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ALS LIMITED Governance Information 2021

Jun 22, 2021

64365_rns_2021-06-22_2962e6b8-2906-4401-b01f-8cfa518e08d2.pdf

Governance Information

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CORPORATE GOVERNANCE STATEMENT

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2021

The policies and practices developed and implemented by the Board over many years meet or exceed the Principles and Recommendations set out in ASX’s 4th Edition Corporate Governance Council guidelines (ASX guidelines). The ASX Guidelines were amended in February 2019 and became effective for ALS Limited’s financial year ending 31 March 2021, the Company’s first full financial year after 1 January 2020. The ALS policies and practices continue to meet or exceed the updated ASX guidelines.

This statement was approved by the Board of ALS and is current as at 23 June 2021. The statement and information identified therein are available on the Company's website at www.alsglobal.com under the Corporate Governance section.

ASX Recommendation ASX Recommendation Statement commentary Compliant with
ASX
Recommendation
Principle 1: Lay solid foundations for management and oversight
A listed entity should establish and disclose the respective roles and responsibilities of its board
and management and how their performance is monitored and evaluated.
1.1 A listed entity should
disclose:
(a) the respective roles
and responsibilities of
its board and
management; and
(b) those matters
expressly reserved to
the board and those
delegated to
management.
The Board’s role is to govern the Company
rather than to manage it. It is the role of
executive
management
to
manage
the
Company in accordance with the direction and
delegations
of
the
Board
and
the
responsibilities of the Board to oversee the
activities of management in carrying out these
delegated duties. [Rec 1.1(a)(b)]
A summary of the Company’s board charter is
posted on the Company's website which sets
out the role, powers and responsibilities of
the Board.
The board charter was reviewed by the Board
during FY21 and enhancements made to the
charter to ensure it properly reflects the
current obligations of the Board and the
requirements of the ASX Guidelines.
Yes
1.2 A listed entity should:
(a) undertake appropriate
checks before
appointing a director
or senior executive or
putting someone
forward for election as
a director; and
(b) provide security
holders with all
material information in
Any director that is being considered for
appointment to the ALS Board will be subject
to background and probity checks to verify
their educational and employment history and
to determine if they possess skills and
experience that is complementary to the
efficient operation and functioning of the
Board. [Rec1.2(a)] At the upcoming 2021 AGM
to be held 28 July 2021, Bruce Phillips and
Charlie Sartain will stand for re-election.
Security holders will be provided with all
material information in the AGM Notice of
Yes

ALS Limited | Corporate Governance Statement 2021

1

ASX Recommendation ASX Recommendation Statement commentary Compliant with
ASX
Recommendation
its possession relevant
to a decision on
whether or not to elect
or re-elect a director.
Meeting relevant to a decision on whether to
re-elect Bruce Phillips and Charlie Sartain as
non-executive directors for a 3-year term. [Rec
1.2(b)]
1.3 A listed entity should have
a written agreement with
each director and senior
executive setting out the
terms of their
appointment.
Directors are not appointed for specific terms
and are subject to rotational requirements for
re-election. Criterion for continued office is
effective contribution, which is regularly
reviewed in the evaluation of the Board’s
performance. All Non-executive directors and
senior executives have written agreements
setting out the terms of their appointment.
[Rec 1.3]
Yes
1.4 The Company Secretary of
a listed entity should be
accountable directly to the
board, through the chair,
on all matters to do with
the proper functioning of
the board.
The Board has access to the Company
Secretary (who is accountable directly to the
Board, through the Chair, on all matters to do
with the proper functioning of the Board) and
has
procedures
for
the
provision
of
information, including requests for additional
information. [Rec 1.4]
Yes
1.5 A listed entity should:
(a) have and disclose a
diversity policy;
(b) through its board or a
committee of the board
set measurable
objectives for achieving
gender diversity in the
composition of its
board, senior
executives and
workforce generally;
and
(c) disclose in relation to
each reporting period:
i. the measurable
objectives set for
that period to
achieve gender
diversity;
ii. the entity’s
progress towards
achieving those
objectives; and
iii. either:
A. the respective
proportions of
men and women
on the board, in
senior executive
positions and
Diversity & Inclusion
The Company recognises that a diverse and
inclusive workforce is not only good for our
employees, it is also good for our business.
The Company has established a Diversity &
Inclusion Policy that is reviewed and approved
by the Board which contains measurable
objectives
for
key
diversity
categories,
including
recruitment,
leadership
development and pay equity [1.5(b)].
The Company’s Diversity & Inclusion Policy is
published on the Group’s website [1.5(a)].
The Company’s Diversity & Inclusion Policy is
based on the following key principles,
reflective of the ASX guidelines on diversity:
1. Treat
others
with
respect,
value
differences and maintain privacy;
2. Value
diversity
and
it
will
bring
opportunities to enhance our businesses;
3. Women and minority cultural groups will
not
be
disadvantaged
in
gaining
employment and accessing the benefits
and privileges that other persons in the
Company enjoy in their employment with
the Company;
4. Transparency will be exercised in all
recruitment decisions from Board level to
entry level;
Yes

