Accounting policies

These accounting policies are consistent with the previous period, except for the changes set out below.

The following new and revised Standards and Interpretations have been adopted in the current period:

IAS 1 (as revised in 2007) has introduced terminology changes and changes in the format and content of the financial statements. This change resulted in a change to disclosure of financial information presented and did not impact the amounts disclosed in these financial statements.

IFRS 3 (as revised in 2008) as adopted in the current year affected the accounting for business combinations in the current period. In accordance with the relevant transitional provisions, this standard has been applied prospectively to business combinations for which the acquisition date is on or after the beginning of the first annual period beginning on 1 July 2009. The impact of the adoption of IFRS 3 Business Combinations has been:

• to allow a choice on a transaction-by-transaction basis for the measurement of non-controlling interests (previously referred to as ‘minority’ interests) either at fair value or at the non-controlling interests’ share of the fair value of their net identifiable assets of the acquiree;
• to change the recognition and subsequent accounting requirements for contingent consideration. Under the previous version of the Standard, contingent consideration was recognised at the acquisition date only if payment of the contingent consideration was probable and it could be measured reliably; with any subsequent adjustments to the contingent consideration recognised against goodwill. Under the revised Standard, contingent consideration is measured at fair value at the acquisition date; subsequent adjustments to the consideration are recognised against goodwill only to the extent that they arise from better information about the fair value at the acquisition date, and they occur within the ‘measurement period’ (a maximum of 12 months from the acquisition date). All other subsequent adjustments are recognised in profit or loss;
• where the business combination in effect settles a pre-existing relationship between the Group and the acquiree, to require the recognition of a settlement gain or loss; and
• to require that acquisition-related costs be accounted for separately from the business combination, generally leading to those costs being recognised as an expense in profit or loss as incurred, whereas previously they were accounted for as part of the cost of the acquisition.

Amendments to IFRS 7 expand the disclosures required in respect of fair value measurements and liquidity risk. The Group has elected not to provide comparative information for these expanded disclosures in the current year in accordance with the transitional reliefs offered in these amendments.

The Group has adopted IFRS 8 Operating Segments which is effective for annual periods beginning on or after 1 January 2009. This Standard requires operating segments to be identified on the basis of internal reports about components of the Group that are regularly reviewed by the chief operating decision maker in order to allocate resources to the segments and to assess their performance. Refer to Annexure 3 for further information.

IAS 23 (as revised in 2007) The principal change to the Standard was to eliminate the option to expense all borrowing costs when incurred.

Borrowing costs directly attributable to the acquisition, construction or production of a qualifying asset in terms of IAS 23 form part of the cost of the asset and should be capitalised. In prior financial periods borrowing costs were expensed when incurred. This change in accounting policy has no impact on prior financial periods as the amendment is applied prospectively.

These consolidated and separate financial statements have been prepared under the historical cost convention as modified by the revaluation of non-trading financial asset investments, financial assets and financial liabilities held-for-trading, financial assets designated as fair value through profit and loss and investment property. Non-current assets and disposal groups held-for-sale, where applicable, are stated at the lower of its carrying amount and fair value less costs to sell.

The preparation of financial statements requires the use of estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities, disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Although these estimates are based on management’s best knowledge of current events and conditions, actual results may ultimately differ from those estimates.

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

Judgements made by management in the application of International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) that have a significant effect on the financial statements, and significant estimates made in the preparation of these consolidated financial statements are discussed in note 49.
Standards, Interpretations and Amendments to published standards that are not yet effective are discussed in note 50.

Subsidiaries are entities, including special purpose entities such as The Murray & Roberts Trust controlled by the Group.

Control exists where the Group, directly or indirectly, has the power to govern the financial and operating policies so as to obtain benefits from its activities generally accompanying an interest of more than half of the voting rights. In assessing control, potential voting rights that are exercisable or convertible presently are taken into account.

Subsidiaries are never excluded from consolidation. If a subsidiary is acquired but control is expected to be temporary because the intention is that the subsidiary will be sold within 12 months from acquisition, the acquired subsidiary is still consolidated but is accounted for as a disposal group or a discontinued operation.

The results of subsidiaries are included for the period during which the Group exercises control over the subsidiary.

If a subsidiary uses accounting policies other than those adopted in the consolidated financial statements for like transactions and events in similar circumstances, appropriate adjustments are made to its financial statements in preparing the consolidated financial statements.

Inter-company transactions, balances and unrealised gains on transactions between group companies are eliminated.

Unrealised losses are also eliminated but are considered an indicator of impairment of the asset transferred.

Transaction with non-controlling interests

The Group treats transactions with non-controlling interests as transactions with equity owners of the Group. For purchases from non-controlling interests, the difference between any consideration paid and the relevant share acquired of the carrying value of net assets of the subsidiary is recorded in equity. Gains or losses on disposals to noncontrolling interests are also recorded in equity.

Any increase or decrease in ownership interest in subsidiaries without a change in control is recognised as equity transactions in the consolidated financial statements. Accordingly, any premium or discount on subsequent purchases of equity instruments from or sales of equity instruments to noncontrolling interests are recognised directly in equity of the parent shareholder.

Joint ventures are those entities in which the Group has joint control. The proportion of assets, liabilities, income and expenses and cash flows attributable to the interests of the Group in jointly controlled entities are incorporated in the consolidated financial statements under the appropriate headings. The results of joint ventures are included from the effective dates of acquisition and up to the effective dates of disposal.

Inter-company transactions, balances and unrealised gains on transactions between the Group and its joint ventures are eliminated on consolidation. Unrealised losses are eliminated and are also considered an impairment indicator of the asset transferred. Accounting policies of joint ventures have been changed where necessary to ensure consistency with policies adopted by the Group.

