
from discontinued operations
13.13c
20.29c
13.09c
20.22c
(2.79)c
(4.11)c
(2.79)c
(4.11)c

Basic and diluted earnings per share

The calculations of both basic and diluted earnings per share were based on the profit/(loss) attributable to equity holders of the Company of $51.8m profit (2017: $81.6m profit).

Basic and diluted earnings per share from continuing operations

The calculations of both basic and diluted earnings per share from continuing operations were based on the profit/(loss) attributable to equity holders of the Company from continuing operations of $65.8m profit (2017: $102.3m profit).

Basic and diluted earnings per share from discontinued operations

The calculations of both basic and diluted earnings per share from discontinued operations were based on the loss attributable to equity holders of the Company from discontinued operations of $14.0m (2017: $20.7m loss).

Weighted average number of ordinary shares (Basic and diluted)

In millions of shares
Note
Issued ordinary shares at 1
April
4b
Effect of shares bought back on-
market
Weighted average number of
ordinary shares at 31 March (Basic)
Effect of potential shares relating
to performance rights granted to
employees as compensation, but
not yet vested
Weighted average number of
ordinary shares at 31 March
(Diluted)
Consolidated
2018
2017
504.2
504.2
(3.1)
-
501.1
504.2
1.6
1.7
502.7
505.9

Accounting policy – Earnings per share

The Group presents basic and diluted earnings per share (EPS) data for its ordinary shares. Basic EPS is calculated by dividing the profit or loss attributable to ordinary shareholders of the Company by the weighted average number of ordinary shares outstanding during the period. Diluted EPS is determined by adjusting the profit or loss attributable to ordinary shareholders and the weighted average number of ordinary shares outstanding for the effects of all dilutive potential ordinary shares, which comprise performance rights granted to employees.

Page 47 of 84

2018 | Annual report

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS | FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2018 | Notes to the financial statements FINANCIAL OVERVIEW | 1d. Expenses (Continuing operations)

ALS LIMITED AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

|

1c. Revenue and other income

In millions of AUD Consolidated Consolidated
2018
2017
Revenue from rendering
of services
Total revenue
1,446.9
1,446.9

1,261.5

1,261.5

Accounting policy – Revenue and other income Services rendered and goods sold

Revenue from services rendered is recognised in the profit and loss statement in proportion to the stage of completion of the transaction at the balance sheet date. The stage of completion is assessed by reference to surveys of work performed. Revenue from the sale of goods is recognised in the profit and loss statement when the significant risks and rewards of ownership have been transferred to the buyer. No revenue is recognised if there are significant uncertainties regarding recovery of the consideration due, the costs incurred or to be incurred cannot be measured reliably, there is a risk of return of goods or there is continuing management involvement with the goods.

Transfers of risk and rewards vary depending on the individual terms of the contract of sale. For the majority of the Group’s sale of goods, transfer usually occurs when the product is delivered.

Dividend Income

Dividend income is recognised in profit and loss on the date that the Group’s right to receive payment is established.

1d. Expenses (Continuing operations)

Profit before income tax include the following specific expenses:

pecific expenses:
In millions of AUD Note Consolidated
2018 2017
Employee expenses 685.9 617.5
Raw materials and
consumables
161.2 128.0
Occupancy costs 109.5
96.9
External service costs
Equity-settled share-based
payment transactions
8a 39.2
2.2

36.3

2.0
Contributions to defined
contribution post-employment
plans – included in employee
28.4
26.1
expenses above
Impairment charges 63.0
-
Loss/(gain) on sale of property
and equipment
plant 0.6
(0.2)
Net (gain) on foreign exchange 4.0
(1.2)

Net foreign exchange loss/(gain) realised on restructuring of intra– 5.5 group loans

Accounting policy – Expenses Finance lease payments

Minimum lease payments are apportioned between the finance charge and the reduction of the outstanding liability. The finance charge is allocated to each period during the lease term so as to produce a constant periodic rate of interest on the remaining balance of the liability.

Finance income and finance expense

Finance income comprises interest income on funds invested and is recognised in the profit and loss statement as it accrues, using the effective interest method.

Finance expense comprises interest expense on borrowings calculated using the effective interest method and gains and losses on hedging instruments that are recognised in the profit and loss statement (see note 4a). The interest expense component of finance lease payments is recognised in the profit and loss statement using the effective interest method.

Foreign currency gains and losses

Foreign currency gains and losses are reported on a net basis

Defined contribution superannuation funds

Obligations for contributions to defined contribution superannuation funds are recognised as an expense in the profit and loss statement as incurred.

Short-term service benefits

Short-term employee benefits are expensed as the related service is provided. A liability is recognised for the amount expected to be paid if the Group has a present legal or constructive obligation to pay this amount as a result of past service provided by the employee and the obligation can be estimated reliably.

Long-term service benefits

The Group’s net obligation in respect of long-term service benefits is the amount of future benefit that employees have earned in return for their service in the current and prior periods. That benefit is discounted to determine its present value. Re-measurements are recognised in the profit or loss in the period in which they arise.

Share-based payment transactions

The grant-date fair value of equity-settled sharebased payment arrangements granted to employees is recognised as an expense, with a corresponding increase in equity, over the vesting period of the awards. The amount recognised as an expense is adjusted to reflect the number of

Page 48 of 84

2018 | Annual report

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS | FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2018 |

ALS LIMITED AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

Notes to the financial statements FINANCIAL OVERVIEW | 1e. Discontinued operations

|

awards for which the related service and nonmarket performance conditions are expected to be met, such that the amount ultimately recognised is based on the number of awards that meet the related service and non-market performance conditions at the vesting date. For share-based payment awards with non-vesting conditions, the grant-date fair value of the share-based payment is measured to reflect such conditions and there is no true-up for differences between expected and actual outcomes.

The fair value of the amount payable to employees in respect of cash-settled share-based awards is recognised as an expense, with a corresponding increase in liabilities, over the period in which the employees become unconditionally entitled to payment. The liability is re-measured to fair value at each reporting date and at settlement date. Any changes in the fair value of the liability are recognised as employee expenses in profit or loss.

1e. Discontinued operations

In July 2017, the Group divested the majority of its assets in the Oil & Gas technical services sector (Non Labs). In March 2018, a decision was made to also divest the laboratory services component (Labs).

Information attributable to discontinued operations is as follows:

In millions of AUD
Discontinued operations
Oil & Gas Non Labs
Consolidated
2018
2017
Revenue
Amortisation and depreciation
Other Expenses
39.8
93.3
(3.5)
(11.8)
(36.0)
(97.6)
Results from operating activities
Income tax benefit
0.3
(16.1)
(0.1)
0.2
Results from operating
activities,net of income tax
0.2
(15.9)
Gain on sale of discontinued
operations
Foreign exchange losses on
inter-company balances,
transferred from the foreign
currency translation reserve on
divestment of Oil & Gas Non
Labs subsidiaries
0.9
(11.1)
Loss of discontinued operations (10.0)
(15.9)
Diluted earnings per share from
discontinued operations
Oil & Gas Labs
(2.00)c
(3.15)c
Revenue
Amortisation and depreciation
Other Expenses
8.4
10.8
(1.4)
(1.8)
(12.4)
(15.4)
Results from operating activities
Income tax benefit
(5.4)
(6.4)
1.4
1.6
Loss of discontinued operations
net of tax
(4.0)
(4.8)
Diluted earnings per share from
discontinued operations
(0.79)c
(0.96)c
Cash flows from discontinued
operations (restated)
Net cash from operating
activities
Net cash from investing
activities
Net cash from financing
activities
(2.9)
(7.7)
(5.5)
(5.8)

Net cash from discontinued
operations
(8.4)
(13.5)
Assets held for sale
Trade and other receivables
Inventories
Property, plant and equipment
Intangible assets
Deferred tax assets
Other assets
3.0
36.4
0.7
19.3
16.0
40.7
2.0
1.3
1.9
4.2
1.7
7.8
25.3
109.7
Liabilities held for sale
Trade and other liabilities
Loans and borrowings
Employee benefits

0.4
14.2

0.4
0.3
0.3
0.7
14.9

Accounting policy – Discontinued operations

A discontinued operation is a component of the Group’s business that represents a separate major line of business or geographical area of operations that has ceased or been disposed of or is held for sale. When an operation is classified as a discontinued operation, the comparative profit and loss and other comprehensive income statement is restated as if the operation had been discontinued from the start of the comparative period.

Accounting policy – Held for Sale

Non-current assets, or disposal groups comprising assets and liabilities, are classified as held for sale if it is highly probable that they will be recovered primarily through sale rather than through continuing use.

Such assets, or disposal groups, are generally measured at the lower of their carrying amount and fair value less cost to sell. Any impairment loss on a disposal group is allocated first to goodwill, and then to the remaining assets and liabilities on a pro rata basis, except that no loss is allocated to inventories, financial assets, deferred tax assets, employee benefit assets or investment property, which continue to be measured in accordance with the Group’s other accounting policies. Impairment losses on initial classification as held for sale and subsequent

Page 49 of 84

2018 | Annual report

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS | FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2018 | Notes to the financial statements

ALS LIMITED AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

|

CAPITAL EMPLOYED: WORKING CAPITAL AND OTHER INSTRUMENTS | 2c. Trade and other payables

gains and losses on remeasurement are recognised in profit or loss.

2. CAPITAL EMPLOYED: WORKING CAPITAL AND OTHER INSTRUMENTS

This section provides information about the working capital of the Group and key balance sheet items. Where relevant the accounting policies that have been applied and significant estimates and judgements made is included with each note.

  • 2a. Trade and other receivables

  • 2b. Inventories

  • 2c. Trade and other payables

  • 2d. Property, plant and equipment

  • 2e. Investment property

  • 2f. Intangible assets

2a. Trade and other receivables

In millions of AUD Consolidated Consolidated
2018 2017
Current
Trade receivables 251.4
228.6
Other receivables 26.9
21.6
Aging of trade receivables
In millions of AUD
278.3
250.2
Current 159.7
139.6
30 days 57.9
44.5
60 days 18.7
16.5
90 days and over 19.6
34.2
Total
255.9
234.8
Allowance for impairment of trade receivables
Opening balance
6.2
9.1
Write off
(6.4)
(8.1)
Movement in provision 4.7
5.2
Closing balance 4.5
6.2

Based on historical rates of default, the Group believes that no impairment allowance is necessary in respect of trade receivables not overdue or past due not more than two months. The allowance for impairment of trade receivables is in respect of trade receivables past due for more than two months.

Exposures to currency risks related to trade and other receivables are disclosed in note 4c.

Accounting policy – Trade and other receivables

Trade and other receivables are stated at their cost less impairment losses.

Calculation of recoverable amounts

Impairment of receivables is not recognised until objective evidence is available that a loss event has occurred. Receivables are individually assessed for impairment.

2b. Inventories

In millions of AUD
Raw materials and consumables
Work in progress
Finished goods
Consolidated
2018
2017
41.6
34.6
34.2
32.4
0.0
0.2
75.8
67.2

Accounting policy

Inventories are stated at the lower of cost and net realisable value. Net realisable value is the estimated selling price in the ordinary course of business, less the estimated costs of completion and selling expenses.

The cost of inventories is based on the weighted average method and includes expenditure incurred in acquiring the inventories, production or conversion costs and other costs incurred in bringing them to their existing location and condition. In the case of manufactured inventories and work in progress, cost includes an appropriate share of overheads based on normal operating capacity.

Costs for sample testing commenced but not yet completed in the analytical laboratories and incomplete field services works are recognised as work in progress and measured at the lower of cost to date and net realisable value.

2c. Trade and other payables

In millions of AUD
Trade payables
Other payables and accrued
expenses
Consolidated
2018
2017
52.7
48.7
117.1
91.4
169.8
140.1

Accounting policy

Trade and other payables

Trade and other payables are stated at their amortised cost. Trade payables are non-interest bearing and are normally settled on 60-day terms.

Provisions

A provision is recognised in the balance sheet when the Group has a present legal or constructive obligation as a result of a past event, and it is probable that an outflow of economic benefits that can be estimated reliably will be required to settle the obligation. If the effect is material, provisions are determined by

Page 50 of 84

2018 | Annual report

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS | FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2018 |

ALS LIMITED AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

Notes to the financial statements

|

CAPITAL EMPLOYED: WORKING CAPITAL AND OTHER INSTRUMENTS | 2d. Property, plant & equipment

discounting the expected future cash flows at a pre-tax rate that reflects current market assessments of the time value of money and, where appropriate, the risks specific to the

liability. The unwinding of the discount is recognised as a finance cost.

2d. Property, plant & equipment

In millions of AUD Freehold
land and
buildings
Plant and
equipment
Leasehold
improve-
ments
Leased
plant and
equipment
Capital
works in
progress
Total
Opening balance at 1 April 2016
At cost 199.0
782.5

138.9

12.5

18.3
1,151.2
Accumulated depreciation (36.0) (572.4) (80.0) (5.5) (693.9)
Net book amount at 1 April 2016 163.0
210.1

58.9

7.0

18.3

457.3
Additions 5.9
54.8

4.7

0.2

0.8

66.4
Disposals (5.9) (0.4) (6.3)
Transfers 0.6
7.7

(4.7) (3.6)
Depreciation expense (5.9) (59.6) (9.3) (0.3) (75.1)
Impairment (2.7) (36.0) (0.7) (1.3) (40.7)
Exchange differences (1.7) (3.4) (1.2) 0.2
(6.1)
Net book amount at 31 March 2017 159.2
167.7

52.0

2.2

14.4

395.5
Opening balance at 1 April 2017
At cost 202.8
692.3

130.6

5.9

14.4
1,046.0
Accumulated depreciation (43.6) (524.6) (78.6) (3.7) (650.5)
Net book amount at 1 April 2017 159.2
167.7

52.0

2.2

14.4

395.5
Additions 11.2
59.4

8.4

1.4
80.4
Disposals (3.2) (0.1) (0.3) (0.3) (3.9)
Transfers 1.3
(0.5)
(0.2) 0.3
(0.5)
0.4
Depreciation expense (6.7) (55.2) (9.7) (0.3) (71.9)
Assets held for sale (4.0) (4.5) (7.3) (0.1) (15.9)
Exchange differences 6.8
6.6

1.9

0.1
15.4
Net book amount at 31 March 2018 164.6
173.5

45.0

1.9

15.0

400.0
At 31 March 2018
At cost 214.2
732.4

132.7

5.9

15.0
1,100.2
Accumulated depreciation (49.6) (558.9) (87.7) (4.0) (700.2)
Net book amount at 31 March 2018 164.6
173.5

45.0

1.9

15.0

400.0

Accounting policy – Property, plant & equipment Owned assets

Items of property, plant and equipment are stated at cost less accumulated depreciation and impairment losses.

