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VERIS LIMITED Annual Report 2020

Aug 30, 2020

66021_rns_2020-08-30_df90f937-ed7f-41d0-8466-987264ce8f8a.pdf

Annual Report

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Veris Limited 30 June 2020 Annual Financial Report

Veris Limited Annual Financial Report 30 June 2018

Directors Report

Director’s report 2
Consolidated Financial Statements
Consolidated Statement of Profit or Loss and Other Comprehensive Income 30
Consolidated Statement of Financial Position 31
Consolidated Statement of Changes in Equity 32
Consolidated Statement of Cash Flow 33
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements 34
Directors’ declaration 75
Independent auditor’s report 76
Lead Auditors’ Independence Declaration 80
Additional Information 81
Corporate information 83

1

Veris Limited Annual Financial Report 30 June 2020

Directors’ Report

Your Directors present their report together with the consolidated financial statements of Veris Limited ABN 80 122 958 178 (“the Company” or “Veris”) and the entities it controlled (together referred to as ‘’the Group’’) at the end of, or during, the year ended 30 June 2020.

Information on Directors

Directors of the Company during the financial year ended 30 June 2020 and up to the date of this report are as follows:

NAME PERIOD OF DIRECTORSHIP
Karl Paganin
Independent Non-Executive Chairman
Independent Non-Executive Director
Appointed 25 November 2019
Appointed 19 October 2015
Derek La Ferla
Independent Non-Executive Chairman
Retired 25 November 2019
Tom Lawrence
Independent Non-Executive Director
Appointed 13 October 2011
Brian Elton
Executive Director
Non-Executive Director
Appointed 29 March 2018 (Ceased 21 November
2019)
Appointed 21 November 2019
Adam Lamond
Executive Director
Appointed 13 October 2011
(Managing Director from 29 March 2017 to 2 April
2020)

The experience, other directorships or special responsibilities of the directors in office at the date of this report are as follows:

Karl Paganin - Independent Non-Executive Chairman

Experience

Mr Karl Paganin has over 15 years senior experience in Investment Banking, specialising in transaction structuring, equity capital markets, mergers and acquisitions and strategic management advice to listed companies.

Mr Paganin practised with major national law firms and was then appointed as Senior Legal Counsel at the newly formed family company of the Holmes a Court family, Heytesbury Holdings, where he spent 11 years. His roles varied from Senior Legal Counsel to Director of Major Projects, a role which involved having conduct of all major transactions within the Group.

Subsequent to Heytesbury, Mr Paganin spent 15 years as a senior investment banker in Perth. In 2002, he joined the Perth based Euroz Securities and established its Corporate Finance department. Then, in 2010, he established and was Managing Director of GMP Australia Pty Ltd, an affiliate of a Canadian resource specialist investment bank.

Mr Paganin is currently Non-Executive Director of ASX listed Southern Cross Electrical Engineering Limited.

Mr Paganin holds degrees in Law (B.Juris, LLB) and Arts (BA) from the University of Western Australia.

2

Veris Limited Annual Financial Report 30 June 2020

Directors’ Report

Information on Directors (continued)

Special Responsibilities

Chairman of the Remuneration and Nomination Committee (until 24 June 2020) Member of the Audit and Risk Committee

Other Listed Company Directorships in last 3 years

Southern Cross Electrical Engineering Ltd (June 2015 – current) Poseidon Nickel Limited (1 October 2018 – 30 June 2020)

Interests in Shares of Veris

13,189,350 fully paid ordinary shares

Tom Lawrence - Independent Non-Executive Director

Experience

Mr Tom Lawrence holds a Bachelor of Laws, Bachelor of Business (Accounting and Information Systems) and a Masters Degree in Taxation. Mr Lawrence was a principal and founder of Lawrence Business Management, providing tax and management advice to a large range of businesses across a diverse range of industries including professional services, hospitality, marine, construction, property and mining services. Over his 15 years' working in Lawrence Business Management, Mr Lawrence gained a wealth of knowledge as he grew the business via acquisition and organic growth and provided sound forward-thinking strategies.

In 2010, Mr Lawrence sold Lawrence Business Management and went on to secure his current position with Capital Legal. As Director of Capital Legal, Mr Lawrence advises clients on a broad range of business related transactions, including business sales and acquisitions, commercial litigation, dispute resolution and a variety of other commercial matters.

Special Responsibilities

Chairman of the Audit and Risk Committee Member of the Remuneration and Nomination Committee

Interests in Shares of Veris

13,136,093 fully paid ordinary shares

Brian Elton – Non-Executive Director

Experience

Mr Brian Elton is the founder of Elton Consulting, and joined the Veris Board as Executive Director in March 2018 when this business was acquired by Veris. Subsequent to the sale of Elton Consulting in November 2019, Mr Elton became a Non-Executive Director. He has extensive experience in growing a highly commercially successful professional services business, and in-depth knowledge of east coast development and infrastructure sectors. He has an extensive network of contacts and clients in government, the not-forprofit sector and Tier 1 private sector organisations, and is well regarded and trusted by clients.

Mr Elton has over 40 years of experience in urban and regional planning in the UK and Australia focusing on urban strategy, urban policy and governance and the delivery of major projects. He founded Elton Consulting 30 years ago, maintaining a profitable and growing business every year since.

Mr Elton is a Fellow of the Planning Institute of Australia and a Member of the Australian Institute of Company Directors. His affiliations include the International Association of Public Participation, Green Building Council of Australia and the Urban Development Institute of Australia.

3

Veris Limited Annual Financial Report 30 June 2020

Directors’ Report

Information on Directors (continued)

Special Responsibilities

Chairman of the Remuneration and Nomination Committee (appointed 24 June 2020) Member of the Audit and Risk Committee Member of the HSEQ Committee

Interests in Shares of Veris

33,308,150 fully paid ordinary shares

Adam Lamond - Executive Director

Experience

Adam Lamond has over 20 years’ commercial experience with particular expertise in construction and infrastructure activities across Australia.

Mr Lamond founded Ocean to Outback Electrical (OTOE) in 2003, a WA-based contracting business servicing the mining industry and the forerunner to Veris Limited. Mr Lamond engineered a reverse takeover of ASX listed company Emerson Stewart Group in 2011 resulting in the listing of Ocean to Outback Contracting (OTOC) Limited.

Mr Lamond held the position of Chief Executive Officer of OTOC Limited from 2011 to 2014. Mr Lamond then held the position of Executive Director - Business Development from 2014 to 2017, after which time he was appointed Managing Director of the newly branded Veris Limited.

Mr Lamond has overseen the implementation of a national operating model which has involved transitioning and integrating all businesses into one entity and continues to build a cohesive brand and culture.

Special Responsibilities

Member of the HSEQ Committee

Interests in Shares of Veris

48,591,815 fully paid ordinary shares

Derek La Ferla - Independent Non-Executive Chairman – Retired 25 November 2019

Experience

Mr Derek La Ferla has 30 years’ experience as a corporate lawyer and company director. In addition to his role as Non-Executive Chairman of Veris, he is currently chairman of ASX listed companies Sandfire Resources NL and Threat Protect Australia Limited, and deputy chairman of BNK Banking Corporation Limited. Mr La Ferla is also a member of the WA Council for the Australian Institute of Company Directors and a member of its National Board. Mr La Ferla has held senior positions with some of Australia’s leading law firms, and is currently a partner with Western Australian firm, Lavan, in the firm’s Corporate Services Group.

Special Responsibilities

Member of the Remuneration and Nomination Committee Member of the Audit and Risk Committee

Other Listed Company Directorships in last 3 years

Sandfire Resources Limited (May 2010 – Current)

Threat Protect Australia Limited (September 2015 – Current) BNK Banking Corporation Limited (November 2015 – August 2019) Poseidon Nickel Limited (December 2019 – current)

Interests in Shares of Veris

598,417 fully paid ordinary shares (at date of retirement)

4

Veris Limited Annual Financial Report 30 June 2020

Directors’ Report

Information on Company Secretary

Lisa Wynne - Company Secretary

Experience

Ms Lisa Wynne is a Chartered Accountant and Chartered Secretary with significant experience across the commercial sector with particular experience in the finance, accounting, corporate services, urban planning and resources industries across ASX & TSX listed companies. Former owner of a consulting company, for 11 years, Ms Wynne provided corporate and financial services to public companies and held the role of Company Secretary and Chief Financial Officer of a number of ASX listed companies. Ms Wynne held the role of Interim Chief Financial Officer of Veris Limited from 26 June 2019 to 2 April 2020.

Directors Meetings

The number of directors meetings and number of meetings attended by each of the directors of the Group during the financial year are:

Director Board Meetings Board Meetings Audit & Risk
Committee
Audit & Risk
Committee
Remuneration &
Nomination
Committee
Remuneration &
Nomination
Committee
Health, Safety,
Environment &
Quality Committee
Health, Safety,
Environment &
Quality Committee
A B A B A B A B
Derek La Ferla 8 9 1 1 - - * *
Adam Lamond 23 23 * * * * 1 1
Tom Lawrence 23 23 2 2 1 1 * *
Karl Paganin 23 23 2 2 1 1 * *
Brian Elton 21 23 2 2 1 1 1 1

A = Number of Meetings attended B = Number of meetings held during the time the director held office during the year * = Not a member of the relevant committee

Dividends

There were no dividends paid or declared by the Company during the financial year.

Principal Activities

Veris is a professional services business delivering surveying, digital and spatial, planning and technology services to following sectors throughout Australia:

  • infrastructure;

  • land and property;

  • energy;

  • mining and resources;

  • defence;

  • utilities; and

  • government.

Veris Limited had three operating segments in the 2020 financial year namely Veris Australia, Elton Consulting and Aqura Technologies. Veris Limited disposed of Elton Consulting part way through the 2020 financial year. Veris Limited is the Group’s holding company that is listed on the ASX under the code VRS.

5

Veris Limited Annual Financial Report 30 June 2020

Directors’ Report

Principal Activities (continued) Veris Australia

Veris Australia is a professional surveying business that covers a broad spectrum of service lines including cadastral, civil and construction, and engineering surveying along with 3D spatial services such as lidar, 3D laser scanning, ground penetrating radar, mobile laser scanning and hydrographic surveys. It also provides town planning and urban design services. Veris Australia’s markets include infrastructure, land and property, resources and defence.

Aqura Technologies

Aqura Technologies complements the accomplished existing spatial solution capabilities of the Veris Australia segment with highly specialised ICT and communications services, offering industry-leading technology solutions to the industrial communications sector.

Elton Consulting

Elton Consulting professional and advisory services include urban and regional planning, communications and engagement, strategy and policy, social sustainability, bid strategy and preparation and a design studio. It provides expert advice to businesses, governments and not-for-profit organisations across infrastructure, property, housing, resources, energy, public policy and human services. Elton Consulting was divested in November 2019.

Significant Changes

The following significant changes in the nature of the activities of the Group occurred during the year:

  • Appointment of Dr Michael Shirley in November 2019 as Chief Executive Officer of Veris Australia

  • • Appointment of Mr Steve Harding as Chief Financial Officer in April 2020

  • Continued support for the Group from our primary lender, Commonwealth Bank of Australia. CBA demonstrated strong support for the Group during the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent to 30 June 2020 have provided Veris with a Credit approved terms sheet to extend Veris’ existing banking facilities through to 30 September 2020.

  • Securing and continuing to work on long term East Coast projects such as Melbourne Metro, Westgate Tunnel, North Connex, Inland Rail, M4 Smart motorway project, Sydney Metro, and West Connect. Significant project works were also performed for major resource sector clients in the Western Australian market (including BHP and Rio Tinto).

  • Continued growth of Aqura Technologies’ service offering and revenue base, delivering high impact projects for its tier 1 client base such as BHP, Rio Tinto, Oz Minerals, Bunnings and ATCO.

  • A non-cash impairment charge of $3.1 million to the carrying value of customer related intangibles of the Veris Australia segment was recognised during the year.

  • A $2.1 million expense in Veris Australia associated with the acceleration of depreciation associated with certain items of Property, Plant & Equipment.

  • $1.0 million of additional provisions in Veris Australia recognised against the WIP and Debtors’ balances.

  • Sale of 100% interest in Elton Consulting in November 2019 for $13 million, with proceeds utilised to reduce long term debt. The sale resulted in a recognised loss on disposal of $3.6 million.

6

Veris Limited Annual Financial Report 30 June 2020

Directors’ Report

Organisational Review and Restructure

FY2020 saw Veris Australia continue to refine the process of operating as one company and enhancing the integration of its regional presence to solidify our national platform.

Veris Australia continued to leverage its national presence and broad service offerings to strengthen relationships with large national and multi-national customers across a range of sectors including the major engineering contractors, tier 1 property developers (both broadacre greenfield developers and built form constructors), key resources companies, and various Commonwealth, State and local government bodies.

The impact to the Veris Australia financial results of the bushfires and subsequent extreme weather events across the nation in the November 2019 to February 2020 period followed by the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on revenue during the year. This was compounded by the identification of poor project management practices within a number of legacy projects in New South Wales. The New South Wales operations have now been restructured to address this issue.

Following the appointment of Dr Michael Shirley as Chief Executive Officer of Veris Australia in November 2019, and based on a combination of these events, management undertook an overall review of Veris Australia’s business operating model. The new management team, with the support of the Board, implemented a range of measures to refine Veris Australia’s operating structure and model to ensure the business is optimally positioned to withstand the continued impact of a softened economic environment induced by the COVID-19 pandemic and then provide leverage to a post-pandemic recovery. A significant number of measures have been undertaken to increase efficiency and improve margins, particularly across the Veris Australia business.

The review focussed on the restructure of the internal operating model of Veris Australia, the rationalisation and streamlining of the historic corporate structure and a review of existing project and client relationships. The review has resulted in:

  • The streamlining of the management structure to foster greater cross-regional collaboration and service delivery. This has resulted in a reduction in middle management roles from over 45 to 24 Section Leaders and given a strong focus to local delivery within the context of a renewed national collaboration. Against this backdrop, a focus on clients and markets has added new key clients nationally to build further larger project work and deliver work across multiple states.

  • Operational savings have been identified at both local regional levels and at the central functional level. At the regional level, cost savings have focused on operating costs associated with recruitment, internal management, vehicles, leases and support staff. At a Group functional level, cost savings have been targeted at achieving a 20% minimum cost saving across functional teams.

  • • Enhancing visibility of operational and financial results derived from our internal management reporting processes across the Group. The management reporting systems and formats have been revised to provide clarity and hence accountability for overhead expenditure and project performance at a regional level; and

  • Enhanced project management systems and process to ensure more timely management of revenue recognition, work in progress management and project performance. Operational teams are now more able to link project performance with financial metrics used to monitor the business.

7

Veris Limited Annual Financial Report 30 June 2020

Directors’ Report

Operating and Financial Review

Veris Australia’s range of services and the markets in which we operate are expected to be particularly leveraged to a post-COVID-19 pandemic recovery as governments at both Commonwealth and State levels have indicated their willingness to stimulate economic activity via infrastructure and property related project expenditure. Similarly, the continued strength in the commodity markets underpins the ongoing level of capital and maintenance activity by our key resources sector customers.

The Veris Australia strategy is now focussed on consolidating our position in the property and engineering survey sectors where we are strong across Australia. The post COVID-19 economic recovery will be focussed in these infrastructure sectors and Veris Australia is positioned for this investment. Increased effort will continue to build the relationships and revenue with the key clients nationally. The Digital and Spatial growth will be leveraged from the strong survey basis of the business. Moving Veris Australia to a more digital and data driven organisation is a key strategic initiative for the business over the coming year. This will increase the value creation and revenue generating capacity of the business.

Continued investment in both key personnel and procuring key technical equipment will further underpin the growth of our presence in the geospatial market in FY2021.

Aqura continued its growth in 2020, delivering revenue growth of 32%. This growth was driven by the continued expansion in the delivery of services to key Tier 1 clients in the resources, utilities, defence, industrial and commercial sectors. Revenue growth was underpinned by the award of new works packages totalling in excess of $13 million across its key service lines, Industrial Wireless, Content Access Networks and Unified Communications. These awards with clients such as BHP, Rio Tinto, ATCO, Bunnings, and Cubic signify the demand for Aqura’s diverse range of service capabilities across Australia and New Zealand. Aqura has invested internally in the ongoing development of a number of internally generated technology products designed to transition Aqura’s earnings base to capture a more recurring revenue model to complement Aqura’s traditional project based income. These products are expected to be released to market throughout the course of FY21.

For the year ended 30 June 2020 the Group reported a profit of earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortisation (EBITDA) of $1,860,000 - down from $4,100,000 in 2019 (2019 numbers restated due to Discontinued Operation).

8

Veris Limited Annual Financial Report 30 June 2020

Directors’ Report

Operating and Financial Review (continued)

Key points to assist in understanding Veris’ results are as below:

Key Item FY2020
$000
FY2019
$000
Comments
Revenue(iii) 94,105 107,558 Veris recorded a decline in revenue recognised from
continuing operations in the Group during the year to
$94.1m (FY2019: $107.6m). Whilst Aqura Technologies
achieved strong revenue growth of 32% to $19.3 million,
this was offset by a decline in revenue within Veris
Australia, decreasing 20% to $74.8 million. Revenue in
Veris Australia impacted by the catastrophic bushfires and
severe weather events on the eastern seaboard and
subsequently the economic slowdown caused by the onset
of the COVID-19 pandemic.
EBITDA(i) (iii) 1,860 4,100 EBITDA from continuing operations decreased year on
year primarily as a result of the following impacts arising in
the Veris Australia segment:

from the decline in project-related work resulting from
the bushfires occurring from November 2019 to
January 2020,

the subsequent extreme weather events (rain floods
and hail) followed by

the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic and the resultant
period of widespread economic slowdowns and
subsequent impacts to work practices; and

significant
losses
arising
from
poor
project
management practices within legacy projects (these
have now been written off at 30 June 2020); and

operational costs incurred as a result of the review and
realignment of Veris’ operating model.
Aqura Technologies also suffered a decline in EBITDA
margins as a result of Veris’ decision to invest in the
ongoing development of Aqura’s internally generated
product suite. This required additional personnel and
expenditure to be incurred in FY20.
Restructuring costs 1,323 3,294 In FY19 Veris Australia incurred significant restructuring
costs associated with an Operational Review.
Impairment of
Goodwill and
Intangibles
3,133 34,431 Impairment of the intangible assets connected with
customer relationships in Veris Australia, refer Note 15
Intangible Assets.
Net Assets 1,256 27,094 Net assets decreased on prior year as a result of the impact
of the sale of the Elton Consulting business resulting in
reduction of net assets of $19.8 million (see Note 2), the
non-cash
impairment
of
Customer
Relationships
intangibles balance of $3.1 million, and the net operating
loss generated from continuing operations.
Working Capital(ii) (10,709) 5,483 The decline in working capital from FY19 resulted from:

The reduction in working capital balances associated
with the sale of the Elton Consulting business (see
Note 2);

The introduction of AASB16 and the recognition of
current liabilities associated with right of use assets;
and

A reduction in other working capital balances resulting
from the lower level of general activity in the Group’s
continuing operations as noted above.

Key points to assist in understanding Veris’ results are as below:

(i) EBITDA is defined as earnings before depreciation, amortisation, interest, tax, impairment, restructuring, share-based payments and acquisition costs and is an unaudited non-IFRS measure.

(ii) Working capital is defined as current assets less current liabilities.

(iii) Comparative information has been restated due to Discontinued Operation with the exception of Net Assets and Working Capital.