ALS Limited | Corporate Governance Statement 2021

2

ASX Recommendation ASX Recommendation Statement commentary Compliant with
ASX
Recommendation
across the whole
workforce
(including how the
entity has defined
“senior executive”
for these
purposes); or
B.
if the entity is a
“relevant
employer” under
the Workplace
Gender Equality
Act, the entity’s
most recent
“Gender Equality
Indicators”, as
defined in and
published under
that Act.
If the entity was in
the S&P/ASX 300
Index at the
commencement of
the reporting
period, the
measurable
objective for
achieving gender
diversity in the
composition of its
board should be to
have not less than
30% of its
directors of each
gender within a
specified period.
5. Workforce composition statistics will be
reviewed annually to determine if there
are any areas that warrant an increased
focus on diversity; and
6. Public reporting of progress against the
Company’s diversity objectives.
A summary of the matters required to be
reported each year is contained in the People
section of the 2021 Sustainability Report
under Diversity & Equality. [Rec 1.5(c)]
The total percentage of female directors
amongst the non-executive directors on the
Board is 33%.
1.6 A listed entity should:
(a) have and disclose a
process for periodically
evaluating the
performance of the
board, its committees
and individual
directors; and
(b) disclose, in relation to
each reporting period,
whether a performance
evaluation was
undertaken in the
reporting period in
accordance with that
process.
Board performance
The Board undertakes an annual review of its
performance, and each of the Committees
and individual directors. A Board Performance
review and skills evaluation was carried out
during the year. [Rec 1.6(a)(b)]
Yes
1.7 A listed entity should:
(a) have and disclose a
process for periodically
evaluating the
Executive performance
The Board undertakes an annual review and
assessment
of
the
Group’s
executive
management. An ExecutiveManagement
Yes

ALS Limited | Corporate Governance Statement 2021

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ASX Recommendation ASX Recommendation Statement commentary Compliant with
ASX
Recommendation
performance of its
senior executives; and
(b) disclose, in relation to
each reporting period,
whether a performance
evaluation was
undertaken in the
reporting period in
accordance with that
process.
Performance review was carried out during
the year. [Rec 1.7(a)(b)]
Principle 2: Structure the board to add value
A listed entity should have a board of an appropriate size, composition, skills and commitment to
enable it to discharge its duties effectively.
2.1 The board of a listed entity
should:
(a) have a nomination
committee which:
i.
has at least three
members, a
majority of whom
are independent
directors; and
ii.
is chaired by an
independent
director,
and disclose:
iii.
the charter of the
committee;
iv.
the members of the
committee; and
v.
as at the end of
each reporting
period, the number
of times the
committee met
throughout the
period and the
individual
attendances of the
members at those
meetings; or
(b) if it does not have a
nomination committee,
disclose that fact and
the processes it
employs to address
board succession
issues and to ensure
that the board has the
appropriate balance of
skills, knowledge,
experience,
independence and
Nomination Committee
The Nomination Committee and the Board
regularly reviews Board membership. This
includes an assessment of the necessary and
desirable competencies of Board members,
Board succession plans, evaluation of the
Board's
performance,
remuneration
and
consideration of appointments and removals.
[Rec 2.1]
The Nomination Committee is also responsible
for reviewing and making recommendations to
the
Board
regarding
CEO
performance,
remuneration and succession planning.
The Committee met during the financial year
[Rec 2.1(a)(iv)] to review the skills, experience,
expertise and personal qualities that will best
complement the Board’s effectiveness in future
years as part of its board renewal and
succession planning processes undertaken
during the year.
The Nominations Committee Charter was
reviewed by the Board during FY21 and
enhancements made to the charter to ensure
it properly reflects the current obligations of
the Board and the requirements of the ASX
Guidelines. A summary of the Nominations
Committee
charter
is
posted
on
the
Company's website and sets out the role,
powers and responsibilities of the Committee.
[Rec 2.1(a)(i)(ii)(iii)(iv)(v)]
Yes

ALS Limited | Corporate Governance Statement 2021

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ASX Recommendation ASX Recommendation Statement commentary Compliant with
ASX
Recommendation
diversity to enable it to
discharge its duties
and responsibilities
effectively.
2.2 A listed entity should have
and disclose a board skills
matrix setting out the mix
of skills and diversity that
the board currently has or
is looking to achieve in its
membership.
When a Board vacancy occurs, the Nomination
Committee identifies the particular skills,
diversity, experience and expertise that will
best complement Board effectiveness, and
then
undertakes
a
process
to
identify
candidates who can meet those criteria. [Rec
2.2]
The Board has undertaken a review of the
performance of Bruce Phillips and Charlie
Sartain, who each stand for re-election at the
AGM in July 2021.
A skills matrix (disclosed below) is utilised to
assess the relevant criteria for candidates for
appointment to the Board. [Rec 2.2]
Board skills matrix
Yes
Professional Skills and experience
Strategy
Policy Development.
Financial Performance /Accounting
Treasury, Finance and funding
Risk and Compliance Oversight
Corporate Governance
Executive Management
Commercial Experience
Mergers and Acquisitions
Government/ Regulator
Legal
Talent Management
Remuneration
Investor Relations and Stakeholder
Management
IT Systems, process
improvement/change management
Industry Skills and experience
Analytical and testing services and
consulting
Regulatory and business environment
Testing, Inspection and Certification
market
Commercial and Corporate