Cost includes expenditure that is directly attributable to the acquisition of the asset. The cost of self-constructed assets includes the cost of materials and direct labour, any other costs directly attributable to bringing the asset to a working condition for its intended use, the costs of dismantling and removing the items and restoring the site on which they are located, and capitalised borrowing costs. Cost also may include

transfers from equity of any gain or loss on qualifying cash flow hedges of foreign currency purchases of property, plant and equipment. Purchased software that is integral to the functionality of the related equipment is capitalised as part of that equipment.

Where parts of an item of property, plant and equipment have different useful lives, they are accounted for as separate items of property, plant and equipment.

Gains and losses on disposal of an item of property, plant and equipment are determined by comparing the proceeds from disposal with the carrying amount of property, plant and equipment

Page 51 of 84

2018 | Annual report

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS | FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2018 |

ALS LIMITED AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

Notes to the financial statements

|

CAPITAL EMPLOYED: WORKING CAPITAL AND OTHER INSTRUMENTS | 2e. Investment property

and are recognised net within “Other expenses” in the profit and loss statement. When revalued assets are sold, the amounts included in the revaluation reserve are transferred to retained earnings.

Borrowing costs

The Group capitalises borrowing costs directly attributable to the acquisition, construction or production of a qualifying asset as part of the cost of that asset. All other borrowing costs are recognised in the profit and loss using the effective interest method.

Reclassification to investment property

When the use of a property changes from owneroccupied to investment property, the property is held at cost and reclassified as investment property.

Leased assets

Leases in terms of which the Group assumes substantially all the risks and rewards of ownership are classified as finance leases.

Subsequent costs

2e. Investment property

In millions of AUD
Carrying amount at the
beginning of the year
Depreciation
Carrying amount at end of
year
Consolidated
2018
2017
10.4
10.5
(0.2)
(0.1)
10.2
10.4

Investment property comprises a commercial property leased to a third party. The current lease expires in September 2022. See note 4f (Operating leases) for further information.

Fair value of the property is estimated to be $19.0m (2017: $19.0m) based on a capitalisation rate of 8.75%.

Accounting policy – Investment property

Investment property is property held either to earn rental income or for capital appreciation or for both. Investment property is measured at cost and is depreciated on a straight-line basis over the estimated useful life.

The Group recognises in the carrying amount of an item of property, plant and equipment the cost of replacing part of such an item when that cost is incurred if it is probable that the future economic benefits embodied within the item will flow to the Group and the cost of the item can be measured reliably. All other costs are recognised in the profit and loss statement as an expense as incurred.

Depreciation

Depreciation is calculated on the depreciable amount, which is the cost of an asset, or other amount substituted for cost, less its residual value. Depreciation is charged to the profit and loss statement on a straight-line or diminishing value basis over the estimated useful lives of each part of an item of property, plant and equipment. Land is not depreciated. The estimated useful lives in the current and comparative periods are as follows:

follows:
• Buildings 20-40 Years
• Plant and equipment 3-10 Years
• Leasehold improvements 3-20 Years
• Leased plant and equipment 4-5 Years

The residual value, the useful life and the depreciation method applied to an asset are reassessed at least annually and adjusted if appropriate.

Page 52 of 84

2018 | Annual report

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS | FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2018 |

ALS LIMITED AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

Notes to the financial statements |

CAPITAL EMPLOYED: WORKING CAPITAL AND OTHER INSTRUMENTS | 2f. Intangible assets

2f. Intangible assets

In millions of AUD Consolidated
Goodwill
Purchased
trademarks
and
brandnames
Customer
Relation-
ships
Techno-
logy
Software
Total
Balance at 1 April 2016
Additions through business combinations
Additions
Transfer
Disposal
Amortisation
Effect of movements in foreign exchange
908.7

5.1

9.9
923.7
77.2

1.5


78.7




2.3
2.3




(1.2)
(1.2)




(1.3)
(1.3)


(1.5)

(2.0)
(3.5)
(16.9)




(16.9)
Balance at 31 March 2017
Additions through business combinations
Impairment(1)
Additions
Transfer
Disposal
Held for sale
Amortisation
Effect of movements in foreign exchange
969.0

5.1

7.7
981.8
27.2




27.2
(63.0)




(63.0)

0.5
5.4
0.1
5.0
11.0




(0.4)
(0.4)




(0.1)
(0.1)




(2.0)
(2.0)


(2.6)

(2.3)
(4.9)
30.7

0.2

0.1
31.0
Balance at 31 March 2018 963.9
0.5
8.1
0.1
8.0
980.6

(1) In recognition of uncertain market conditions being experienced in the sectors serviced by the Coal and Industrial businesses, goodwill impairment charges amounting to $63 million have been taken in respect of these cash generating units: Coal – $40 million and Industrial – $23 million. Refer to Divisional Reviews in the Director’s report (page 9).

Impairment tests for cash generating units containing goodwill

Calculation of recoverable amounts

The recoverable amount of assets is the greater of their fair value less costs to sell and value in use. In assessing value in use, the estimated future cash flows are discounted to their present value using a pre-tax discount rate that reflects current market assessments of the time value of money and the risks specific to the asset. For an asset that does not generate largely independent cash inflows, the recoverable amount is determined for the cash-generating unit to which the asset belongs. The goodwill acquired in a business combination, for the purpose of impairment testing, is allocated to cash-generating units that are expected to benefit from the synergies of the combination.

The following cash generating units have significant carrying amounts of goodwill:

In millions of AUD
ALS Minerals
ALS Life Sciences – Australia
ALS Life Sciences – North America
ALS Life Sciences – South America
ALS Life Sciences – Europe
ALS Food Pharma – Europe
ALS Life Sciences – Asia
ALS Coal
ALS Industrial
Other cash generating units
Consolidated
2018
2017
359.6 347.7
48.5
48.4
111.1 109.9
50.8
46.7
124.1
97.2
64.3
57.4
20.1
18.3
38.0
77.6
146.9 165.4
0.5
0.4
963.9 969.0

Page 53 of 84

2018 | Annual report

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS | FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2018 |

ALS LIMITED AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

Notes to the financial statements

CAPITAL EMPLOYED: WORKING CAPITAL AND OTHER INSTRUMENTS | 2f. Intangible assets

|

The value in use calculations performed for all cash generating units use cash flow projections based on actual operating results, the Board approved budget for FY2019, and forecasts drawn from FY2020 through to FY2023 which are based on management’s estimates of underlying economic conditions, past financial results, and other factors anticipated to impact the cash generating units’ performance. A discounted terminal cash flow value is calculated post FY2023 using a nominal growth rate of 2.75%. Growth rates are consistent with the prior year. Directors believe these terminal growth rates are an appropriate estimate of the long-term average growth rates achievable in the industries in which the Group participates.

The following nominal pre-tax discount rates have been used in discounting the projected cash flows.

In millions of AUD
ALS Minerals
ALS Life Sciences – Australia
ALS Life Sciences – North America
ALS Life Sciences – South America
ALS Life Sciences – Europe
ALS Food Pharma – Europe
ALS Life Sciences – Asia
ALS Coal
ALS Industrial
Pre-tax
(nominal)
discount rate
2018
2017
12.5%
12.8%
11.8%
12.3%
10.4%
9.3%
16.5%
18.1%
8.4%
9.8%
10.4%
10.7%
13.2%
14.4%
13.0%
12.2%
13.1%
13.2%

The determination of the recoverable amounts of the Group’s cash generating units involves significant estimates and judgements and the results are subject to the risk of adverse and sustained changes in the key markets and/or geographies in which the Group operates. With the exception of the ALS Coal, ALS Industrial and ALS Life Sciences South America CGU’s, sensitivity analyses performed indicate a reasonably possible change in any of the key assumptions for the Group’s CGU’s would not result in impairment.

ALS Coal CGU

The estimated recoverable amount of the ALS Coal CGU exceeded its carrying value by approximately $15.0 million. The Company has identified that a reasonably possible change in two key assumptions could cause the carrying amount to exceed the recoverable amount of the CGU. For the estimated recoverable amount to be equal to the carrying amount, the following assumptions would need to change by the amount specified (whilst holding all other assumptions constant):

  • (a) the pre-tax discount rate would need to increase by 2.0 per cent to 15.0 per cent; or

  • (b) the compound average growth rate across the forecast period would need to decrease by 0.4 percentage points to 3.0 per cent.

ALS Industrial CGU

The estimated recoverable amount of the ALS Industrial CGU exceeded its carrying value by approximately $20.1 million. The Company has identified that a reasonably possible change in two key assumptions could cause the carrying amount to exceed the recoverable amount of the CGU. For the estimated recoverable amount to be equal to the carrying amount, the following assumptions would need to change by the amount specified (whilst holding all other assumptions constant):

  • (a) the pre-tax discount rate would need to increase by 1.1 per cent to 14.2 per cent; or

  • (b) the compound average growth rate across the forecast period would need to decrease by 0.2 percentage points to 2.5 per cent.

ALS Life Sciences – South America CGU

The estimated recoverable amount of the ALS Life Sciences – South America CGU exceeded its carrying value by approximately $8.1 million. The Company has identified that a reasonably possible change in two key assumptions could cause the carrying amount to exceed the recoverable amount of the CGU. For the estimated recoverable amount to be equal to the carrying amount, the following assumptions would need to change by the amount specified (whilst holding all other assumptions constant):

  • (a) the pre-tax discount rate would need to increase by 1.3 per cent to 17.8 per cent; or

  • (b) the compound average growth rate across the forecast period would need to decrease by 0.2 percentage points to 5.0 per cent.

Accounting policy – Intangible assets Goodwill

Goodwill arising on the acquisition of a subsidiary or business is included in intangible assets.

Subsequent measurement

Goodwill is measured at cost less accumulated impairment losses. In respect of equity accounted investees, the carrying amount of goodwill is included in the carrying amount of the investment.

Other intangible assets

Other intangible assets that are acquired by the Group are stated at cost less accumulated amortisation and impairment losses.

Page 54 of 84

2018 | Annual report

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS | FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2018 |

ALS LIMITED AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

Notes to the financial statements NET DEBT | 3c. Loans and borrowings

|

Expenditure on internally generated goodwill and brands is recognised in the profit and loss statement as an expense as incurred.

Subsequent expenditure

Subsequent expenditure on capitalised intangible assets is capitalised only when it increases the future economic benefits embodied in the specific asset to which it relates. All other expenditure is expensed as incurred.

Amortisation

Amortisation is calculated on the cost of an asset less its residual value. Amortisation is charged to the profit and loss statement on a straight-line basis over the estimated useful lives of intangible assets unless such lives are indefinite. Goodwill and intangible assets with an indefinite useful life are systematically tested for impairment at each balance sheet date. Other intangible assets are amortised from the date they are available for use. The estimated useful lives in the current and comparative periods are as follows:

• Capitalised computer software 3-10 Years
• Trademarks and Brand-named 3-5 Years
• Customer Relationships 5-6 Years
• Technology 4 Years

The residual value, the useful life and the amortisation method applied to an asset are reassessed at least annually and adjusted if appropriate.

3. NET DEBT

This section provides information about the overall debt of the company. Where relevant the accounting policies that have been applied and significant estimates and judgements made is included with each note.

3a. Cash and cash equivalents

3b. Reconciliation of operating profit to net cash

  • 3c. Loans and borrowings

3a. Cash and cash equivalents

In millions of AUD
Bank balances
Bank fixed rate deposits
Cash and cash equivalents in the
balance sheet
Bank overdrafts repayable on
demand
Cash and cash equivalents in the
statement of cash flows
Consolidated
2018
2017
187.6
199.3
-
50.0
187.6
249.3
(0.4)
(0.4)
187.2
248.9

The Group’s exposure to interest rate risk and a sensitivity analysis for financial assets and liabilities are disclosed in note 4.

Accounting policy – Cash and cash equivalents

Cash and cash equivalents comprises cash balances and call deposits. Bank overdrafts that are repayable on demand and form an integral part of the Group’s cash management are included as a component of cash and cash equivalents for the purpose of the statement of cash flows.

3b. Reconciliation of operating profit to net cash

In millions of AUD
Profit/(loss) for the period
Adjustments for:
Amortisation and depreciation
(Profit)/loss on sale of property
plant and equipment
Share-settled performance rights
amounts recognised during the
year
Share of associates and joint
venture net profit
Gain on sale of discontinued
operations
FX retranslation loss transferred
from foreign currency translation
reserve for Oil & Gas Non Labs
subsidiaries
Impairment charges
Net non-cash expenses
Operating cashflow before
changes in working capital
and provisions
(Increase)/decrease in trade and
other receivables
(Increase)/decrease in inventories
(Decrease)/increase in trade and
other payables
(Decrease)/increase in taxation
provisions
Net cash from operating
activities
Consolidated
2018
2017
53.4
82.8
75.5
80.3
(0.3)
(0.2)
0.5
1.0
(1.6)
(2.1)
(0.9)
-
11.1
-
63.0
-
4.5
8.9
205.2
170.7
(27.2)
(8.4)
(2.3)
(7.0)
10.7
20.0
(0.6)
-
185.8
175.3

3c. Loans and borrowings

This note provides information about the contractual terms of the Group’s interest-bearing loans and borrowings. For more information about the Group’s exposure to interest rate and foreign currency risk, see note 4a.