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Veris Limited Annual Financial Report 30 June 2020

Directors’ Report

Operating and Financial Review (continued)

EBIT and EBITDA is a non-IFRS measure that in the opinion of Veris provides useful information to assess the financial performance of the Group. A reconciliation between statutory results and underlying results is provided below. The non-IFRS measure is unaudited:


is provided below. The non-IFRS measure

is unaudited:
FY2020
$000
FY2019
$000
Restated*
Statutory loss after tax (26,493) (40,089)
Add back:
Tax expense / (benefit)
Net finance expense
Restructuring costs
Share-based payment
Impairment of Goodwill and Intangibles
4,587
2,072
1,323
113
3,133
(2,797)
1,324
3,294
586
34,431
EBIT loss (15,265) (3,251)
Depreciation and amortisation 13,842 7,905
Discontinued operations–Loss / (Profit) 3,283 (554)
EBITDA 1,860 4,100

* Comparative information has been restated due to Discontinued Operation.

The Veris financial results reflect the impact to the Group of several significant events that occurred during FY2020, namely:

  • The sale of the Elton Consulting business in November 2019 and the resulting loss on sale (Note 2);

  • The impact to the activity levels and consequently the financial results of Veris Australia arising from the severe impact of the catastrophic bushfires and subsequent severe weather events of hail and flooding rainstorms which were quickly followed by the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic.

  • The continued investment in the growth of the Aqura Technologies business to position it to leverage larger project opportunities with its Tier 1 client base and transition its revenue mix through the development of a product offering that will generate recurring revenue streams to complement the existing project-driven earnings model.

The dramatic impact of these events on the business’ revenue base provided the Board and Veris Australia’s new management team an opportunity to reassess the operating and management structures within the business, identify areas of weakness and inefficiency, and take swift action to reshape the platform on which Veris’ services and expertise are delivered within our regions and key markets.

These changes will be most evident as FY21 unfolds. They are designed to drive both visibility of, and accountability for, profitable project delivery at our regional and section leadership levels. They are also designed to encourage cross-regional integration and collaboration in the delivery of our projects for our clients in order to harness the true benefits of the national platform that has evolved via the acquisition strategy Veris Limited has undertaken over the last 9 years.

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Veris Limited Annual Financial Report 30 June 2020

Directors’ Report

Impact to the Group from the COVID-19 Pandemic

Veris, via both Veris Australia and Aqura Technologies, provides essential infrastructure services to the engineering construction, property development, resources, infrastructure and utilities sectors. To date, these industries have in the large part been allowed to continue operations under various lock-down and social distancing restrictions imposed to manage the pandemic.

Although there have been a range of negative impacts to the Group’s operations from the pandemic, demand for Veris’ services has continued, albeit at a more subdued level than prior to the onset of the pandemic.

To date, within Veris Australia, restrictions on people movement has had some small impact on the Group’s field-based operations, management oversight and executing project work. The Group has implemented appropriate safety and hygiene protocols and procedures designed to minimise the risk of any spread of the COVID-19 virus. The majority of our office-based staff transitioned to working from home arrangements effectively with the Group’s IT infrastructure and other support networks capable of supporting these arrangements effectively. Within Aqura Technologies, the Group has experienced some mobility issues with its workforce, in particular labour moving between South Australia and Western Australia. In a small number of cases, the Company has asked employees and subcontractors to remain in the State that they work, at additional cost to the Company, due to the COVID-19 quarantine restrictions that have been in place.

The Group’s balance sheet, cash flow and liquidity have been carefully monitored during the pandemic. The business has continued to pay our suppliers and contractors as and when due, and has not entered into any factoring arrangement of its working capital. The nature of the Group’s customers, which includes government enterprises and large private sector corporations, is such that the risk of default of receivables is considered low. Veris has heightened the focus on managing our collections cycle during the pandemic. Due to the uncertainty at the time, Veris did seek payment deferral on a number of leasehold rental agreements at the onset of the pandemic with some of the concessions expected to be remedied by 31 December 2020. The Group also sought and received deferral of a $1.0 million amount of GST payable from the Australian Taxation Office as part of its initial response to managing potential risks from the COVID-19 pandemic. This amount is progressively being paid to the ATO with the total liability expected to be extinguished in the year ended 30 June 2021.

The impacts to earnings to date are described below:

  • Increased costs to support specific safety-related protocols across business operations. This includes additional expenditure on protective equipment and hygiene;

  • The participation of both Veris Australia and Aqura Technologies in the Commonwealth Government’s JobKeeper Program. The Group recognised $3.03 million of JobKeeper payments in the period to 30 June 2020;

  • Reduced residential land development activity (new housing estates) across the Eastern states;

  • Deferral of some projects due to travel and access restrictions across remote locations;

  • Delays in projects due to availability of client-supplied free-issue materials; and

  • Deferral of proactive maintenance activities by asset owners.

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Veris Limited Annual Financial Report 30 June 2020

Directors’ Report

Risks

There are specific risks associated with the activities of the Group and general risks, some are within and some are beyond the control of the Company and the Directors. The most significant risks identified that may have a material impact on the future financial performance of the Company and the market price of the Group’s shares are:

COVID-19 Pandemic

The COVID-19 pandemic has created an unprecedented level of uncertainty. Although impact to the Group’s operations to date have been varied, the evolution of the pandemic and any escalation of the government’s response, including but not limited to, increased restriction of workforce movements, increased safety protocols, and reduction in demand from the Group’s customers may further negatively impact the Group’s operations.

Project Delivery Risk

Execution of projects involves professional judgment regarding scheduling, development and delivery. Failure to meet scheduled milestones could result in professional product liability, warranty or other claims against the Company. The Company maintains a range of review processes, insurance policies and risk mitigation programs designed to closely monitor progress and services and outputs delivered.

Working with Potential Safety Hazards Risk

In undertaking work and delivering projects for its customers, Veris Limited’s employees and subcontractors can operate in potential hazardous environments and perform potentially hazardous tasks.

Management and the Board remain alert to the safety risks posed to employees and subcontractors, devote significant time to monitoring the effectiveness of the Group’s safety framework, and have implemented a wide range of controls and proactive programs to increase awareness of significant hazards and prevent injuries to employees and subcontractors.

During the year, the Group maintained its Lost Time Injury Frequency Rate (LTIFR) and Total Reportable Incident Frequency Rate (TRIFR) within target levels.

Legal and Contractual Risk

Errors, omissions or incorrect rates and quantities mean the Group may not achieve full benefits of project deliverables and may lead to a negative impact on financial performance. Additionally, accepting unfavourable and/or failing to understand contractual terms can lead to disputes with third parties and litigation. The Company seeks to mitigate these risks by defining the company’s commercial appetite for contractual and financial risk, following a tendering process and estimation programme and using the knowledge and experience of staff for pricing, contract reviews and screening.

Political Risk

Major infrastructure and civil work may depend on Government approval and funding. Project timing may vary when government approval and funding is either delayed and/or withheld due to reasons such as political, economic and environmental changes. The Group have diversified its revenue base across multiple sectors, suppliers and states to mitigate and reduce potential impact to results.

Integration Risk

In the last 4 years Veris has integrated 9 companies as part of its strategy to create a national professional services surveying business. A key focus is embedding a “one business” culture and approach, including clear articulation of our ‘one business’ vision across the business and standardisation of systems and processes. This ensures acquired businesses are integrated so that synergies and economies of scale can continue to be achieved, along with offering a better service to our growing national customer base. This will mitigate against companies operating in silos with increased costs and risks to the Group.

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Veris Limited Annual Financial Report 30 June 2020

Directors’ Report

Risks (continued)

Retention of Key Personnel and Sourcing of Subcontractors risk

The talents of a growing, yet relatively small number of key personnel contribute significantly to the Group’s operational effectiveness. Management and the Board have implemented strategies to retain those personnel, including participation in appropriate incentive arrangements and participation in the Group’s employee development and succession programs.

Access to an appropriately skilled and resourced pool of employees and subcontractors across Australia is also critical to Veris Limited’s ability to successfully secure and complete field-based work for its customers.

Growth risk

The ability to fund growth opportunities may be compromised if the Group does not meet covenant requirements within external financing facilities, internally established performance targets or adequately manage market expectations. Veris has a defined strategy which is supported by the board and senior management as well as external financiers and a comprehensive internal and external communications plan ensures transparency with the market and alignment with the workforce.

Competition risk

There is potential for changes in the market, whereby a competitor’s product or technology may lead to loss of competitive advantage of the Group, or a competitor may become more aggressive in response to our strategy which may compromise our ability to achieve growth targets. The business has a process in place to monitor competitor behaviour, both in response to Veris’ strategy, as well as changing market conditions, business environment and innovations.

Technology risk

Information technology and data are critical to Veris’ value creating activities and lost access to its IT systems and data would have a major impact on the business. An IT security audit has been completed to understand our control environment in relation to information technology and data, and during the year, the Group completed a project to address shortfalls in legacy systems and processes. This project was designed to ensure appropriate cyber security and risk mitigation protocols are in place, facilitate organisational efficiency, improve disaster recovery protocols and ensure secure business continuity protocols are in place.

Business Integrity & reputation risk

As a listed company with a national presence, the Group is subject to numerous rapidly evolving and complex laws and regulations. Stakeholder trust is directly tied to ethical behaviour, compliance with applicable rules and regulations and internal policies and procedures. The Group has commenced an operation and enterprise risk assessment during the year to clearly identify and manage potential risks.

JobKeeper Payment

As part of its response to the COVID-19, in March 2020 the Australian Government announced various stimulus measures resulting from the economic fallout from the coronavirus lockdown. One such stimulus measure was the payment of subsidies to qualifying employers under the JobKeeper Payment scheme (“JobKeeper”). The initial JobKeeper payments are a wage subsidy whereby employers who qualify for the stimulus receive $1,500 per fortnight for each eligible employee who was employed by the Company during the period April 2020 to September 2020.

The Group has determined that it is eligible to receive the initial JobKeeper payments, which totalled $3.03 million in the period to 30 June 2020.

On 21 July 2020 the Australian Government announced an extension of the JobKeeper Payment scheme to 28 March 2021 at lower rates. Qualification for the extension scheme is dependent on future events, therefore the Group is unable to determine whether it will qualify for any or all of the payments beyond 27 September 2020.

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Veris Limited Annual Financial Report 30 June 2020

Directors’ Report

Significant Changes in State of Affairs

The operations of the Group have been impacted, and continue to be impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. The COVID-19 outbreak was declared a pandemic by the World Health Organisation in March 2020. The responses of governments (both the Commonwealth Government and various State Governments) have impacted business activity levels in markets where the Group operates. The Group took actions to minimise the negative impacts on its operations and financial position including:

  • A 50% and 25% respective reduction in Board and Leadership Team fees and remuneration which commenced at the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic;

  • Review and rationalisation of under-utilised fleet of equipment and vehicles;

  • Review of operating structures and adoption of innovative work practices to ensure remote working opportunities can be leveraged thereby enabling project work to continue;

  • Analysis and review of project management practices to enhance Work in Progress management and revenue recognition;

  • Increased focus on the cash management cycle and discretionary expenditure

  • Continued management and strengthening of relationships with key financing stakeholders;

  • Implementation of a targeted, national approach to project opportunity identification and client management initiatives; and

  • Implementation of a Group-wide employee engagement program to enhance the Veris employee experience to ensure the business attracts and retains the highest calibre people.

In preparing the consolidated financial statements in conformity with Australian Accounting Standards, due consideration has been given to the judgements, estimates and assumptions that affect the application of accounting policies and reported amounts of assets, 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 judgements about carrying values of assets and liabilities that are not readily apparent from other sources. The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has increased estimation uncertainty in the preparation of the consolidated financial statements. At 30 June 2020, the Group has reassessed all significant judgements, assumptions and critical estimates included in the consolidated financial statements, including but not limited to, provisions against trade debtors and work in progress and impairment of non-current assets. Actual results may differ from these estimates and are subject to achievement of forecasts and the extension of the Group’s existing financing facilities. Details of the main judgements, estimates and assumptions applied are set out in the notes to the consolidated financial statements. For the period to 30 June 2020, the most material impacts to the financial position of the Group arising from the significant judgement assumptions include:

  • A $3.1 million impairment of intangibles associated with customer relationships in Veris Australia;

  • A $2.1 million expense associated with the acceleration of depreciation associated with certain items of Property, Plant & Equipment; and

  • $1.0 million of additional provisions recognised against the WIP and Debtors’ balances.

Significant Events After Period End

The Company continues to monitor issues related to COVID-19. Changes have been made to operations across the Company in order to minimise the spread including following advice on social distancing. As the pandemic develops we will continue to monitor operations and activities to ensure we remain as vigilant as possible.

On 28 August 2020, the Company received a Credit approved term sheet from CBA in relation to the extension of the Group’s existing financing facilities extending the term through to 30 September 2021. The extension of the facilities will require the Group to amortise a minimum of $2.3 million of the outstanding Term Loan by 30 June 2021. Veris expects that the documentation pertaining to these extensions will be executed in September 2020.

14

Veris Limited Annual Financial Report 30 June 2020

Directors’ Report

Likely Developments

Whist the Board and management remain vigilant in monitoring the evolution of the COVID-19 pandemic and its impact on the core markets in which Veris operates, we expect opportunities to continue to present themselves over FY21 and beyond via the significant capital and infrastructure related works programs flagged by Commonwealth and State Governments across Australia to support economic activity and lay a platform for recovery. Whilst the Victorian market remains challenging due to the impacts and restrictions imposed in response to recent outbreaks of COVID-19, Veris Australia is well positioned to benefit from any increased or accelerated infrastructure spend and enters FY2021 with approximately $30 million of work in hand and a strong tender pipeline. Similarly, Aqura Technologies is well positioned to leverage the continued opportunities arising from the COVID-19 pandemic within its target market as large customers within the resources, industrials, utilities and defence sectors seek to continue expanding their usage and reliance on communications networks. This is expected to continue as the accelerated adoption of remote working practices and coupled with smart devices with embedded Internet of Things functionalities becomes more widespread.

Other than the matters discussed above, 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.

15

Veris Limited Annual Financial Report 30 June 2020

Directors’ Report

Remuneration Report – Audited

The directors are pleased to present your Company’s 2020 Remuneration Report which sets out the remuneration information for Veris Limited’s Non-Executive Directors, Executive Directors and other Key Management Personnel. The information provided in this Remuneration Report has been audited as required by section 308(3C) of the Corporations Act 2001. This Remuneration Report forms part of the Directors’ Report. For the purposes of this report ‘Key Management Personnel’ (KMP) of the Company are defined as those persons having authority and responsibility for planning, directing and controlling the major activities of the Company, directly or indirectly.

The report contains the following sections:

  • a) Directors and Executive Disclosures

  • b) Remuneration Policy

  • c) Remuneration Advice

  • d) Performance linked compensation

  • e) Details of share-based compensation and bonuses

  • f) Voting and comments made at the Company’s 2019 Annual General Meeting

  • g) Contractual Arrangements

  • h) Details of remuneration

  • i) Analysis of bonuses included in remuneration

  • j) Equity Instrument Disclosure Relating to Key Management Personnel k) Other Transactions with Key Management Personnel

a) Director and Executive Disclosures

The details of directors and key management personnel disclosed in this report are outlined below.

Non-Executive Directors
Karl Paganin Chairman (Independent)
Tom Lawrence Non-Executive Director (Independent)
Derek La Ferla Non-Executive Director (Independent, retired 25 November
2019)
Brian Elton Non-Executive Director (Non-Independent, appointed
21 November 2019)
Executive KMP
Adam Lamond Executive Director (Managing Director – until 2 April
2020)
Brian Elton Executive Director (Ceased as Executive Director 21
November 2019)
Michael Shirley Chief Executive Officer – Veris Australia (Appointed 29 October 2019)
Travis Young Chief Executive Officer – Aqura Technologies (Appointed 1 July 2019)
Steven Harding Chief Financial Officer (Appointed CFO 2 April 2020)
Lisa Wynne Company Secretary and
InterimChief FinancialOfficer (InterimCFO21June2019- 2 April)

b) Remuneration policy

The Group has high expectations of its personnel and its executive leadership team. The Group aligns the performance outcomes of its executives with its own corporate outcomes and as such remuneration will be based on merit, performance and responsibilities assigned and undertaken.

16

Veris Limited Annual Financial Report 30 June 2020

Directors’ Report

Remuneration Report – Audited (continued)

Remuneration & Nomination Committee

The Group has a Remuneration and Nomination Committee, which is responsible for:

  • Assessing appropriate remuneration policies, levels and packages for Board Members, the MD, and (in consultation with the MD) other senior executive officers;

  • Monitoring the implementation by the Group of such remuneration policies; and

  • Recommending the Group’s remuneration policy so as to:

  • motivate directors and management to pursue the long-term growth and success of the Group within an appropriate control framework; and

  • demonstrate a clear relationship between key executive performance and remuneration.

Non-executive director remuneration policy

The Constitution and the ASX Listing Rules specify that the aggregate remuneration of Non-Executive Directors shall be determined from time-to-time by a general meeting. The Constitution was amended by special resolution of the members on 23 November 2016 with the aggregate remuneration increasing from $250,000 to $500,000 per annum, which is to be apportioned amongst Non-Executive Directors.

The Company has entered into service agreements with its current Non-Executive Directors; refer details of the contractual arrangements on page 22 of this remuneration report. Retirement payments, if any, are agreed to be determined in accordance with the rules set out in the Corporations Act 2001 at the time of the Directors retirement or termination. Non-Executive Directors’ remuneration may include an incentive portion consisting of bonuses and/or options, as considered appropriate by the Board, which may be subject to shareholder approval in accordance with the ASX Listing Rules.

Executive remuneration policy

The Company’s remuneration policy is to ensure the remuneration package appropriately reflects the person’s duties and responsibilities and that remuneration is competitive in attracting, retaining and motivating people of the highest quality. The Company aims to reward executives with a level of remuneration commensurate with their position and responsibilities within the Company so as to attract and retain executives of the highest calibre, whilst incurring a cost that is acceptable to shareholders.

The overall executive team and remuneration framework has been overhauled and a revised remuneration structure has been designed post the reporting period to link reward more directly to the strategy and drivers of Veris creating long term shareholder value. Previously Veris had a combined LTI and STI structure whereby the STI was an annual cash payment and the LTI was the issue of performance rights with TSR and EPS vesting hurdles over a 3 year period. Veris has now simplified its incentive structures so that the Incentive Plan is fit for purpose for the phase of the company’s life cycle.

FY2020 Incentive Plan

There was no formal 2020 incentive structure implemented during the reporting period, however there was a discretionary offer post the end of the reporting period of Performance Rights to a number of Key Personnel based on behaviours and the individual’s contribution to the FY20 financial year. These Performance Rights were issued post the reporting period. The Performance Rights will vest into fully paid ordinary shares subject to the individuals continued employment as at 30 June 2021 (1 year retention).

FY2021 Incentive Plan

Veris has a National footprint and over 550 staff. Veris has implemented a new operating model which is crucial to ensure success of the Company. Post the reporting period, Veris implemented a new Incentive Plan for the period ending 30 June 2021. The primary objectives of the new Incentive Plan are to reflect the new operating model implemented where all personnel are accountable for strategy execution and daily operational performance and improvement and to reward executives for achievement of the stated objectives in line with the Veris strategy.

17

Veris Limited Annual Financial Report 30 June 2020

Directors’ Report

Remuneration Report – Audited (continued)

The new FY21 Plan allows for a payment equal to up to 30-50% of TEC (Total Employment Cost) based on the achievement of a behavioural element and a minimum performance of budget at the Profit Before Tax line payable in 50% cash and 50% equity. The equity will be issued by way of performance rights, which will vest depending on continued employment for 1 year post issue.

c) Remuneration Advice

Remuneration is regularly compared with the external market by participation in industry salary surveys and during recruitment activities generally. During the year no consulting firms were engaged to provide advice in regards to remuneration.

d) Performance Linked Compensation

The following table shows key performance indicators for the Group over the last five years.