Associates are all entities over which the Group has significant influence but not control, generally accompanying a shareholding of between 20% and 50% of the voting rights. Investments in associates are accounted for using the equity method of accounting and are initially recognised at cost. The Group’s investment in associates includes goodwill identified on acquisition, net of any accumulated impairment loss.

The Group’s share of its associates’ post-acquisition profits or losses is recognised in the statement of financial performance, and its share of post-acquisition movements in reserves is recognised in reserves. The cumulative postacquisition movements are adjusted against the carrying amount of the investment. When the Group’s share of losses in an associate equals or exceeds its interest in the associate, including any other unsecured receivables, the Group does not recognise further losses, unless it has incurred obligations or made payments on behalf of the associate. The total carrying value of associates is evaluated annually for impairment.

Unrealised gains on transactions between the Group and its associates are eliminated to the extent of the Group’s interest in the associates. Unrealised losses are also eliminated unless the transaction provides evidence of an impairment of the asset transferred. Accounting policies of associates have been changed where necessary to ensure consistency with the policies adopted by the Group.

Foreign currency transactions

A foreign currency transaction is recorded, on initial recognition in Rands, by applying to the foreign currency amount the spot exchange rate between the functional currency and the foreign currency at the date of the transaction.

At the end of the reporting period:

• foreign currency monetary items are translated using the closing rate;
• non-monetary items that are measured in terms of historical cost in a foreign currency are translated using the exchange rate at the date of the transaction; and
• non-monetary items that are measured at fair value in a foreign currency are translated using the exchange rates at the date when the fair value was determined.

Exchange differences arising on the settlement of monetary items or on translating monetary items at rates different from those at which they were translated on initial recognition during the period or in previous annual financial statements are recognised in profit or loss in the period in which they arise.

When a gain or loss on a non-monetary item is recognised in other comprehensive income and accumulated in equity, any exchange component of that gain or loss is recognised in other comprehensive income and accumulated in equity. When a gain or loss on a non-monetary item is recognised in profit or loss, any exchange component of that gain or loss is recognised in profit or loss.

Cash flows arising from transactions in a foreign currency are recorded in Rands by applying to the foreign currency amount the exchange rate between the Rand and the foreign currency at the date of the cash flow.

Foreign currency monetary items

Monetary assets denominated in foreign currencies are translated into the functional currency at the closing rate of exchange ruling at the reporting date. Exchange differences arising on translation are credited to or charged against income.

Monetary liabilities denominated in foreign currencies are translated into the functional currency at the closing rate of the exchange ruling at reporting date. Exchange differences arising on translation are credited to or charged against income.

Monetary Group assets and liabilities (being Group loans, call accounts, equity loans, receivables and payables) denominated in foreign currencies are translated into the functional currency at the closing rate of exchange ruling at the reporting date. Exchange differences arising on translation are credited to or charged against income except for those arising on equity loans that are denominated in the functional currency of either party involved. In those instances, the exchange differences are taken directly to equity as part of the foreign currency translation reserve.

Exchange differences arising on the settlement of monetary items are credited to or charged against income.

Foreign currency non-monetary items

Non-monetary items carried at fair value that are denominated in foreign currencies are translated at the rates prevailing on the date when the fair value was determined. Exchange differences arising on translation are credited to or charged against income except for differences arising on the translation of non-monetary items in respect of which gains and losses are recognised directly in equity. For such items, any exchange component of that gain or loss is also recognised directly in equity.

Non-monetary items that are measured in terms of historical cost in a foreign currency are translated at historical exchange rates.

Foreign operations

The results and financial position of a foreign operation are translated into the functional currency using the following procedures:

• assets and liabilities for each consolidated statement of financial position presented are translated at the closing rate at the date of that consolidated statement of financial position;
• income and expenses for each item of profit or loss are translated at exchange rates at the dates of the transactions; and
• all resulting exchange differences are recognised in the statement of other comprehensive income and accumulated as a separate component of equity.

Exchange differences arising on a monetary item that forms part of a net investment in a foreign operation are recognised initially in the statement of other comprehensive income and accumulated in the translation reserve. On the disposal of a foreign operation, all of the accumulated exchange differences in respect of that operation attributable to the Group are reclassified in profit or loss.

Any goodwill arising on the acquisition of a foreign operation and any fair value adjustments to the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities arising on the acquisition of that foreign operation are treated as assets and liabilities of the foreign operation.

The cash flows of a foreign subsidiary are translated at the exchange rates between the functional currency and the foreign currency at the dates of the cash flows.

Classification

The Group classifies financial assets and financial liabilities into the following categories:

Classification depends on the purpose for which the financial instruments were obtained/incurred and takes place at initial recognition. Classification is re-assessed on an annual basis, except for derivatives and financial assets designated as fair value through profit or loss, which shall not be classified out of the fair value through profit or loss category.

Loans and receivables

Loans and receivables are stated at amortised cost. Amortised cost represents the original amount less principle repayments received, the impact of discounting to net present value and a provision for impairment, where applicable.

When a loan has a fixed maturity date but carries no interest, the carrying value reflects the time value of money, and the loan is discounted to its net present value. The unwinding of the discount is subsequently reflected in the statement of financial performance as part of interest income.

Trade and other receivables

Trade and other receivables are initially recognised at fair value, and are subsequently classified as loans and receivables and measured at amortised cost using the effective interest rate method.

The provision for impairment of trade and other receivables is established when there is objective evidence that the Group will not be able to collect all amounts due in accordance with the original terms of the credit given and includes an assessment of recoverability based on historical trend analyses and events that exist at reporting date. The amount of the provision is the difference between the carrying value and the present value of estimated future cash flows, discounted at the effective interest rate computed at initial recognition.