In millions of AUD
Current Liabilities
Consolidated
2018
2017
-
39.7
-
0.5
Long term notes
Finance lease liabilities
-
40.2

Page 55 of 84

2018 | Annual report

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS | FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2018 |

ALS LIMITED AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

Notes to the financial statements RISK & CAPITAL MANAGEMENT | 4a. Financial & Capital risk management

|

Non-current liabilities
Bank loans
Long term notes
-
-
695.6
700.9
695.6
700.9

Bank loans

Current bank loans comprise the portion of the Group’s bank loans repayable within one year. Funding available to the Group from undrawn facilities at 31 March 2018 amounted to $52.1m (2017: $104.7m).

The weighted average interest rate (incorporating the effect of interest rate contracts) for all bank loans at balance date is nil (2017: nil).

The Company and six of its subsidiaries, namely Australian Laboratory Services Pty Ltd, ALS Canada Limited, ALS Group General Partnership, ALS Technichem (Singapore) Pte Ltd, ALS Inspection UK Ltd, and ALS Testing Services Group, Inc are parties to multi-currency term loan facility agreements as borrowers with a number of banks.

Under the terms of the agreements, the Company and a number of its wholly-owned subsidiaries jointly and severally guarantee and indemnify the banks in relation to each borrower’s obligations.

Long term notes

In previous periods the Company’s controlled entities ALS Group General Partnership and ALS Canada Ltd have issued long term, fixed rate notes to investors in the US Private Placement market. These issuances occurred in December 2010, July 2011, and again in September 2013. The notes are denominated in US dollars and Canadian dollars and mature as follows – due July 2019: $246.0m; due December 2020: $199.6m; and due July 2022: $247.4m.

Certain of the long term notes are designated as part of a fair value hedge in relation to the interest rate risk (refer note 4c), their carrying value includes a fair value adjustment uplift of $2.6m (2017: 7.7m) being the revaluation of the debt for the risk being hedged. This fair value loss in the carrying value of the notes is offset by gains on interest rate swap instruments which are designated as an effective fair value hedge and recognised as a fair value derivative receivable (refer note 4c).

Interest is payable semi-annually to noteholders. The weighted average interest rate (incorporating the effect of interest rate contracts) for all long term notes at balance date is 4.0% (2017: 3.8%).

Under the terms of the note agreements, the Company and a number of its wholly-owned subsidiaries jointly and severally guarantee and indemnify the noteholders in relation to the issuer’s obligations.

Accounting policy – Loans and borrowings

Interest-bearing borrowings are recognised initially at fair value less attributable transaction costs. Subsequent to initial recognition, interestbearing borrowings are stated at amortised cost with any difference between cost and redemption value being recognised in the profit and loss statement over the period of the borrowings on an effective interest basis.

4. RISK & CAPITAL MANAGEMENT

This section provides information about the Group’s risk and capital management. Where relevant the accounting policies that have been applied and significant estimates and judgements made is included with each note.

  • 4a. Financial & capital risk management

  • 4b. Capital & Reserves

  • 4c. Financial instruments

  • 4d. Contingencies

  • 4e. Capital commitments

  • 4f. Operating leases

4a. Financial & Capital risk management

Risk management framework

Identification, measurement and management of risk is a strategic priority for the Group. The provision of goods and services carries a number of diverse risks which may have a material impact on the Group’s financial position and performance. Consequently, the Board has established a comprehensive framework covering accountability, oversight, measurement and reporting to maintain high standards of risk management throughout the Group.

The Group allocates specific roles in the management of risk to executives and senior managers and to the Board. This is undertaken within an overall framework and strategy established by the Board.

The Audit and Risk Committee obtains assurance about the internal control and risk management environment through regular reports from the Risk and Compliance team.

The Group has exposure to the following risks from their use of financial instruments:

  • Credit risk

  • Liquidity risk

  • Market risk

This note presents information about the Group’s exposure to each of the above risks, the Group’s objectives, policies and processes for measuring and managing risk, and the Group’s management of capital.

Page 56 of 84

2018 | Annual report

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS | FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2018 |

ALS LIMITED AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

Notes to the financial statements RISK & CAPITAL MANAGEMENT | 4a. Financial & Capital risk management

|

Credit risk

The Group has an established credit policy and the exposure to credit risk is monitored on an ongoing basis. Credit evaluations are performed on all customers requiring credit over a certain amount. The Group does not require collateral in respect of financial assets. There is no single customer making up a material percentage of the Group’s revenue. Geographic concentrations of trade receivables are – Australia 30% (2017: 28%), Canada 9% (2017: 9%), USA 14% (2017: 18%), UK 13% (2017: 14%), and other countries 34% (2017: 31%). The maximum exposure to credit risk is represented by the carrying amount of each financial asset, including derivative financial instruments, in the balance sheet.

Goods are sold subject to retention of title clauses, so that in the event of non-payment the Group may have a secured claim.

Counterparties to transactions involving derivative financial instruments are large Australian and international banks with whom the Group has a signed netting agreement. Management does not expect any counterparty to fail to meet its obligations.

Group policy is to provide financial guarantees only to wholly-owned subsidiaries. Details of the Deed of Cross Guarantee are provided in note 5c.

Liquidity risk

The liquidity position of the Group is continuously managed using cash flow forecasts to ensure sufficient liquid funds are available to meet its financial commitments in a timely and costeffective manner. The Group is party to a number of bilateral debt facility and long term note agreements which provide funding for acquisitions and working capital (refer note 3c).

Note 4c details the repayment obligations in respect of the amount of the facilities and derivatives utilised.

Market risk

Interest rate risk

Interest rate risk is the risk that the Group’s financial position and performance will be adversely affected by movements in interest rates. Interest rate risk on cash and short term deposits is not considered to be a material risk due to the short term nature of these financial instruments.

The Group’s interest rate risk arises from longterm debt. Floating rate debt exposes the Group to cash flow interest rate risk and fixed rate debt exposes the Group to fair value interest rate risk. Interest rate risk is managed by maintaining an appropriate mix of fixed and floating rate debt. The Group enters into interest rate swaps to manage the ratio of fixed rate debt to floating rate

debt. Hedging is undertaken against specific rate exposures only, as disclosed in note 4c.

Foreign exchange risk

The Group operates internationally and is exposed to foreign exchange risk arising from various currency exposures.

Foreign exchange risk arises from future purchase and sales commitments and assets and liabilities that are denominated in a currency that is not the functional currency of the respective Group entities. Measuring the exposure to foreign exchange risk is achieved by regularly monitoring and performing sensitivity analysis on the Group’s financial position.

The Group may enter into forward foreign exchange contracts (FECs) to hedge certain forecast purchase commitments denominated in foreign currencies (principally US dollars). The terms of these commitments are generally less than three months. The amount of forecast purchases is estimated based on current conditions in foreign markets, customer orders, commitments to suppliers and experience.

The Group borrows funds in foreign currencies to hedge its net investments in foreign operations. The Group’s Canadian dollar denominated borrowings are designated as hedges of the Group’s net investments in subsidiaries with this functional currency.

The Group has also entered into cross currency interest rate swaps which have been designated as hedges of net investments in foreign operations whose functional currencies are Canadian dollars, Czech koruna, and Euros.

Capital management

Capital comprises equity attributable to equity holders, loans and borrowings and cash and cash equivalents.

Capital management involves the use of corporate forecasting models which facilitates analysis of the Group’s financial position including cash flow forecasts to determine the future capital management requirements. Capital management is undertaken to ensure a secure, cost-effective and flexible supply of funds is available to meet the Group’s operating and capital expenditure requirements. The Group monitors gearing and treasury policy breaches and exceptions. The gearing ratio (net debt to net debt plus equity) as at balance date is 31% (2017: 29%).

The Group maintains a stable capital base from which it can pursue its growth aspirations, whilst maintaining a flexible capital structure that allows access to a range of debt and equity markets to both draw upon and repay capital.

Page 57 of 84

2018 | Annual report

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS | FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2018 |

ALS LIMITED AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

Notes to the financial statements RISK & CAPITAL MANAGEMENT | 4b. Capital & reserves

|

4b. Capital & reserves

Reconciliation of movement in capital

Reconciliation of movement in capital Reconciliation of movement in capital
In millions of AUD
Consolidated
2018
2017
Issued and paid up share capital
488,764,376 ordinary shares fully
paid (2017: 504,221,143)
1,348.1
1,453.4
_Movements inordinary share capital _
Balance at beginning of year
15,456,767 shares buyback
183,384 Treasury shares
vested and issued to employees
(2017: 75,233)
Balance at end of year
1,453.4
1,452.7
(106.8)
-
1.5
0.7
1,348.1
1,453.4

As at the end of year, the total number of treasury shares held by the ALS Limited LTI Plan Trust was 312,425 (2017: 495,809). These treasury shares are held by the Trust to meet the Company’s future anticipated equity-settled performance rights obligations in respect of the LTI Plan.

Terms and Conditions

Holders of ordinary shares are entitled to receive dividends as declared from time to time and are entitled to one vote per share at shareholders’ meetings. In the event of winding up of the Company, ordinary shareholders rank after creditors and are entitled to the net proceeds of liquidation.

Reserves

The foreign currency translation reserve comprises all foreign exchange differences arising from the translation of the financial statements of foreign operations where their functional currency is different to the presentation currency of the reporting entity, as well as from the translation of liabilities or changes in fair value of derivatives that hedge the Company’s net investment in a foreign subsidiary.

The employee share-based awards reserve comprises the cumulative amount, recognised as an employee expense to date, of the fair value at grant date of share-based, share-settled awards granted to employees. Refer to notes 1d and 8a.

Other reserves comprise the effective portion of the cumulative net change in the fair value of cash flow hedging instruments related to hedged transactions that have not yet occurred. In the prior year, it also included amounts arising from the accounting for a put and call option arrangement entered with a non-controlling interest of a controlled entity.

Dividends

Dividends recognised in the current year by the Company are:

In millions of AUD
Cents per
share
Franked
amount
(cents)
Total
amount
Date of
payment

2018
Interim 2018
ordinary
8.0
3.2
40.4
18 Dec 17
Final 2017
ordinary
8.0
3.2
40.4
03 Jul 17
80.8
2017
Interim 2017
ordinary
5.5
3.3
27.7
21 Dec 16
Final 2016
ordinary
6.0
2.4
30.3
01 Jul 16
58.0
Dividend declared after the end of the financial year:
Final 2018
ordinary
9.0
3.6
44.0
02 Jul 18

The financial effect of this dividend has not been brought to account in the financial statements for the year ended 31 March 2018 and will be recognised in subsequent financial reports.

The franked components of all dividends paid or declared since the end of the previous financial year were franked based on a tax rate of 30%.

In millions of AUD Consolidated Consolidated
Dividend franking account 2018
2017
30% franking credits available to
shareholders of ALS Limited for
3.1
1.6
subsequent financial years

The above available amounts are based on the balance of the dividend franking account at yearend adjusted for:

  • franking credits/debits that will arise from the payment/receipt of current tax liabilities/assets;

  • franking debits that will arise from the payment of dividends recognised as a liability at the year-end;

  • franking credits that will arise from the receipt of dividends recognised as receivables by the tax consolidated group at the year-end; and

  • franking credits that the entity may be prevented from distributing in subsequent years.

The final FY18 dividend declared after balance date will be franked to 40% using franking credits in existence at balance date and arising from the Company’s tax instalments to be paid during the year ending 31 March 2019.

Accounting policy

Transaction costs

Transaction costs of an equity transaction are accounted for as a deduction from equity, net of any related income tax benefit.

Dividends

Dividends are recognised as a liability in the period in which they are declared.

Page 58 of 84

2018 | Annual report

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS | FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2018 |

ALS LIMITED AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

Notes to the financial statements RISK & CAPITAL MANAGEMENT | 4c. Financial Instruments

|

4c. Financial Instruments

Liquidity risk

Contractual maturities for financial liabilities on a gross cash flow basis are analysed below:

CONSOLIDATED

As at 31 March 2018
In millions of AUD
Bank overdraft
Trade and other payables
Finance lease liabilities
Long term notes
Bank loans
Derivative financial instruments
Total
CONSOLIDATED
As at 31 March 2017
In millions of AUD
Bank overdraft
Trade and other payables
Finance lease liabilities
Long term notes
Bank loans
Derivative financial instruments
Total
6 months
or less
6 to 12
months
1 to 2
years
2 to 5
years
Over 5
years
Total
0.4
-
-
-
-
0.4
169.8
-
-
-
-
169.8
-
-
-
-
-
0.0
14.9
14.8
269.2
479.4
-
778.3
0.1
-
-
-
-
0.1
(1.0)
(0.6)
(0.7)
(0.5)
-
(2.8)
184.2
14.2
268.5
478.9
0.0
945.8
6 months
or less
6 to 12
months
1 to 2
years
2 to 5
years
Over 5
years
Total
0.4
-
-
-
-
0.4
140.1
-
-
-
-
140.1
0.3
0.3
-
-
-
0.6
15.6
54.3
29.7
497.1
252.1
848.8
0.2
-
-
-
-
0.2
(1.5)
(1.4)
(2.1)
(3.0)
-
(8.0)
155.1
53.2
27.6
494.1
252.1
982.1

The gross outflows/(inflows) disclosed in the tables above for derivative financial liabilities represent the contractual undiscounted cash flows of derivative financial instruments held for risk management purposes and which are usually not closed out prior to contractual maturity. The disclosure shows net cash flow amounts for derivatives that are net cash settled.