Financial Year Ended 30 June 2020 2019(ii) 2018 2017 2016
LTI Closing Share Price ($) 0.036 0.047 0.24 0.15 0.023
EPS (cents) (6.14) (11.29) (0.39) 0.02 7.4
STI Profit / (Loss) from Continuing
Operations ($’000)
(23,210) (40,643) (1,056) 48 19,698
EBITDA 1,860 4,100 11,189 5,704 16,176
Average % of Maximum STI
awarded to Executives(i)(%)
- - 29% 25% 92%
Dividends paid ($’000) - 1,770 1,636 1,368 -

(iv) Represents STI payable/paid as a percentage of the maximum STI payable.

(v) Comparative information has been restated in FY19 due to Discontinued Operation, prior periods not restated.

e) Details of share-based compensation and bonuses

(i) Options

No options were granted to directors and key management personnel during or since the end of the reporting period.

(ii) Performance Rights granted as compensation to key management personnel

1,000,000 Performance Rights were granted to a key management personnel during the reporting period. Subsequent to the reporting period, 941,131 Performance Rights were issued to key management personnel as a discretionary bonus in recognition of their contribution to the ongoing success of the Veris group and in particular their extraordinary personal performance during the reporting period.

18

Veris Limited Annual Financial Report 30 June 2020

Directors’ Report

Remuneration Report – Audited (continued)

(iii) Exercise of Performance Rights Granted as Compensation in Prior Years

During the year, the following shares were issued on the vesting of performance rights previously granted as compensation in previous financial years on cessation of employment of a previous KMP:

Key Management Personnel Number of Shares Amount paid $/share
Brian Mangano 1,183,240 -

(iv) Details of Long Term Incentives affecting current and future remuneration

Key
Management
Personnel
Instrument # Grant
date
%
vested
in year
#
vested
in year
%
forfeited/
lapsed in
year
#
forfeited
/lapsed
in year
Financial
years in
which
grant
vests
Face
value
of
vested
rights
Michael
Shirley
Travis
Young
Steven
Harding
Lisa Wynne
Performance
rights
1,000,000 29 Oct
2019
- - - - 2022 -
323,353 5
August
2020
- - - - 2021 -
Performance
rights
307,480 12 April
2019
- - - - 2021 -
296,407 5
August
2020
- - - - 2021 -
Performance
rights
90,943 5
August
2020
- - - - 2021 -
Performance
rights
230,428 5
August
20
- - - - 2021 -
2,248,611

19

Veris Limited Annual Financial Report 30 June 2020

Directors’ Report

Remuneration Report – Audited (continued)

(v) Vesting and Exercise of Performance Rights Granted as Remuneration

FY2020 Veris Incentive Plan (VIP) Performance Outcomes

1,000,000 Performance Rights were issued under the Veris Incentive Plan during the reporting period to the CEO of Veris Australia on commencement of his employment. The Performance Rights will vest into fully paid ordinary shares subject to two years continued employment (2 year retention) and achieving an increase in the Veris Australia EBITDA margin by 40% or greater during this period.

Additionally, there was a discretionary offer post the end of the reporting period of Performance Rights to a number of Key Personnel based on behaviours and the individual’s contribution to the FY20 financial year. These Performance Rights were issued post the reporting period. The Performance Rights will vest into fully paid ordinary shares subject to the individuals continued employment as at 30 June 2021 (1 year retention).

FY2019 Veris Incentive Plan (VIP) Performance Outcomes

During the previous period, under the VIP (a 4 year plan with 50/50 Cash/Equity split) to be paid/issued at the end of FY2019 following the achievement of KPIs outlined in the below Balanced Scorecard:

Balanced Scorecard and Weightings Balanced Scorecard and Weightings Balanced Scorecard and Weightings Balanced Scorecard and Weightings
MP's Financial Market Individual Values
MD & K Budgeted EBITDA
(14%)
Absolute EPS
(19%)
KPI's
(20%)
Behaviours
(5%)

On the basis that the Balanced Scorecard was achieved, 50% was to be paid in cash and 50% in equity by way of issue of Performance Rights, of which 60% will vest based on achievement of a 3 year absolute TSR hurdle and 40% will vest in a future period in time, depending on continued employment for 4 years post issue (33% year 2; 33% year 3, 33% year 4). The absolute TSR hurdle is outlined in the below table:

TSR over 3 years % of Grant to Vest
*Performance Vesting
<75% 0%
>75 % 120% Pro-rata vesting between
25% & 100%
Hurdles: >120% 100%

* Safety must be maintained at all times and no LTI’s will vest in the instance of a major safety breach such as a serious injury or fatality

During the reporting period, no Performance Rights were issued to KMPs under the 2019 VIP. With the exception of vesting on cessation of employment of a good leaver, no Performance Rights have vested under the VIP to remaining KMPs.

20

Veris Limited Annual Financial Report 30 June 2020

Directors’ Report

Remuneration Report – Audited (continued)

f) Voting and comments made at the Company’s 2019 Annual General Meeting

The adoption of the Remuneration Report for the financial year ended 30 June 2019 was put to the shareholders of the Company at the Annual General Meeting held 25 November 2019. The Company received 75.12% of votes, of those shareholders who exercised their right to vote, in favour of the remuneration report for the 2019 financial year. The resolution was passed without amendment on a poll.

g) Contractual Arrangements

On appointment to the board, all non-executive directors enter into a service agreement with the Company in the form of a letter of appointment. The letter summarises the board policies and terms, including remuneration, relevant to the office of director.

21

Veris Limited Annual Financial Report 30 June 2020

Directors’ Report

Remuneration Report – Audited (continued)

Remuneration and other terms of employment for the Board members, chief executive officer, chief financial officers and other key management personnel are also formalised in service agreements. Major provisions of the agreements relating to remuneration are set out below.

Name Term of agreement Base Salary
including
superannuation

Termination
Derek La Ferla Mr La Ferla retired on 25 November
2019
$125,744 In accordance with the company’s
constitution and the Corporations Act
2001 (Cth).
Adam Lamond(A) (B)
(C) (F) & (I)
Until validly terminated in accordance
with the terms of the Agreement.
$222,283 Termination by Company with reason –
1 months’ notice
Termination
by
Company
without
reason – 3 months’ notice (or payment
of the equivalent of 5 months’ salary to
dispense of the notice period)
Tom Lawrence(I) Mr Lawrence will hold office until the
next annual general meeting of the
Company where he may be subject to
retirement by rotation under the
company’s constitution.
$77,305 In accordance with the company’s
constitution and the Corporations Act
2001 (Cth).
Karl Paganin(I) Mr Paganin will hold office until the next
annual
general
meeting
of
the
Company where he may be subject to
retirement by rotation under the
company’s constitution.
$125,744 In accordance with the company’s
constitution and the Corporations Act
2001 (Cth).
Brian Elton(I) Mr Elton will hold office until the next
annual
general
meeting
of
the
Company where he may be subject to
retirement by rotation under the
company’s constitution.
$77,305 In accordance with the company’s
constitution and the Corporations Act
2001 (Cth).
Michael Shirley(A)
(B) (C) (G) & (I)
Until validly terminated in accordance
with the terms of the Agreement.
$394,200 Termination by Company with reason –
1 months’ notice
Termination
by
Company
without
reason–3 months’notice.
Steven Harding(A)
(B) (C) (H) (I)
Until validly terminated in accordance
with the terms of the Agreement.
$295,650 Termination by Company with reason –
1 months’ notice
Termination
by
Company
without
reason – 3 months’ notice. In the event
of termination of employment occurring
within 12 months following a Change of
Control event, the employee is entitled
to a payment upon termination equal to
12
months
base
salary
plus
superannuation.
Travis Young(A) (B)
(C) & (I)
Until validly terminated in accordance
with the terms of the Agreement.
$240,900 Termination by the Company with
reason – without notice
Termination by the Company without
reason–five weeks’notice
Lisa Wynne(A) (B) (C)
(E) & (I)
Until validly terminated in accordance
with the terms of the Agreement.
$233,235 Termination by Company with reason –
1 months’ notice
Termination
by
Company
without
reason – 3 months’ notice (or payment
of the equivalent of 5 months’ salary to
dispense of the notice period)

22

Veris Limited Annual Financial Report 30 June 2020

Directors’ Report

Remuneration Report – Audited (continued)

(A) Key management personnel are also entitled to receive on termination of employment their statutory entitlements of accrued annual and long service leave, together with any superannuation benefits.

(B) Key management personnel’s contracts allow for participation in the Company’s Incentive Plan (subject to Board and Shareholder approval, if applicable).

  • (C) These contracts provide for the provision of short-term incentives by way of a cash bonus subject to key performance indicators to be determined by the Remuneration & Nomination Committee annually.

  • (D) Brian Mangano held the role of Chief Financial Officer until 21 June 2019.

  • (E) Lisa Wynne assumed the role of Interim Chief Financial Officer from 21 June 2019 to 2 April 2020. Lisa holds the roles of Company Secretary and Head of Commercial at the date of this report.

  • (F) Base Salary plus Super was effective 1 May 2020. Adam Lamond held the role of Managing Director until 2 April 2020 where he received a Base Salary plus Super of $444,567 per annum until 30 April 2020.

(G) Michael Shirley was appointed on 29 October 2019.

  • (H) Steven Harding was appointed on 2 April 2020.

(I) In April 2020 as a result of COVID-19, all Directors and KMP’s agreed to reduce their remuneration by 50% and 25% respectively.

23

Veris Limited Annual Financial Report 30 June 2020

Directors’ Report

Remuneration Report – Audited (continued)

h) Remuneration of directors and key management personnel of the group for the current and previous financial year

Short-term employee benefits Short-term employee benefits Short-term employee benefits Post-
employ-
ment
benefits
Share-
based
Payments
Termination
Benefits
Accounting
Value (at risk)
Salary
& fees
$(A)
Incentive
Cash
bonus
$(B)
Non-
monet
ary
$
Super-
annuation
$
Cash
$
Perfor
-
mance
Rights
$(D)
Perfor-
mance
Rights
$(E), (F)
Total
$
Proportion of
remuneration
performance
related
Directors
Non-Executive Dire
ctors
Karl Paganin
(Chairperson)
2020 101,131 - - - - - - 101,131 -
2019 77,305 - - - - - - 77,305 -
Tom Lawrence 2020 67,671 - - - - - - 67,671 -
2019 77,305 - - - - - - 77,305 -
Derek La Ferla
(Retired 25
November 2019)
2020 56,101 - - - - - - 56,101 -
2019 125,744 - - - - - - 125,744 -
Brian Elton(H) 2020 39,915 - - 6,706 - - - 46,621 -
2019 - - - - - - - - -
Executive Directors
Adam Lamond
Exec Director
2020 419,013 - - 21,002 - - - 440,015 -
2019 415,286 - - 20,531 - - - 435,817 -
Brian Elton(H) 2020 107,033 10,168 162,247 - 279,448
2019 319,638 - - 30,365 - - - 350,003 -
Total
Directors’
Remuneration
2020 790,864 - - 37,876 162,247 - - 990,987 -
2019 1,015,278 - - 50,896 - - - 1,066,174 -

24

Veris Limited Annual Financial Report 30 June 2020

Directors’ Report

Remuneration Report – Audited (continued)

Short-term nefits Post-
employ-
ment
benefits
Terminatio n Benefits Share-
based
Payments
employee be Accounting
Value (at
risk)
Salary
& fees
$(A)
Incentive
Cash
Non-
monetar
Super- Cash
$
Perfor-
mance
Rights
$(D)
Perfor-
mance
Rights
$(E) , (F)
Total
$
Proportion of
remuneration
performance
related
bonus
$(B)
y
**$ **
annuation
$
Other Executives
Michael Shirley
(CEO – Veris
Australia)(G) (J)
2020 201,670 - - 14,592 - - 29,119 245,381 12%
2019 - - - - - - - - -
Travis Young
(CEO – Aqura
Technologies)(I)
2020 205,113 - - 24,204 - - 12,848 242,165 5%
2019 - - - - - - - - -
Steven Harding
(CFO)(K)
2020 44,366 - - 4,215 - - 673 49,254 1%
2019 - - - - - - - - -
Brian Mangano
(CFO – ceased 1
July 2019)
2020 - - - - - - - - -
2019 311,640 - - 32,629 363,385 18,874 - 726,528 -
Lisa Wynne
(Company
Secretary)(C)
2020 246,254 - - 19,771 - - 4,263 270,288 2%
2019 158,322 - - 16,225 - - 2,377 176,924 1%
Total Executives’
Remuneration
2020 697,403 - - 62,782 - - 46,903 807,088 6%
2019 469,962 - - 48,854 363,385 18,874 2,377 903,452 -
Total
Directors’

2020 1,488,267 - - 100,658 162,247 - 46,903 1,798,075 3%
and
Executives
Remuneration
2019 1,485,240 - - 99,750 363,385 18,874 2,377 1,969,626 -

25

Veris Limited Annual Financial Report 30 June 2020

Directors’ Report

Remuneration Report – Audited (continued)

Notes in relation to the table of directors’ and executive officers’ remuneration

  • (A) Salary and Fees includes annual leave and long service leave.

  • (B) Short-term incentive bonus is for the achievement of KPIs within their individual roles for the financial year ended 30 June 2020. The performance evaluation in respect of the year ended 30 June 2020 has taken place and no short-term incentive bonuses will be paid.

  • (C) Based on full time equivalent annual salary of $213,786.

  • (D) The value of the Performance Rights granted in the prior year is the fair value of the rights calculated at grant date. This amount is allocated to remuneration over the vesting periods for the FY17 Rights Plan (in years 1 July 2016 to 30 June 2019), and over a one year period for the FY19 Rights Plan which were issued to Brian Mangano on cessation of employment. The fair value of the Performance Rights has been measured using Monte Carlo simulation model.

  • (E) 941,131 Performance Rights were granted post period end, however the pro-rata valuation over the vesting period has been accrued in this reporting period. The value of the Performance Rights is calculated at grant date (effective grant date – letter of offer) based on the share price at grant date.

  • (F) The value of the Performance Rights granted in the prior year is the fair value of the rights calculated at grant date that had not yet fully vested at the commencement of the financial year. This amount is allocated to remuneration over the vesting periods (in years 1 July 2019 to 30 June 2022).The fair value of the Performance Rights has been measured using Monte Carlo simulation model. This value includes an assumption that the instruments will vest at the end of the vesting period unless forfeited during the financial year, which they did.

  • (G) 1,000,000 Performance Rights were granted during the period. The value of the Performance Rights is calculated at grant date (effective grant date – letter of offer) based on the share price at grant date.

  • (H) Brian Elton was appointed Executive Director on 29 March 2019. He held this role until 20 November 2019, at which time he became a Non-Executive Director.

(I) Travis Young was appointed as CEO on 1 July 2019, therefore remuneration paid in the prior year is not disclosed in this note.

  • (J) Michael Shirley was appointed on 29 October 2019.

  • (K) Steven Harding was appointed on 2 April 2020.

i) Analysis of bonuses included in remuneration

No short-term or long term incentives were awarded as remuneration to key management personnel during the period. Subsequent to the period end, there was an issue of 941,131 Performance Rights to KMPs as a discretionary bonus, based on behaviours and the individual’s contribution to the FY20 financial year.

j) Equity Instrument Disclosure Relating to Key Management Personnel

Analysis of movements in Performance Rights issued, held and transacted by directors and key management personnel

KMP # Held 1
July 2019
Granted in
year(C)
Grant
Value
Grant
Face
Value
Number
Vested in
year
Number
forfeited /
lapsed in
year
Number
held at 30
June 2020
Adam Lamond - - - - - - -
Michael Shirley(A) - 1,323,353 $48,964 $48,964 - - 1,323,353
Steven Harding - 90,943 $3,365 $3,365 - - 90,943
Travis Young 307,480 296,407 $10,967 $10,967 - - 603,887
Lisa Wynne - 230,428 $8,526 $8,526 - - 230,428
Brian Mangano(B) 1,183,240 - $12,876 $43,780 1,183,240 - -

(A) 1,000,000 Performance Rights were issued during the period on commencement of employment.

(B) 1,183,240 Performance Rights held by former CFO, Brian Mangano vested on cessation of employment on 1 July 2019.

(C) 941,131 Performance Rights were issued to KMP subsequent to the reporting period.

26

Veris Limited Annual Financial Report 30 June 2020

Directors’ Report

Remuneration Report – Audited (continued)

Analysis of movements in Shares Issued, held and transacted by directors and key management personnel

The number of ordinary shares in the Company held during the reporting period by each director and key management personnel of the Group, including their personally related parties are set out below. There were no shares granted as compensation during the reporting period.

Balance at 30/06/2019 Movement Balance at 30/06/2020
Directors
Karl Paganin 8,125,170 5,064,180 13,189,350
Derek La Ferla 598,417 - 598,417(A)
Adam Lamond 46,041,815 2,550,000 48,591,815
Tom Lawrence 8,136,093 5,000,000 13,136,093
Brian Elton 14,835,733 18,472,417 33,308,150
KMP’s
Michael Shirley - 2,500,000 2,500,000
Travis Young 12,616,789 1,000,000 13,616,789
Lisa Wynne 856,857 (200,000) 656,857
Steven Harding - 750,000 750,000
Total 91,210,874 35,136,597 126,347,471

(A) KMP shareholding at retirement as Chairman on 25 November 2019.

k) Other Transactions with Key Management Personnel

The Company rented office space from Elton Property, a company controlled by director, Brian Elton. Amounts paid during the year of $104,261.76 are based on market rates and normal commercial terms. This amount has not been included as remuneration in the tables above.

THIS CONCLUDES THE AUDITED REMUNERATION REPORT

27

Veris Limited Annual Financial Report 30 June 2020

Directors’ Report

Shares Under Option

As at 30 June 2020 there are no shares under option.

Indemnification and Insurance of Officers

During the financial year the Group paid insurance premiums of $58,500 (2019: $43,500) to insure the directors, secretaries and executive officers of the Group and its subsidiary companies. The liabilities insured are legal costs that may be incurred in defending civil or criminal proceedings that may be brought against the directors and officers in their capacity as directors and officers of Veris Limited and its subsidiary companies, and any other payments arising from liabilities incurred by the officers in connection with such proceedings, other than where such liabilities arise out of conduct involving wilful breach of duty by the officers or the improper use by the officers of their position or of information to gain advantage for themselves or someone else to cause detriment to the Group. The directors have not included details of the nature of the liabilities covered or the amount of the premium paid in respect of the directors’ and officers’ liability and legal expenses insurance contracts, as such disclosure is prohibited under the terms of the contract.

Non-Audit Services

During the year KPMG, the Group’s auditors has performed no other services in addition to its statutory duties.

Details for the amounts paid to KPMG, the Group’s auditor, and its related practices for audit and nonaudit services to the Group provided during the year are set out below:

Audit services:
Audit and review of the financial reports
Services other than audit services:
Other services (Integration)
Consolidated
2020
$000
2019
$000
250
226
-
9
250
235

Environmental Regulations and Performance

It is the Group’s policy to comply with all environmental regulations applicable to it. The Company confirms, for the purposes of section 299(1)(f) of the Corporations Act 2001 that it is not aware of any breaches by the Group of any environmental regulations under the laws of the Commonwealth of Australia, or of a State of Territory of Australia.

In the majority of the Veris’ business situations, Veris is not the owner or operator of plant and equipment requiring environmental licences. Veris typically assists its clients with the management of their environmental responsibilities, rather than holding those responsibilities directly.

The Group is not aware of any breaches by Veris of any environmental regulations under the laws of the Commonwealth of Australia, or of a State or Territory.