Contract receivables and retentions

Contract receivables and retentions are initially recognised at fair value, and are subsequently classified as loans and receivables and measured at amortised cost using the effective interest rate method.

Contract receivables and retentions comprise amounts due in respect of certified or approved certificates by the client or consultant at the reporting date for which payment has not been received, and amounts held as retentions on certified certificates at the reporting date.

Cash and cash equivalents

Cash and cash equivalents comprise cash on hand, demand deposits and other short-term highly liquid investments that are readily convertible to a known amount of cash and are subject to an insignificant risk of changes in value.

Bank overdrafts are not offset against positive bank balances unless a legally enforceable right of offset exists, and there is an intention to settle the overdraft and realise the net cash simultaneously, or to settle on a net basis.

All short-term cash investments are invested with major financial institutions in order to manage credit risk.

Impairment of financial assets

Financial assets, other than those at fair value through profit and loss, are assessed for impairment at each reporting date date and impaired where there is objective evidence that as a result of one or more events that occurred after initial recognition of the financial asset, the estimated future cash flows of the investment have been impacted.

For financial assets carried at amortised cost, the impairment is the difference between the asset’s carrying amount and the present value of estimated future cash flows, discounted at the original effective interest rate. The carrying amount of a financial asset is reduced through the use of an allowance account and changes to this allowance account are recognised in profit and loss. Subsequent recoveries of amounts previously written off are credited against the allowance account.

Financial liabilities and equity

Financial liabilities and equity are classified according to the substance of the contractual arrangements entered into and the definitions of a financial liability and an equity instrument. An equity instrument is any contract that evidences a residual interest in the assets of the Group after deducting all of its liabilities.

Equity instruments

Equity instruments issued by the Company are recognised as the proceeds received, net of direct issue costs.

Non-trading financial liabilities

Non-trading financial liabilities are recognised at amortised cost. Amortised cost represents the original debt less principle payments made, the impact of discounting to net present value and amortisation of related costs.

Trade and other payables

Trade and other payables are liabilities to pay for goods or services that have been received or supplied and have been invoiced or formally agreed with the supplier. Trade and other payables are initially recognised at fair value, and are subsequently classified as non-trading financial liabilities and carried at amortised cost using the effective interest rate method.

Subcontractor liabilities

Subcontractor liabilities represent the actual unpaid liability owing to subcontractors for work performed including retention monies owed. Subcontractor liabilities are initially recognised at fair value, and are subsequently classified as non-trading financial liabilities and carried at amortised cost using the effective interest rate method.

Investments

Service concession investments are designated as fair value through profit and loss. All other investments are classified as non-trading financial assets or loans and receivables and accounted for accordingly.

Financial assets designated as fair value through profit and loss

Financial instruments, other than those held for trade, are classified in this category if the financial assets or liabilities are managed, and their performance evaluated, on a fair value basis in accordance with a documented investment strategy, and where information about these financial instruments are reported to management on a fair value basis. Under this basis the Group’s concession equity investment is the main class of financial instruments so designated. The fair value designation, once made is irrevocable.

Measurement is initially at fair value, with transaction costs and subsequent fair value adjustments recognised in profit or loss. The net gain or loss recognised in profit or loss incorporates any dividend or interest earned on financial assets. Fair value is determined in the manner as described in note 7. Where management has identified objective evidence of impairment, provisions are raised against the investment. Assets are considered to be impaired when the fair value of the assets is considered to be lower than the original cost of the investment.

Available-for-sale assets

Available-for-sale assets include financial instruments normally held for an indefinite period, but may be sold depending on changes in exchange, interest or other market conditions. Available-for-sale financial instruments are initially measured at fair value, which represents consideration given plus transaction costs, and subsequently carried at fair value. Fair value is based on market prices for these assets. Resulting gains or losses are recognised in statement of other comprehensive income and accumulated as a fair value reserve in the statement of changes in equity until the asset is disposed of or impaired, when the cumulative gain or loss is recognised in profit or loss.

Where management has identified objective evidence of impairment, a provision is raised against the investment. When assessing impairment, consideration is given to whether or not there has been a significant or prolonged decline in the market value below original cost.

Derivative financial instruments

Derivative financial instruments are initially measured at fair value at the contract date, which includes transaction costs. Subsequent to initial recognition derivative instruments are stated at fair value with the resulting gains or losses recognised in profit or loss.

Derivatives embedded in other financial instruments or other non-financial host contracts are treated as separate derivatives when their risks and characteristics are not closely related to those of the host contract and the host contract is not carried at fair value with unrealised gains or losses recognised in the statement of financial performance.

Where a legally enforceable right of offset exists for recognised derivative financial assets and liabilities, and there is an intention to settle the liability and realise the asset simultaneously, or to settle on a net basis, all related financial effects are offset.

The Group generally makes use of three types of derivatives, being foreign exchange contracts, interest rate swap agreements and embedded derivatives. The majority of these are used to hedge the financial risks of recognised assets and liabilities, unrecognised forecasted transactions or unrecognised firm commitments (hereafter referred to as “economic hedges”).

Hedge accounting is not necessarily applied to all economic hedges but only where management made a decision to designate the hedge as either a fair value or cash flow hedge and the hedge qualifies for hedge accounting.

Hedging activities

Economic hedges where hedge accounting is not applied: When a derivative instrument is entered into as a hedge, all fair value gains or losses are recognised in the profit or loss.

Economic hedges where hedge accounting is applied: Hedge accounting recognises the offsetting effects of the hedging instrument (i.e. the derivative) and the hedged item (i.e. the item being hedged such as a foreign denominated liability).

Hedges can be designated as fair value hedges, cash flow hedges, or hedges of net investments in foreign entities.

Fair value hedges

When a derivative instrument is entered into and designated as a fair value hedge, all fair value gains or losses are recognised in profit or loss.