Currency risk

The Group’s exposure to foreign currency risk at balance date was as follows, based on notional amounts:

CONSOLIDATED
In millions of AUD
Trade and other receivables
Cash at bank
Bank loan
Long term notes
Trade and other payables
Net balance sheet exposure
CONSOLIDATED
In millions of AUD
Trade and other receivables
Cash at bank
Bank loan
Long term notes
Trade and other payables
Net balance sheet exposure
2018
USD
CAD
NOK
EUR
PLN
GBP
14.1
-
-
2.7
0.2
-
48.4
-
0.7
3.6
0.1
0.6
-
-
-
-
-
-
The following exchange
rates against the Australian
dollar applied at 31 March:
-
(65.6)
-
-
-
-
(3.1)
-
-
(0.3)
-
-
59.4
(65.6)
0.7
6.0
0.3
0.6
31 March spot
rate
2017
2018
2017
USD
CAD
NOK
EUR
PLN
GBP
USD
0.7682
0.7642
23.6
-
-
2.0
0.2
0.3
CAD
0.9912
1.0158
70.4
-
0.4
3.2
-
1.5
NOK
6.0278
6.561
-
-
-
-
-
-
EUR
0.6235
0.7161
-
(64.0)
-
-
-
-
PLN
2.6244
3.031
(4.7)
-
-
(0.3)
-
(0.1)
GBP
0.5482
0.6078
89.3
(64.0)
0.4
4.9
0.2
1.7

Page 59 of 84

2018 | Annual report

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS | FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2018 | Notes to the financial statements RISK & CAPITAL MANAGEMENT | 4c. Financial Instruments

ALS LIMITED AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

|

Sensitivity analysis

A 10 percent strengthening of the Australian dollar against the above balances at 31 March would have increased (decreased) profit before income tax and equity by the amounts shown below. This analysis assumes that all other variables, in particular interest rates, remain constant. The analysis is performed on the same basis for 2017.

In millions of AUD
As at 31 March 2018
USD
CAD
EUR
GBP
Consolidated
In millions of AUD
Profit
Equity
As at 31 March 2017
(5.4)
-
USD
-
6.0
CAD
(0.5)
-
EUR
(0.1)
-
GBP
(6.0)
6.0
Consolidated
Profit
Equity
(8.1)
-
-
5.8
(0.5)
-
(0.1)
-
(8.7)
5.8

A 10 percent weakening of the Australian dollar against the above balances at 31 March would have increased (decreased) profit before income tax and equity by the amounts shown below. This analysis assumes that all other variables, in particular interest rates, remain constant. The analysis is performed on the same basis for 2017.

In millions of AUD
As at 31 March 2018
USD
CAD
EUR
GBP
Consolidated
In millions of AUD
Profit
Equity
As at 31 March 2017
6.6
-
USD
-
(7.3)
CAD
0.7
-
EUR
0.1
-
GBP
7.4
(7.3)
Consolidated
Profit
Equity
9.9
-
-
(7.1)
0.6
-
0.2
-
10.7
(7.1)

Interest rate risk

At the reporting date the interest rate profile of the Group’s interest-bearing financial instruments was:

Consolidated
In millions of AUD
Financial assets
Financial liabilities
Effect of interest rate contracts*
2018
2017
2018
2017
Fixed rate instruments
Variable rate instruments
-
50.0
187.6
199.3
(695.6)
(741.1)
(0.4)
(0.4)
137.2
175.2
(137.2)
(175.2)
(558.4)
(515.9)
50.0
23.7

* Represents the net notional amount of interest rate swaps used for hedging.

Sensitivity analysis

Fair value sensitivity analysis for fixed rate instruments

The Group has designated interest rate contracts as hedging instruments under a fair value hedge accounting model in relation to its fixed rate long term notes. The interest rate contracts swap the fixed interest payable on a portion of the loan notes to variable interest rates for the term of the debt. In accordance with the Group’s accounting policy (refer note 3c) changes in fair value of the interest rate contracts together with the change in fair value of the debt arising from changes in interest rates are recognised in the profit and loss (to the extent the fair value hedge is effective). In 2018, the change in fair value of interest rate contracts was ($5.1) million (2017: ($6.2) million) and was offset in the Group’s profit and loss statement by an equal amount relating to the change in fair value of the hedged risk. A change of

Page 60 of 84

2018 | Annual report

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS | FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2018 | Notes to the financial statements RISK & CAPITAL MANAGEMENT | 4f. Operating leases

ALS LIMITED AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

|

50 basis points in interest rates at the reporting date would not materially impact the Group’s profit and loss before income tax or equity (2017: Nil).

Cash flow sensitivity analysis for variable rate instruments

A change of 50 basis points in interest rates at the reporting date would have increased (decreased) profit before income tax and equity by the amounts shown below. This analysis assumes that all other variables, in particular foreign currency rates, remain constant. The analysis is performed on the same basis for 2017.

Consolidated
In millions of AUD
Variable rate instruments
Interest rate contracts
Cash flow sensitivity (net)
As at 31 March 2018 As at 31 March 2018 As at 31 March 2018 As at 31 March 2018 As at 31 March 2017 As at 31 March 2017 As at 31 March 2017 As at 31 March 2017
Profit Equity Profit Equity
50 bp
increase
50 bp
decrease
50 bp
increase
50 bp
decrease
50 bp
increase
50 bp
decrease
50 bp
increase
50 bp
decrease
0.9
(0.9)


1.0
(1.0)


(0.7)
0.7


(0.9)
0.9

0.2
(0.2)


0.1
(0.1)

Fair values of financial instruments

The Group’s financial assets and liabilities are included in the balance sheet at amounts that approximate fair values with the exception of fixed rate debt which has a fair value of $706.3m (2017: $775.2m). The basis for determining fair values is disclosed in note 7c. The fair value at 31 March 2018 of derivative assets (2017: asset) held for risk management, which are the Group’s only financial instruments carried at fair value, was a net loss of $5.6m (2017: $6.1m loss) measured using Level 2 valuation techniques as defined in the fair value hierarchy shown in note 7c. The Group does not have any financial instruments that are categorised as Level 1 or Level 3 in the fair value hierarchy.

4d. Contingencies

The directors are of the opinion that there are no material contingent liabilities at 31 March 2018.

4e. Capital commitments

In millions of AUD Consolidated Consolidated
2018 2017
Capital expenditure commitments
Plant and equipment contracted
but not provided for and payable 24.8
18.8
within one year

4f. Operating leases Leases as lessee

In millions of AUD
Less than one year
Between one and five years
More than five years
Consolidated
2018
2017
35.4
39.6
64.8
49.2
37.9
14.2
138.1 103.0

The Group leases property, plant and equipment under operating leases expiring over terms of up to six years. Leases generally provide the Group with a right of renewal at which time all terms are

renegotiated. Some leases provide for additional rent payments that are based on a local price index.

During the year ended 31 March 2018 $49.9m was recognised as an expense in the profit and loss statement in respect of operating leases (2017 restated: $48.6m).

Accounting policy

Operating lease payments

Payments made under operating leases are recognised in the profit and loss statement on a straight-line basis over the term of the lease. Lease incentives received are recognised in the profit and loss statement as an integral part of the total lease expenses and spread over the lease term.

The Group leases out its investment property held under operating lease (see note 2e). The future minimum lease payments receivable under noncancellable leases are as follows:

In millions of AUD
Less than one year
Between one and five years
Consolidated
2018
2017
2.1
2.0
7.8
8.7
9.9
10.7

During the year ended 31 March 2018 $1.9m was recognised as rental income in the profit and loss statement (2017: $1.8m).

Page 61 of 84

2018 | Annual report

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS | FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2018 |

ALS LIMITED AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

Notes to the financial statements GROUP STRUCTURE | 5a. Acquisition of Subsidiaries and Non-controlling interest

|

5. GROUP STRUCTURE

This section provides information about the Group’s structure. Where relevant the accounting policies that have been applied and significant estimates and judgements made is included with each note.

  • 5a. Acquisition of subsidiaries and non-controlling interest

  • 5b. Consolidated entities

  • 5c. Deed of cross guarantee

  • 5d. Parent entity

5a. Acquisition of Subsidiaries and Non-controlling interest

Business Combinations

In millions of AUD

2018
Interest
Acquired
Date
acquired
Conside-
ration
ALS Marshfield
LLC
100%
Jun-17
12.6
Mikrolab
Group
100%
Oct-17
14.2
Other
acquisitions
during the
year
6.1
32.9

If the acquisitions had occurred on 1 April 2017, management estimates that Group revenue from continuing operations would have been $1,454.4m and net profit after tax from

continuing operations would have been $56.2m.

In millions of AUD
Interest
Acquired
Date
acquired
2017
ALcontrol UK
100%
Nov-16
Other
acquisitions
during the year


Conside-
ration

13
19.7
327

If the acquisitions had occurred on 1 April 2016, management estimates that Group revenue would have been $1,308.3m and net profit after tax would have been $94.0m.

ALS Marshfield LLC net assets at acquisition date

date
In millions of AUD Fair Value
2018
Property, plant and equipment 5.8
Inventories 0.3
Identifiable intangible assets
Trade and other receivables
-
5.8
Cash and cash equivalents 0.8
Trade and other payables (0.8)
Interest bearing loans and
borrowings
-
Employee benefits (0.1)
Net identifiable assets and liabilities 11.8
Goodwill on acquisition 0.8
Consideration paid, satisfied in
cash
12.6
Cash (acquired) (0.8)
Net cash outflow 11.8

No directly attributable transaction costs were included in administration and other expenses in the profit and loss statement. In the period to 31 March 2018. ALS Marshfield LLC contributed revenue of $19.6m and a net profit after tax of $0.6m to the consolidated net profit after tax for the year.

ALS Marshfield was acquired for the purpose of enhancing the global service reach of the Group’s existing Food Pharma operations. The goodwill recognised on acquisition is attributable mainly to skills and technical talent of ALS Marshfield LLC’s workforce and the synergies expected to be achieved from integrating the acquired operations into the Group’s existing business. The goodwill is not expected to be deductible for income tax purposes.

Mikrolab Group net assets at acquisition date

In millions of AUD In millions of AUD Fair Value
2018
Property, plant and equipment 0.4
Inventories 0.3
Tax assets 0.1
Trade and other receivables 1.4
Cash and cash equivalents 0.3
Trade and other payables (0.5)
Interest bearing loans and
borrowings
(1.4)
Employee benefits (0.1)
Net identifiable assets and liabilities 0.5
Goodwillonacquisition 13.7
Consideration paid, satisfied in
cash
14.2
Cash(acquired) (0.3)
Net cash outflow 13.9

No directly attributable transaction costs were included in administration and other expenses in the profit and loss statement. In the period to 31 March 2018. The Mikrolab group contributed revenue of $2.9m and a net profit after tax of $0.5m to the consolidated net profit after tax for the year.

The Mikrolab group was acquired for the purpose of enhancing the global service reach of the Group’s existing Food Pharma operations. The goodwill recognised on acquisition is attributable mainly to skills and technical talent of the Mikrolab group’s workforce and the synergies expected to be achieved from integrating the acquired operations into the Group’s existing business. The goodwill is not expected to be deductible for income tax purposes.

Page 62 of 84

2018 | Annual report

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS | FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2018 |

ALS LIMITED AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

Notes to the financial statements GROUP STRUCTURE | 5b. Consolidated entities

|

Other acquirees’ net assets at acquisition dates

In millions of AUD
Property, plant and equipment
Inventories
Identifiable intangible assets
Trade and other receivables
Other current assets
Cash and cash equivalents
Interest-bearing loans and
borrowings
Employee benefits
Trade and other payables
Current tax liabilities
Net identifiable assets and
liabilities
Goodwill on acquisition
Consideration paid, satisfied in
cash
Cash (acquired)
Net cash outflow
Fair
Value
Fair
Value
*2018

2017
0.8
7.9
0.1
1.6
0.9
1.7
0.4
13.0
0.2
0.5
-
2.3
(1.2)
(56.2)
(0.3)
(0.1)
(0.5)
(6.6)
-
(0.1)
0.4
(36.0)
5.7
68.7
6.1
32.7
-
(2.3)
6.1
30.4
  • The comparatives disclose all 2017 acquisitions.

  • ** These acquisitions have been recognised on a provisional basis.

No directly attributable transaction costs (2017: $6,000) relating to these acquisitions were included in administration and other expenses in the profit and loss statement. In the period to 31 March 2018 the other acquirees contributed revenue of $4.4m and a net profit after tax of $0.6m to the consolidated net profit after tax for the year.

The goodwill recognised on acquisition is attributable mainly to skills and technical talent of the acquired business’s workforce and the synergies expected to be achieved from integrating the company into the Group’s existing business. The goodwill is not expected to be deductible for income tax purposes.

Accounting policy – Business Combinations

Business combinations are accounted for using the acquisition method as at the acquisition date, which is the date on which control is transferred to the Group.

The Group measures goodwill at the acquisition date as:

  • the fair value of the consideration transferred; plus

  • the recognised amount of any non-controlling interests in the acquiree; plus if the business combination is achieved in stages, the fair value of the existing equity interest in the acquiree; less

  • the net recognised amount (generally fair value) of the identifiable assets acquired and liabilities assumed.

When the excess is negative, a bargain purchase gain is recognised immediately in profit and loss. The consideration transferred does not include amounts related to the settlement of pre-existing relationships. Such amounts are generally recognised in profit or loss.

Transaction costs related to the acquisition, other than those associated with the issue of debt or equity securities, that the Group incurs in connection with a business combination are expensed as incurred.

Any contingent consideration payable is recognised at fair value at the acquisition date. If the contingent consideration is classified as equity, it is not remeasured and settlement is accounted for within equity. Otherwise, subsequent changes to the fair value of the contingent consideration are recognised in profit and loss. When share-based payment awards (replacement awards) are required to be exchanged for awards held by the acquiree’s employees (acquiree’s awards) and relate to past services, then all or a portion of the amount of the acquirer’s replacement awards is included in measuring the consideration transferred in the business combination.

This determination is based on the market-based value of the replacement awards compared with the market-based value of the acquiree’s awards and the extent to which the replacement awards relate to past and/or future service.

In determining the fair value of identifiable net assets acquired, the Group considers the existence of identifiable intangible assets such as brand-named, trademarks, customer contracts and relationships and in process research and development intangible assets. Where material, these items are recognised separately from goodwill.