ALS Limited | Corporate Governance Statement 2021

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ASX Recommendation ASX Recommendation Statement commentary Compliant with
ASX
Recommendation
Financial Debt and Equity Capital
2.3 A listed entity should
disclose:
(a) the names of the
directors considered by
the board to be
independent directors;
(b) if a director has an
interest, position,
association or
relationship of the type
described in Box 2.3
but the board is of the
opinion that it does not
compromise the
independence of the
director, the nature of
the interest, position,
association or
relationship in question
and an explanation of
why the board is of
that opinion; and
(c) the length of service of
each director.
Independence of directors
The Board considers that all current directors,
other than the Managing Director, Raj Naran,
to be independent of management influence.
[Rec 2.3(a)]
The Board distinguishes between the concept
of independence, and the issues of conflict of
interest or material personal interests which
may arise from time to time. Wherever there is
an actual or potential conflict of interest or
material personal interest, the Board's policies
and procedures ensure that:

the interest is fully disclosed, and the
disclosure is recorded in the register of
directors' interests and in the Board
minutes;

the relevant director is excluded from all
considerations of the matter by the Board;
and

the relevant director does not receive any
segment of the Board papers or other
documents in which there is any reference
to the matter.
There
exists
no
material
professional,
business
or
substantial
shareholder
relationship
by
any
director
with
the
Company. [Rec 2.3(b)]
The names, skills and experience of the
directors in office at the date of this Statement,
and the period of office of each director, are
set out in the Directors' Report and in the
Annual Report. [Rec 2.3(a)(b)(c)]
Independent professional advice
Each director has the right, at the Company's
expense, to seek independent professional
advice in relation to the execution of Board
responsibilities.
Prior
approval
of
the
Chairman, which will not be unreasonably
withheld, is required. Where appropriate,
directors share such advice with the other
directors.
Yes
2.4 A majority of the board of
a listed entity should be
independent directors.
The
Board
currently
comprises
of
six
independent
non-executive
directors
(including the Chairman) and one executive
director (the Managing Director). [Rec 2.4]
With the appointment of five new directors
over the past 6 years, the Company considers
the Board to be independent.
Yes
2.5 The chair of the board of a
listed entity should be an
independent director and,
in particular, should not be
The Chairman of the Company is an
independent non-executive director. [Rec 2.5]

Yes

ALS Limited | Corporate Governance Statement 2021

6

ASX Recommendation ASX Recommendation Statement commentary Compliant with
ASX
Recommendation
the same person as the
CEO of the entity.
The roles of Chairman and Chief Executive are
exercised by separate individuals. [Rec 2.5]
2.6 A listed entity should have
a program for inducting
new directors and provide
appropriate professional
development opportunities
for directors to develop
and maintain the skills and
knowledge needed to
perform their role as
directors effectively.
The Board provides an appropriate induction
program for new directors, which includes
onsite visits to operations. Directors have the
opportunity for professional development
through programs operated by the Australian
Institute of Company Directors and bespoke
educational briefings on relevant matters by
topic experts. [Rec 2.6]
Yes
Principle 3: Act ethically and responsibly
A listed entity should act ethically and responsibly.
3.1 A listed entity should
articulate and disclose its
values.
The Company values are disclosed on the
Company
website,
Annual
Report,
Sustainability Report and ALS Intranet and
reinforced throughout the business on a
consistent and regular basis through practical
and
demonstrated
leadership
and
management. [Rec 3.1]
Yes
3.2 A listed entity should:
(a) have and disclose its
code of conduct for its
directors, senior
executives and
employees;
and
(b) ensure that the board
or a committee of the
board is informed of
any material breaches
of that Code.
Code of Conduct
Through established practices and policies, the
Board supports the need for directors and
employees to observe the highest standards of
behaviour and business ethics. All directors,
managers and employees are expected to act
with integrity, striving at all times to enhance
the reputation and performance of the Group.
The Board's policies conform with the ASX
guidelines.
Appropriate training programs on the Group's
internal policies including workplace health
and safety, environmental law compliance,
trade practices legislation and affirmative
action programs support this process.
Material breaches of the Code of Conduct are
reported to the Audit & Risk Committee and
the Board.
The Board recognises that managing "natural,
human, social and other forms of capital" may
also assist in creating value for shareholders.
To this end the Board seeks, by the individual
contributions of directors and by encouraging
activities
of
its
executives,
to
uphold
community standards and to maintain good
relations with community and government
organisations. However, the Board seeks to
balance these considerations in order to
ensure
that
the
claims
of
legitimate
stakeholders do not prejudice or diminish the
legitimate expectations of shareholders. The
Yes