Changes in the fair value of a hedging instrument that is highly effective and is designated and qualifies as a fair value hedge, are recognised in profit or loss together with the changes in the fair value of the related hedged item.

Cash flow hedges

Where a derivative instrument is entered into and designated as a cash flow hedge of a recognised asset, liability or a highly probable forecasted transaction, the effective part of any gain or loss arising on the derivative instrument is recognised as part of the hedging reserve until the underlying transaction occurs. The ineffective part of any gain or loss is immediately recognised in profit or loss.

If the underlying transaction occurs and results in the recognition of a financial asset or a financial liability, the associated gains or losses that were recognised directly in equity must be reclassified into profit or loss in the same period or periods during which the asset acquired or liability assumed affects profit or loss (such as in the periods that interest income or interest expense is recognised). However, if the Group expects that all or a portion of a loss recognised directly in equity will not be recovered in one or more future periods, it shall reclassify into the profit or loss the amount that is not expected to be recovered.

If the underlying transaction occurs and results in the recognition of a non-financial asset or a non-financial liability, or a forecasted transaction for a non-financial asset or nonfinancial liability becomes a firm commitment for which fair value hedge accounting is applied, the associated gains or losses that were recognised directly in equity are included in the initial cost or other carrying value of the asset or liability.

Loans to (from) group companies

These include loans to and from holding companies, fellow subsidiaries, subsidiaries, joint ventures and associates are recognised initially at fair value plus direct transaction costs.

Loans to group companies are classified as loans and receivables.

Loans from group companies are classified as financial liabilities measured at amortised cost.

Bank overdrafts and borrowings

Bank overdrafts and borrowings are initially measured at fair value, and are subsequently measured at amortised cost, using the effective interest rate method. Any difference between the proceeds (net of transaction costs) and the settlement or redemption of borrowings is recognised over the term of the borrowings in accordance with the Group’s accounting policy for borrowing costs.

Contracts-in-progress represents those costs recognised by the stage of completion of the contract activity at the reporting date.

Anticipated losses to completion are expensed immediately in profit or loss.

Advance payments received

Advance payments received are assessed on initial recognition to determine whether it is probable that it will be repaid in cash or another financial asset. In this instance, the advance payment is classified as a non-trading financial liability that is carried at amortised cost. If it is probable that the advance payment will be repaid with goods or services, the liability is carried at historic cost.

The Group uses the acquisition method to account for the acquisition of businesses.

Goodwill is recognised as an asset at the acquisition date of a business, subsidiary, associate or jointly controlled entity. Goodwill on the acquisition of a subsidiary and joint venture company is included in intangible assets. Goodwill on the acquisition of an associate company is included in the investment in associates.

Goodwill is not amortised. Instead, an impairment test is performed annually or more frequently if circumstances indicate that it might be impaired. Any impairment is recognised immediately in profit or loss and is not subsequently reversed. For the purpose of impairment testing, goodwill is allocated to each of the Group’s cash generating units expected to benefit from the synergies of the business combination. Any impairment loss of the cash generating unit is first allocated against the goodwill and thereafter against the other assets of the cash generating unit on a pro-rata basis.

Whenever negative goodwill arises, the identification and measurement of the acquired identifiable assets, liabilities and contingent liabilities is reassessed. If negative goodwill still remains, it is recognised in profit or loss immediately.

On disposal of a subsidiary, associate or jointly controlled entity, the attributable goodwill is included in the determination of the profit or loss on disposal. The same principle is applicable for partial disposals where there is a change in ownership, in other words a portion of the goodwill is expensed as part of the cost of disposal. For partial disposals and acquisitions with no change in ownership, goodwill is recognised as a transaction with equity holders.

An intangible asset is an identifiable, non-monetary asset that has no physical substance. An intangible asset is recognised when it is identifiable; the Group has control over the asset; it is probable that economic benefits will flow to the Group; and the cost of the asset can be measured reliably.

Computer software

Acquired computer software that is significant and unique to the business is capitalised as an intangible asset on the basis of the costs incurred to acquire and bring to use the specific software.

Costs associated with maintaining computer software programs are capitalised as intangible assets only if it qualifies for recognition. In all other cases these costs are recognised as an expense as incurred.

Costs that are directly associated with the development and production of identifiable and unique software products controlled by the Group, and that will probably generate economic benefits exceeding one year, are recognised as intangible assets. Direct costs include the costs of software development employees and an appropriate portion of relevant overheads.

Computer software is amortised on a systematic basis over its estimated useful life from the date it becomes available for use.

Research and development

Research expenditure is recognised as an expense as incurred.

Costs incurred on development projects (relating to the design and testing of new or improved products and technology) are capitalised as intangible assets when it is probable that the project will be a success, considering its commercial and technological feasibility, and costs can be measured reliably.

Other development expenditure is recognised as an expense as incurred. Development expenditure previously recognised as an expense is not capitalised as an asset in a subsequent period.

Development expenditure that has a finite useful life and that has been capitalised is amortised from the commencement of the commercial production of the product on a systematic basis over the period of its expected benefit.

Other intangible assets

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

Expenditure on internally generated goodwill and brands is recognised in profit or loss as an expense as incurred and is not capitalised.

Subsequent expenditure

Subsequent costs incurred on intangible assets are included in the carrying value only when it is probable that future economic benefits associated with the item will flow to the Group and the cost of the item can be measured reliably. All other expenditure is expensed as incurred.

Amortisation

Amortisation is charged to profit or loss on a systematic basis over the estimated useful life of the intangible asset from the date that they are available for use unless the useful lives are indefinite. Intangible assets with indefinite lives are tested annually for impairment.

The average amortisation periods are set out in note 5.