28

Veris Limited Annual Financial Report 30 June 2020

Directors’ Report

Proceedings on Behalf of the Group

There are no proceedings on behalf of the Group under Section 237 of the Corporations Act 2001 in the financial year or at the date of the report.

Lead auditor’s independence declaration

The lead auditor’s independence declaration is set out on page 80 and forms part of the directors’ report for the year ended 30 June 2020.

Rounding off

The Company is of a kind referred to in ASIC Instrument 2016/191 and in accordance with that Instrument, amounts in the condensed consolidated interim financial statements and directors’ report have been rounded off to the nearest thousand dollars, unless otherwise stated.

Corporate Governance Statement

Veris is committed to implementing sound standards of corporate governance. In determining what those standards should involve, the Group has had regard to the ASX Corporate Governance Council’s Corporate Governance Principles and Recommendations (3rd Edition) (“ASX Recommendations”). This corporate governance statement outlines the key principles and practices of the Company which in the terms of the Group’s Corporate Governance Charter, define the Group’s system of governance. A copy of the Group’s Corporate Governance Statement has been placed on the Group’s website under the Investors tab in the corporate governance section – https://www.veris.com.au/media/2894/corporate-governance-statement-2020.pdf

Signed in accordance with a resolution of the directors:

==> picture [131 x 66] intentionally omitted <==

Karl Paganin Chairman Dated at Perth 31 August 2020

29

Veris Limited Annual Financial Report 30 June 2020

Consolidated Statement of Profit or Loss and Other Comprehensive Income For the Year Ended 30 June 2020

Note
Continuing operations
Revenue
3
Operating expenses
Depreciation
13
Amortisation
14
Restructuring costs
Share-based payment
Impairment of Intangibles
14
Results from operating activities
Finance costs
Net finance costs
Loss before income tax
Income tax (expense) / benefit
15
Loss from continuing operations
Discontinued operation
Profit / (loss) from discontinued operations, net of tax
2
Loss for the period
Total comprehensive loss for the year
Earnings / loss per share
Basic loss cents per share
4
Diluted loss cents per share
4
Earnings / loss per share – Continuing operations
Basic loss cents per share
4
Diluted loss cents per share
4
2020
2019
$000
$000
Restated*
94,105
107,558
(92,245)
(103,458)
1,860
4,100
(11,507)
(4,997)
(2,335)
(2,908)
(1,323)
(3,294)
(113)
(586)
(3,133)
(34,431)
(16,551)
(42,116)
(2,072)
(1,324)
(2,072)
(1,324)
(18,623)
(43,440)
(4,587)
2,797
(23,210)
(40,643)
(3,283)
554
(26,493)
(40,089)
(26,493)
(40,089)
(7.02)
(11.13)
(7.02)
(11.13)
(6.14)
(11.29)
(6.14)
(11.29)

The accompanying notes form an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.

* Comparative information has been re-presented due to Discontinued Operation, refer to Note 2.

30

Veris Limited Annual Financial Report 30 June 2020

Consolidated Statement of Financial Position At 30 June 2020

Note
Assets
Current assets
Cash and cash equivalents
17
Trade and other receivables
10
Contract assets
7
Other current assets
Total current assets
Non-current assets
Property, plant and equipment
13
Intangible assets
14
Deferred tax asset
16
Total non-current assets
Total assets
Liabilities
Current Liabilities
Trade and other payables
11
Deferred vendor payments
7
Loans and borrowings
19
Employee benefits
12
Current tax liability
Total current liabilities
Non-current liabilities
Loans and borrowings
19
Employee benefits
12
Provisions
Total non-current liabilities
Total liabilities
Net assets
Equity
Share capital
20
Share based payment reserve
20
(Accumulated losses)
20
Total equity
30 Jun 2020
30 Jun 2019
$000
$000
1,939
3,685
13,178
25,864
5,836
8,280
4,115
3,039
25,068
40,868
25,600
13,551
-
19,190
4,481
8,913
30,081
41,654
55,149
82,522
13,835
18,765
-
3,554
13,219
3,356
8,189
9,176
534
534
35,777
35,385
16,364
18,403
1,027
1,640
725
-
18,116
20,043
53,893
55,428
1,256
27,094
44,127
43,051
2,528
2,949
(45,399)
(18,906)
1,256
27,094

The accompanying notes form an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.

31

Veris Limited Annual Financial Report 30 June 2020

Consolidated Statement of Changes in Equity For the Year ended 30 June 2020

Balance at 1 July 2019
Total comprehensive income for the year
Loss for the year
Total comprehensive loss for the year
Transactions with owners of the Company,
recognised directly in equity
Issue of ordinary shares (net of costs)
Share-based payment transactions
Total transactions with owners of the Company
Balance at 30 June 2020
Balance at 1 July 2018
Adjustment on initial application of AASB 9
Adjustment on initial application of AASB 15
Adjusted balance at 1 July 2018
Total comprehensive income for the year
Loss for the year
Total comprehensive loss for the year
Transactions with owners of the Company,
recognised directly in equity
Issue of ordinary shares (net of costs)
Dividends paid
Share-based payment transactions
Total transactions with owners of the Company
Balance at 30 June 2019
Note
20
Note
Share
Capital
Share
Based
Payment
Reserve
Retained
Earnings
Total
Equity
$000
$000
$000
$000
43,051
2,949
(18,906)
27,094
-
-
(26,493)
(26,493)
-
-
(26,493)
(26,493)
1,076
-
-
1,076
-
(421)
-
(421)
1,076
(421)
-
655
44,127
2,528
(45,399)
1,256
Share
Capital
Share
Based
Payment
Reserve
Retained
Earnings
Total
Equity
$000
$000
$000
$000
40,887
2,349
24,967
68,203
(721)
(721)
(1,293)
(1,293)
40,887
2,349
22,953
66,189
-
-
(40,089)
(40,089)
-
-
(40,089)
(40,089)
20 2,164
-
-
2,164
20 -
-
(1,770)
(1,770)
-
600
-
600
2,164
600
(1,770)
994
43,051
2,949
(18,906)
27,094

The accompanying notes form an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.

32

Veris Limited Annual Financial Report 30 June 2020

Consolidated Statement of Cash Flow For the Year Ended 30 June 2020

Note


Cash flows from operating activities
Receipts from customers
Payments to suppliers and employees
Cash generated from operations
Interest paid
Interest received
Net cash from operating activities
18
Cash flows from investing activities
Proceeds from sale of property, plant and equipment
Purchase of property, plant and equipment
Deferred vendor payment
Acquisition of subsidiaries net of cash acquired
Disposal of subsidiaries net of costs
Net cash (used in) investing activities
Cash flows from financing activities
Repayment of borrowings and lease liabilities
Proceeds from loans
Net cash (used in) from financing activities
Net increase/(decrease) in cash and cash equivalents
Cash and cash equivalents at 1 July
Cash and cash equivalents at 30 June
17
2020
2019
$000
$000
121,614
143,784
(113,641)
(136,212)
7,973
7,572
(2,072)
(1,330)
2
3
5,903
6,245
328
1,769
(4,928)
(1,858)
(2,488)
(2,140)
-
266
12,761
-
5,673
(1,963)
(16,064)
(6,185)
2,742
-
(13,322)
(6,185)
(1,746)
(1,903)
3,685
5,588
1,939
3,685

The accompanying notes form an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.

33

Veris Limited Annual Financial Report 30 June 2020

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements

BASIS OF PREPARATION

REPORTING ENTITY

Veris Limited (the “Company” or “Veris”) is a for-profit company domiciled in Australia. The Company’s registered office is at Level 12, 3 Hasler Road, Osborne Park WA 6017. The consolidated financial statements of the Company as at and for the year ended 30 June 2020 comprises the Company and its subsidiaries (together referred to as the “Group”). The Group is a professional service business delivering surveying, professional and advisory, and geospatial services to the infrastructure; property; energy, mining & resource; defence; agribusiness; tourism; leisure and government sectors throughout Australia.

COVID-19 IMPACT

The social, health and economic consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic continue to evolve and have major impacts across the world. Since its declaration as a pandemic in March 2020, COVID-19 and the associated government, business and consumer response has had a significant impact on the operations and financial performance of the Group.

Despite these challenges, the Group has been focused on supporting and keeping its employees, clients and the community safe by:

  • instituting remote working arrangements for its employees

  • implementing cost-savings initiatives across its businesses

  • staff rotations and shifts to minimise any potential spread of the virus

  • regular communications regarding the latest health advice including personal hygiene, physical distancing, self-isolation and testing

  • provision of additional hand sanitisers and PPE as required, and additional cleaning of offices and shared services.

STATEMENT OF COMPLIANCE

The consolidated financial statements are general purpose financial statements prepared in accordance with Australian Accounting Standards (AASBs) adopted by the Australian Accounting Standards Board (AASB) and the Corporations Act 2001. The consolidated financial statements comply with International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRSs) adopted by the International Accounting Standards Board (IASB). This consolidated annual report was approved by the board of directors on 31 August 2020.

34

Veris Limited Annual Financial Report 30 June 2020

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements

NOTE INDEX

OTE INDEX
GROUP PERFORMANCE NET DEBT
Operating Segments……………………………
Discontinued Operations……………………….
1
2
Cash and cash equivalents………………… 17
Revenue…………………………………………. 3 Reconciliations of operating profit after 18
income tax to net cash inflow from
Earnings per share…………………………… 4 Operating activities……………………………..
Subsequent events…………………………….. 5 Loans and borrowings……………………….. 19
RISK MANAGEMENT EQUITY
Critical accounting estimates and
judgements……………………………………….
6 Share capital…………………………………….
Dividends………………………………………….
20
21
Financial instruments………………………....... 7 Share-based payments………………………. 22
Commitments………………….………………… 8
Contingent liabilities…………………………….. 9
OTHER INFORMATION
WORKING CAPITAL Related party transactions…………………… 23
Trade and other receivables………………. 10 Remuneration of auditors……………………. 24
Trade and other payables…………………. 11
GROUP STRUCTURE
CAPITAL EMPLOYED Subsidiaries……………………………………… 25
Employee benefits…………………………….. 12 Deed of cross guarantee…………………… 26
Property, plant and equipment and
impairment……………………………………….
13 Parent entity financial information………… 27
Intangible assets………………………………. 14
ACCOUNTING POLICIES
TAXATION Basis of preparation…………………………… 28
Income tax.……………………………………
Deferred tax assets / liabilities………………
15
16
Summary of significant accounting policies
New standards and interpretations not yet
effective…………………………………………….
29
30
Determination of fair values…………………. 31

35

Veris Limited Annual Financial Report 30 June 2020

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements

GROUP PERFORMANCE

1. OPERATING SEGMENTS

The Group had three reportable segments that were being managed separately by the service provided. In 2020 the segments include Veris Australia and Aqura Technologies.

The 2020 reportable segments and the services they provide are:

  • Veris Australia – examine and record the features of a piece of land or infrastructure in order to create maps, plans, detailed descriptions and to facilitate construction

  • Aqura Technologies – provides specialised ICT and Communications services

  • Elton Consulting – provide expert advice to businesses, governments and not-for-profit organisations to support them to make considered and informed decisions on policy, strategy, city-making and service delivery. Elton Consulting was disposed of in November 2019.

Information regarding the results of each reporting segment is detailed below for the year ended 30 June 2020.

Revenues
Inter-segment
revenues
External
revenues
Costs
Inter-segment
costs
External costs
EBITDA**
Depreciation
Amortisation
Veris Australia
Aqura Technologies
Total*

2020
2019
2020
2019
2020
2019
$000
$000
$000
$000
$000
$000
74,849
93,058
19,336
14,710
94,185
107,768
(42)
(111)
(38)
(99)
(80)
(210)
74,807
92,947
19,298
14,611
94,105
107,558
(71,102)
(87,279)
(18,294)
(12,846)
(89,396)
(100,125)
42
111
38
99
80
210
(71,060)
(87,168)
(18,256)
(12,747)
(89,316)
(99,915)
3,747
5,779
1,042
1,864
4,789
7,643
(10,547)
(4,811)
(295)
(171)
(10,842)
(4,982)
(2,335)
(2,908)
-
-
(2,335)
(2,908)
EBIT*** for
reportable
segments
Segment
assets
Segment
liabilities
(9,135)
(1,940)
747
1,693
(8,388)
(247)
40,823
45,648
5,200
6,605
46,023
52,253
(35,437)
(29,093)
(5,118)
(7,380)
(40,555)
(36,473)

* Prior period amounts have been re-presented to exclude discontinued operations, refer note 2

** EBITDA is defined as earnings before depreciation, amortisation, interest, tax, impairment, restructuring, sharebased payments and acquisition costs.

*** EBIT is defined as earnings before interest, tax, impairment, restructuring, share-based payments and acquisition costs.

During the year there were no major customers of the Group, individually representing more than 10% of total Group revenue (2019: none).

36

Veris Limited Annual Financial Report 30 June 2020

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements

1. OPERATING SEGMENTS (CONTINUED)

RECONCILIATIONS OF REPORTABLE SEGMENT REVENUES, PROFIT OR LOSS, ASSETS AND LIABILITIES

Revenues
Total revenue for reportable segments
Elimination of inter-segment revenue
Consolidated revenue
Expenses
Total expenses for reportable segments
Elimination of inter-segment costs
Corporate overheads
Consolidated operating expenses
Profit (loss)
EBIT for reportable segments
Unallocated amounts (including corporate overheads)
Restructuring costs
Impairment of Intangibles (Note 14)
Net finance expense
Consolidated loss before income taxes
Assets
Total assets for reportable segments
Other unallocated amounts
Consolidated total assets
Liabilities**
Total liabilities for reportable segments
Other unallocated amounts
Consolidated total liabilities
2020
2019
$000
$000
Restated*
94,185
107,768
(80)
(210)
94,105
107,558
89,396
100,125
(80)
(210)
2,929
3,543
92,245
103,458
(8,388)
(247)
(3,707)
(4,129)
(1,323)
(3,294)
(3,133)
(34,431)
(2,072)
(1,339)
(18,623)
(43,440)
2020
$000
2019
$000
46,023
52,253
9,126
9,073
55,149
61,326
40,555
36,473
13,338
16,620
53,893
53,093

* Comparative information has been re-presented due to Discontinued Operation, refer to Note 2.

** Relates to Veris Australia.

2. DISCONTINUED OPERATIONS

On 21 November 2019, the group sold Elton Consulting Pty Ltd for $13,000,000. The business was not previously classified as held-for-sale or as a discontinued operation.

The sale of Elton Consulting resulted in a significant reduction in net debt allowing the company to focus on growth opportunities within its core business Veris Australia. The sale resulted in a loss of $3,636,000.

37

Veris Limited Annual Financial Report 30 June 2020

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements

2. DISCONTINUED OPERATIONS (CONTINUED)

Results of Discontinued Operations
Revenue
Expenses
Depreciation
Amortisation
Share-based payment
Net finance costs
Profit / (loss) from operating activities
Income tax (expense) / benefit
Profit / (loss) from discontinued operations, net of tax
Loss on sale of discontinued operation
Profit / (loss) from discontinued operations for the
period, net of tax
Earnings per share
Basic earnings / (loss) cents per share
Diluted earnings / (loss) cents per share
Cash flows from (used in) discontinued operations
Net cash flows from (used in) operating activities
Net cash flows from (used in) investing activities
Net cash flows from (used in) financing activities
Results from discontinued operating activities
2020
$000
2019
$000
7,876
18,396
(6,884)
(16,094)
992
2,302
(37)
(89)
(330)
(990)
(365)
-
2
(15)
262
1,208
91
(654)
353
554
(3,636)
-
(3,283)
554
(0.87)
0.16
(0.87)
0.16
2020
$000
2019
$000
515
2,737
-
(108)
(1,801)
(1,866)
(1,286)
763

Cash flows from (used in) discontinued operations

38

Veris Limited Annual Financial Report 30 June 2020

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements

2. DISCONTINUED OPERATIONS (CONTINUED)

Effect of disposal on the financial position of the Group


Property, plant and equipment
WIP
Trade and other receivables
Cash and cash equivalents
Goodwill
Customer relationships
Brands
Deferred tax liabilities
Trade and other payables
Employee benefits
Net assets and liabilities
Cash consideration
Less related costs of sale
Loss on sale of subsidiary (pre-tax)
Cash consideration
Cash and cash equivalents disposed of
3. REVENUE
Revenue from contracts with customers
4. EARNINGS / LOSS PER SHARE
Earnings / (losses) used to calculate basic EPS ($000)
Weighted average number of ordinary shares outstanding
the year used in calculating basic EPS (number of shares)
Basic earnings / (losses) per share (cents per share)
Continuing operations
Earnings / (losses) used to calculate basic EPS ($000)
Weighted average number of ordinary shares outstanding
the year used in calculating basic EPS (number of shares)
Basic earnings / (losses) per share (cents per share)
2020
$000
(510)
(2,190)
(3,682)
(24)
(11,172)
(2,052)
(168)
64
1,930
1,383
(16,421)
13,000
(215)
(3,636)
13,000
(24)
2020
$000
2019
$000
94,105
107,558
during
during
94,105
107,558
2020
2019
(26,493)
(40,089)
377,640,126
360,068,213
(7.02)
(11.13)
2020
2019
(23,210)
(40,643)
377,640,126
360,068,213
(6.14)
(11.29)

39

Veris Limited Annual Financial Report 30 June 2020

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements

4. EARNINGS / LOSS PER SHARE (CONTINUED)

Diluted Earnings per share

Dilutive potential shares relate to Performance Rights granted to eligible employees under the Group’s Long Term Incentive Plan (refer Note 22). There is no material impact on basic EPS arising from dilutive potential shares due to loss in 2020.

5. SUBSEQUENT EVENTS

In the interval between the end of the financial year and the date of this report, the Group executed a renegotiation and extension to its primary banking facilities with the Commonwealth Bank of Australia extending the existing facilities to 30 September 2021. On 28 August 2020, the Company received a Credit approved term sheet from CBA in relation to the extension of the Group’s existing financing facilities extending the term through to 30 September 2021. The extension of the facilities will require the Group to amortise a minimum of $2.3 million of the outstanding Term Loan by 30 June 2021. Veris expects that the documentation pertaining to these extensions will be executed in September 2020.

Additionally, on 2 August 2020, the Victorian Government announced significant restrictions within the Melbourne metropolitan area and surrounding regions. The Victorian market is a key market for the Group’s services. Whilst the Victorian market remains challenging due to the impacts and restrictions imposed in response to recent outbreaks of COVID-19, Veris is adapting its work practices to comply with these restrictions and work with clients to ensure projects can continue under revised operating protocols aimed at ensuring the health and wellbeing of staff, clients and the community is paramount. Veris remains well positioned to benefit from any increased or accelerated infrastructure spend within the Victorian market.

Veris enters FY2021 with approximately $30,000,000 of work in hand and a strong tender pipeline.

Other than noted above, 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.

6. CRITICAL ACCOUNTING ESTIMATES AND JUDGEMENTS

In preparing the consolidated financial statements in conformity with Australian Accounting Standards, due consideration has been given to the judgements, estimates and assumptions that affect the application of accounting policies and reported amounts of assets, 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 judgements about carrying values of assets and liabilities that are not readily apparent from other sources. The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has increased estimation uncertainty in the preparation of the consolidated financial statements. At 30 June 2020, the Group has reassessed all significant judgements, assumptions and critical estimates included in the consolidated financial statements, including but not limited to, provisions against trade debtors and work in progress and impairment of non-current assets. Actual results may differ from these estimates and are subject to achievement of forecasts and the extension of the Group’s existing financing facilities.

Critical judgements in applying accounting policies that have the most significant effect on the amounts recognised in the financial statements relate to contract revenue, contract assets, deferred vendor payments, contingent consideration and impairment of assets such as goodwill (refer Note 14). Estimates and underlying assumptions are reviewed on an ongoing basis. Revisions to accounting estimates are recognised in the period which the estimates are revised and in any future periods affected.