ALS Limited | Corporate Governance Statement 2021

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ASX Recommendation ASX Recommendation Statement commentary Compliant with
ASX
Recommendation
Board does not support a process by which
companies are regulated in their dealings in
these areas, beyond the consideration of their
programs to ensure compliance with legal and
ethical standards.
A revised Code of Conduct which draws
together all of the Company's policies and
codes was issued during the year and
mandatory training of the Code undertaken
by all staff globally. The Code of Conduct is
available on the Company's website. [Rec
3.2(a)(b)]
3.3 A listed entity should:
(a) have and disclose a
whistleblower policy;
and
(b) ensure that the board
or a committee of the
board is informed of
any material incidents
reported under that
policy.
Whistleblower Program
A comprehensive Whistleblower Program
operates within the Company to encourage
employees to report suspected illegal or
unethical behaviour or practice. A Company
Integrity and Compliance hotline is operated
by an independent 3rdparty where reports
can be made confidentially and
anonymously. A Whistleblower policy online
training course was delivered through the
Company’s internal online training platform
to ensure those who report under the
Whistleblower Program are supported and
protected. All reports made under the
program are reviewed and assessed by the
Chief Risk Officer and material incidents are
reported to the Audit and Risk Committee
and Board. [Rec 3.3(a)(b)]
Yes
3.4 A listed entity should:
(a) have and disclose an
anti-bribery and
corruption policy; and
(b) ensure the board or a
committee of the
board is informed of
any material breaches
of that policy.
Anti-Bribery and Anti-Corruption
A comprehensive Anti- Bribery and Anti-
Corruption Program operates within the
Company to educate our employees as to the
significant risk that bribery and corruption
presents to the business and its operations.
The program ensures employees are
equipped with the knowledge they need to
be diligent in their efforts to address bribery
and corruption risks and to maintain our
core value of Honesty and Integrity.
The Company’s Anti-Bribery and Anti -
Corruption policy, Guidelines for the
Prevention of Bribery and Corruption and
online Bribery and Corruption training course
provide employees with guidance on
preventing, detecting and managing bribery
and corruption risks.
All reports made under the program are
reviewed and assessed by the Chief Risk
Officer and material incidents are reported to
the Audit and Risk Committee and Board.
[Rec3.4(a)(b)]
Yes
Principle 4: Safeguard integrity in corporate reporting
A listed entity should have formal and rigorous processes that independently verify and safeguard
the integrity of its corporate reporting.

ALS Limited | Corporate Governance Statement 2021

8

ASX Recommendation ASX Recommendation Statement commentary Compliant with
ASX
Recommendation
4.1 The board of a listed entity
should:
(a) have an audit
committee which:
i.
has at least three
members, all of
whom are non-
executive directors
and a majority of
whom are
independent
directors; and
ii.
is chaired by an
independent
director, who is not
the chair of the
board,
and disclose:
iii.
the charter of the
committee;
iv.
the relevant
qualifications and
experience of the
members of the
committee; and
v.
in relation to each
reporting period,
the number of times
the committee met
throughout the
period and the
individual
attendances of the
members at those
meetings; or
(b) if it does not have an
audit committee,
disclose that fact and
the processes it
employs that
independently verify
and safeguard the
integrity of its
corporate reporting,
including the
processes for the
appointment and
removal of the
external auditor and
the rotation of the
audit engagement
partner.
Audit and Risk Committee
The Company has an established Audit and
Risk Committee operating under a written
Charter approved by the Board which is
reviewed annually.
The Audit and Risk Committee comprises three
independent non-executive directors with an
independent chairman who is not also
chairman of the Board. The Audit and Risk
Committee’s Charter was reviewed during the
year and affirmed by the Board. The Charter is
available,
along
with
other
information
suggested in the ASX guidelines, on the
Company's website. [Rec 4.1(a)(i)(ii)(iii)]
The names and qualifications of members of
the Audit and Risk Committee are set out in the
Directors’ Report and in the Annual Report.
[Rec 4.1(a)(iv)(v)]
Other non-executive directors of the Board are
entitled to be present at all meetings of the
Committee. Meetings of the Committee are
attended, by invitation, by the Managing
Director, the Chief Financial Officer, the Chief
Risk Officer, the engagement partner from the
Company's external auditor and such other
senior staff or professional people as may be
appropriate from time to time.
The number of meetings of the Committee
held during the year is set out in the Directors’
Report. [Rec 4.1(a)(v)]
Minutes of all Committee meetings are
provided to the Board and the Chairman of the
Committee also reports to the Board after each
Committee meeting.
Auditor independence
The external auditor, EY has declared its
independence to the Board through its
representations
to
the
Committee
and
provision of its Lead Auditor’s Independence
Declaration to the Board, stating that there
have been no contraventions of auditor
independence requirements as set out in the
Corporations Act or any auditors’ professional
code.
The Audit and Risk Committee has examined
detailed material provided by the external
auditor and by management and has satisfied
itself
that
the
standards
for
auditor
independence and associated issues are fully
complied with.
Yes
4.2 The board of a listed entity
should, before it approves
Certification of financial reports Yes

ALS Limited | Corporate Governance Statement 2021

9

ASX Recommendation ASX Recommendation Statement commentary Compliant with
ASX
Recommendation
the entity’s financial
statements for a financial
period, receive from its
CEO and CFO a declaration
that, in their opinion, the
financial records of the
entity have been properly
maintained and that the
financial statements
comply with the
appropriate accounting
standards and give a true
and fair view of the
financial position and
performance of the entity
and that the opinion has
been formed on the basis
of a sound system of risk
management and internal
control which is operating
effectively.
The Managing Director and Chief Financial
Officer state in writing to the Board each
reporting period that the Company’s financial
reports present a true and fair view, in all
material respects, of the Company’s financial
condition and operational results and are in
accordance
with
relevant
accounting
standards. The statements from the Managing
Director and Chief Financial Officer are based
on a formal sign off framework established
throughout the Company and reviewed by the
Audit and Risk Committee as part of the six-
monthly financial reporting process. [Rec 4.2]
Certification of risk management controls
In conjunction with the certification of
financial reports under Rec 4.2, the Managing
Director and Chief Financial Officer state in
writing to the Board each reporting period
that:

the statement is founded on a sound
system of risk management and internal
compliance
and
control
which
implements the policies adopted by the
Board.