5b. Consolidated entities

The Group’s significant controlled entities are listed below:

Parent entity
Country of
Incorporation
ALS Limited Australia
Subsidiaries
Australian Laboratory Services Pty Ltd
Australia
ACIRL Proprietary Ltd Australia
ACIRL Quality Testing Services Pty Ltd
Australia
Ecowise Australia Pty Ltd Australia
ALS Industrial Pty Ltd Australia
ALS Metallurgy Pty Ltd Australia
ALS South American Holdings Pty Ltd Australia
ALS Canada Ltd Canada
ALS Testing Services Group, Inc USA
ALS Group General Partnership USA

Page 63 of 84

2018 | Annual report

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS | FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2018 |

ALS LIMITED AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

Notes to the financial statements GROUP STRUCTURE | 5c. Deed of cross guarantee

|

ALS Group USA, Corp USA
ALS USA, Inc USA
ALS Services USA, Corp USA
ALS Technichem (Singapore) Pte Ltd
ALS Chemex South Africa
Singapore
(Proprietary) Ltd South Africa
ALS Burkina SARL Burkina Faso
Group de Laboratoire ALS MALI SARL
Mali
ALS Scandinavia AB Sweden
ALS Inspection UK Limited United Kingdom
ALS Chemex de Mexico S.A. de C.V. Mexico
ALS Patagonia S.A. Chile
ALS Peru S.A. Peru

The above entities were wholly owned at the end of the current year and the comparative year.

capacity as owners. Adjustments to noncontrolling interest are based on a proportionate amount of the net assets of the subsidiary. No adjustments are made to goodwill and no gain or loss is recognised in profit or loss.

Transactions eliminated on consolidation

Intra-group balances and any unrealised gains and losses or income and expenses arising from intragroup transactions, are eliminated in preparing the consolidated financial statements.

Unrealised gains arising from transactions with associates and joint ventures are eliminated to the extent of the Group’s interest in the entity with adjustments made to the “Investments accounted for using the equity method” and “Share of net profit of associates and joint ventures accounted for using the equity method” accounts.

Accounting policy – Consolidated entities

Subsidiaries

Subsidiaries are entities controlled by the Group. The Group controls an entity when it is exposed to or has rights to variable returns from its involvement with the entity and has the ability to affect those returns through its power over the entity. The financial statements of subsidiaries are included in the consolidated financial statements from the date that control commences until the date that control ceases. The accounting policies of subsidiaries have been changed when necessary to align them with the policies adopted by the Group.

Associates and joint ventures

Associates are those entities in which the Group has significant influence, but not control, over the financial and operating policies. Joint ventures are those entities over whose activities the Group has joint control, whereby the Group has rights to the net assets of the arrangement, rather than rights to its assets and obligations for its liabilities.

Interests in associates and joint ventures are accounted for using the equity method. They are recognised initially at cost, which includes transaction costs. Subsequent to initial recognition, the consolidated financial statements include the Group’s share of the profit or loss and OCI of equity accounted investees, until the date on which significant influence or joint control ceases.

Non-controlling interests

Acquisitions of non-controlling interests are accounted for as transactions with owners in their capacity as owners and therefore no goodwill is recognised as a result of such transactions. The adjustments to non-controlling interests are based on a proportionate amount of the net assets of the subsidiary.

Changes in the Group’s interest in a subsidiary that do not result in a loss of control are accounted for as transactions with owners in their

5c. Deed of cross guarantee

Pursuant to ASIC Corporations (Wholly-owned Companies) Instrument 2016/785 dated 28 September 2016 (replacing ASIC Class order 98/1418 dated 13 August 1998), the whollyowned subsidiaries listed below are relieved from the Corporations Act 2001 requirements for preparation, audit and lodgement of financial reports, and directors’ reports.

It is a condition of the Class Order that the Company and each of the subsidiaries enter into a Deed of Cross Guarantee. The effect of the Deed is that the Company guarantees to each creditor payment in full of any debt in the event of winding up of any of the subsidiaries under certain provisions of the Corporations Act 2001. If a winding up occurs under other provisions of the Act, the Company will only be liable in the event that after six months any creditor has not been paid in full. The subsidiaries have also given similar guarantees in the event that the Company is wound up.

The subsidiaries subject to the Deed are:

  • ACIRL Proprietary Limited

  • ACIRL Quality Testing Services Pty Ltd

  • ALS Metallurgy Holdings Pty Ltd

  • ALS Metallurgy Pty Ltd

  • ALS Metallurgy Pty Ltd atf Ammtec Unit Trust

  • ALS Industrial Holdings Pty Ltd

  • ALS Industrial Pty Ltd

  • Australian Laboratory Services Pty Ltd

  • Ecowise Australia Pty Ltd

  • ALS South American Holdings Pty Ltd

A consolidated profit and loss statement, consolidated statement of comprehensive income and consolidated balance sheet, comprising the Company and subsidiaries which are a party to the

Page 64 of 84

2018 | Annual report

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS | FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2018 |

ALS LIMITED AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

Notes to the financial statements GROUP STRUCTURE | 5d. Parent entity disclosures

|

Deed, after eliminating all transactions between parties to the Deed of Cross Guarantee, at 31 March 2018 is set out below.

Summary profit and loss statement and retained profits

In millions of AUD
Profit before tax
Income tax expense
Profit after tax
Retained profits at beginning
of year
Retained earnings adjustment*
Dividends recognised during
the year
Retained profits at end of year
Consolidated
2018
2017
20.3
58.8
(17.3)
(12.8)
3.0
46.0
4.5
16.2
0.7
0.3
(80.8)
(58.0)
(72.6)
4.5
  • Represents applicable amounts taken directly to retained earnings, together with adjustments for changes in the composition of the cross-guarantee group.

Statement of comprehensive income

In millions of AUD
Profit for the period
Total comprehensive income
for the period
Balance Sheet
In millions of AUD
Assets
Consolidated
2018
2017
3.0
46.0
3.0
46.0
Consolidated
2018
2017
Cash and cash equivalents
Trade and other receivables
Inventories
Other
Total current assets
Receivables
Investments accounted for using
the equity method
Investment property
Deferred tax assets
Property, plant and equipment
Intangible assets
Other investments
Total non-current assets
Total assets
Liabilities
41.5
88.8
84.3
85.8
16.8
16.8
3.3
3.2
145.9
194.6
150.9
116.7
14.8
13.9
10.2
10.4
20.9
21.2
139.0
139.6
332.7
368.5
725.9
776.5
1,394.4 1,446.8
1,540.31,641.4
Trade and other payables
Loans and borrowings
Income tax payable
Employee benefits
Total current liabilities
Loans and borrowings
54.4
42.5

0.5
3.1
2.2
30.1
29.3
87.6
74.5
161.9
93.2
Employee benefits
Other
Total non-current liabilities
Total liabilities
Net assets
Equity
7.3
7.0
7.6
8.0
176.8
108.2
264.4
182.7
1,275.9 1,458.7
Share capital
Reserves
Retained earnings
Total equity
1,348.1 1,453.4
0.4
0.8
(72.6)
4.5
1,275.9 1,458.7

5d. Parent entity disclosures

Result of parent entity

Result of parent entity
In millions of AUD 2018 2017
Profit for the period 40.5
42.7
Total comprehensive income
for the period 40.5
42.7
Financial position of parent entity at year end
In millions of AUD 2018 2017
Current assets 44.8
92.3
Total assets 1,756.5 1,814.8
Current liabilities 12.5
10.6
Total liabilities 446.1
358.6
Net assets 1,310.4 1,456.2
Share capital 1,348.1 1,453.4
Reserves 4.6
4.6
Retained earnings (42.3) (1.8)
Total equity 1,310.4 1,456.2
Parent entity capital commitments
In millions of AUD 2018 2017
Plant and equipment contracted
but not provided for and
payable within one year 0.7
0.7

Parent entity guarantees in respect of the debts of its subsidiaries

The Company is party to a number of financing facilities and a Deed of Cross Guarantee under which it guarantees the debts of a number of its subsidiaries. Refer to notes 3c and 5c for details.

Page 65 of 84

2018 | Annual report

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS | FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2018 | Notes to the financial statements TAXATION | 6a. Income taxes

ALS LIMITED AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

|

6. TAXATION

This section provides information about the Group’s income tax expense (including a reconciliation of income tax expense to accounting profit), deferred tax balances and income tax recognised directly in equity. Where relevant the accounting policies that have been applied and significant estimates and judgements made is included with each note.

  • 6a. Income taxes

  • 6b. Deferred tax assets and liabilities

6a. Income taxes

In millions of AUD
Recognised inthe profit and loss statement
Consolidated
2018
2017
Current tax expense from continuing operations
Current year
Adjustments for prior years
Deferred tax expense
44.7
37.4
1.9
3.5
46.6
40.9
Origination and reversal of temporary differences
Total income tax expense in profit and loss statement
Reconciliation between tax expense and pre-tax net profit/(loss)
1.4
1.7
1.4
1.7
48.0
42.6
Profit/(loss) before tax from continuing operations
Income tax using the domestic corporation tax rate of 30% (2017: 30%)
Difference resulting from different tax rates in overseas countries
Increase in income tax expense due to:
115.4
146.1
34.6
43.8
(4.0)
(4.0)
Non-deductible expenses
Non-deductible new market expansion and acquisition related costs
Tax losses of subsidiaries not recognised
Non resident withholding tax paid upon receipt of distributions from foreign related parties
Non-deductible goodwill impairment losses
Non-deductible amortisation of intangibles
**Decrease in income tax expense due to: **
0.8
2.9
0.1
0.5
0.6
0.3
1.4
1.2
18.9

0.8
0.5
22.6
5.4
Previously unrecognised tax losses utilised during the year
Share of associate entities net profit
Foreign statutory tax exemptions granted
Tax exempt revenues
Deductible financing costs
Other deductible items
Under / (over) provided in prior years
Income tax expense on pre-tax net profit/(loss)
Deferred tax recognised directly inequity
(0.6)
(0.5)
(0.5)
(0.6)
(1.4)
(0.1)
(1.2)
(0.3)
(1.9)
(4.0)
(1.5)
(0.6)
1.9
3.5
48.0
42.6
Relating to foreign currency translation reserve
Relating to share capital
Relating to hedging reserve




0.1
(0.1)
0.1
(0.1)

Page 66 of 84

2018 | Annual report

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS | FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2018 |

ALS LIMITED AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

Notes to the financial statements TAXATION | 6b. Deferred tax assets and liabilities

|

6b. Deferred tax assets and liabilities

Recognised deferred tax assets and liabilities

Deferred tax assets and liabilities are attributable to the following:

Consolidated
In millions of AUD
Property, plant and equipment
Land and buildings
Unrealised FX losses/(gains)
Provisions and other payables
Undeducted equity raising costs
Undeducted capital expenditure
Fair value derivatives
Intangible assets
Inventories
Other items
Tax value of loss carry-forwards recognised
Tax assets / liabilities
Set off of tax
Net tax assets / liabilities
Assets
Liabilities
Net
2018
2017
2018
2017
2018
2017
5.8
6.6
7.0
7.8
(1.2)
(1.2)



0.2

(0.2)
8.6
7.0
6.0
6.1
2.6
0.9
16.8
17.0


16.8
17.0
0.9
1.2


0.9
1.2








1.4
1.6
(1.4)
(1.6)








4.8
5.2
(4.8)
(5.2)
1.7
2.0
2.1
1.4
(0.4)
0.6





33.8
33.8
21.3
22.3
12.5
11.5
(11.8)
(13.3)
(11.8)
(13.3)

22.0
20.5
9.5
9.0
12.5
11.5

Unrecognised deferred tax assets

Deferred tax assets have not been recognised in respect of the following items:

In millions of AUD
Tax losses
Consolidated
Deferred tax assets have not been recognised in respect of these
items because it is not probable that future taxable profit will be
available against which the Group can utilise the benefits.
2018
2017
34.8
19.3

Accounting policy

Income taxes

Income tax on the profit or loss for the year comprises current and deferred tax. Income tax is recognised in the profit and loss statement except to the extent that it relates to items recognised directly in equity or other comprehensive income, in which case it is recognised in equity or other comprehensive income, respectively.

Current tax is the expected tax payable on the taxable income for the year, using tax rates enacted or substantially enacted at the balance sheet date, and any adjustment to tax payable in respect of previous years.

Deferred tax is provided using the balance sheet method, providing for temporary differences between the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities for financial reporting purposes and the amounts used for taxation purposes. The following temporary differences are not provided for: initial recognition of goodwill, the initial recognition of assets or liabilities that affect neither accounting nor taxable profit, and differences relating to investments in subsidiaries to the extent that they will probably not reverse in the foreseeable future. The amount of deferred tax provided is based on the expected manner of realisation or settlement of the carrying amount of assets and liabilities, using tax rates enacted or substantively enacted at the balance sheet date.

A deferred tax asset is recognised only to the extent that it is probable that future taxable profits will be available against which the asset can be utilised. Deferred tax assets are reviewed at each reporting date and are reduced to the extent that it is no longer probable that the related tax benefit will be realised.

Additional income taxes that arise from the distribution of dividends are recognised at the same time as the liability to pay the related dividend.

Tax consolidation

The Company and its wholly-owned Australian resident entities have formed a tax-consolidated group with effect from 1 April 2003 and are therefore taxed as a single entity from that date. The head entity within the tax-consolidated group is ALS Limited.

Page 67 of 84

2018 | Annual report

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS | FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2018 | Notes to the financial statements OTHER INFORMATION | 7a. Basis of preparation

ALS LIMITED AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

|

Nature of tax funding arrangements

The head entity, in conjunction with other members of the tax-consolidated group, has entered into a tax funding arrangement which sets out the funding obligations of members of the tax-consolidated group in respect of tax amounts. The tax funding arrangements require payments to/from the head entity equal to the current tax liability (asset) assumed by the head entity and any tax-loss deferred tax asset assumed by the head entity, resulting in the head entity recognising an inter-entity payable (receivable) equal in amount to the tax liability (asset) assumed. The inter-entity payables (receivables) are at call.