40

Veris Limited Annual Financial Report 30 June 2020

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements

6. CRITICAL ACCOUNTING ESTIMATES AND JUDGEMENTS (CONTINUED)

Going Concern

For the year ended 30 June 2020, the Group recorded a loss from continuing operations of $18,623,000 (before tax), which included an impairment of intangible assets of $3,133,000 and equipment assets of $2,016,000. The Group’s net cash outflow from operating activities was $7,973,000, including $1,515,000 of JobKeeper receipts. In accordance with AASB 16 Leases, $9,800,000 of lease payments primarily pertaining to property leases are presented within financing activities.

Cash advance facilities (the Facilities) were utilised at 30 June 2020 to $6,948,000, with $4,552,000 of undrawn Cash advance facilities and overdraft facilities available subject to ongoing covenant compliance. The Group has commenced negotiations with the Group’s primary external lender CBA (the Lender) to extend the term of the Facilities. On 28 August 2020 CBA confirmed that credit terms have been agreed and approved subject to finalisation of standard loan documentation, extending the tenure to 30 September 2021. Facility terms, including covenant requirements are materially consistent with those under existing facilities, including quarterly EBITDA calculations, measured against FY2021 forecasts as agreed with the Lender.

Management forecasts include conversion of engagement pipeline of work, factoring in some growth in project activity assuming recovered rates materially consistent with existing contracts and execution of ongoing cost reduction programs have taken into consideration the experience to date of the impact of COVID-19 on market activity levels, including government stimulus activities, cost management strategies, and receipt of JobKeeper funding under phase 1 of the program and consider these to be appropriate based on available information.

The going concern assessment is based on the achievement of these forecasts. Given the uncertainty associated with forecasts and current economic conditions, should it be required, the Group may pursue alternatives available to it, including further cost reduction measures, asset or business sales, or equity funding to support the ongoing requirements of the business.

For these reasons the Directors continue to adopt the going concern basis in preparing these financial statements.

Contract revenue and contract assets

Revenue is recognised when a customer obtains control of the goods or services. Determining the timing of the transfer of control – at a point in time or over time – requires judgement such as the assessment of the probability of customer approval of variations and acceptance of claims, estimation of project completion date and assumed levels of project execution productivity. In making these assessments we have considered, for applicable contracts, the individual status of legal proceedings, including arbitration and litigation.

Revenue from the Group arises from providing professional services to our customers whereby we deliver surveying, professional and advisory, and geospatial services to various industries. These are to be predominately recognised over time with reference to inputs on satisfaction of the performance obligations. The services that have been determined to be one performance obligation are highly interrelated and fulfilled over time, therefore revenue continues to be recognised over time. Incentives, variations and claims exist which are subject to the same higher threshold criteria of only recognising revenue to the extent it is highly probable that a significant reversal or revenue will not happen.

Deferred tax assets relating to tax losses

The Group recognises a deferred tax asset relating to tax losses incurred, as detailed in Note 16. The recoverability of this deferred tax asset is dependent on the generation of sufficient taxable income to utilise those tax losses. Management judgements and estimates are required in the assessment of this recoverability, including forecasting sufficient future taxable income.

41

Veris Limited Annual Financial Report 30 June 2020

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements

7. FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS

The Board of Directors has overall responsibility for the establishment and oversight of the risk management framework. The Board has established an Audit & Risk Committee, which is responsible for overseeing how management monitors risk and reviewing the adequacy of the risk management framework in relation to the risks faced by the Group. The Committee reports regularly to the Board of Directors on its activities. Risk management policies are established to identify and analyse the risks faced by the Group, to set appropriate risk limits and controls, and to monitor risks and adherence to limits. Risk management policies and systems are reviewed regularly to reflect changes in market conditions and the Group’s activities. The Group, through their training and management standards and procedures, aim to develop a disciplined and constructive control environment in which all employees understand their roles and obligations.

The fair values and carrying amounts of various financial instruments recognised at reporting date are noted below:

2020 2020 2019 2019
Carrying Fair Values
Carrying
Fair Values
Amount Amount
$000 $000
$000
$000
Lease liabilities (2019: Hire (22,635) (22,635)
(10,349)
(10,349)
purchase liabilities)
Cash advance facility (6,948) (6,948)
(11,410)
(11,410)

The carrying amounts of the financial instruments are a reasonable approximation of their fair values, on account of their short maturity cycle.

Measurement at fair values

i . Level 3 fair values

Movements in the value of Deferred Vendor Payments

LANDdata
Elton
Consulting
Opening
Balance
Acquired
in the
year
Paid in
the
year
(cash)
Paid in the
year
(shares)
Adjusted
in the
year
Closing
Balance
$000
$000
$000
$000
$000
$000
491
-
(250)
-
(241)
-
3,063
-
(2,238)
(942)
117
-
3,554
-
(2,488)
(942)
(124)
-

Landdata

Deferred Vendor Payment Provision at 30 June 2019 was based on Earnout Period 2 which ran from 31 July 2018 to 30 July 2019. Earn-out was conditional on a percentage Gross Margin being achieved and of minimum revenues of $8,625,000 in Earnout Period 2. An incentive bonus of 25% was paid at the end of Earnout Period 2 as Gross margin was greater than $4,400,000.

42

Veris Limited Annual Financial Report 30 June 2020

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements

7. FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS (CONTINUED)

Elton

Deferred Vendor Payment Provision at 30 June 2019 was based on Earn-out Period 2 for $1,000,000 which ran from 30 March 2019 to 29 March 2020 and was paid 50% in cash and 50% in shares. Earn-out required EBITDA to be over $2,600,000 and was capped at $3,100,000. In addition, there was an additional deferred payment of $2,000,000 paid 50% in cash and 50% in shares and was be paid 2 years after completion of the acquisition.

Risk Management Strategies

The Group is primarily exposed to (i) credit risks; (ii) liquidity risks; and (iii) interest rate risks. The nature and extent of risk exposure, and the Group's risk management strategies are noted below.

Credit risks

Credit risk is the risk of financial loss to the Group if a customer or counterparty to a financial instrument fails to meet its contractual obligations, and arises principally from the Group’s receivables from customers. As detailed in Note 1, the Company has successfully implemented its diversification strategy, through the acquisition of surveying businesses, and thus mitigated the risk of dependence on key customers. Credit risk is kept continually under review and managed to reduce the incidence of material losses being incurred by the non-receipt of monies due.

Credit risk is managed through monitoring and follow-up of accounts receivable on a regular basis, and follow up on overdue customer balances. Bad debts are written off in the year in which they are identified. Specific provisions are made against identified doubtful debts. There has been no change in the above policy since the prior year.

The Group’s maximum exposure to credit risk is:

he Group’s maximum exposure to credit risk is:

Cash and cash equivalents
Trade and other receivables
Contract assets
2020
$000
2019
$000
1,939
3,685
13,178
5,836
25,864
8,280
20,953
37,829

The Group does not hold collateral against the credit risks, however, management considers the credit risks to be low on account of the risk management policy noted above. The trading terms generally offer 30 days credit from the date of invoice. As of the reporting date, none of the receivables have been subject to renegotiated terms.

The ageing analysis of past due trade and other receivables at reporting date are:

Current (not past due)
Past due 1 – 30 days
Past due 31 – 60 days
Past due 61 – 90 days
Past due 90 days
Provision for impairment
Total
2020
$000
2019
$000
8,879
14,289
3,227
7,441
1,178
2,046
210
816
309
2,092
(625)
(820)
13,178
25,864

The Group is also subject to credit risks arising from the failure of financial institutions that hold the entity’s cash and cash equivalents. However, management considers this risk to be negligible.

The Group’s maximum exposure to credit risk for trade and other receivables at the reporting date by geographic region was $13,178,000 (2019: $25,864,000) for Australia. The allowance for impairment for 2020 amounted to ($625,000) (2019: $820,000). Based on historic default rates, the Group believes that no impairment allowance is necessary in respect of trade receivables not past due or past due by up to 30 days.

43

Veris Limited Annual Financial Report 30 June 2020

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements

7. FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS (CONTINUED)

The movement in the allowance for impairment in respect of trade receivables during the year was as follows:


ollows:
Balance 1 July under AASB 9
Impairment loss reversed
Impairment loss provided
Total
2020
$000
2019
$000
820
928
(444)
(203)
249
95
625
820

Liquidity risks

Liquidity risk is the risk that the Group will not be able to meet its financial obligations as they fall due. The Group’s approach to managing liquidity is to ensure, as far as possible, that it will always have sufficient liquidity to meet its liabilities when due, under both normal and stressed conditions, without incurring unacceptable losses or risking damage to the Group’s reputation. Liquidity risk is constantly monitored and managed through forecasting short term operating cash requirements and the committed cash outflows on financial liabilities.

The table below details the contractual maturities of financial liabilities, including estimated interest payments and excluding the impact of netting agreements.

The following are the contractual maturities of financial liabilities including interest:

2020
Non-derivative
financial liabilities
Lease liabilities*
Trade and other
payables
Cash advance facility
Carrying
Amount
$000
Contractual
Cash Flows
$000
6 Months
or less
$000
6 – 12
Months
$000
1 – 2
Years
$000
2 – 5
Years
$000
>5
Years
$000
22,635
24,914
3,621
3,599
7,177
9,367
1,150
13,835
13,835
13,835
-
-
-
-
6,948
6,948
142
6,806
-
-
-
43,418
45,697
17,598
10,405
7,177
9,367
1,150
  • 2020 balances include lease liabilities in accordance with AASB 16.
2019
Non-derivative
financial liabilities
Hire purchase
liabilities
Trade and other
payables
Deferred vendor
Payments
Cash advance facility
Carrying
Amount
$000
Contractual
Cash Flows
$000
6 Months
or less
$000
6 – 12
Months
$000
1 – 2
Years
$000
2 – 5
Years
$000
>5
Years
$000
10,349
11,131
1,752
1,751
3,447
4,181
-
18,765
18,765
18,765
-
-
-
-
3,554
3,681
491
3,190
-
-
-
11,410
13,405
287
287
3,359
8,737
735
44,078
46,982
21,295
5,228
6,806
12,918
735

It is not expected that the cash flows included in the maturity analysis could occur significantly earlier, or at significantly different amounts.

Market risk

Market risk is the risk that changes in market prices, such as interest rates and equity prices will affect the Group’s income. The objective of market risk management is to manage and control market risk exposures within acceptable parameters, while optimising the return.

44

Veris Limited Annual Financial Report 30 June 2020

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements

7. FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS (CONTINUED)

Interest rate risk

Interest rate risk is the risk that the fair values and cash-flows of the Group's financial instruments will be affected by changes in the market interest rates.

The Group's cash and cash equivalents, and loans and borrowings are exposed to interest rate risks. The average nominal interest rate is 2.9% for loans and borrowings (2019: 4.42%) detailed in note 19. Interest sensitivity is calculated for a 1% change below:

Consolidated Group
Cash and cash equivalents
Loans and borrowings
2020
2019
+1%
-1%
+1%
-1%
$000
$000
$000
$000
19
(19)
37
(37)
296
(296)
218
(218)
315
(315)
255
(255)

Capital Management

The Board’s policy is to maintain a strong capital base so as to maintain investor, creditor and market confidence and to sustain future development of the business. The Board of Directors has not implemented a formal capital management policy or a dividend policy.

There were no changes in the Group’s approach to capital management during the year other than updated loan covenants (refer Note 19). The Group is not subject to externally imposed capital requirements. Capital comprises share capital and retained earnings.

Currency risk

The Group receivables are all denominated in Australian dollars and accordingly no currency risk exists.

8. COMMITMENTS

Operating leases

Commitments in relation to future minimum lease payments under non-cancellable operating leases:

Not later than one year
Later than one year but not later than five years
Later than five years
Total commitments not recognised in financial statements
2020
$000
2019
$000
-
4,206
-
8,676
-
1,597
-
14,479

2020 balances have been included as part of note 7 (financial instruments) in accordance with AASB 16.

The non-cancellable operating leases are predominately for the lease of office accommodation and motor vehicles. The leases are generally for a term of between 1 to 5 years and the leases typically have options to extend the term. The above figures do not contain values for these options as the group is not committed to taking the options as at 30 June 2020.

45

Veris Limited Annual Financial Report 30 June 2020

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements

9. CONTINGENT LIABILITIES

A contingent liability is a possible obligation arising from past events and whose existence will be confirmed only by occurrence or non-occurrence of one of more uncertain future events not wholly within the control of the Group. A contingent liability may also be a present obligation arising from past events but is not recognised on the basis that an outflow of economic resources to settle the obligation is not viewed as probable, or an amount of the obligation cannot be reliably measured. When the Group has a present obligation, and an outflow of economic resources is assessed as probable and the Group can reliably measure the obligation, a provision is recognised.

As a result of operations the Group may receive contractual claims from clients or end users seeking compensation or litigation. The Group maintains professional indemnity insurance or other contractual arrangements that would severally apply to such claims. At 30 June 2020 no individually significant matters exist where the Group estimates a more than remote likelihood of economic outflow.

WORKING CAPITAL

10. TRADE AND OTHER RECEIVABLES

Trade receivables
JobKeeper receivable
2020
$000
2019
$000
11,663
25,864
1,515
-
13,178
25,864

The Group’s exposure to credit and currency risk is disclosed in note 7. Payment terms are typically 30 days.

11. TRADE AND OTHER PAYABLES

1. TRADE AND OTHER PAYABLES
Trade and other payables 2020
$000
2019
$000
13,835
18,765
13,835
18,765

The Group’s exposure to liquidity risk related to trade and other payables is disclosed in note 7.

CAPITAL EMPLOYED

12. EMPLOYEE BENEFITS

Current
Annual leave
Long service leave
Superannuation
Other employee provisions
Non-current
Long service leave
2020
$000
2019
$000
3,980
4,396
2,612
2,697
1,424
1,693
173
390
8,189
9,176
1,027
1,640
1,027
1,640

46

Veris Limited Annual Financial Report 30 June 2020

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements

13. PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT
Leasehold Improvements at cost
Less: accumulated depreciation
Plant and equipment at cost
Less: accumulated depreciation
Motor vehicles at cost
Less: accumulated depreciation
Property at cost
Less: accumulated depreciation
Total written down value
2020
$000
2019
$000
1,132
1,669
(648)
(627)
484
1,042
23,727
22,998
(17,048)
(13,598)
6,679
9,400
7,111
5,402
(3,274)
(2,293)
3,837
3,109
17,789
-
(3,189)
-
14,600
-
25,600
13,551

Reconciliations of the carrying amounts of each class of plant and equipment at the beginning and end of the current financial year are set out below

2020
Carrying amount at 1 July 2019
Additions at cost
Disposals at carrying value
Depreciation
Carrying amount at 30 June 2020
Right-of-use assets
Carrying amount at 1 July 2019
Additions at cost
Depreciation
Carrying amount at 30 June 2020 (note
29)
Leasehold
Improvements
$000
Plant &
Equipment
$000
Motor
Vehicles
$000
Total
$000
1,042
9,400
3,109
13,551
37
3,148
63
3,248
(337)
(187)
(640)
(1,164)
(258)
(5,868)
(808)
(6,934)
484
6,493
1,724
8,701
Property
$000
Plant &
Equipment
$000
Motor
Vehicles
$000
Total
$000
17,379
292
2,121
19,792
494
-
1,186
1,680
(3,273)
(106)
(1,194)
(4,573)
14,600
186
2,113
16,899

47

Veris Limited Annual Financial Report 30 June 2020

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements

13. PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT (CONTINUED)

2019
Carrying amount at 1 July 2018
Additions at cost
Disposals at carrying value
Depreciation
Carrying amount at 30 June 2019
Leasehold
Improvements
$000
Plant &
Equipment
$000
Motor
Vehicles
$000
Total
$000
932
10,136
4,174
15,242
319
2,975
480
3,774
-
(23)
(355)
(378)
(209)
(3,688)
(1,190)
(5,087)
1,042
9,400
3,109
13,551

Impairment Loss

The Group assesses whether there are indicators that property, plant and equipment may be impaired at each reporting date. There was a $2,100,000 impairment present in 2020 (2019: none) relating to property, plant and equipment.

48

Veris Limited Annual Financial Report 30 June 2020

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements

14. INTANGIBLE ASSETS

4. INTANGIBLE ASSETS
Carrying amount at 1 July 2018
Veris Australia
Elton Consulting
Movements during the year
Amortisation:
Veris Australia
Elton Consulting
Adjustments:
Elton Consulting
Impairment:
Veris Australia
Carrying value 1 July 2019
Veris Australia
Elton Consulting
Movements during the year
Amortisation:
Veris Australia
Elton Consulting
Disposed of:
Elton Consulting
Impairment:
Veris Australia
Carrying amount at 30 June 2020
Veris Australia
Elton Consulting
Goodwill
$000
Customer
Relationships
$000
Brands
$000
Total
$000
34,431
8,376
-
42,807
12,251
3,268
272
15,791
46,682
11,644
272
58,598
-
(2,908)
-
(2,908)
-
(912)
(78)
(990)
(1,079)
-
-
(1,079)
(34,431)
-
-
(34,431)
-
5,468
-
5,468
11,172
2,356
194
13,722
11,172
7,824
194
19,190
-
(2,335)
-
(2,335)
-
(304)
(26)
(330)
(11,172)
(2,052)
(168)
(13,392)
-
(3,133)
-
(3,133)
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-

Impairment Assessment

As a result of changes in customer base and office closure an impairment loss of $3,133,000 was recognised in Veris Australia for the current reporting period.

49

Veris Limited Annual Financial Report 30 June 2020

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements

15. INCOME TAX

Current tax - Australia
Deferred tax
Adjustment for prior periods
Adjustment - other
Non-recognition of current year deferred taxes
Income tax expense / (benefit) reported in income statement
he prima facie tax on the result from ordinary activities before income tax
s follows:
econciliation of effective tax rate
(Loss) / Profit before income tax – continuing operations
Income tax at 30% (2019: 30%)
Add (less) tax effect of:
Other non-allowable / assessable items
Research and development offset
Adjustment for prior periods
Adjustment - other
Non-recognition of current year deferred taxes
Income tax expense / (benefit) – continuing operations
(Loss) / Profit before income tax – discontinued operations
Income tax at 30% (2019: 30%)
Add (less) tax effect of:
Other non-allowable / assessable items
Adjustment for prior periods
Adjustments – disposal of Elton
Non-recognition of current year deferred taxes
Income tax expense / (benefit) – discontinued operations
2020
$000
2019
$000
-
-
(5,590)
(2,130)
(264)
(13)
(668)
-
11,018
-
4,496
(2,143)
is reconciled to the income tax
2020
$000
2019
$000
(18,623)
(43,440)
(5,587)
(13,032)
1,635
10,248
-
-
(264)
4
(1)
(17)
8,804
-
4,587
(2,797)
(3,375)
1,207
(1,012)
362
(626)
292
-
-
(667)
-
2,214
-
(91)
654

The prima facie tax on the result from ordinary activities before income tax is reconciled to the income tax as follows:

Reconciliation of effective tax rate

50

Veris Limited Annual Financial Report 30 June 2020

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements

16. DEFERRED TAX ASSETS / LIABILITIES

Deferred tax
Contract assets
Plant & Equipment
Right of use asset
Right of use liability
Employee Benefits
Provisions
Intangibles
Carried forward R&D
offset available
Carried forward tax
losses available
Other
Total
Less: derecognised*
Tax assets / (liabilities)
Assets
Liabilities
Net
2020
$000
2019
$000
2020
$000
2019
$000
2020
$000
2019
$000
-
-
(1,751)
(1,524)
(1,751)
(1,524)
-
-
(9)
(526)
(9)
(526)
-
-
(5,070)
-
(5,070)
-
-
-
5,284
-
5,284
-
2,748
3,182
-
-
2,748
3,182
1,451
747
-
-
1,451
747
-
-
-
(2,425)
-
(2,425)
4,834
8,453
-
-
4,834
8,453
8,452
916
-
-
8,452
916
74
145
(560)
(55)
(486)
90
17,559
13,443
(2,106)
(4,530)
15,453
8,913
(10,972)
-
-
-
(10,972)
-
6,588
13,443
(2,106)
(4,530)
4,481
8,913
Movement in deferred tax balances
Opening balance
Prior year adjustments
Other adjustments - disposal of Elton
Charge to profit or loss – continuing operations
Charge to profit or loss – discontinued operations
Derecognised*
Closing deferred tax asset
2020
$000
2019
$000
8,913
6,276
264
490
688
17
3,951
2,130
1,637
-
(10,972)
4,481
8,913
  • Veris Limited tax consolidated group has significant carried forward tax losses available as at 30 June 2020. Following the sale of subsidiary Elton Consulting Pty Ltd, management have performed a review based on current management forecasts and determined that it is not probable that future taxable profit over the forecast period will be sufficient to utilise all carried forward tax losses and have derecognised $10,972,000 of deferred tax assets ($6,855,000 that had previously been recognised plus $4,117,000 of income and capital losses that arose in the current period). This derecognition does not impact the future availability of such tax losses. Management will continue to reassess the recoverability of deferred tax assets at future reporting dates.