the Company’s risk management and
internal compliance and control system is
operating efficiently and effectively in all
material respects.
Financial controls
The Chief Financial Officer reports in writing
and personally to each Board meeting, attends
all meetings of the Audit and Risk Committee
and
provides
written
reports
to
that
Committee.
4.3 A listed entity should
disclose its process to
verify the integrity of any
periodic corporate report it
releases to the market that
is not audited or reviewed
by an external auditor.
Each year the Company releases to the
market a Sustainability Report, the content of
which covers four key areas of people,
environment, society and governance. The
financial data contained in the report is
reviewed to ensure it is accurate and
consistent with the Company’s audited
financial statements. Other core data such as
health and safety or environmental metrics
are reviewed by the company’s auditor, EY,
who provide limited assurance over a select
set of data. Further details of EY’s review
process can be found in the Sustainability
Report.
[Rec 4.3]
Yes
Principle 5: Make timely and balanced disclosure
A listed entity should make timely and balanced disclosure of all matters concerning it that a
reasonable person would expect to have a material effect on the price or value of its securities.

ALS Limited | Corporate Governance Statement 2021

10

ASX Recommendation ASX Recommendation Statement commentary Compliant with
ASX
Recommendation
5.1 A listed entity should:
(a) have and disclose a
written policy for
complying with its
continuous disclosure
obligations under the
Listing Rule3.1.
Continuous Disclosure
The Company has established policies and
procedures for timely disclosure of material
information concerning the Company. This
includes internal reporting procedures in place
to ensure that any material price sensitive
information is reported to the Company
Secretary in a timely manner. These policies
and procedures are regularly reviewed to
ensure that the Company complies with its
obligations at law and under the ASX Listing
Rules.
The Company has a Continuous Disclosure
policy which is published on the Company's
website. [Rec 5.1(a)(b)]
The Company undertook a review of its
Continuous Disclosure policy during the year.
The Company Secretary is responsible for
communications
with
the
Australian
Securities
Exchange
(ASX)
including
responsibility for ensuring compliance with
the continuous disclosure requirements in the
ASX Listing Rules and overseeing information
going to the ASX, shareholders and other
interested parties. The matter of continuous
disclosure is a permanent item on the agenda
for all Board meetings and is specifically
addressed by each director at those meetings.
Other Disclosure
The directors have obligations under a
Disclosure of Interests and Transactions in
Securities Agreement entered into with the
Company to inform the Company of any
securities trading in the Company.
The directors have made disclosure that they
have no material margin lending terms in
relation
to
their
holding
of
Company
securities.
Yes
5.2 A listed entity should
ensure that its board
receives copies of all
material market
announcements promptly
after they have been made.
Announcements made to the ASX by the
Company are distributed to all directors and
published on the Company’s website. [Rec
5.2]
Yes
5.3 A listed entity that gives a
new and substantive
investor or analyst
presentation should
release a copy of the
presentation materials on
the ASX Market
Announcements Platform
ahead of the presentation.
The Continuous Disclosure Policy outlines
the process undertaken to ensure material
market presentations are released to the ASX
in a prompt manner. [Rec 5.3]
Yes

ALS Limited | Corporate Governance Statement 2021

11

ASX Recommendation ASX Recommendation Statement commentary Compliant with
ASX
Recommendation
Principle 6: Respect the rights of security holders
A listed entity should respect the rights of its security holders by providing them with appropriate
information and facilities to allow them to exercise those rights effectively.
6.1 A listed entity should
provide information about
itself and its governance to
investors via its website.
Communications strategy
The Company aims to keep shareholders
informed of the Company’s performance and
all major developments in an ongoing manner.
Information is communicated to shareholders
through:

the annual report which is published on
the Company’s website and distributed to
shareholders where specifically requested;

the full year and half-year investor
presentations which are published on the
Company’s website; and

other correspondence regarding matters
impacting on shareholders as required.
All material documents that are released
publicly are made available on the Company’s
web site.
Shareholders
are able
to
view
relevant
Corporate Governance documents and Investor
information on the Company’s website at
www.alsglobal.com.[Rec 6.1]
The Company will be publishing its 2021
Sustainability Report on its website in June
2021.
Yes
6.2 A listed entity should
design and implement an
investor relations program
to facilitate effective two-
way communication with
investors.
The Company maintains a Head of Investor
Relations position to provide a dedicated
resource
toward
building
enhanced
engagement between the Company and its
investors. The Head of Investor Relations plays
a key role in communicating clear, accurate,
credible and consistent information about the
Company to both retail and institutional
investors with the aim of ensuring a fair market
price for the Company’s shares over the long
term.
The Head of Investor Relations has developed
and implemented an annual program of
investor
engagement
underpinned
by
domestic and international post-results (full
year
and
interim)
teleconferences
and
meetings
with
financial
analysts
and
institutional investors. [Rec 6.2]
Investor Days and international roadshows
and presentations at relevant industry and
sector conferences are also held when
possible and permissible during the year to
promote the Company as a global
investment opportunity.
Yes