Contributions to fund the current tax liabilities are payable as per the tax funding arrangement and reflect the timing of the head entity’s obligation to make payments for tax liabilities to the relevant tax authorities.

Goods and services tax

Revenue, expenses and assets are recognised net of the amount of goods and services tax (GST), except where the amount of GST incurred is not recoverable from the taxation authority. In these circumstances, the GST is recognised as part of the cost of acquisition of the asset or as part of the expense.

Receivables and payables are stated with the amount of GST included. The net amount of GST recoverable from, or payable to, the taxation authority is included as a current asset or liability in the balance sheet.

Cash flows are included in the statement of cash flows on a gross basis. The GST components of cash flows arising from investing and financing activities which are recoverable from, or payable to, the taxation authority, are classified as operating cash flows.

7. OTHER INFORMATION

This section provides information on items that are not considered to be significant in understanding the financial performance and position of the Group, but must be disclosed to comply with the Accounting Standards, the Corporation Act 2001 or the Corporations Regulations.

  • 7a. Basis of preparation

  • 7b. Significant accounting policies

  • 7c. Determination of fair value

  • 7d. Auditors’ remuneration

  • 7e. Events subsequent to balance date

7a. Basis of preparation

Statement of compliance

The financial report is a general purpose financial report which has been prepared in accordance with Australian Accounting Standards (“AASBs”) adopted by the Australian Accounting Standards Board (“AASB”) and the Corporations Act 2001. The consolidated financial report of the Group also complies with the International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRSs) adopted by the International Accounting Standards Board.

The financial report was authorised for issue by the directors on 28 May 2018.

Basis of measurement

The financial report is prepared on the historical cost basis except that derivative financial instruments and liabilities for cash-settled share based payments are measured at fair value.

Functional and presentation currency

The financial report is presented in Australian dollars which is the Company’s functional currency. The Company is of a kind referred to in ASIC Corporations (Rounding in Financial/Directors’ Reports) Instrument 2016/191 dated 24 March 2016 and in accordance with that Instrument, amounts in the financial report have been rounded off to the nearest hundred thousand dollars, unless otherwise stated.

Use of estimates and judgements

The preparation of a financial report requires judgements, estimates and assumptions to be made, affecting the application of policies and reported amounts of assets and liabilities, income and expenses. The estimates and associated assumptions are based on historical experience and various other factors that are believed to be reasonable under the circumstances, the results of which form the basis of making the judgements about carrying values of assets and liabilities that are not readily apparent from other sources. Actual results may differ from these estimates.

The estimates and underlying assumptions are reviewed on an ongoing basis. Revisions to accounting estimates are recognised in the period in which the estimate is revised if the revision affects only that period, or in the period of the revision and future periods if the revision affects both current and future periods.

In particular, the most significant uses of estimates and judgements are described in note 2f – Intangible assets and note 5a – Acquisitions of subsidiaries and non-controlling interests.

Page 68 of 84

2018 | Annual report

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS | FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2018 |

ALS LIMITED AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

Notes to the financial statements OTHER INFORMATION | 7b. Significant accounting policies

|

7b. Significant accounting policies

The accounting policies applied by the Group in this financial report are the same as those applied by the Group in its consolidated financial report as at and for the year ended 31 March 2017.

Accounting policies that apply to specific content in the financial statements have been included within the relevant notes.

Accounting policies that apply across a number of contents in the financial statements are listed below.

Impairment

Financial assets

A financial asset is assessed at each reporting date to determine whether there is any objective evidence that it is impaired. A financial asset is considered to be impaired if objective evidence indicates that one or more events have had a negative effect on the estimated future cash flows of that asset.

An impairment loss in respect of a financial asset measured at amortised cost is calculated as the difference between its carrying amount, and the present value of the estimated future cash flows discounted at the original effective interest rate. An impairment loss in respect of an available-forsale financial asset is calculated by reference to its fair value.

Individually significant financial assets are tested for impairment on an individual basis. The remaining financial assets are assessed collectively in groups that share similar credit risk characteristics.

All impairment losses are recognised in the profit and loss statement.

An impairment loss is reversed if the reversal can be related objectively to an event occurring after the impairment loss was recognised. For financial assets measured at amortised cost, the reversal is recognised in the profit and loss statement.

Non-financial assets

The carrying amounts of the Group’s non-financial assets, other than inventories (see note 2b) and deferred tax assets (see note 6b), are reviewed at each balance sheet date to determine whether there is any indication of impairment. If any such indication exists, the asset’s recoverable amount is estimated. For goodwill, assets that have an indefinite useful life and intangible assets that are not yet available for use, the recoverable amount is estimated at each balance sheet date.

An impairment loss is recognised whenever the carrying amount of an asset or its cash-generating unit exceeds its recoverable amount. Impairment losses are recognised in the profit and loss statement, unless an asset has previously been revalued, in which case the impairment loss is

recognised as a reversal to the extent of that previous revaluation with any excess recognised through the profit and loss statement.

Impairment losses recognised in respect of cashgenerating units are allocated first to reduce the carrying amount of any goodwill allocated to cashgenerating units (group of units) and then, to reduce the carrying amount of the other assets in the unit (group of units) on a pro rata basis.

Goodwill that forms part of the carrying amount of an investment in equity accounted investees is not recognised separately, and therefore is not tested for impairment separately. Instead, the entire amount of the investment is tested for impairment as a single asset when there is objective evidence that the investment may be impaired.

Hedging

Cash flow hedges

Where a derivative financial instrument is designated as a hedge of the variability in cash flows of a recognised asset or liability, or a highly probable forecast transaction, the effective portion of any gain or loss on the derivative financial instrument is recognised in other comprehensive income and presented in the hedging reserve in equity. When the forecast transaction subsequently results in the recognition of a non-financial asset or non-financial liability, or the forecast transaction for a nonfinancial asset or non-financial liability, the associated cumulative gain or loss is transferred from other comprehensive income and included in the initial cost or other carrying amount of the nonfinancial asset or liability. In other cases the amount recognised in other comprehensive income is transferred to the profit and loss statement in the same period that the hedged item affects profit or loss.

The ineffective portion of any change in fair value is recognised immediately in the profit and loss statement.

When a hedging instrument expires or is sold, terminated or exercised, or the entity revokes designation of the hedge relationship, but the hedged forecast transaction is still expected to occur, the cumulative gain or loss at that point remains in equity and is recognised in accordance with the above policy when the transaction occurs. If the hedged transaction is no longer expected to take place, the cumulative unrealised gain or loss recognised in other comprehensive income is recognised immediately in the profit and loss statement.

Fair value hedges

Changes in the fair value of a derivative hedging instrument designated as a fair value hedge are recognised in the profit or loss. The hedged item also is stated at fair value in respect of the risk being hedged; the gain or loss attributable to the

Page 69 of 84

2018 | Annual report

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS | FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2018 |

ALS LIMITED AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

Notes to the financial statements OTHER INFORMATION | 7b. Significant accounting policies

|

hedged risk is recognised in profit or loss with an adjustment to the carrying amount of the hedged item.

Economic hedges

Where a derivative financial instrument is not designated in a qualifying hedge relationship, all changes in fair value are recognised in the profit and loss statement

Foreign currency

Foreign currency transactions

Transactions in foreign currencies are translated at the foreign exchange rate ruling at the date of the transaction. Monetary assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies at the balance sheet date are translated to Australian dollars at the foreign exchange rate ruling at that date. Foreign exchange differences arising on translation are recognised in the profit and loss statement, except for differences arising on the translation of a financial liability designated as a hedge of the net investment in a foreign operation or qualifying cash flow hedges, which are recognised in other comprehensive income. Non-monetary assets and liabilities that are measured in terms of historical cost in a foreign currency are translated using the exchange rate at the date of the transaction. Non-monetary assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies that are stated at fair value are translated to Australian dollars at foreign exchange rates ruling at the dates the fair value was determined.

Financial statements of foreign operations

The assets and liabilities of foreign operations, including goodwill and fair value adjustments arising on consolidation, are translated to Australian dollars at foreign exchange rates ruling at the balance sheet date. The revenues and expenses of foreign operations are translated to Australian dollars at rates approximating the foreign exchange rates ruling at the dates of the transactions. Foreign exchange differences arising on retranslation are recognised in other comprehensive income and presented in the foreign currency translation reserve (FCTR). When a foreign operation is disposed of, in part or in full, the relevant amount in the FCTR is transferred to profit or loss as part of the profit or loss on disposal. When the settlement of a monetary item receivable from or payable to a foreign operation is neither planned nor likely in the foreseeable future, foreign exchange gains and losses arising from such a monetary item are considered to form part of a net investment in a foreign operation and are recognised in other comprehensive income, and are presented within equity in the FCTR.

Hedge of net investment in foreign operations

The Group applies hedge accounting to foreign currency differences arising between the functional currency of the foreign operation and the parent entity’s functional currency regardless of whether the net investments are held directly or through an intermediate parent. Foreign currency differences arising on the retranslation of a financial liability designated as a hedge of a net investment in a foreign operation are recognised in other comprehensive income, in the foreign currency translation reserve, to the extent that the hedge is effective. To the extent that the hedge is ineffective, such differences are recognised in the profit and loss statement. When the hedged part of a net investment is disposed of, the associated cumulative amount in equity is transferred to the profit and loss statement as an adjustment to the gain or loss on disposal.

Derivative financial instruments

The Group uses derivative financial instruments to hedge its exposure to foreign exchange and interest rate risks arising from operational, financing and investment activities. In accordance with its treasury policy, the Group does not hold or issue derivative financial instruments for trading purposes. However, derivatives that do not qualify for hedge accounting are accounted for as trading instruments.

On initial designation of the hedge, the Group formally documents the relationship between the hedging instrument(s) and hedged item(s), including the risk management objectives and strategy in undertaking the hedge transaction, together with the methods that will be used to assess the effectiveness of the hedging relationship. The Group makes an assessment, both at the inception of the hedge relationship as well as on an ongoing basis, whether the hedging instruments are expected to be “highly effective” in offsetting the changes in the fair value or cash flows of the respective hedged items during the period for which the hedge is designated, and whether the actual results of each hedge are within a range of 80-125 percent. For a cash flow hedge of a forecast transaction, the transaction should be highly probable to occur and should present an exposure to variations in cash flows that could ultimately affect reported net income.

Derivative financial instruments are recognised initially at fair value. Subsequent to initial recognition, derivative financial instruments are stated at fair value and changes therein are recognised immediately in the profit and loss statement. However, where derivatives qualify for hedge accounting, recognition of any resultant gain or loss depends on the nature of the item being hedged.

Page 70 of 84

2018 | Annual report

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS | FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2018 |

ALS LIMITED AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

Notes to the financial statements OTHER INFORMATION | 7b. Significant accounting policies

|

New standards and interpretations not yet adopted

A number of new standards, amendments to standards and interpretations are effective for annual periods beginning after 1 April 2017 and early application is permitted. These have not been applied in preparing these consolidated financial statements.

AASB 9 will become mandatory for the Group’s 2019 consolidated financial statements and could change the classification and measurement of financial instruments, including a new expected credit loss model for calculating impairment on financial assets and new hedge accounting requirements. It also carries forward the guidance on recognition and de-recognition of financial instruments from AASB 139. The Group does not plan to adopt this standard early.

AASB 15 will become mandatory for the Group’s 2019 consolidated financial statements. It establishes a comprehensive framework for determining whether, how much, and when revenue is recognised, and replaces existing revenue recognition guidance. The Group does not plan to adopt the standard early.

AASB 16 will become mandatory for the Group’s 2020 consolidated financial statements (however may be early adopted to align concurrently with the adoption of AASB 15). The new standard requires companies to bring most leases onbalance sheet, recognising new assets and liabilities. The Group does not plan to adopt the standard early and the Group’s in the process of assessing the potential impact.

A. Estimated impact of the adoption of AASB 9 and AASB 15

The Group is required to adopt AASB 9 Financial Instruments and AASB 15 Revenue from Contracts with Customers from 1 April 2018. The Group has assessed the estimated impact that the initial application of AASB 9 and AASB 15 will have on its consolidated financial statements. The estimated impact of the adoption of these standards on the Group’s equity as at 1 April 2018 is based on assessments undertaken to date and is summarised below. The actual impacts of adopting the standards at 1 April 2018 may change because the new accounting policies are subject to change until the Group presents its first financial statements that include the date of initial application.

Estimated impact of adoption of AASB 9 and AASB 15

In millions of
AUD
As reported at 31
March 2018
Estimated
adjustments due
to adoption of
AASB 9
Estimated
adjustments due
to adoption of
AASB 15
Estimated
adjusted opening
balance at 1 April
2018
Trade and
other
receivables
(net)
278.3
(1.9)

276.4
Inventories
75.8

(19.6)
56.2
Assets held
for sale
25.3

(0.5)
24.8
Deferred
Tax Assets
22.0
0.5
7.9
30.4
Trade and
other
payables
(169.8)

(9.2)
(179.0)
Retained
earnings
229.1
1.4
21.4
251.9

The total estimated adjustment (net of tax) to the opening balance of the Group’s equity at 1 April 2018 is $22.8 million. The principal components of the estimated adjustment are as follows.

A decrease of $14.7million in retained earnings (net of tax) due to changes in recognition of accrued revenues for non-project related works in progress, reducing inventories by $19.6million and Assets held for sale by $0.5million respectively.

A decrease of $6.7million in retained earnings (net of tax) due to a deferral in recognition of revenues attaching to the Company’s Tribology operations increasing Trade and other payables as unearned revenues by $9.2million.

A decrease of $1.4million in retained earnings (net of tax) due to impairment losses on financial assets, including additional loss allowances in respect of trade receivables. Trade and other receivables (net) will decrease by $1.9million due to increased provisions recognised on the initial application of AASB 15.