Property, plant and equipment are tangible assets that the Group holds for its own use or for rental to others and which the Group expects to use for more than one period. Property, plant and equipment could be constructed by the Group or purchased by the entities. The consumption of property, plant and equipment is reflected through a depreciation charge designed to reduce the asset to its residual value over its useful life.

The useful lives of items of property, plant and equipment have been assessed as follows:

The residual value, useful life and depreciation method of each asset are reviewed at the end of each reporting period. If the expectations differ from previous estimates, the change is accounted for as a change in accounting estimate.

Each part of an item of property, plant and equipment with a cost that is significant in relation to the total cost of the item is depreciated separately.

The depreciation charge for each period is recognised in profit or loss unless it is included in the carrying amount of another asset.

The gain or loss arising from the derecognition of an item of property, plant and equipment is included in profit or loss when the item is derecognised. The gain or loss arising from the derecognition of an item of property, plant and equipment is determined as the difference between the net disposal proceeds, if any, and the carrying amount of the item.

Measurement

All property, plant and equipment is stated at cost less accumulated depreciation and accumulated impairment losses, except for land, which is stated at cost less accumulated impairment losses. Cost includes expenditure that is directly attributable to the acquisition of the item and includes transfers from equity of any gains or losses on qualifying cash flow hedges of currency purchases of property, plant and equipment.

Certain items of property, plant and equipment that had been revalued to fair value on or prior to 1 July 2004, the date of transition to IFRS, are measured on the basis of deemed cost, being the revalued amount at that revaluation date.

Subsequent costs

Subsequent costs are included in an asset’s carrying value only when it is probable that future economic benefits associated with the item will flow to the Group and the cost of the item can be measured reliably. Day-to-day servicing costs are recognised in profit or loss in the year incurred.

Revaluations

Property, plant and equipment is not revalued.

Assets held under finance leases

Assets held under finance leases are depreciated over their expected useful lives on the same basis as owned assets or, where shorter, the term of the relevant lease.

Components

The amount initially recognised in respect of an item of property, plant and equipment is allocated to its significant components and where they have different useful lives, are recorded and depreciated separately. The remainder of the cost, being the parts of the item that are individually not significant or have similar useful lives, are grouped together and depreciated as one component.

Depreciation

Depreciation is calculated on the straight-line or units of production basis at rates considered appropriate to reduce the carrying value of each component of an asset to its residual value over its estimated useful life. The average depreciation periods are set out in note 2.

Depreciation commences when the asset is in the location and condition for its intended use by management and ceases when the asset is derecognised or classified as held-for-sale.

The useful life and residual value of each component is reviewed annually at year end and, if expectations differ from previous estimates, adjusted prospectively as a change in accounting estimate.

Impairment

Where the carrying value of an asset is greater than its estimated recoverable amount, an impairment loss is recognised immediately in profit or loss to bring the carrying value in line with its recoverable amount.

Dismantling and decommissioning costs

The cost of an item of property, plant and equipment includes the initial estimate of the costs of its dismantlement, removal, or restoration of the site on which it was located.

At each reporting date the Group assesses whether there is an indication that an asset may be impaired. If any such indication exists, the asset is tested for impairment by estimating the recoverable value of the related asset. Irrespective of whether there is any indication of impairment, an intangible asset with an indefinite useful life, intangible asset not yet available for use and goodwill acquired in a business combination, are tested for impairment on an annual basis.

When performing impairment testing, the recoverable amount is determined for the individual asset for which an objective indication of impairment exists. If the asset does not generate cash flows from continuing use that are largely independent from other assets or groups of assets, the recoverable amount is determined for the cash generating unit (CGU) to which the asset belongs.

Recoverable amount is the higher of fair value less costs to sell and value-in-use. In assessing value-in-use, the estimated future cash flows are discounted to their present value using the pre-tax discount rate that reflects current market assessments of the time value of money and risks specific to the asset for which the estimates of future cash flows have not been adjusted.

Investment property is any land, building or part thereof that is either owned or leased by the Group under a finance lease for the purpose of earning rentals or for capital appreciation, or both, rather than for use in the production or supply of goods or services, for administrative purposes, or sale in the ordinary course of business. This classification is performed on a property-by-property basis.

Initially, investment property is measured at cost including all transaction costs. Subsequent to initial recognition investment property is stated at fair value, with any movements in fair value recognised in profit or loss.

Investment property is derecognised when it has either been disposed of or when the investment property is permanently withdrawn from use and no future economic benefit is expected from its disposal.

Any gain or loss on the derecognition of an investment property is recognised in profit or loss in the year of derecognition.

Non-current assets, disposal groups, or components of an enterprise are classified as held-for-sale if their carrying amounts will be recovered through a sale transaction rather than through continuing use. This condition is regarded as being met only when the sale is highly probable and the asset (or disposal group) is available for immediate sale in its present condition. Management must be committed to the sale, which should be expected to qualify for recognition as a completed sale within one year from the date of classification.

Non-current assets, disposal groups, or components of an enterprise classified as held-for-sale are stated at the lower of its previous carrying value and fair value less costs to sell.

An impairment loss, if any, is recognised in profit or loss for any initial and subsequent write-down of the carrying value to fair value less costs to sell. Any subsequent increase in fair value less costs to sell is recognised in profit or loss to the extent that it is not in excess of the previously recognised cumulative impairment losses. The impairment loss recognised first reduces the carrying value of the goodwill allocated to the disposal group, and the remainder to the other assets of the disposal group pro-rata on the basis of the carrying value of each asset in the disposal group.

Assets such as inventory and financial instruments allocated to a disposal group will not absorb any portion of the write-down as they are assessed for impairment according to the relevant accounting policy involved. Any subsequent reversal of an impairment loss should be proportionately allocated to these other assets of the disposal group on the basis of the carrying value of each asset in the unit (group of units), but not to goodwill.