51

Veris Limited Annual Financial Report 30 June 2020

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements

NET DEBT

17. CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS

Cash at bank and in hand
Cash and cash equivalents in the statement of cash flows
2020
$000
2019
$000
1,939
3,685
1,939
3,685

The Group’s exposure to interest rate risk and a sensitivity analysis for the financial assets and liabilities disclosed in note 7.

18. RECONCILIATION OF CASH FLOW FROM OPERATIONS WITH PROFIT AFTER INCOME TAX

Cash flows from operating activities
Profit / (loss) after income tax
Non-cash flows in profit:
Depreciation (Note 13)
Amortisation of intangible assets (Note 14)
Impairment of intangible assets
Profit on sale of fixed assets
Loss on sale of Elton Consulting
Other
Share based payment
Income tax expense / (benefit) from all operations
Change in trade and other receivables
Change in other assets
Change in contract assets
Change in trade payables
Change in provisions and employee benefits
Change in provisions – AASB 16
Net cash used in operating activities
Movements in borrowings
Opening balance 1 July 2019
Movements:
AASB 16 Transition adjustment
Additional borrowings on adoption of AASB 16
Proceeds from borrowings
Repayments of borrowings and lease liabilities
Closing balance 30 June 2020
2020
$000
2019
$000
(26,493)
(40,089)
11,544
5,087
2,665
3,898
3,133
34,431
(280)
(1,391)
3,636
-
574
24
421
586
4,496
(2,143)
(304)
403
9,426
4,347
(701)
(1,208)
821
965
(3,924)
1,219
(141)
519
726
-
5,903
6,245
$000
21,759
19,792
1,354
2,742
(16,064)
29,583

52

Veris Limited Annual Financial Report 30 June 2020

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements

otes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
19. LOANS AND BORROWINGS
Current liabilities
Lease liabilities (2019: Hire purchase liabilities)
Cash advance facility
Non-current liabilities
Lease liabilities (2019: Hire purchase liabilities)
Cash advance facility
2020
$000
2019
$000
6,271
3,356
6,948
-
13,219
3,356
16,364
6,993
-
11,410
16,364
18,403

TERMS AND DEBT REPAYMENT SCHEDULE

Terms and conditions of outstanding loans were as follows:

Nominal
interest rate%
Year of
maturity
Lease liabilities (2019:
Hire purchase liabilities)
3.32 – 5.50
2020 – 2025
Cash advance facility
2.9 – 3.1
2020 – 2021
2020
$000
2019
$000
Carrying
Amount
Carrying
Amount
22,635
10,349
6,948
11,410
29,583
21,759

The weighted average incremental borrowing rate is applied to lease liabilities. The cash advance facility has a variable interest rate. All loans and borrowings are denominated in Australian Dollars.

Facility Facility
Available Used Unused Available Used Unused
2020 2020 2020 2019 2019 2019
$000 $000 $000 $000 $000 $000
Cash advance facility (a)
8,000
(6,948) 1,052
17,000
(11,410) 5,590
Insurance Bonds - - -
5,000
(56) 4,944
Other (b) 7,450 (1,247) 6,203
8,500
(433) 8,067
Total financing facilities 15,450 (8,195) 7,255
30,500
(11,899) 18,601

a) The carrying amount of this facility was $6.9 million as at 30 June 2020 (2019: $11.4 million). The funds are available for business acquisitions. The facility is repayable in tranches. The loan contains covenants stating that at the end of each quarter the Group is to maintain EBITDA in line with Bank agreed forecast.

b) Other facilities include a $4.5 million bank overdraft, $2.5 million contingent instrument facility and $450,000 credit card facility.

c) Lease liabilities are effectively secured as the rights to leased assets revert to the lessor in the event of default.

53

Veris Limited Annual Financial Report 30 June 2020

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements

19. LOANS AND BORROWINGS (CONTINUED)

Lease liabilities (2019: Hire purchase liabilities) of the Group are payable as follows:

Less than 1 year
Between 1 & 5
years
Future
minimum
lease
payments
Interest
Present value
of minimum
lease
payments
Future
minimum
HP
payments
Interest
Present
value of
minimum
HP
payments
2020
2020
2020
2019
2019
2019
$000
$000
$000
$000
$000
$000
7,220
(949)
6,271
3,802
(448)
3,354
17,694
(1,330)
16,364
7,329
(334)
6,995
24,914
(2,279)
22,635
11,131
(782)
10,349

Financing is arranged for major leasehold improvements, plant & equipment, and motor vehicle additions.

EQUITY

20. CAPITAL AND RESERVES

Share capital


Balance at the beginning of the year
Issued via Dividend Reinvestment
Plan
Conversion of Performance Rights
Issued as consideration for business
combinations
Deferred consideration
Balance at the end of the year
2020
2019
2020
2019
$000
$000
No. of
Shares
No. of
Shares
43,051
40,887
370,014,589
345,358,386
-
1,696
-
8,428,718
-
-
1,183,240
9,249,495
134
468
2,456,141
6,977,990
942
-
31,597,316
44,127
43,051
405,251,286
370,014,589

Issues of ordinary shares

  • On 2 July 2019, 828,848 ordinary shares were issued for $nil consideration on vesting of Performance Rights to a key executive under the Veris FY17 Employee Incentive Scheme.

  • On 2 July 2019, 354,392 ordinary shares were issued for $nil consideration on vesting of Performance Rights to a key executive under the Veris FY19 Employee Incentive Scheme.

  • On 14 August 2019, 2,105,264 ordinary shares were issued as an incentive for continued employment to key personnel following the acquisition of Landdata in July 2017. The shares were issued for nil cash consideration with a fair value of $0.057 per share.

  • On 2 October 2019, 350,877 ordinary shares were issued as an incentive for continued employment to key personnel following the acquisition of Landdata in July 2017. The shares were issued for nil cash consideration with a fair value of $0.057 per share.

  • On 29 April 2020, 31,597,316 ordinary shares were issued as deferred consideration pursuant to the sale of Elton Consulting Group during the year. The shares were issued for nil cash consideration with a fair value of $0.0298 per share.

54

Veris Limited Annual Financial Report 30 June 2020

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements

20. CAPITAL AND RESERVES (CONTINUED)

The Group does not have authorised capital or par value in respect of its issued shares.

The holders of ordinary shares are entitled to receive dividends as declared from time to time and are entitled to one vote per share at meetings of the Group. All shares rank equally with regard to the Group’s residual assets.

The Group does not have authorised capital or par value in respect of its issued shares.

The holders of ordinary shares are entitled to receive dividends as declared from time to time and are entitled to one vote per share at meetings of the Group. All shares rank equally with regard to the Group’s residual assets.

Reserves

Balance at the beginning of the year
Profit/ (loss) for the year
Dividends paid
Adoption of new standards
Share based payment transactions
Balance at the end of the year
2020
2019
2020
2019
$000
Share
Based
Payments
$000
Share
Based
Payments
$000
Retained
Earnings/
(Accumulated
Losses)
$000
Retained
Earnings
(Accumulated
Losses)
2,949
2,349
(18,906)
24,967
-
-
(26,493)
(40,089)
-
-
-
(1,770)
-
-
-
(2,014)
(421)
600
-
-
2,528
2,949
(45,399)
(18,906)

The retained earnings reserve represents profits of entities within the Group. Such profits are available to enable payment of franked dividends in future years. No dividends were distributed during the year (2019: $1.8 million).

21. DIVIDENDS

There was no dividends paid or declared by the Company during the financial year, the dividend declared in the 2019 financial year amounted to $1,770,000.

Franking Credit Balance

The amount of franking credits available for the subsequent financial year are:

Franking account balance as at the end of financial year at 30% (2019:
30%)
2020
$
2019
$
5,535,898
5,535,898

55

Veris Limited Annual Financial Report 30 June 2020

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements

21. DIVIDENDS (CONTINUED)

Franking Credit Balance

The ability to utilise the franking credits is dependent upon there being sufficient available profits to declare dividends.

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

  • franking credits that will arise from the payment of the current tax liabilities;

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

  • 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.

22. SHARE-BASED PAYMENTS

(a) Share – Based Payment Arrangements

As at 30 June 2020, the Group had the following share-based payment arrangements.

(i) 2017 Performance Rights Plan

On 5 June 2017, the Group granted Performance Rights to eligible employees under the Group’s Long Term Incentive Plan in respect of the three financial years 30 June 2017 to 30 June 2019. Subject to continued employment and achievement of financial performance hurdles absolute total shareholder return and absolute earnings per share growth), the Performance Rights will vest as follows:

Number of
Performance
Rights
granted
Vesting Date
(A)
Lapsed Vested
during the
Period(B)
Vesting Hurdles Vesting Hurdles Vesting Hurdles Vesting Hurdles
50% TSR(C) 50% 3 Year
Absolute EPS
Pooling(D)
828,848 1 July 2019 - 828,848 <100% Nil < 6 c Nil
100% <
180%
Pro-rata
vesting
between
25% and
100%
>6-
<6.5 c
pro rata
vesting
between
25%-
100%
180% 100% 6.5 c > 100%
828,848 - 828,848

56

Veris Limited Annual Financial Report 30 June 2020

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements

22. SHARE-BASED PAYMENTS (CONTINUED)

  • (A) On vesting, Performance Rights will automatically convert to ordinary shares on a one for one basis. Performance Rights that do not vest will lapse. An unvested Performance Right will lapse upon the earlier to occur of:

  • i. failure to satisfy the applicable vesting conditions;

  • ii. the holder purporting to transfer the Performance Right otherwise than with the consent of the Board or by force of law;

  • iii. the employment of the holder ceasing, where such a condition was imposed on the grant of the Performance Right;

  • iv. in the opinion of the Board, the holder commits any fraudulent or dishonest act or is in breach of his or her obligations to the Company or subsidiary;

  • v. the expiry date; or

  • vi. the seven year anniversary of the date of grant of the Performance Rights.

  • (B) During the period, 828,848 Performance Rights vested on cessation of employment.

  • (C) Performance of management measured against an absolute shareholder return target of VRS

  • (D) Performance management measured against a normalised EPS pooled approach setting an aggregate value of dollars of EPS that must be achieved over the three years (i.e. a pool consisting of year 1 EPS plus year 2 EPS plus year 3 EPS

(ii) 2019 Performance Rights Plan

DIRECTORS & KMP’S

On 20 December 2018, the Group granted Performance Rights to the Managing Director, Adam Lamond and Executive Director, Brian Elton and on 12 April 2019, the Group granted Performance Rights to Key management Personnel under the Group’s new Veris combined Incentive Plan (“VIP”) relating to financial years 30 June 2019 to 30 June 2022 based on the achievement KPIs outlined in the below Balanced Scorecard:

Balanced Scorecard and Weightings Balanced Scorecard and Weightings
Financial Market Individual Values
Budgeted EBITDA
(14%)
Absolute EPS
(19%)
KPI’s
(20%)
Behaviours
(5%)

On the basis that the Balanced Scorecard was achieved, 50% will be paid in cash and 50% in equity by way of issue of Performance Rights, of which 60% would have vested based on achievement of a 3 year absolute TSR hurdle and 40% would have vested in a future period in time, depending on continued employment for 4 years post issue (33% year 2; 33% year 3, 33% year 4). The Balanced Scorecard was not achieved for the FY19 year and all Performance Rights have lapsed. The absolute TSR hurdle is outlined in the below table:

Number of
Performance
Rights
granted
Vesting Date
(A)
Lapsed Vested
during the
Period(B)
Vesting Hurdles* Vesting Hurdles* Vesting Hurdles* Vesting Hurdles*
60% TSR(C) 40% 3 Year
Retention(D)
354,392 1 July 2019 - 354,392 <75% Nil Yr 2 1/3
75% <
120%
Pro-rata
vesting
between
25% and
100%
Yr 3 1/3
120% 100% Yr 4 1/3
354,392 - 354,392

* Safety must be maintained at all times and no LTI’s will vest in the instance of a major safety breach such as a serious injury or fatality

57

Veris Limited Annual Financial Report 30 June 2020

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements

22. SHARE-BASED PAYMENTS (CONTINUED)

(A) On vesting, Performance Rights will automatically convert to ordinary shares on a one for one basis. Performance Rights that do not vest will lapse. An unvested Performance Right will lapse upon the earlier to occur of:

vii. failure to satisfy the applicable vesting conditions; viii. the holder purporting to transfer the Performance Right otherwise than with the consent of the Board or by force of law;

ix. the employment of the holder ceasing, where such a condition was imposed on the grant of the Performance Right; x. in the opinion of the Board, the holder commits any fraudulent or dishonest act or is in breach of his or her obligations to the Company or subsidiary; xi. the expiry date; or xii. the seven year anniversary of the date of grant of the Performance Rights.

(B) Vested on cessation of employment

(C) Performance of management measured against an absolute shareholder return target of VRS

(D) Based on continued employment and disposal restrictions

SENIOR MANAGEMENT

On 12 April 2019 the Group granted 2,419,949 Performance Rights to eligible employees which will vest subject to their continued employment over a two year period.

Number of Performance Rights
Granted
Vesting Date(A) Lapsed Vested Vesting Hurdle(B)
1,085,327 30 June 2021 - - 2 Year Retention

(A) On vesting, Performance Rights will automatically convert to ordinary shares on a one for one basis. Performance Rights that do not vest will lapse. An unvested Performance Right will lapse upon the earlier to occur of:

xiii. failure to satisfy the applicable vesting conditions;

xiv. the holder purporting to transfer the Performance Right otherwise than with the consent of the Board or by force of law;

xv. the employment of the holder ceasing, where such a condition was imposed on the grant of the Performance Right; xvi. in the opinion of the Board, the holder commits any fraudulent or dishonest act or is in breach of his or her obligations to the Company or subsidiary;

xvii. the expiry date; or xviii. the seven year anniversary of the date of grant of the Performance Rights.

(B) Based on continued employment for two years to 30 June 2021

58

Veris Limited Annual Financial Report 30 June 2020

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements

22. SHARE-BASED PAYMENTS (CONTINUED)

(iii) 2020 Performance Rights Plan

On 29 October 2019 the Group granted 1,000,000 Performance Rights to the CEO of Veris Australia on commencement of his employment will vest subject to his continued employment over a two year period and subject to achievement of an increase in Veris Australia’s EBITDA margin by 40% or greater.

Number of Performance Rights
Granted
Vesting Date(A) Lapsed Vested Vesting Hurdle(B)
1,000,000 29 October 2021 - - 2 Year Retention
and increase in
EBITDA margin by
40%

(A) On vesting, Performance Rights will automatically convert to ordinary shares on a one for one basis. Performance Rights that do not vest will lapse. An unvested Performance Right will lapse upon the earlier to occur of:

xix. failure to satisfy the applicable vesting conditions;

xx. the holder purporting to transfer the Performance Right otherwise than with the consent of the Board or by force of law;

xxi. the employment of the holder ceasing, where such a condition was imposed on the grant of the Performance Right;

xxii. in the opinion of the Board, the holder commits any fraudulent or dishonest act or is in breach of his or her obligations to the Company or subsidiary;

xxiii. the expiry date; or xxiv. the seven year anniversary of the date of grant of the Performance Rights.

(B) Based on continued employment for two years to 29 October 2021

(b) Measurement of Fair Values of Share-Based Payments

During the period, 1,000,000 Performance Rights were issued to a member of the Key Management Personnel (2019: 3,717,145). The Performance Rights will vest into fully paid ordinary shares subject to the individuals continued employment as at 29 October 2021 (2 year retention) and the achievement of an increase in Veris Australia’s EBITDA margin by 40% or greater. The measurement of the Fair Values of the Share-Based Payments is the Veris Share Price at the effective Grant date.

Subsequent to the period end 3,371,334 Performance Rights were issued to Key Management Personnel and Senior Management as a discretionary bonus based on behaviours and the individual’s contribution to the FY20 financial year. These Performance Rights were issued post the reporting period. The Performance Rights will vest into fully paid ordinary shares subject to the individuals continued employment as at 30 June 2021 (1 year retention). The measurement of the Fair Values of the Share-Based Payments is the Veris Share Price at the effective Grant date.

(c) Unvested Unlisted Performance Rights

1,085,327 Performance Rights issued in April 2019 to Senior Management remain unvested at 30 June 2020 (2019: Nil). 1,000,000 Performance Rights issued in October 2019 to a member of the Key Management Personnel remain unvested at 30 June 2020 (2019: Nil). 3,371,334 Performance Rights issued in August 2020 to Senior Management remain unvested at 30 June 2020 (2019: Nil).

59

Veris Limited Annual Financial Report 30 June 2020

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements

23. RELATED PARTIES

Key management personnel compensation

The key management personnel compensation included in ‘employee benefits’ is as follows:

Short-term employee benefits
Post-employment benefits
Share-based payment
Termination benefit - Cash
Termination benefit – Share-based
2020
2019
$
$
1,488,267
1,485,240
100,658
99,750
46,903
2,377
162,247
363,385
-
18,874
1,798,075
1,969,626

During the year, the Company did not have or repay any loans from related parties (2019: $nil).

Individual directors and executives compensation disclosures

Information regarding individual directors and executive’s compensation and some equity instruments disclosures as required by Corporations Regulations 2M.3.03 is provided in the remuneration report section of the directors’ report on pages 16 to 27.

Key management personnel transactions

The aggregate value of transactions and outstanding balances related to key management personnel and entities over which they have control of significant influence was as follows.

Transaction
Rent (a)
Transaction values
for the year ended
30 June
Balance outstanding
as at 30 June
2020
2019
2020
2019
$
$
$
$
104,261
372,514
-
-
104,261
372,514
-
-
  • (a) The Company rents office space from Elton Property, a company controlled by a director. Amounts billed were based on market rates and were due and payable under normal payment terms.

Apart from the details disclosed in this note, no director has entered into a material contract with the Group since the end of the previous financial year and there were no material contracts involving directors’ interests existing at year-end.