B. AASB 16 Leases

AASB 16 replaces existing leases guidance, including IAS 17 Leases, IFRIC 4 Determining whether an Arrangement contains a Lease, SIC-15 Operating Leases – Incentives and SIC-27 Evaluating the Substance of Transactions Involving the Legal Form of a Lease.

This standard will become effective for the Company for annual periods beginning on or after 1 April 2019.

AASB 16 introduces a single, on-balance sheet lease accounting model for lessees. A lessee recognises a right-of-use asset representing its right to use the underlying asset and a lease

Page 71 of 84

2018 | Annual report

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS | FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2018 | Notes to the financial statements OTHER INFORMATION |

ALS LIMITED AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

|

liability representing its obligation to make lease payments. There are recognition exemptions for short-term leases and leases of low-value items. Lessor accounting remains similar to the current standard – i.e. lessors continue to classify leases as finance or operating leases.

The Group has completed an initial assessment of the potential impact on its consolidated financial statements but has not yet completed its detailed assessment. The actual impact of applying AASB 16 on the financial statements in the period of initial application will depend on future economic conditions, including the Group’s borrowing rate at 1 April 2019, the composition of the Group’s lease portfolio at that date, the Group’s latest assessment of whether it will exercise any lease renewal options and the extent to which the Group chooses to use practical expedients and recognition exemptions.

7c. Determination of fair value

The following summarises the major methods and assumptions used in estimating the fair values for measurement and disclosure purposes:

Fair value hierarchy

In determining fair value measurement for disclosure purposes, the Group uses the following fair value measurement hierarchy that reflects the significance of the inputs used in making the measurements:

  • Level 1: Quoted market price (unadjusted) in an active market for an identical instrument.

  • Level 2: Valuation techniques based on observable inputs, either directly (i.e. as prices) or indirectly (i.e. derived from prices).

  • Level 3: Valuation techniques using significant unobservable inputs. This category includes all instruments where the valuation technique includes inputs not based on observable data and the unobservable inputs have a significant effect on the instrument’s valuation.

Loans and borrowings

Fair value is calculated based on discounted expected future principal and interest cash flows, discounted at the market rate of interest at the measurement date.

Trade and other receivables / payables

For receivables / payables with a remaining life of less than one year, the notional amount is deemed to reflect the fair value. All other receivables / payables are discounted to determine the fair value.

Finance leases

The fair value is estimated as the present value of future cash flows, discounted at market interest rates for homogenous lease agreements. The estimated fair value reflects changes in interest rates.

Share-based payment transactions

The fair value of share-based awards to employees is measured using Binomial Tree (Earnings per Share and EBITDA hurdles and service condition) and Monte-Carlo Simulation (Total Shareholder Return hurdle) valuation methodologies. Measurement inputs include the Company’s share price on measurement date, expected volatility thereof, expected life of the awards, the Company’s expected dividend yield and the riskfree interest rate. Service and non-market performance conditions attached to the transactions are not taken into account in determining fair value. Refer note 8a for details.

Contingent consideration

The fair value of contingent consideration is calculated using the income approach based on the expected payment amounts and their associated probabilities. When appropriate, it is discounted to present value.

Derivatives

Forward exchange contracts are marked to market using publicly available forward rates. Interest rate contracts are marked to market using discounted estimated future cash flows based on the terms and maturity of each contract and using market interest rates for a similar instrument at the measurement date.

Where discounted cash flow techniques are used, estimated future cash flows are based on management’s best estimates and the discount rate is a market related rate for a similar instrument at the balance sheet date. Where other pricing models are used, inputs are based on market related data at the balance sheet date.

Page 72 of 84

2018 | Annual report

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS | FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2018 |

ALS LIMITED AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

Notes to the financial statements EMPLOYMENT MATTERS | 8a. Share-based payments

|

7d. Auditors’ remuneration

In thousands of AUD
Audit services
Consolidated
2018
2017
Auditors of the Company
KPMG Australia:
Audit and review of consolidated and company financial reports
Other regulatory services
Other KPMG member firms:
Audit and review of financial reports
Other auditors
Audit and review of financial reports
Other services
615.9
604.0
73.0
-
1,073.3
1,475.0
-
100.0
1,762.2
2,179.0
Auditors of the Company
KPMG Australia
Other assurance and investigation services
Taxation services
Other KPMG member firms:
Other assurance and investigation services
Taxation services
263.3
194.0
53.3
23.0
131.6
79.0
495.0
485.0
943.2
781.0

7e. Events subsequent to balance date

There has not arisen in the interval between the end of the financial year and the date of this report any item, transaction or event of a material and unusual nature likely, in the opinion of the directors of the company, to affect significantly the operations of the Group, the results of those operations, or the state of affairs of the Group, in future financial years.

8. EMPLOYMENT MATTERS

This section provides information on items relating to share based payments and key management personnel .

  • 8a. Share based payments

  • 8b. Key management personnel

8a. Share-based payments

The Group operates a Long-Term Incentive Plan (LTIP) designed as a retention and reward tool for high performing personnel. Under the Plan key employees may be granted conditional rights to receive ordinary shares in the Company at no cost to the employees (or in limited cases to receive cash-settled awards).

During the year, the Group granted performance-hurdle rights. The concept of service-based rights (introduced under the LTIP during a previous financial year) was discontinued and no such rights were issued in FY2018. The only condition attaching to service-based rights is that an employee must remain employed by the Group until vesting date. As no performance hurdles attach to these rights, the number of rights issued to an individual employee is significantly less than the number of performance-hurdle rights that would otherwise be issued to an employee of similar standing.

Service based rights will be issued during FY2019 to some key management personnel (KMP) under the Short-Term Incentive Plan in respect of deferred compensation earned for STI outperformance during FY2018. An estimated accrual for the fair value of services received in return for these deferred STI service rights has been made at 31 March 2018 and included in the value of share-based awards for KMPs shown in table 5.2 of the Remuneration Report.

All of the rights carry an exercise price of nil. The terms and conditions of rights in existence during the year are set out below together with details of rights vested, lapsed and forfeited:

Page 73 of 84

2018 | Annual report

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS | FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2018 | Notes to the financial statements EMPLOYMENT MATTERS | 8a. Share-based payments

ALS LIMITED AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

|

Equity-settled performance rights

All equity-settled rights refer to rights over ordinary shares in the Company and entitle an executive to ordinary shares on the vesting date subject to the achievement of performance hurdles and or a service condition. The rights expire on termination of an executive’s employment prior to the vesting date and or upon the failure of achievement of performance hurdles.

Performance-hurdle rights granted year ended 31 March:
Date of grant
Testing date for performance hurdles
Vesting date and testing date for service condition
Number of rights:
2018
2017
2016
2015
20-Jul-17
26-Jul-16
30-Jul-15
29-Jul-14
31-Mar-20
31-Mar-19
31-Mar-18
31-Mar-17
1-Jul-20
1-Jul-19
1-Jul-18
1-Jul-17
Opening balance 1 April
Granted
Vested & exercised
Lapsed(a)
Closing balance 31 March

803,680
480,280
345,848
569,032




(2,855)
(4,036)
(103,920)
(12,088)
(79,900)
(19,169)
(241,928)
556,944
720,925
457,075

(a) Performance-hurdle rights lapsed due to hurdles not being met or on cessation of employment.

No service-based rights were issued in FY2018:

Service-based rights granted year ended 31 March:
Date of grant
Vesting date and testing date for service condition
Number of rights:
2018
2017
2016
2016
2016


1-Dec-15
1-Nov-15
30-Jul-15


1-Dec-18
1-Nov-18
1-Jul-18
Opening balance 1 Apri
Granted
Lapsed(a)
Closing balance 31 March


10,000
135,514
48,062






(10,000)
(67,757)
(37,214)



67,757
10,848

(a) Service-based rights lapsed due to cessation of employment.

Cash-settled performance rights

All cash-settled performance rights expire on termination of an executive’s employment prior to the vesting date and or upon the failure of achievement of performance hurdles. The amount of cash payment is determined based on the volume weighted average price of the Company’s shares over the 20 trading days following the release of the Group’s full year results for the final year of each performance period.

Performance-hurdle rights granted year ended 31 March:
Date of grant
Testing date for performance hurdles
Vesting date and testing date for service condition
Number of rights:
2018
2017
2016
2015
27-Jul-16
27-Jul-16
30-Jul-15
29-Jul-14
31-Mar-19
31-Mar-19
31-Mar-18
31-Mar-17
1-Jul-19
1-Jul-19
1-Jul-18
1-Jul-17
2018
2017
2016
2015
27-Jul-16
27-Jul-16
30-Jul-15
29-Jul-14
31-Mar-19
31-Mar-19
31-Mar-18
31-Mar-17
1-Jul-19
1-Jul-19
1-Jul-18
1-Jul-17
Opening balance 1 April

36,190
72,540
45,174
Granted
40,974



Vested & exercised



(39,555)
Lapsed (a)

(6,994)

(5,619)
Closing balance 31 March
40,974
29,196
72,540

(a) Performance-hurdle rights lapsed due to hurdles not being met or on cessation of employment.
No service-based rights were issued in FY2018:
Service-based rights granted year ended 31 March:
2018
2017
2016
Date of grant


30-Jul-15
Vesting date and testing date for service condition


1-Jul-18
Number of rights:

36,190
72,540
45,174
40,974






(39,555)

(6,994)

(5,619)
40,974
29,196
72,540
Opening balance 1 April
Granted
Lapsed (a)
Closing balance 31 March


10,436





(10,436)


Page 74 of 84

2018 | Annual report

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS | FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2018 |

ALS LIMITED AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

Notes to the financial statements EMPLOYMENT MATTERS | 8a. Share-based payments

|

Vesting conditions – performance hurdle rights

Vesting conditions in relation to the performancehurdle rights granted in July 2017 are set out below:

Employees must be employed by the Group on the vesting date (1 July 2020). The rights vest only if Earnings Per Share (“EPS”), relative Earnings before Interest, Tax, Depreciation and Amortisation (“EBITDA”), relative Total Shareholder Return (“TSR”) or Return on Capital Employed (“ROCE”) hurdles are achieved by the Company over the specified performance period. 25 percent of employees’ rights are subject to each of these hurdles. The performance hurdles and vesting proportions for each measure are as follows:

Compound annual
diluted Underlying
EPS growth
Proportion of
performance rights
that may be exercised
if Underlying EPS
growth hurdle is met
Less
than
5%
per
annum
0%
Between 5% and 9%
per annum
Straight line vesting
between 12.5% and
25% of total grant
9% or higher per
annum
25% of total grant
Underlying EBITDA
margin of ALS
relative to
Underlying EBITDA
margin of
comparator peer
companies
Proportion of
performance rights
that may be exercised
if Underlying EBITDA
hurdle is met
Less than the 50th
percentile
0%
Between the 50th and
75th percentile
Straight line vesting
between 12.5% and 25%
of total grant
75th percentile or
higher
25% of total grant

The Underlying EBITDA margin measurement is contingent upon performance of the Company against a group of comparator peer companies, which include:

Bureau Veritas (France), Core Laboratories (USA), Eurofins (France), Intertek (UK), SGS (Switzerland), Mistras (USA) and Applus (Spain).

TSR of ALS relative
to TSR of companies
in ASX 100 Index
over the
performance period
Proportion of
performance rights that
may be exercised if TSR
hurdle is met
Less than the 50th
percentile
0%
Between 50th
percentile and 75th
percentile
Straight line vesting
between 12.5% and 25%
of total grant
75th percentile or
higher
25% of total grant

The TSR measurement is contingent upon performance of the Company against companies comprising the ASX 100 Index at the start of the performance period.

ROCE Performance (3
year average)
Proportion of
performance rights
that may be exercised
if ROCE hurdle is met
Below 12.2% 0%
Between 12.2% and
17.2%
Straight line vesting
between 0% and 25%
of total grant
At or above 17.2% 25% of total grant

ROCE is calculated as Underlying Earnings before Interest and Tax ( EBIT ) over the three (3) year performance period divided by Capital Employed expressed as a percentage.

Capital Employed = Total Shareholders’ Equity + Net Debt (the sum of the simple averages of the balances at the beginning and end of each year during the performance period.

The cumulative performance hurdles are assessed at the testing date and the “at risk” LTI component becomes exercisable or is forfeited by the executive at this time. New offers of participation are ratified by the Board after recommendation by the People Committee.

Expenses recognised as employee costs in relation to share-based payments

The fair value of services received in return for LTIP rights granted during the year ended 31 March 2018 is based on the fair value of the rights granted measured using Binomial Tree (EPS, EBITDA and ROCE hurdles and service condition) and Monte-Carlo Simulation (TSR hurdle) valuation methodologies with the following inputs:

Page 75 of 84

2018 | Annual report

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS | FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2018 |

ALS LIMITED AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

Notes to the financial statements EMPLOYMENT MATTERS | 8b. Key management personnel disclosures

|

Granted Granted
2018 2017
Equity-settled rights
Date of grant 20 July
2017
26 July
2016
Weighted average fair
value at date of grant of $6.21 $4.30
performance-hurdle rights
Share price at date of grant $7.18 $5.09
Expected volatility 40% 45%
Expected life 3.0
years
2.9 years
Risk-free interest rate 2.01% 1.49%
Dividend yield 2.40% 3.00%
Granted Granted
2018 2017
Cash-settled rights
Date of grant 20 July
2017
26 July
2016
Weighted average fair
value at date of grant of $6.21 $4.30
performance-hurdle rights
Share price at date of grant $7.18 $5.09
Expected volatility 40% 45%
Expected life 3.0
years
2.9 years
Risk-free interest rate 2.01% 1.49%
Dividend yield 2.40% 3.00%

The fair value of the liability for cash-settled rights, for which performance hurdle testing dates remain in the future, is remeasured at each reporting date.