Assets held-for-sale are not depreciated or amortised. Interest and other expenses relating to the liabilities of a disposal group continue to be recognised.

When the sale is expected to occur beyond one year, the costs to sell are measured at their present value. Any increase in the present value of the costs to sell that arises from the passage of time is presented in profit or loss as an interest expense.

Non-current assets, disposal groups or components of an enterprise that are classified as held-for-sale are presented separately on the face of the statement of financial position. The sum of the post-tax profit or loss of the discontinued operation, and the post-tax gain or loss on the remeasurement to fair value less costs to sell is presented as a single amount on the face of the statement of financial performance.

Inventories comprise raw materials, properties for resale, consumable stores and in the case of manufacturing entities, work-in-progress and finished goods. Consumable stores include minor spare parts and servicing equipment that are either expected to be used over a period less than 12 months or for general servicing purposes. Consumable stores are recognised in profit or loss as consumed.

Inventories are valued at the lower of cost or net realisable value.

The cost of inventories is determined using the following cost formulas:

• raw materials – First In, First Out (FIFO) or Weighted Average Cost basis.
• finished goods and work-in-progress – cost of direct materials and labour including a proportion of factory overheads based on normal operating capacity.

For inventories with a different nature or use to the Group, different cost formulas are used. The cost of inventories includes transfers from equity of any gains or losses on qualifying cash flow hedges of currency purchase costs, where applicable.

In certain business operations the standard cost method is used. The standard costs take into account normal levels of materials and supplies, labour, efficiency and capacity utilisation. These are regularly reviewed and, if necessary, revised in the light of current conditions. All abnormal variances are immediately expensed as overhead costs. All under absorption of overhead costs are expensed as a normal overhead cost, while over absorption is adjusted against the inventory item or the cost of sales if already sold.

Net realisable value represents the estimated selling price in the ordinary course of business less all estimated costs of completion and costs incurred in marketing, selling and distribution.

Property development

Property developments are stated at the lower of cost or realisable value. Cost is assigned by specific identification and includes the cost of acquisition, development and borrowing costs during development. When development is completed borrowing costs and other charges are expensed as incurred.

Leases of property, plant and equipment where the Group has substantially all the risks and rewards of ownership are classified as finance leases. Finance leases are capitalised. All other leases are classified as operating leases. The classification is based on the substance and financial reality of the whole transaction rather than the legal form. Greater weight is therefore given to those features which have a commercial effect in practice. Leases of land and buildings are analysed separately to determine whether each component is an operating or finance lease.

All headleases in which the Group has a controlling interest in the property at the end of the lease are classified as finance leases. All other headleases are classified as onerous operating leases.

Finance leases

At the commencement of the lease term, finance leases are recognised as assets and liabilities in the statement of financial position at an amount equal to the fair value of the leased asset or, if lower, the present value of the minimum lease payments. Any direct cost incurred in negotiating or arranging a lease is added to the cost of the asset. The present value of the cost of decommissioning, restoration or similar obligations relating to the asset are also capitalised to the cost of the asset on initial recognition. The discount rate used in calculating the present value of minimum lease payments is the rate implicit in the lease.

Capitalised leased assets are accounted for as property, plant and equipment. They are depreciated using the straight-line or unit of production basis at rates considered appropriate to reduce the carrying values over the estimated useful lives to the estimated residual values. Where it is not certain that an asset will be taken over by the Group at the end of the lease, the asset is depreciated over the shorter of the lease period and the estimated useful life of the asset.

Finance lease payments are allocated between the lease finance cost and the capital repayment using the effective interest rate method. Lease finance costs are charged to operating costs as they become due.

Operating leases

Operating lease payments are recognised in profit or loss on a straight-line basis over the lease term. In negotiating a new or renewed operating lease, the lessor may provide incentives for the Group to enter into the agreement, such as up front cash payments or an initial rent-free period. These benefits are recognised as a reduction of the rental expense over the lease term, on a straight-line basis.

Finance headleases

Headlease assets, where part of finance headleases, are capitalised as investment property at their fair values and a corresponding liability is raised.

Land is not depreciated. Buildings are depreciated using the straight-line basis at rates considered appropriate to reduce the carrying values over the estimated useful lives to the estimated residual values.

Operating headleases

A long-term provision is raised in respect of the onerous headleases that are classified as operating headleases and is based on the projected losses being the difference between the gross headlease commitments and the projected net revenue inflows. Operating lease payments are recognised in the profit or loss on a straight-line basis over the lease term.

Contingent assets and contingent liabilities are not recognised. Contingencies are disclosed in note 41.

Provisions are recognised when the Group has a present legal or constructive obligation as a result of past events, for which it is probable that an outflow of economic benefits will be required to settle the obligation and a reliable estimate can be made of the amount of the obligation.

Provisions are measured at the directors’ best estimate of the expenditure required to settle that obligation at the reporting date, and are discounted to present value when the effect is material.

Provisions are reflected separately on the face of the statement of financial position and are separated into their long-term and short-term portions. Contract provisions are, however, deducted from contracts-in-progress.

Provisions for future expenses are not raised, unless supported by an onerous contract, being a contract in which unavoidable costs that will be incurred in meeting contract obligations are in excess of the economic benefits expected to be received from the contract.

Provisions for warranty costs are recognised at the date of sale of the relevant products, at the directors’ best estimate of the expenditure required to settle the Group’s obligation.

Contingent liabilities acquired in a business combination are initially measured at fair value at the date of acquisition. At subsequent reporting dates, such contingent liabilities are measured at the higher of the amount that would be recognised in accordance with IAS 37: Provisions, Contingent Liabilities and Contingent Assets and the amount initially recognised less cumulative amortisation recognised in accordance with IAS 18: Revenue.