24. AUDITOR’S REMUNERATION

Audit and review services

KPMG
Audit and review of financial reports
Integration
2020
2019
$
$
250,000
226,448
-
8,724
250,000
235,172

60

Veris Limited Annual Financial Report 30 June 2020

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements

GROUP STRUCTURE

25. SUBSIDIARIES

The following entities are consolidated:

The following entities are consolidated:
Name of Entity Country of Ownership Interest
Incorporation 2020 2019
% %
Parent Entity
Veris Limited Australia
Controlled Entity
Veris Australia Pty Ltd Australia 100 100
Elton Consulting Group Pty Ltd Australia - 100
Aqura Technologies Pty Ltd Australia 100 100
(previously named OTOC Australia Pty Ltd)
Emerson Stewart Pty Ltd Australia 100 100
Whelans Australia Pty Ltd Australia 100 100
Whelans International Pty Ltd Australia 100 100
Bosco Jonson Pty Ltd Australia 100 100
Geo-metric Surveying Pty Ltd Australia 100 100
Linker Surveying Pty Ltd Australia 100 100
Queensland Surveying Pty Ltd Australia 100 100
Southern Hemisphere Investments Pty Ltd Australia 100 100
A Perfect Day Elise Pty Ltd Australia 100 100
TBBK Pty Ltd Australia 100 100
Lawrence Group Pty Ltd Australia 100 100
Lester Franks Survey & Geographic Pty Ltd Australia 100 100

61

Veris Limited Annual Financial Report 30 June 2020

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements

26. DEED OF CROSS GUARANTEE

Pursuant to ASIC Corporation (wholly-owned companies) Instrument 2016/785, all the wholly-owned subsidiaries of Veris Limited are relieved from the Corporations Act 2001 requirements for preparation, audit and lodgement of financial reports, and Directors’ report.

It is a condition of the Instrument that the Company and each of the subsidiaries (referenced in Note 25) enter into a Deed of Cross Guarantee (“the Deed”). 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 consolidated statement of comprehensive income and consolidated statement of financial position, comprising the Company and controlled entities which are a party to the Deed as at 30 June 2020, after eliminating all transactions between parties to the Deed of Cross Guarantee, as of and for the year ended 30 June 2020 is the same as the consolidated statement of comprehensive income and consolidated statement of financial position of the Group as of and for the year ended 30 June 2020.

27. PARENT ENTITY DISCLOSURES

As at, and throughout, the financial year ended 30 June 2020 the parent company of the Group was Veris Limited.

Results for the Year
(Loss) / Profit for the year
Other comprehensive income
Total comprehensive profit / (loss) for the year
Financial position of parent entity at year end
Current assets
Total assets
Current liabilities
Total liabilities
Total equity of the parent entity comprising of:
Share capital
Accumulated loss & Reserves
Total equity
2020
2019
$000
$000
(23,344)
(35,000)
-
-
(23,344)
(35,000)
2020
2019
$000
$000
9,299
8,504
19,117
48,847
(7,259)
(14,774)
(17,974)
(26,273)
44,127
43,051
(42,984)
(20,477)
1,143
22,574

62

Veris Limited Annual Financial Report 30 June 2020

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements

28. BASIS OF PREPARATION

(a) Presentation Currency

These consolidated financial statements are 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) Instruments 2016/191 dated 1 April 2016. All financial information presented in Australian dollars has been rounded to the nearest thousand unless otherwise stated.

(b) Basis of measurement

The consolidated financial statements have been prepared on the historical cost basis except for the following material items in the statement of financial position:

• financial instruments at fair value through profit or loss are measured at fair value

The accounting policies set out below have been applied consistently to all periods presented in these consolidated financial statements, and have been applied consistently by Group entities.

29. SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

(a) Basis of consolidation

(i) Business combinations

The Group accounts for business combinations using the acquisition method when control is transferred to the Group. The consideration transferred in the acquisition is generally measured at fair value, as are the identifiable net assets acquired. Any goodwill that arises is tested annually for impairment. Any gain on a bargain purchase is recognised in profit or loss immediately. Transaction costs are expensed as incurred, except if related to the issue of debt or equity securities.

The consideration transferred does not include amounts related to the settlement of pre-existing relationships. Such amounts are generally recognised in profit or loss.

Any contingent consideration payable is measured at fair value at the acquisition date. If the contingent consideration is classified as equity, then it is not remeasured and settlement is accounted for within equity. Otherwise, subsequent changes in the fair value of the contingent consideration are recognised in profit or loss.

If share-based payment awards (replacement awards) are required to be exchanged for awards held by the acquiree’s employees (acquiree’s awards), 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 measure of the replacement awards compared with the marketbased measure of the acquiree’s awards and the extent to which the replacement awards relate to precombination service.

(ii) 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 on which control commences until the date on which control ceases.

(iii) Transactions eliminated on consolidation

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

63

Veris Limited Annual Financial Report 30 June 2020

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements

29. SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (CONTINUED)

(b) Financial instruments

(i) Non-derivative financial assets

The Group initially recognises loans and receivables and deposits on the date that they are originated. All other financial assets (including assets designated at fair value through profit or loss) are recognised initially on the trade date at which the Group becomes a party to the contractual provisions of the instrument.

The Group derecognises a financial asset when the contractual rights to the cash flows from the asset expire, or it transfers the rights to receive the contractual cash flows on the financial asset in a transaction in which substantially all the risks and rewards of ownership of the financial asset are transferred. Any interest in transferred financial assets that is created or retained by the Group is recognised as a separate asset or liability.

Financial assets and liabilities are offset and the net amount presented in the statement of financial position when, and only when, the Group has a legal right to offset the amounts and intends either to settle on a net basis or to realise the asset and settle the liability simultaneously.

The Group has the following non-derivative financial assets: cash, loans and receivables.

Loans and receivables

Loans and receivables are financial assets with fixed or determinable payments that are not quoted in an active market. Such assets are recognised initially at fair value plus any directly attributable transaction costs. Subsequent to initial recognition loans and receivables are measured at amortised cost using the effective interest method, less any impairment losses.

Loans and receivables comprise trade and other receivables.

Expected credit loss

From 1 July 2019, the Group assesses on a forward looking basis the expected credit losses associated with its financial assets measured at amortised cost, contract assets and debt instruments at Fair Value through Other Comprehensive Income (FVOCI) but not to investments in equity instruments. The Group applies the simplified approach permitted by AASB 9, which requires expected lifetime losses to be recognised from initial recognition of the receivables.

Cash and cash equivalents

Cash and cash equivalents comprise cash balances and call deposits with original maturities of three months or less. 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.

(ii) Non-derivative financial liabilities

The Group initially recognises financial liabilities (including liabilities designated at fair value through profit or loss) on the trade date at which the Group becomes a party to the contractual provisions of the instrument. The Group derecognises a financial liability when its contractual obligations are discharged or cancelled or expired. Financial assets and liabilities are offset and the net amount presented in the statement of financial position when, and only when, the Group has a legal right to offset the amounts and intends either to settle on a net basis or to realise the asset and settle the liability simultaneously.

The Group has the following non-derivative financial liabilities: loans and borrowings, bank overdrafts, and trade and other payables.

Such financial liabilities are recognised initially at fair value plus any directly attributable transaction costs. Subsequent to initial recognition these financial liabilities are measured at amortised cost using the effective interest rate method for all others.

64

Veris Limited Annual Financial Report 30 June 2020

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements

29. SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (CONTINUED)

(iii) Share capital

Ordinary shares

Ordinary shares are classified as equity. Incremental costs directly attributable to the issue of ordinary shares and share options are recognised as a deduction from equity, net of any tax effects. Dividends on ordinary shares are recognised as a liability in the period in which they are declared.

(c) Property, plant and equipment

(i) Recognition and measurement

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

Cost includes expenditure that is directly attributable to the acquisition of the asset. Purchased software that is integral to the functionality of the related equipment is capitalised as part of that equipment. When parts of an item of property, plant and equipment have different useful lives, they are accounted for as separate items (major components) 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 and are recognised in profit or loss.

(ii) Subsequent costs

The cost of replacing part of an item of property, plant and equipment is recognised in the carrying amount of the item if it is probable that the future economic benefits embodied within the part will flow to the Group and its cost can be measured reliably. The carrying amount of the replaced part is derecognised. The costs of the day-to-day servicing of property, plant and equipment are recognised in profit or loss as incurred.

(iii) Depreciation

Depreciation is recognised in profit or loss on either a straight-line or diminishing value basis over the estimated useful lives of each part of an item of property, plant and equipment. Items of property, plant and equipment are depreciated from the date that they are installed and are ready for use.

The depreciation rates for the current and comparative periods are as follows:

Plant and equipment 14-33%
Motor vehicles 14-33%
Leasehold Improvements 20%
Property 8-20%

Depreciation methods, useful lives and residual values are reviewed at each reporting date.

(d) Intangible assets and goodwill

(i) Goodwill

Goodwill represents the excess of the cost of a business acquisition over the fair value of the Group’s share of the net identifiable assets of the acquired subsidiary at the date of acquisition. Goodwill acquired in a business combination is not amortised. Instead goodwill is tested for impairment annually or more frequently if events or changes in circumstances indicate that it might be impaired, and is carried at cost less accumulated impairment losses. Gains and losses on disposal of an entity include the carrying amount of goodwill relating to the entity sold. Goodwill is allocated to individual cash generating units for the purpose of impairment testing.

65

Veris Limited Annual Financial Report 30 June 2020

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements

29. SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (CONTINUED)

(ii) Other intangible assets

Other intangible assets including customer relationships and brands that are acquired by the Group, which have finite useful lives, are measured at cost less accumulated amortisation and accumulated impairment losses.

(iii) Subsequent expenditure

Subsequent expenditure is capitalised only when it increases the future economic benefits embodied in the specific asset to which it relates. All other expenditure, including expenditure on internally generated goodwill and brands, is recognised in profit or loss as incurred.

(iv) Amortisation

Amortisation is recognised in profit or loss on a straight-line basis over the estimated useful lives of intangible assets, other than goodwill, from the date that they are available for use. The estimated useful lives for the current and comparative periods are as follows:

• Customer relationships and Brands 3-5 years

(e) Impairment

(i) Non-derivative financial assets (including receivables)

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.

Objective evidence that financial assets are impaired can include default or delinquency by a debtor, restructuring of an amount due to the Group on terms that the Group would not consider otherwise, indications that a debtor or issuer will enter bankruptcy, the disappearance of an active market for a security.

The Group considers evidence of impairment for receivables and they are assessed for specific impairment. All individually significant receivables found not to be specifically impaired are then collectively assessed for any impairment that has been incurred but not yet identified. Receivables that are not individually significant are collectively assessed for impairment by grouping together receivables with similar risk characteristics.

In assessing collective impairment the Group uses historical trends of the probability of default, timing of recoveries and the amount of loss incurred, adjusted for management’s judgment as to whether current economic and credit conditions are such that the actual losses are likely to be greater or less than suggested by historical trends.

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. 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 profit or loss.

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 profit or loss.

66

Veris Limited Annual Financial Report 30 June 2020

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements

29. SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (CONTINUED)

(ii) Non-financial assets

The carrying amounts of the Group’s non-financial assets, other than deferred tax assets, are reviewed at each reporting date to determine whether there is any indication of impairment. If any such indication exists then the asset’s recoverable amount is estimated. For goodwill and intangible assets that have indefinite lives or that are not yet available for use, the recoverable amount is estimated each year at the same time.

The recoverable amount of an asset or cash-generating unit is the greater of its value in use and its fair value less costs to sell. 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 the purpose of impairment testing, assets are grouped together into the smallest group of assets that generates cash inflows from continuing use that are largely independent of the cash inflows of other assets or groups of assets (the “cash-generating unit”). 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.

An impairment loss is recognised if the carrying amount of an asset or its cash-generating unit exceeds its recoverable amount. Impairment losses are recognised in profit or loss. Impairment losses recognised in respect of cash-generating units are allocated first to reduce the carrying amount of any goodwill allocated to the units and then to reduce the carrying amount of the other assets in the unit (group of units) on a pro rata basis.

An impairment loss in respect of goodwill is not reversed. In respect of other assets, impairment losses recognised in prior periods are assessed at each reporting date for any indications that the loss has decreased or no longer exists. An impairment loss is reversed if there has been a change in the estimates used to determine the recoverable amount. An impairment loss is reversed only to the extent that the asset’s carrying amount does not exceed the carrying amount that would have been determined, net of depreciation or amortisation, if no impairment loss had been recognised.

Any impairment loss on a disposal group first is allocated to goodwill, and then to remaining assets and liabilities on a pro rata basis, except that no loss is allocated to inventories, financial assets, deferred tax assets and employee benefit assets, which continue to be measured in accordance with the Group’s accounting policies. Impairment losses on initial classification as held for sale and subsequent gains of losses on re-measurement are recognised in profit or loss. Gains are not recognised in excess of any cumulative impairment loss.

Once classified as held for sale, intangible assets and property, plant and equipment are no longer amortised or depreciated.

(f) Employee benefits

(i) Other long-term employee benefits

The Group’s net obligation in respect of long-term employee benefits is the amount of future benefit that employees have earned in return for their service in the current and prior periods plus related on-costs. That benefit is discounted to determine its present value.

(ii) Short-term benefits

Short-term employee benefit obligations are measured on an undiscounted basis and are expensed as the related service is provided.

A liability is recognised for the amount expected to be paid under short-term cash bonus or profit-sharing plans 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.

67

Veris Limited Annual Financial Report 30 June 2020

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements

29. SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (CONTINUED)

(iii) Share-based payment transactions

The grant date fair value of rights granted to employees is recognised as an employee expense, with a corresponding increase in equity, over the period that the employees become unconditionally entitled to the options. The amount recognised as an expense is adjusted to reflect the actual number of performance rights for which the related service and non-market vesting conditions are met.

(g) Provisions

A provision is recognised if, as a result of a past event, the Group has a present legal or constructive obligation that can be estimated reliably, and it is probable that an outflow of economic benefits will be required to settle the obligation. Provisions are determined by discounting the expected future cash flows at a pre-tax rate that reflects current market assessments of the time value of money and the risks specific to the liability.

(h) Revenue

Revenue from the rendering of a service is recognised upon the delivery of the service to the customers. Construction contract revenue is recognised in profit or loss in proportion to the stage of completion of the transaction at the reporting date. The stage of completion is assessed by reference to surveys of work performed.

Contract revenue includes the initial amount agreed in the contract plus any variations in contract work, claims and incentive payments, to the extent that it is probable that they will result in revenue and can be measured reliably. As soon as the outcome of a contract can be estimated reliably, contract revenue is recognised in profit or loss in proportion to the stage of completion of the contract. Contract expenses are recognised as incurred unless they create an asset related to future contract activity.

(i) Contract assets

Contract assets represents the gross unbilled amount expected from customers for contract work performed to date. It is measured at cost plus profit recognised to date less progress billings and recognised losses. Cost includes all expenditure related directly to specific projects and an allocation of fixed and variable overheads incurred in the Group's contract activities based on normal operating capacity.

(j) Finance income and expense

Finance income comprises interest income on funds invested. Interest income is recognised as it accrues in profit or loss, using the effective interest method. Finance expenses comprise interest expense on borrowings. Borrowing costs that are not directly attributable to the acquisition, construction or production of a qualifying asset are recognised in profit and loss using the effective interest method.

(k) Income tax

Income tax expense comprises current and deferred tax. Income tax expense is recognised in profit or loss except to the extent that it relates to items recognised directly in equity, in which case it is recognised in equity. Current tax is the expected tax payable on the taxable income for the year, using tax rates enacted or substantively enacted at the reporting date, and any adjustment to tax payable in respect of previous years. Additional income taxes that arise from the distribution of dividends are recognised at the same time as the liability to pay the related dividend is recognised.

68

Veris Limited Annual Financial Report 30 June 2020

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements

29. SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (CONTINUED)

(k) Income tax (continued)

Deferred tax is recognised 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. Deferred tax is not recognised for the following temporary differences: the initial recognition of assets or liabilities in a transaction that is not a business combination and that affects neither accounting nor taxable profit or loss, and differences relating to investments in subsidiaries and jointly controlled entities to the extent that it is probable that they will not reverse in the foreseeable future. In addition, deferred tax is not recognised for taxable temporary differences arising on the initial recognition of goodwill. Deferred tax is measured at the tax rates that are expected to be applied to the temporary differences when they reverse, based on the laws that have been enacted or substantively enacted by the reporting date.

Deferred tax assets and liabilities are offset if there is a legally enforceable right to offset current tax liabilities and assets, and they relate to income taxes levied by the same tax authority on the same taxable entity, or on different tax entities, but they intend to settle current tax liabilities and assets on a net basis or their tax assets and liabilities will be realised simultaneously.

A deferred tax asset is recognised to the extent that it is probable that future taxable profits will be available against which the temporary difference 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.

(i) Tax consolidation

The Group and its wholly-owned entities are part of a tax-consolidated group. As a consequence, all members of the tax-consolidated group are taxed as a single entity from that date. The head entity within the tax-consolidated group is Veris Limited.

The Group recognises deferred tax assets arising from unused tax losses of the tax-consolidated group to the extent that it is probable that future taxable profits of the tax-consolidated group will be available against which the asset can be utilised. Any subsequent period adjustments to deferred tax assets arising from unused tax losses as a result of revised assessments of the probability of recoverability is recognised by the head entity only.

(ii) Nature of tax funding arrangements and tax sharing 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 head entity in conjunction with other members of the tax-consolidated group has also entered into a tax sharing agreement. The tax sharing agreement provides for the determination of the allocation of income tax liabilities between the entities should the head entity default on its tax payment obligations. No amounts have been recognised in the financial statements in respect of this agreement as payment of any amounts under the tax sharing agreement is considered remote.

(iii) 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 ATO 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 ATO are classified as operating cash flows.

69

Veris Limited Annual Financial Report 30 June 2020

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements

29. SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (CONTINUED

(l) 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 Group 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.

(m) Segment reporting

The Group determines and presents operating segments based on the information that internally is provided to the CEO’s, 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. All operating segments' operating results are regularly reviewed by the Group's Managing Director to make decisions about resources to be allocated to the segment and assess its performance, and for which discrete financial information is available.

Segment results that are reported to the Managing Director include items directly attributable to a segment as well as those that can be allocated on a reasonable basis. Unallocated items comprise mainly corporate assets (primarily the Group's headquarters), head office expenses, and income tax assets and liabilities.

(n) Government grants

Government grants are not recognised until there is reasonable assurance that the Group will comply with the conditions attaching to them and that the grants will be received. As a result of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, the Group received government assistance in the form of wage subsidies under the Australian JobKeeper program.

Government grants are recognised in the statement of profit and loss on a systematic basis over the periods in which the Group recognises as expenses the related costs for which the grants are intended to compensate.

Government grants that are receivable as compensation for expenses or losses already incurred or for the purpose of giving immediate financial support to the Group with no future related costs are recognised in the statement of profit or loss in the period in which they become receivable.

(o) Prior year comparatives

Certain comparative information has been re-presented so it is in conformity with the current year classification.

(p) Changes in accounting policies

Veris has adopted all of the new and revised Accounting Standards and Interpretations issued by the AASB that are relevant to the operations of Veris and effective for reporting periods beginning on or after 1 July 2019.

70

Veris Limited Annual Financial Report 30 June 2020

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements

29. SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (CONTINUED)

(p) Changes in accounting policies (continued)

AASB 16 Leases

AASB 16 Leases specifies how to recognise, measure and disclose leases and applies to annual reporting periods beginning on or after 1 July 2019. Previously, under AASB 117, the Group classified leases as operating or finance leases based on its assessment of whether the lease transferred significantly all of the risks and rewards incidental to ownership of the underlying asset to the Group. The new AASB 16 standard replaces AASB 117 Leases, and the related interpretations, and provides a single lessee accounting model, requiring lessees to recognise right-of-use assets and lease liabilities for almost all leases but will have the option not to recognise ‘short-term’ leases and leases of ‘low-value’ assets.