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ASX Recommendation ASX Recommendation Statement commentary Compliant with
ASX
Recommendation
6.3 A listed entity should
disclose the policies and
processes it has in place to
facilitate and encourage
participation at meetings
of security holders.
Shareholders
are
also
encouraged
to
participate in the Annual General Meeting
(AGM) to ensure a high level of accountability
and
identification
with
the
Company’s
strategies and goals. Important issues are
presented
to
shareholders
as
separate
resolutions.
Shareholders who are unable to attend the
AGM may vote by appointing a proxy using
the form included with the Notice of Meeting
or via the online facility. The Company’s
Constitution allows for direct voting at the
AGM, allowing shareholders to vote before the
meeting without having to attend or appoint
a proxy. Further, shareholders are also invited
to submit questions in advance of the AGM so
that the Company can ensure those issues are
addressed at the meeting. [Rec 6.3]
For the 2021 AGM, it is intended to conduct a
hybrid
meeting
subject
to
restrictions
imposed on the physical attendance of
shareholders at the meeting by COVID-19.
Yes
6.4 A listed entity should
ensure that all substantive
resolutions at a meeting of
security holders are
decided by a poll rather
than by a show of hands.
It has been Company practice for voting on all
resolutions to be conducted by a poll in recent
years and it is intended that this practice will
continue at the 2021 AGM. [Rec 6.4]
6.5 A listed entity should give
security holders the option
to receive communications
from, and send
communications to, the
entity and its security
registry electronically.
Shareholders have the option to receive
communications
from,
and
send
communications to, the Company and its
share
registry,
Boardroom
Pty
Limited,
electronically. [Rec 6.5]
Yes
Principle 7: Recognise and manage risk
A listed entity should establish a sound risk management framework and periodically review the
effectiveness of that framework.
7.1 The board of a listed entity
should:
(a) have a committee or
committees to oversee
risk, each of which:
i. has at least three
members, a
majority of whom
are independent
directors; and
ii. is chaired by an
independent
director,
Oversight of the risk management function
The Company places a high priority on risk
management and identification throughout the
Group’s operations and regularly reviews its
adequacy in this regard. The Company
incorporates the oversight of risk management
within its Audit and Risk Committee (refer
Principle 4). [Rec 7.1(a)]
The Audit and Risk Committee comprises three
independent non-executive directors with an
independent chairman who is not also
chairman of the Board. The Audit and Risk
Committee’s Charter was reviewed during the
year and affirmed bythe Board. The Charter is
Yes

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ASX Recommendation ASX Recommendation Statement commentary Compliant with
ASX
Recommendation
and disclose:
iii. the charter of the
committee;
iv. the members of the
committee; and
v. as at the end of
each reporting
period, the number
of times the
committee met
throughout the
period and the
individual
attendances of the
members at those
meetings; or
(b) if it does not have a
risk committee or
committees that
satisfy (a) above,
disclose that fact and
the processes it
employs for
overseeing the entity’s
risk management
framework.
available,
along
with
other
information
suggested in the ASX guidelines, on the
Company's website. [Rec 7.1(a)(i)(ii)(iii)]
The names and qualifications of members of
the Audit and Risk Committee are set out in the
Directors’ Report and in the Annual Report.
[Rec 7.1(a)(iv)(v)]
Other non-executive directors of the Board are
entitled to be present at all meetings of the
Committee. Meetings of the Committee are
attended, by invitation, by the Managing
Director, the Chief Financial Officer, the Chief
Risk Officer, the engagement partner from the
Company's external auditor and such other
senior staff or professional people as may be
appropriate from time to time.
The number of meetings of the Committee
held during the year is set out in the Directors’
Report. [Rec .1(a)(v)]
Minutes of all Committee meetings are
provided to the Board and the Chairman of the
Committee also reports to the Board after each
Committee meeting.
Under the guidance of the Audit and Risk
Committee, a comprehensive risk control
program has been developed which includes
legislative compliance and property protection
audits
using
risk
assessors,
self-audits,
engineering and professional advisers.
Matters in relation to health, safety and the
environment
are
carried
out
by
the
Sustainability and Innovation Committee. [refer
Rec 7.4 for further details].
The Chief Risk Officer reports in writing to the
Board each month and personally to meetings
of the Audit and Risk Committee and
supervises not only the six-monthly sign off
process but also the follow up of any non-
compliances or identified areas requiring
further training or risk management.
The Company’s Risk Management Policy and
internal compliance and control system were
reviewed and re-affirmed during the year and
are available on the Company’s website.
7.2 The board or a committee
of the board should:
(a) review the entity’s risk
management
framework at least
annually to satisfy
itself that it continues
to be sound and that
the entity is operating
The Company has a qualified Chief Risk Officer
who oversees the design and implementation
of
the
risk
control
program,
monitors
performance
and
develops
appropriate
programs
to
enhance
awareness
and
compliance. These programs include training
for employees, using both internal and
external experts. Regular review meetings are
held with divisional general managers and
senior personnel to provide guidance and
Yes