Contingent liabilities

A contingent liability is a possible obligation that arises from past events and whose existence will be confirmed only by the occurrence or non-occurrence of one or more uncertain future events not wholly within the control of the Group, or a present obligation that arises from past events but is not recognised because it is not probable that an outflow of resources embodying economic benefits will be required to settle the obligation; or the amount of the obligation cannot be measured with sufficient reliability.

If the likelihood of an outflow of resources is remote, the possible obligation is neither a provision nor a contingent liability and no disclosure is made.

Contingent assets

A contingent asset is a possible asset that arises from past events and whose existence will be confirmed only by the occurrence or non-occurrence of one or more uncertain future events not wholly within the control of the Group.

Such contingent assets are only recognised in the financial statements where the realisation of income is virtually certain. If the inflow of economic benefits is only probable, the contingent asset is disclosed as a claim in favour of the Group but not recognised in the statement of financial position.

An expense is recognised where the Group receives goods or services in exchange for shares or rights over shares (equity-settled transactions) or in exchange for other assets equivalent in value to a given number of shares or rights over shares (cash-settled transactions).

Employees, including directors, of the Group receive remuneration in the form of share-based payment transactions, whereby employees render services in exchange for shares or rights over shares (equity-settled transactions).

The cost of equity-settled transactions with employees is measured by reference to the fair value at the date at which they are granted. The fair value is determined by an external value using the binomial lattice and Monte Carlo Simulation models. In valuing equity-settled transactions, no account is taken of any performance conditions, other than conditions linked to the price of the shares of the Group (market conditions). The expected life used in the model has been adjusted, based on management’s best estimate, for the effects of non-transferability, exercise restrictions and behavioural considerations.

The cost of equity-settled transactions is recognised, together with a corresponding increase in equity, on a straight-line basis over the period in which the non-market performance conditions are fulfilled, ending on the date on which the relevant employees become fully entitled to the award (vesting date).

No expense is recognised for awards that do not ultimately vest, except for awards where vesting is conditional upon a market condition, which are treated as vesting irrespective of whether or not the market condition is satisfied, provided that all other performance conditions are satisfied.

Where the terms of an equity-settled award are modified, as a minimum, an expense is recognised as if the terms had not been modified. In addition, an expense is recognised for any increase in the value of the transaction as a result of the modification, as measured at the date of modification.

Where an equity-settled award is cancelled, it is treated as if it had vested on the date of cancellation, and any expense not yet recognised for the award is recognised immediately.

However, if a new award is substituted for the cancelled award, and designated as a replacement award on the date that it is granted, the cancelled and new awards are treated as if they were a modification of the original award.

The dilutive effect of outstanding options is reflected as additional share dilution in the computation of diluted earnings per share.

For cash-settled share-based payments, a liability equal to the portion of the goods or services received is recognised at the current fair value determined at each reporting date.

Defined contribution plans

Under defined contribution plans the Group’s legal or constructive obligation is limited to the amount that it agrees to contribute to the fund. Consequently, the actuarial risk that benefits will be less than expected and the investment risk that assets invested will be insufficient to meet expected benefits, is borne by the employee. Such plans include multi-employer or state plans.

Employee and employer contributions to defined contribution plans are recognised as an expense in the year in which incurred.

Defined benefit plans

Under defined plans, the Group has an obligation to provide the agreed benefits to current and former employees. The actuarial and investment risks are borne by the Group. A multi-employer plan or state plan that is classified as a defined benefit plan, but for which sufficient information is not available to enable defined benefit accounting, is accounted for as a defined contribution plan.

For defined benefit plans, the cost of providing benefits is determined using the Projected Unit Credit Method, with actuarial valuations being carried out at each reporting date. Actuarial gains and losses that exceed 10% of the greater of the present value of the Group’s defined benefit obligation and the fair value of plan assets are amortised over the expected average working lives of participating employees.

The current service cost in respect of defined benefit plans is recognised as an expense in the year to which it relates. Past-service costs, experience adjustments, effects of changes in actuarial assumptions and plan amendments in respect of existing employees are expensed over the remaining service lives of these employees. Adjustments relating to retired employees are expensed in the year in which they arise. Deficits arising on these funds, if any, are recognised immediately in respect of retired employees and over the remaining service lives of current employees.

The defined benefit obligation in the statement of financial position, if any, represents the present value of the defined benefit obligation as adjusted for unrecognised actuarial gains and losses and unrecognised past service costs, and are reduced by the fair value of plan assets. Any asset resulting from this calculation is limited to unrecognised actuarial losses and past service costs, plus the present value of available refunds and reductions in future contributions to the plan.

Government grants are recognised at their fair value where there is reasonable assurance that the grant will be received and all attaching conditions will be complied with.

When the grant relates to an expense item, it is recognised as income over the years necessary to match the grant on a systematic basis to the costs that it is intended to compensate.

Where the grant relates to an asset, the fair value of the grant is credited to the item of property, plant and equipment and is released to profit or loss over the expected useful life of the relevant asset by equal annual instalments.

Income taxation includes both current and deferred taxation.

Current taxation assets and liabilities

Current taxation is based on taxable profit for the year. Taxable profit differs from profit as reported in the statement of financial performance because it excludes items of income or expense that are taxable or deductible in other years and it further excludes items that are never taxable or deductible. The Group’s liability for current taxation is calculated using taxation rates that have been enacted or substantively enacted by the reporting date.

Deferred taxation assets and liabilities

Deferred taxation liabilities/assets are recognised on differences between the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities in the financial statements and the corresponding tax bases used in the computation of the taxable profits, and is accounted for using the statement of financial position liability method. Deferred taxation liabilities are generally recognised for all taxable temporary differences and deferred taxation assets are recognised to the extent that it is probable that taxable profits will be available against which deductible temporary differences can be utilised.