The Group recognised all lease liabilities and corresponding right of use assets, with the exception of shortterm (12 months or fewer), low value leases and practical expedients allowed under the standard, on the balance sheet. Right of use assets are measured at either their carrying amount as if AASB 16 had been applied since their commencement date, discounted using the Group’s incremental borrowing rate at the date of initial application or an amount equal to the lease liability, adjusted by the amount of any prepaid or accrued lease payments.

Lease liabilities are recorded at the present value of: fixed payments; variable lease payments that depend on an index or rate; amounts paid under residual value guarantees; and extension options expected to be exercised. Where a lease contains an extension option which the Group can exercise without negotiation, lease payments for the extension period are included in the liability if the Group is reasonably certain that it will exercise the option.

Variable lease payments not dependent on an index of rate are excluded from the calculation of the lease liabilities. Payments are discounted at the incremental borrowing rate of the lessee, unless the interest rate implicit in the lease can be readily determined. For lease agreements relating to properties, certain nonlease components are excluded from the projection of future lease payments and are recorded separately within operating costs. The right of use asset, resulting from a lease arrangement, at initial recognition reflects the lease liability, initial direct costs and any lease payments made before the commencement date of the lease less any lease incentives.

The Group recognises depreciation of right of use assets and interest on lease liabilities in the income statement over the lease term. Right of use assets are included in the review for impairment of property, plant and equipment and intangible assets with finite lives, if there is an indication that the carrying amount of the cash generating unit may not be recoverable.

The nature of the Group’s leasing activities includes leasing of office space, leasing of IT equipment and leasing of motor vehicles.

Impact of transition to AASB 16 ‘Leases’

The Group implemented the standard as at 1 July 2019 using the modified retrospective approach. Accordingly, the comparative information presented for FY19 is not restated.

The impact of transition to AASB 16 on the Group’s 1 July 2019 balance sheet is an increase in lease liabilities (debt) of $19,792,000, an increase in right of use assets of $19,792,000.

The weighted average incremental borrowing rate applied to the Group’s lease liabilities recognised in the balance sheet at 1 July 2019 is 4.55%.

71

Veris Limited Annual Financial Report 30 June 2020

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements

29. SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (CONTINUED)

9. SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (CONTINUED)
Impact of transition to AASB 16 ‘Leases’ (continued)
Discounted operating lease commitments using incremental
borrowing rate at 1 July 2019
Finance lease liabilities recognised as at 30 June 2019
Additional lease liabilities from adopting AASB 16
Lease liabilities recognised at 1 July 2019
Comprising:
Current
Non-current
30 June
2020
1 July
2019
$000
$000
14,479
10,349
5,313
30,141
6,271
7,122
16,364
23,019
22,635
30,141

The newly recognised right-of-use assets relate to the following type of assets:

Property
Motor Vehicles
Plant and Equipment
June 2020
July 2019
$000
$000
14,600
17,379
2,113
2,121
186
292
16,899
19,792

The change in accounting policy affected the following items on the statement of comprehensive income during the period:

  • Interest expense on lease liabilities – increase by $798,000

  • Depreciation expense – increase by $4,573,000

The change in accounting policy affected the following items in the statement of cash flows during the period:

  • Decrease in operating cash outflows $4,675,000

  • Increase in financing cash outflows $4,675,000

  • Effect on cash and cash equivalents $nil

72

Veris Limited Annual Financial Report 30 June 2020

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements

29. SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (CONTINUED)

In applying AASB 16 for the first time, the Group has used the following practical expedients permitted by the standard:

  • The use of a single discount rate to a portfolio of leases with reasonably similar characteristics

  • The accounting for operating leases with a remaining lease term of less than 12 months as at 1 July 2019 as short-term leases

  • The exclusion of low-value assets

  • The exclusion of initial direct costs for the measurement of the right-of-use asset at the date of initial application

  • The use of hindsight in determining the lease term where the contract contains options to extend or terminate the lease

30. NEW STANDARDS AND INTERPRETATIONS NOT YET EFFECTIVE

A number of new standards are effective for annual periods beginning after 1 January 2020 and earlier adoption is permitted, however, the Group has not elected early adoption of the new or amended standards in preparing these consolidated financial statements.

The following amended standards and interpretations have not yet been assessed by the Group but are not expected to have a significant impact on the Group’s consolidated financial statements:

  • Amendments to References to Conceptual Framework in AASB standards

  • Definition of a Business (Amendments to AASB 3)

  • Definition of Material (Amendments to AASB 101)

31. DETERMINATION OF FAIR VALUES

A number of the Group’s accounting policies and disclosures require the determination of fair value, for both financial and non-financial assets and liabilities. Fair values have been determined for measurement and / or disclosure purposes based on the methods set out below. Where applicable, further information about the assumptions made in determining fair values is disclosed in the notes specific to that asset or liability.

(i) Property, plant and equipment

The fair value of property, plant and equipment recognised as a result of a business combination is based on market values. The market value of property is the estimated amount for which a property could be exchanged on the date of valuation between a willing buyer and a willing seller in an arm’s length transaction after proper marketing wherein the parties had each acted knowledgeably, prudently and without compulsion. The market value of items of plant, equipment, fixtures and fittings is based on the quoted market prices for similar items.

(ii) Intangible assets

The fair value of customer relationships acquired in a business combination is determined using the multi-period excess earnings method, whereby the subject asset is valued after deducting a fair return on all other assets that are part of creating the related cash flows.

73

Veris Limited Annual Financial Report 30 June 2020

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements

30. DETERMINATION OF FAIR VALUES

(iii) Trade and other receivables

The fair value of trade and other receivables is estimated as the present value of future cash flows, discounted at the market rate of interest at the reporting date

(iv) Share-based payment transactions

The fair value of employee stock options is measured using a binomial option pricing model. The fair value of share performance rights is measured using the Monte Carlo formula.

Measurement inputs include share price on measurement date, exercise price of the instrument, expected volatility (based on weighted average historic volatility adjusted for changes expected due to publicly available information), weighted average expected life of the instruments (based on historical experience and general option holder behaviour), expected dividends, and the risk-free interest rate (based on government bonds). Service and non-market performance conditions attached to the transactions are not taken into account in determining fair value.

(v) Deferred Vendor Payments

Any contingent consideration is measured at fair value at the date of acquisition. If an obligation to pay contingent consideration that meets the definition of a financial instrument is classified as equity, then it is not remeasured and settlement is accounted for within equity. Otherwise, other contingent consideration is remeasured at fair value at each reporting date and subsequent changes in the fair value of the contingent consideration are recognised in profit or loss.

74

Veris Limited Annual Financial Report 30 June 2020

Directors’ Declaration

  1. In the opinion of the directors of Veris Limited (“the Company”):

  2. (a) the consolidated financial statements and notes set out on pages 34 to 74 and the Remuneration report on pages 16 to 27 in the Directors’ report, are in accordance with the Corporations Act 2001 including:

    • (i) giving a true and fair view of the Group’s financial position as at 30 June 2020 and of its performance for the financial year ended on that date; and

    • (ii) complying with Australian Accounting Standards and the Corporations Regulations 2001; and

  3. (b) there are reasonable grounds to believe that the Company will be able to pay its debts as and when they become due and payable.

  4. There are reasonable grounds to believe that the Company and the group entities identified in note 25 will be able to meet any obligations or liabilities to which they are or may become subject to by virtue of the Deed of Cross Guarantee between the Company and those group entities pursuant to ASIC Class Order 2016/191.

  5. The directors have been given the declarations required by Section 295A of the Corporations Act 2001 from the chief executive officer and the chief financial officer for the financial year ended 30 June 2020.

  6. The directors draw attention to page 29 to the consolidated financial statements, which includes a statement of compliance with International Financial Reporting Standards.

Signed in accordance with a resolution of the directors:

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Karl Paganin Chairman

Dated at Perth 31 August 2020

75

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Independent Auditor’s Report

To the shareholders of Veris Limited

Report on the audit of the Financial Report

Opinion

We have audited the Financial Report of Veris 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 30 June 2020 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 statement of financial position as at 30 June 2020.

  • Consolidated statement of profit or 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.

  • Directors’ Declaration.

The Group consists of Veris Limited (the Company) and the entities it controlled at the year-end or from time to time during the financial year.

Basis for opinion

We conducted our audit in accordance with Australian Auditing Standards . We believe that the audit evidence we have obtained is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for our opinion.

Our responsibilities under those standards are further described in the Auditor’s responsibilities for the audit of the Financial Report section of our report.

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

Key Audit Matters

The Key Audit Matters we identified are:

  • Going concern basis of accounting.

  • Recognition of revenue and WIP.

Key Audit Matters are those matters that, in our professional judgement, were of most significance in our audit of the Financial Report of the current period.

These matters were addressed in the context of our audit of the Financial Report as a whole, and in forming our opinion thereon, and we do not provide a separate opinion on these matters.

KPMG, an Australian partnership and a member firm of the KPMG 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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Going concern basis of accounting

Refer to Note 6 to the Financial Report

The key audit matter

The Group’s use of the going concern basis of accounting and the associated extent of uncertainty is a key audit matter due to the high level of judgement required by us in evaluating the Group’s assessment of going concern and the events or conditions that may cast significant doubt on their ability to continue as a going concern. These are outlined in Note 6 to the Financial Report.

The Directors have determined that the use of the going concern basis of accounting is appropriate in preparing the financial report. Their assessment of going concern was based on cash flow projections through to 31 August 2021. The preparation of these projections incorporated a number of assumptions and significant judgements, and the Directors have concluded that the range of possible outcomes considered in arriving at this judgement does not give rise to a material uncertainty casting significant doubt on the Group’s ability to continue as a going concern.

We critically assessed the levels of uncertainty, including potential impact of COVID-19, as it related to the Group’s ability to continue as a going concern, within these assumptions and judgements, focusing on the following:

  • Impact of forecasting risk and uncertainty to cash flows projected;

  • The Group’s planned levels of revenue and operational and capital expenditures, and the ability of the Group to manage cash outflows within available funding, particularly in light of recent loss making operations; and

  • The Group’s ability to raise additional funds, if required, from shareholders, and the Group’s options to raise additional funds, if required, through the sale of assets or parts of the Group. This included the feasibility and quantum of potential proceeds.

In assessing this key audit matter, we involved senior audit team members who understand the Group’s business, industry and the economic environment it operates in.

How the matter was addressed in our audit

Our procedures included:

  • We analysed the cash flow projections by:

  • Analysing the impact of reasonably possible changes in projected cash flows and their timing, to the projected periodic cash positions. Assessing the resultant impact to the ability of the Group to pay debts as and when they fall due and continue as a going concern. The specific areas we focused on were informed by assessing actual cashflows including but not limited to the final quarter of FY20 and FY21 to date, and having regard to current market conditions;

  • Assessing the revenue pipeline and planned levels of operating and capital expenditures for consistency of relationships and trends to the Group’s historical and recent results, particularly in light of the recent loss making operations, results since year end, and our understanding of the business, industry and economic conditions of the Group, including consideration of potential COVID-19 impacts;

  • We read correspondence with existing financiers to understand and assess the options available to the Group including renegotiation of existing debt facilities, and revision of terms of financial loan covenants;

  • We assessed management’s evidence to support options available to the Group including ability to raise additional funds from shareholders and potential sale of assets or businesses within the Group; and

  • We evaluated the Group’s going concern disclosures in the Financial Report by comparing them to our understanding of the matter, the events or conditions incorporated into the cash flow projection assessment, the Group’s plans to address those events or conditions, and accounting standard requirements.

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Recognition of Revenue, Trade Receivables and Work In Progress (WIP) (Revenue $94.1m, Trade Receivables $11.7m and WIP $5.8m)

Refer to Notes 3, 7 and 10 to the Financial Report

The key audit matter

How the matter was addressed in our audit

Recognition of revenue is a Key Audit Matter due to the:

  • Significance of revenue to the financial statements, including a large number of contracts with customers, and the degree of estimation and judgement involved in revenue recognition, particularly at year end.

We focused on the Group’s assessment of the following elements of revenue recognition:

  • The Group’s determination of the amount of revenue recognised from variable consideration being highly probable of not reversing. The Group’s determination of an amount that is highly probable requires a degree of estimation and judgement. This increased the audit effort we applied to gather sufficient appropriate audit evidence that the variable consideration is highly probable.

The Group’s determination of contractual entitlement to Work In Progress balances including assessment of performance obligations.

Our procedures included:

  • We assessed the Group’s estimation in recognising revenue to the extent it is highly probable that a significant reversal will not occur, through corroborating to underlying evidence including, where applicable, project spend and correspondence with customers accepting contract terms or invoicing;

  • We assessed management’s line-by-line Work In Progress (WIP) analysis to corroborate the findings of our detailed testing of WIP balances, to support that the recognition criteria in AASB 15 had been met. This included obtaining evidence of an enforceable right and achievement of performance obligations; and

  • We assessed the basis for management’s WIP recognition against the findings of our testing, and evaluated the conclusions reached by the Group using our understanding of the contracts obtained in the procedures noted above, in the context of the requirements of AASB 15.

Other Information

Other Information is financial and non-financial information in Veris Limited’s annual reporting which is provided in addition to the Financial Report and the Auditor’s Report. The Directors are responsible for the Other Information.

Our opinion on the Financial Report does not cover the Other Information and, accordingly, we do not express an audit opinion or any form of assurance conclusion thereon, with the exception of the Remuneration Report and our related assurance opinion.

In connection with our audit of the Financial Report, our responsibility is to read the Other Information. In doing so, we consider whether the Other Information is materially inconsistent with the Financial Report or our knowledge obtained in the audit, or otherwise appears to be materially misstated.

We are required to report if we conclude that there is a material misstatement of this Other Information, and based on the work we have performed on the Other Information that we obtained prior to the date of this Auditor’s Report we have nothing to report.

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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.

  • Assessing the Group and Company’s ability to continue as a going concern and whether the use of the going concern basis of accounting is appropriate. This includes disclosing, as applicable, matters related to going concern and using the going concern basis of accounting unless they either intend to liquidate the Group and Company or to cease operations, or have no realistic alternative but to do so.

Auditor’s responsibilities for the audit of the Financial Report

Our objective is:

  • To obtain reasonable assurance about whether the Financial Report as a whole is free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error; and

  • To issue an Auditor’s Report that includes our opinion.

Reasonable assurance is a high level of assurance, but is not a guarantee that an audit conducted in accordance with Australian Auditing Standards will always detect a material misstatement when it exists.

Misstatements can arise from fraud or error. They are considered material if, individually or in the aggregate, they could reasonably be expected to influence the economic decisions of users taken on the basis of the Financial Report.

A further description of our responsibilities for the audit of the Financial Report is located at the Auditing and Assurance Standards Board website at: https://www.auasb.gov.au/admin/file/content102/c3/ar1_2020.pdf. This description forms part of our Auditor’s Report.

Report on the Remuneration Report

Opinion Directors’ responsibilities
In our opinion, the Remuneration Report of The Directors of the Company are responsible for the
Veris Limited for the year ended preparation and presentation of the Remuneration
30 June 2020, 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 the Remuneration Report included in
the Directors’ report for the year ended 30 June 2020.
Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the
Remuneration Report, based on our audit conducted
in accordance with_Australian Auditing Standards_.
KPMG Jane Bailey
Partner
Perth
31 August 2020

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Lead Auditor’s Independence Declaration under Section 307C of the Corporations Act 2001

To the Directors of Veris Limited

I declare that, to the best of my knowledge and belief, in relation to the audit of Veris Limited for the financial year ended 30 June 2020 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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Jane Bailey Partner Perth

31 August 2020

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.

Veris Limited Annual Financial Report 30 June 2020

Additional Information

Additional Information per ASX Listing Rules - Unaudited

Additional information requires by ASX Listing Rules and not disclosed elsewhere in this report is set out below.

Corporate Governance Statement

The Group’s Corporate Governance Statement can be found at: https://www.veris.com.au/media/2894/corporate-governance-statement-2020.pdf

Shareholder Information as at 24 August 2020

Top 20 Shareholders of Quoted Securities

Rank Name Shares % of
Issued
Capital
1 OCEAN TO OUTBACK ELECTRICAL PTY LTD TL LAMOND FAMILY A/C> 47,344,315 11.68
2 SHERKANE PTY LTD 40,186,896 9.92
3 MR BRIAN ELTON 27,558,035 6.80
4 SHERKANE PTY LTD 21,293,584 5.25
5 MR CRAIG GRAEME CHAPMAN DISCRETIONARY A/C> 16,981,719 4.19
6 CONCEPT WEST COMMUNICATIONS PTY LTD
11,508,540 2.84
7 CARRIER INTERNATIONAL PTY LIMITED FUND A/C> 11,000,000 2.71
8 MR THOMAS BRIAN LAWRENCE A/C> 10,690,153 2.64
9 ICON HOLDINGS PTY LTD S/F A/C> 9,500,000 2.34
10 EVANS FAMILY NOMINEES PTY LTD FAMILY A/C> 9,286,738 2.29
11 BERTOLI CONTRACTING PTY LTD FAMILY A/C> 6,303,597 1.56
12 ELTON PROPERTY PTY LTD CONSULTING S/F A/C> 5,750,115 1.42
13 MS JENNY LEE RUDOLPH 4,829,104 1.19
14 MR PETER HOWELLS 4,815,020 1.19
15 SILCHESTER INVESTMENTS PTY LTD 4,286,625 1.06
16 MRS JASMINE KRKLJES 4,240,000 1.05
17 J&A CASHIN INVESTMENTS PTY LTD FAMILY A/C> 3,733,297 0.92
18 MR STEVE ROSSITER 3,714,696 0.92
19 MILES AND MILES PTY LTD FUND A/C> 3,496,603 0.86
20 INSIDE-OUT CARPENTRY SERVICES PTY LTD
3,200,000 0.79
Total 249,719,037 61.62

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

81

Veris Limited Annual Financial Report 30 June 2020

Additional Information

Substantial Holders of 5% or more of fully paid ordinary shares

Shareholder Number Shares Voting
Power
SHERKANE PTY LTD 61,480,480 61,480,480 15.17%
OCEAN TO OUTBACK ELECTRICAL (and other related
parties of Adam Lamond)
48,591,815 48,591,815 11.99%
BRIAN ELTON 33,308,150 33,308,150 8.22%

Distribution of Shareholders

Performance
Spread of Holdings Ordinary Shares
Rights
1 – 1,000 43 -
1,001–5,000 92 -
5,001–10,000 115 -
10,001–100,000 535 1
100,001– 304 4
**Total on Register ** 1,089 5

Non-Marketable Parcels

Number of shareholders holding less than a marketable parcel is 299.

Voting Rights

Ordinary Shares

Voting rights on a show of hands every member present at a meeting in person or by proxy shall have one vote and upon a poll each share shall have one vote.

Performance Rights

There are no voting rights attached to Performance Rights

Restricted Securities

There are no restricted securities on issue.

Unquoted Equity Securities

There are 2,085,327 unquoted Performance Rights on issue with 4 holders.

Securities Exchange

The Group is listed on the Australian Securities Exchange. The Home exchange is Perth. The ticker code is VRS.

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_

Perth

Level 12, 3 Hasler Road Locked Bag 9 Osborne Park WA 6017 Australia

Corporate Information

The registered office of the company is:

T 08 9317 0600 F 08 9317 0611 [email protected] Veris.com.au

Veris Limited Level 12, 3 Hasler Road Osborne Park WA 6017

Company Secretary:

Lisa Wynne

The principal place of business is:

Veris Limited Level 12, 3 Hasler Road Osborne Park WA 6017 Telephone: (08) 9317 0600

Share Registry:

Computer Share Level 11, 172 St Georges Terrace Perth WA 6000 Telephone: (08) 9323 2005

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