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ASX Recommendation ASX Recommendation Statement commentary Compliant with
ASX
Recommendation
with due regard to the
risk appetite set by the
board; and
(b) disclose, in relation to
each reporting period,
whether such a review
has taken place.
strategies
for
implementation
of
risk
mitigation measures in their businesses.
During the year, the Audit & Risk Committee
reviewed, and the Board adopted the Risk
Management Program presented by the Chief
Risk Officer, which outlined the Group’s overall
risk profile and the Group’s management of its
material business risks. [Rec 7.2(a)(b)]
7.3 A listed entity should
disclose:
(a) if it has an internal
audit function, how the
function is structured
and what role it
performs; or
(b) if it does not have an
internal audit function,
that fact and the
processes it employs
for evaluating and
continually improving
the effectiveness of its
risk management and
internal control
processes.
Internal audit
The Company has established robust internal
assurance processes including a dedicated
internal audit program. The Company utilises
both external and internal resources to
provide an internal audit function. [Rec 7.3(b)]
The Company is mindful to ensure a suitable
level of independence is achieved in this
internal control program and regularly reports
to the Audit and Risk Committee in an
objective manner allowing for assurance that
key risks are being accurately evaluated and
reported.
Coordination
of
the
internal
controls program is undertaken by the Chief
Risk Officer who operates in a corporate role
and is independent to the Business Divisions.
An internal audit plan is established and
designed to provide a suitable level of
assurance to the CEO and Audit and Risk
Committee
that
internal
controls
are
operating effectively and efficiently.
A number of different approaches are utilised
as part of the Internal Audit Plan. These
include:

Peer
reviews
using
the
financial
controllers independent to their own
business divisions undertaking audits
across the group within their area of
expertise e.g. finance, tax, accounting
practices, etc.,

Control self-assessments completed by
divisional financial controllers using a
standardised review checklist,

Utilisation of external audit firms to
review specific risks in certain areas,

Investigation reporting using Forensic
Data Analytics tools,

Six-monthly
accounting
signoffs
completed by all financial controllers,

Fraud
control
plan
(reviewing
the
effectiveness of dissemination of Code of
Conduct, the Company’s Whistleblower
policy,
and
monitoring
of
the

Yes

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ASX Recommendation ASX Recommendation Statement commentary Compliant with
ASX
Recommendation
whistleblower program - ALS Integrity
Hotline).
7.4 A listed entity should
disclose whether it has any
material exposure to
economic, environmental
or social risks and, if it
does, how it manages or
intends to manage those
risks.
Economic,
Environmental
and
Social
Sustainability Monitoring
ALS acknowledge the need to focus on the risk
surrounding
social
responsibility
and
accordingly have implemented a number of
standards
to
address
economic,
environmental and social sustainability risks
that
are
monitored
across
all
of
its
businesses. Risks associated with economic,
environmental and social sustainability have
been included on the Company’s material
business risk register to ensure they are
included in a robust risk assessment and
management process.
The Sustainability and Innovation Committee
is chaired by independent non-executive
director, Charlie Sartain whom assists the
Board
with
effective
discharge
if
its
responsibilities in relation to oversight and
review of the above matters. The Company’s
Chief Risk Officer oversees and manages the
design
and
implementation
of
the
sustainability
program,
monitors
performance
and
develops
appropriate
programs
to
enhance
awareness
and
compliance.
The names and qualifications of members of
the Sustainability and Innovation Committee
are set out in the Directors’ Report within the
Annual Report.
Other non-executive directors of the Board are
entitled to be present at all meetings of the
Committee. Meetings of the Committee are
attended, by invitation, by the Managing
Director, the Chief Risk Officer, the General
Counsel & Company Secretary and such other
senior staff or professional people as may be
appropriate from time to time.
The number of meetings of the Committee
held during the year is set out in the Directors’
Report.
Minutes of Committee meetings and an update
from the Committee Chairman is provided to
the Board after each Committee meeting.
As part of its reporting commitment, the
Company will be publishing its 2021
Sustainability Report in June 2021 which will
be made available on its website.
The report will be guided by the Global
Reporting Initiative (GRI) principles and
include disclosures of material
environmental, social and governance (ESG)
Yes