Service based rights will be issued during FY2019 to some key management personnel (KMP) under the Short-Term Incentive Plan in respect of deferred compensation earned for STI outperformance during FY2018. An estimated accrual for the fair value of services received in return for these deferred STI service rights has been made at 31 March 2018 and included in the value of share-based awards for KMPs shown in table 5.2 of the Remuneration Report. As these service rights are yet to be issued, their value has been estimated using the volume weighted average price (VWAP) of ALS shares over the five trading days which followed 31 March 2018 ($7.31).

Expenses recognised in relation to share-based payments during the year were:

In millions of AUD
Note
Equity-settled rights
1d
Cash-settled rights
Total expenses
recognised as
employee costs
Carrying amount of
liabilities for cash-
settled rights
Consolidated
2018
2017
2.2
2.0
0.5
0.2
2.7
2.2
0.2
0.4

8b. Key management personnel disclosures

The following were key management personnel of the Group at any time during the reporting period and unless otherwise indicated were key management personnel for the entire period:

Non-executive directors

Bruce Phillips (Chairman)

Mel Bridges

Grant Murdoch

John Mulcahy

Charlie Sartain Tonianne Dwyer

Executive Directors

Raj Naran (appointed Managing Director & CEO 20 July 2017; previously Deputy CEO and Group GM Life Sciences)

Greg Kilmister (retired as Managing Director and CEO 20 July 2017)

Executives

Bruce McDonald (GM Geochemistry)

Andreas Jonsson (GM Life Sciences, Europe)

Tim Kilmister (GM Life Sciences, APAC)

David Prince (GM Life Sciences, Americas)

Kristen Walsh (GM Industrial)

Richard Stephens (Chief Financial Officer)

Former Executive

Brian Williams (Group GM Commodities Division until 3 July 2017)

Page 76 of 84

2018 | Annual report

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS | FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2018 |

ALS LIMITED AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

Notes to the financial statements EMPLOYMENT MATTERS | 8b. Key management personnel disclosures

|

The key management personnel compensation included in employee expenses are as follows:

In AUD
Short term employee
benefits
Post-employment benefits
Value of share-based
awards
Termination benefits
Other long-term benefits
Consolidated
2018
2017
8,101,594
6,420,135
243,433
251,938
1,024,163
559,403
2,129,124

7,189
5,946
11,505,503
7,237,422

Related party transaction

The Group had previously entered into property lease agreements in the USA with a company in which Raj Naran (Managing Director and CEO) holds a controlling interest. The property was sold by that company in January 2018; such transaction having been approved in advance by the ALS Limited Board. Lease rental expense in AUD during the year to the date of disposal was $590,844 (2017: $808,436) and the amount outstanding at the end of the year was Nil (2017: Nil).

Page 77 of 84

2018 | Annual report

DIRECTORS’ DECLARATION FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2018

ALS LIMITED AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

Directors’ declaration

In the opinion of the directors of ALS Limited (“the Company”):

  1. The consolidated financial statements and notes numbered 1a to 8b, and the remuneration report contained in the Directors’ report, are in accordance with the Corporations Act 2001 including:

  2. a) giving a true and fair view of the Group’s financial position as at 31 March 2018 and of its performance for the year ended on that date: and

  3. b) complying with Australian Accounting Standards and the Corporations Regulations 2001; and

  4. the financial report also complies with the International Financial Reporting Standards as disclosed in note 7a;

  5. there are reasonable grounds to believe that the Company will be able to pay its debts as and when they become due and payable.

There are reasonable grounds to believe that the Company and the subsidiaries identified in note 5c will be able to meet any obligations or liabilities to which they are or may become subject, by virtue of the Deed of Cross Guarantee between the Company and those entities, pursuant to ASIC Corporations (Wholly-owned Companies) Instrument 2016/785 dated 28 September 2016 (replacing ASIC Class Order 98/1418 dated 13 August 1998).

The directors have been given the declarations required by Section 295A of the Corporations Act 2001 from the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer for the financial year ended 31 March 2018. Signed in accordance with a resolution of the directors:

==> picture [96 x 58] intentionally omitted <==

Bruce Phillips Chairman Brisbane 28 May 2018

==> picture [167 x 42] intentionally omitted <==

Raj Naran Managing Director Brisbane 28 May 2018

Page 78 of 84

2018 | Annual report

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Independent Auditor’s Report

To the shareholders of ALS Limited

Report on the audit of the Financial Report

Opinion

We have audited the Financial Report of ALS Limited (the Company).

In our opinion, the accompanying Financial Report of the Company is in accordance with the Corporations Act 2001 , including:

  • giving a true and fair view of the Group’s financial position as at 31 March 2018 and of its financial performance for the year ended on that date; and

  • complying with Australian Accounting Standards and the Corporations Regulations 2001 .

The Financial Report comprises:

  • Consolidated balance sheet as at 31 March 2018;

  • Consolidated statement of profit and loss and other comprehensive income, consolidated statement of changes in equity, and consolidated statement of cash flows for the year then ended;

  • Notes including a summary of significant accounting policies; and

  • Directors’ Declaration.

The Group consists of the Company and the entities it controlled at the year-end or from time to time during the financial year.

Basis for opinion

We conducted our audit in accordance with Australian Auditing Standards . We believe that the audit evidence we have obtained is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for our opinion.

Our responsibilities under those standards are further described in the Auditor’s responsibilities for the audit of the Financial Report section of our report.

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

Page 79 of 84

KPMG, an Australian partnership and a member firm of the KPMG network of independent member firms affiliated with KPMG International Cooperative (“KPMG International”), a Swiss entity.

Liability limited by a scheme approved under Professional Standards Legislation.

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Key Audit Matters

The Key Audit Matters we identified are:

  • Valuation of goodwill

  • Decentralised operations

Key Audit Matters are those matters that, in our professional judgement, were of most significance in our audit of the Financial Report of the current period.

These matters were addressed in the context of our audit of the Financial Report as a whole, and in forming our opinion thereon, and we do not provide a separate opinion on these matters.

Valuation of goodwill

Refer to Note 2f to the Financial Report

The key audit matter

How the matter was addressed in our audit

Valuation of goodwill Valuation of goodwill Valuation of goodwill
Refer to Note 2f to the Financial Report
The key audit matter How the matter was addressed in our audit
The assessment of impairment of the Group’s
goodwill is a key audit matter due to the
significance of the amount to the Group’s
balance sheet (47% of total assets) and the
inherent uncertainty involved in forecasting and
discounting future cash flows, which are the
basis of the assessment of recoverability.
Management’s
impairment
assessment
incorporated significant judgment in respect of
factors such as working capital, discount rates,
foreign exchange rates and growth rates, which
necessitated significant involvement from senior
audit team members and specialists to challenge
management’s assumptions. Judgment was
also applied in the identification of cash-
generating units (CGUs) due to the geographical
diversity of the Group’s operations.
During the half-year an impairment was recorded
by the ALS Industrial and ALS Coal CGUs. Given
they were written down to recoverable amount,
these CGUs are sensitive to changes in
assumptions which has been disclosed in the
Financial Report.
The assessment of impairment of the Group’s
goodwill is a key audit matter due to the
significance of the amount to the Group’s
balance sheet (47% of total assets) and the
inherent uncertainty involved in forecasting and
discounting future cash flows, which are the
basis of the assessment of recoverability.
Management’s
impairment
assessment
incorporated significant judgment in respect of
factors such as working capital, discount rates,
foreign exchange rates and growth rates, which
necessitated significant involvement from senior
audit team members and specialists to challenge
management’s assumptions. Judgment was
also applied in the identification of cash-
generating units (CGUs) due to the geographical
diversity of the Group’s operations.
During the half-year an impairment was recorded
by the ALS Industrial and ALS Coal CGUs. Given
they were written down to recoverable amount,
these CGUs are sensitive to changes in
assumptions which has been disclosed in the
Financial Report.
Our procedures across all CGUs included:

We assessed management’s identification of
the Group’s CGUs based on our understanding
of the nature of the Group’s business and the
economic environment in which they operate.
We also analysed the monthly management
reports of the Group to assess how operating
results of the business are aggregated and
monitored by management and the Board;

Using our valuation specialists, we challenged
the Group’s key assumptions, including those
relating to forecast cashflows, working capital,
discount rates, foreign exchange rates and
growth rates by comparing to external data,
such as peer group forecasts, as well as our
own assessments based on industry
experience and knowledge of the Group;

We assessed the historical accuracy of
forecasting of the Group by comparing actual
past performance against previous forecasts
and assumptions;

We performed sensitivity analysis on the
discount rate and terminal growth
assumptions. We also performed break-even
analysis on these assumptions to inform our
procedures to identify management bias;

Where a reasonable possible change in these
assumptions could result in an impairment, we
checked the disclosure in the financial
statements.

Page 80 of 84

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Decentralised operations

The key audit matter How the matter was addressed in our audit The Group comprises more than 150 Our procedures included: subsidiaries and associates (components) • We instructed selected component audit whose operations are spread across the world. teams to perform procedures on the financial The Group’s business is analytical testing and information prepared for consolidation the individual components are wide ranging in purposes. The selected components were size, customer base and type of service those of most significance to the audit of the provided. Group, either by individual size or by risk to the The decentralised and varied nature of these Group. A small number of components were operations require significant oversight by ALS also included on a rotational basis i.e. we management to monitor the activities, review include smaller components on a rotational component financial reporting and undertake the basis to achieve an appropriate coverage Group consolidation. This is an extensive based on professional judgment. The process due to the high number of accounting objective of this approach was to gather systems used in the Group. evidence on significant balances that This was a key audit matter for us given the large aggregate to form the Group’s financial number of subsidiaries and associates, and the reporting. large number of accounting systems. We • The component audit teams performed audit focused on: procedures on the financial information • Understanding the components and prepared for consolidation purposes. We identifying the significant risks of material worked with the component audit teams to misstatement within them; understand the components, to identify risks • The scoping of relevant audit procedures that are significant to the audit of the Group and to plan relevant procedures. We consistent with the risk identified so as to discussed the audits as they progressed to enable coverage of significant aggregated identify and address any issues, working with balances; the component audit teams as appropriate. • The assessment of the components’ We read their audit reports to us and the compliance with Group accounting policies; underlying memos explaining component and results. We evaluated the work performed by • The consolidation process and aggregating the component audit teams for sufficiency and results from component procedures. for our overall audit purpose. We also assessed the component auditors’ reporting about the components’ compliance with the Group’s accounting policies by reading their audit reporting to us. • We tested the financial data used in the consolidation process for consistency with the financial data audited by component audit teams. We also assessed the consolidation process for compliance with accounting standards. • For the other components not within the above scope, our procedures included testing the Group’s key monitoring controls and performance of analytical procedures to deepen our understanding of these components. In our analytical procedures we compared actual financial performance to the prior year results, we enquired of management and considered these results against our expectations.

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Other Information

Other Information is financial and non-financial information in ALS Limited’s annual reporting which is provided in addition to the Financial Report and the Auditor’s Report. The Directors are responsible for the Other Information.

The Other Information we obtained prior to the date of this Auditor’s Report was the Director’s Report (including Remuneration Report).

Our opinion on the Financial Report does not cover the Other Information and, accordingly, we do not express an audit opinion or any form of assurance conclusion thereon, with the exception of the Remuneration Report and our related assurance opinion.

In connection with our audit of the Financial Report, our responsibility is to read the Other Information. In doing so, we consider whether the Other Information is materially inconsistent with the Financial Report or our knowledge obtained in the audit, or otherwise appears to be materially misstated.

We are required to report if we conclude that there is a material misstatement of this Other Information, and based on the work we have performed on the Other Information that we obtained prior to the date of this Auditor’s Report we have nothing to report.

Responsibilities of the Directors for the Financial Report

The Directors are responsible for:

  • preparing the Financial Report that gives a true and fair view in accordance with Australian Accounting Standards and the Corporations Act 2001;

  • implementing necessary internal control to enable the preparation of a Financial Report that gives a true and fair view and is free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error; and

  • assessing the Group and Company’s ability to continue as a going concern and whether the use of the going concern basis of accounting is appropriate. This includes disclosing, as applicable, matters related to going concern and using the going concern basis of accounting unless they either intend to liquidate the Group and Company or to cease operations, or have no realistic alternative but to do so.

Auditor’s responsibilities for the audit of the Financial Report

Our objective is:

  • to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the Financial Report as a whole is free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error; and

  • to issue an Auditor’s Report that includes our opinion.

Reasonable assurance is a high level of assurance, but is not a guarantee that an audit conducted in accordance with Australian Auditing Standards will always detect a material misstatement when it exists.

Misstatements can arise from fraud or error. They are considered material if, individually or in the aggregate, they could reasonably be expected to influence the economic decisions of users taken on the basis of this Financial Report.

A further description of our responsibilities for the audit of the Financial Report is located at the Auditing and Assurance Standards Board website at:

http://www.auasb.gov.au/auditors_responsibilities/ar1.pdf. This description forms part of our Auditor’s Report.

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Report on the Remuneration Report

Opinion

Directors’ responsibilities

In our opinion, the Remuneration Report The Directors of the Company are responsible for the of ALS Limited for the year ended 31 preparation and presentation of the Remuneration March 2018, complies with Section 300A Report in accordance with Section 300A of the of the Corporations Act 2001 . Corporations Act 2001 .

Our responsibilities

We have audited Sections 2 to 9 of the Remuneration Report which is included in the Directors’ Report for the year ended 31 March 2018. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Remuneration Report, based on our audit conducted in accordance with Australian Auditing Standards .

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KPMG KPMG Simon Crane Scott Guse Partner Partner Brisbane Brisbane 28 May 2018 28 May 2018

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Lead Auditor’s Independence Declaration under Section 307C of the Corporations Act 2001

To the Directors of ALS Limited

I declare that, to the best of my knowledge and belief, in relation to the audit of ALS Limited for the financial year ended 31 March 2018 there have been:

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

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

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KPMG

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Simon Crane Partner Brisbane 28 May 2018

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KPMG, an Australian partnership and a member firm of the KPMG network of independent member firms affiliated with KPMG International Cooperative (“KPMG International”), a Swiss entity.

Liability limited by a scheme approved under Professional Standards Legislation.