Such assets and liabilities are not recognised if the temporary differences arise from goodwill or from the initial recognition, other than in business combinations, of other assets and liabilities in a transaction that affects neither the taxable profits nor the accounting profits.

Deferred taxation liabilities are recognised for the taxable temporary differences arising from investments in subsidiaries, and interests in joint ventures, except where the Group is able to control the reversal of the temporary differences and it is probable that the temporary difference will not be reversed in the foreseeable future.

The carrying amount of a deferred taxation asset is revised at each reporting date and reduced to the extent that it is no longer probable that sufficient taxable profits will be available to allow the asset or part of the asset to be recovered.

Deferred taxation is calculated at the taxation rates that are expected to apply in the period when the liability is settled or the asset realised. Deferred taxation is charged or credited to profit or loss, except when it relates to items charged or credited directly to equity in which case the deferred taxation is also charged or credited directly to equity.

Deferred taxation assets and liabilities are offset when there is a legal enforceable right to offset current taxation assets against liabilities and when the deferred taxation relates to the same fiscal authority.

Related parties are considered to be related if one party has the ability to control or jointly control the other party or exercise significant influence over the other party in making financial and operating decisions. Key management personnel are also regarded as related parties. Key management personnel are those persons having authority and responsibility for planning, directing and controlling the activities of the Group, directly or indirectly, including all executive and non-executive directors.

Related party transactions are those where a transfer of resources or obligations between related parties occur, regardless of whether or not a price is charged.

Revenue is the aggregate of turnover of subsidiaries and the Group’s share of the turnover of joint ventures and is measured at the fair value of the consideration received or receivable and represents amounts receivable for goods and services provided in the normal course of business, net of rebates, discounts and sales related taxes.

Sale of goods

Revenue from the sale of goods is recognised when all the following conditions are satisfied:

• the Group has transferred to the buyer the significant risks and rewards of ownership of the goods;
• the Group retains neither continuing managerial involvement to the degree usually associated with ownership nor effective control over the goods sold;
• the amount of revenue can be measured reliably;
• it is probable that the economic benefits associated with the transaction will flow to the entity; and
• the costs incurred or to be incurred in respect of the transaction can be measured reliably.

Rendering of services

Revenue from services is recognised over the period during which the services are rendered.

Interest and dividend income

Interest is recognised on a time proportion basis, taking account of the principal outstanding and the effective rate over the period to maturity.

Dividend income is recognised when the right to receive payment is established.

Rental income

Rental income from operating leases is recognised on a straight-line basis over the term of the relevant lease.

Long-term and construction contracts

Where the outcome of a long-term and construction contract can be reliably measured, revenue and costs are recognised by reference to the stage of completion of the contract at the reporting date, as measured by the proportion that contract costs incurred for work to date bear to the estimated total contract costs. Variations in contract work, claims and incentive payments are included to the extent that collection is probable and the amounts can be reliably measured.Anticipated losses to completion are immediately recognised as an expense in contract costs.

Where the outcome of the long-term and construction contracts cannot be estimated reliably, contract revenue is recognised to the extent that the recoverability of incurred costs is probable.

In limited circumstances, contracts may be materially impacted by a client’s actions such that the Group is unable to complete the contracted works at all or in the manner originally forecast. This may involve dispute resolution procedures under the relevant contract and/or litigation. In these circumstances the assessment of the project outcome, whilst following the basic principles becomes more judgemental.

Operating segments are reported in a manner consistent with the internal reporting provided to the chief operating decision maker. The chief operating decisionmakers who are responsible for allocating resources and assessing performance of the operating segments, have been identified as the Executive Committees who make strategic decisions. The basis of segmental reporting is set out on Annexure 3.

Inter-segment transfers

Segment revenue, segment expenses and segment results include transfers between business segments and between geographical segments. Such transfers are accounted for at arms-length prices. These transfers are eliminated on consolidation.

Segmental revenue and expenses

All segment revenue and expenses are directly attributable to the segments.

Segmental assets

All operating assets used by a segment principally include property, plant and equipment, investments, inventories, contracts-in-progress and receivables, net of allowances. Cash balances are excluded.

Segmental liabilities

All operating liabilities of a segment principally include accounts payable, subcontractor liabilities and external interest bearing borrowings.

IFRS 2: Share-based payment requires share-based payments to be recognised as an expense in profit or loss. This expense is measured at the fair value of the equity instruments issued at the grant date.

Letsema Vulindlela Black Executives Trust

Once selected, black executives become vested beneficiaries of the Letsema Vulindlela Black Executives Trust and are granted Murray & Roberts shares. In terms of their vesting rights, the fair value of these equity instruments, valued at the various dates on which the grants take place, are recognised as an expense over the related vesting periods.

Letsema Khanyisa Black Employee Benefits Trust and Letsema Sizwe Community Trust

These trusts are established as 100-year trusts. However, after the lock-in period ending 31 December 2015, they may, at the discretion of the trustees be dissolved in which event any surplus in these trusts after the settlement of all the liabilities, will be transferred to organisations which engage in similar public benefit activities. An IFRS 2 expense will have to be recognised at such point in time when this surplus is
distributed to an independent public benefit organisation.

Borrowing costs directly attributable to the acquisition, construction or production of qualifying assets, which are assets that necessarily take a substantial period of time to get ready for their intended use or sale, are added to the cost of those assets, until such time as the assets are substantially ready for their intended use or sale.

Investment income earned on the temporary investment of specific borrowings pending their expenditure on qualifying assets is deducted from the borrowing costs eligible for capitalisation.

All other borrowing costs are recognised in profit or loss in the period in which they are incurred.