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ASX Recommendation ASX Recommendation Statement commentary Compliant with
ASX
Recommendation
risks of the Company’s business activities,
and how these are managed.
Principle 8: Remunerate fairly and responsibly
A listed entity should pay director remuneration sufficient to attract and retain high quality
directors and design its executive remuneration to attract, retain and motivate high quality senior
executives and to align their interests with the creation of value for security holders.
8.1 The board of a listed entity
should:
(a) have a remuneration
committee which:
i.
has at least three
members, a
majority of whom
are independent
directors; and
ii.
is chaired by an
independent
director,
and disclose:
iii.
the charter of the
committee;
iv.
the members of the
committee; and
v.
as at the end of
each reporting
period, the number
of times the
committee met
throughout the
period and the
individual
attendances of the
members at those
meetings; or
(b) if it does not have a
remuneration
committee, disclose
that fact and the
processes it employs
for setting the level
and composition of
remuneration for
directors and senior
executives and
ensuring that such
remuneration is
appropriate and not
excessive.
The People Committee of the Board of
Directors is responsible for reviewing and
recommending compensation arrangements
for the senior management team (excluding
the CEO). The People Committee assesses the
appropriateness of the nature and amount of
remuneration of such officers on a periodic
basis by reference to relevant employment
market conditions with the overall objective of
ensuring maximum stakeholder benefit from
the retention of a high quality Board and
management team.
People Committee
The
People
Committee
comprises
four
independent non-executive directors with an
independent chairman. [Rec 8.1(a)(i)(ii)]
Names of members and their attendance at
meetings of the Committee are set out in the
Directors’ Report. [Rec 8.1(a)(iv)(v)]
The People Committee Charter was reviewed
and updated during the year and is available
on the Company's website. [Rec 8.1(a)(iii)]
Areas of focus for the Committee include
performance management, workplace culture,
key
talent
development
and
succession
planning,
diversity
and
broader
human
resources risk management.
Matters pertaining to non-executive directors
and the CEO are responsibilities of the
Nominations Committee.
Yes
8.2 A listed entity should
separately disclose its
policies and practices
Executives, other than the non-executive
directors, are given the opportunity to receive
their base remuneration in the form of cash
Yes

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ASX Recommendation ASX Recommendation Statement commentary Compliant with
ASX
Recommendation
regarding the
remuneration of non-
executive directors and the
remuneration of executive
directors and other senior
executives.
and non-cash benefits. To assist in achieving
these objectives, the Company's remuneration
policy links the nature and amount of senior
executives’ remuneration to the Company’s
financial and operational performance.
All key senior executives have the opportunity
to qualify for participation in the Company’s
Short-Term Incentive (STI) and Long-Term
Incentive (LTI) Plans which currently provide
benefits where specified performance criteria
are met. [Rec 8.2]
Key executives are those who are directly
accountable
and
responsible
for
the
operational
management
and
strategic
direction of the Company and the consolidated
entity.
Structure of remuneration
The structure of non-executive directors’
remuneration and that of executives is set out
in the ‘Remuneration Report’ section of the
Directors’ Report.
Details of the nature and amount of each
element of the remuneration of each director
of the Company and each key executive of the
Company and the consolidated entity having
responsibility for its operational performance
for the financial year are disclosed in the
‘Remuneration Report’ section of the Directors’
Report. The current non-executive directors’
(NED) fee pool of $1.65 million (inclusive of
statutory superannuation) was last approved
by shareholders at the 2018 AGM. Rec 8.2]
The
Company
maintains
minimum
shareholding guidelines for non-executive
directors who are expected to accumulate a
minimum shareholding of one year’s after-tax
fees – this may be built up over a three-year
period from date of commencement. A
minimum shareholder requirement will be
introduced in FY22 for senior executives.
Details are set out in the ‘Remuneration
Report’ section of the Directors Report.
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.
Directors’ retirement benefits
There are no Directors’ retirement
benefits
other
than
statutory
superannuation.
Details
are
set
out
in
the
‘Remuneration Report’ section of
the Directors’ Report. [Rec 8.2]

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ASX Recommendation ASX Recommendation Statement commentary Compliant with
ASX
Recommendation
8.3 A listed entity which has
an equity-based
remuneration scheme
should:
(a) have a policy on
whether participants
are permitted to enter
into transactions
(whether through the
use of derivatives or
otherwise) which limit
the economic risk of
participating in the
scheme; and
(b) disclose that policy or a
summary of it.
Share-based plans
The People Committee is responsible for
reviewing recommendations with respect to
issues or grants under the Company's share-
based plans. Directors approve issues or
grants under the plans only after being
satisfied that this is in accordance with the
terms of shareholders’ approval.
Long Term Incentive Plan
Shareholders approved the Company’s Long-
Term Incentive Plan (LTIP) at the 2008 AGM.
Under the plan, key employees may be granted
conditional performance rights to receive
ordinary shares in the Company at no cost to
the employees (or in limited cases, to receive
cash-settled awards). Details of performance
rights
granted
and
vested
under
the
Company’s LTIP during the financial year are
set out in the Remuneration Report section of
the Financial Report. [Rec 8.3]
The Board has established written guidelines,
set out in its Securities Trading Policy, that
include provisions relating to prohibiting
directors
and
senior
executives
in
the
Company’s from hedging arrangements in
relation to any unvested securities of the
Company and the requirement to disclose to
the Board any securities in the Company that
are held as security in a margin loan
arrangement.[Rec 8.3(a)]
The Securities Trading Policy was reviewed
and updated by the Board during the year. It
is published on the Company’s website. [Rec
8.3(b)]
LTIP rules prohibit those who are granted
performance
rights
from
entering
into
arrangements that limit their exposure to
share price decreases in relation to unvested
performance rights. [Rec 8.3(a)]
A summary of the LTIP rules and the policy on
prohibiting arrangements that limit exposure
are set out in the Remuneration Report
section of the Financial Report. [Rec 8.3(b)]
Short Term Incentive Plan
The KMP Short Term Incentive Plan (KSTIP) is
structured
so
that
if
the
financial
outperformance target level is achieved, it will
result in a portion of the STI payment to be
deferred into service rights (with a right to an
ALS share upon vesting). The period of
deferral will be two (2) years with the
executive required to still be employed by the
Group at the end of the period to receive the
shares.
Yes

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