Macquarie Infrastructure Group (MIG)

MIG is a Macquarie Group (Macquarie) branded externally managed stapled group comprising two Australian trusts and a Bermudan mutual fund company.

Macquarie’s expertise in managing funds and their businesses and sourcing new value-adding opportunities is a key attraction for investors in its managed vehicles. Investors are principally seeking to harness Macquarie’s expertise in sourcing, investing in and managing businesses (made available through the management arrangements), as well as the expertise of appropriately qualified external directors.

A variety of investment vehicles can be used, through which funds are pooled to be invested in underlying assets. Stapled groups have developed due to differing regulatory regimes for different vehicles and the broad objective of managed funds to maximise distributions from underlying businesses to investors. For example, an appropriate structure for holding Australian investments may not be appropriate for the purposes of holding foreign investments.

In the case of Australian trusts, a responsible entity/manager owned by the sponsor with sponsor-appointed directors has been a common structural feature since the inception of these types of investment vehicle.

Bermudan mutual fund companies, whilst subject to the common law based regulatory regime in Bermuda, provide for relative flexibility in regards to earnings repatriation.

MIG’s management arrangements are designed to promote consistency of management across all the entities in MIG.

MIG’s management arrangements and corporate governance framework are outlined below.

The manager/adviser are two Macquarie companies, Macquarie Infrastructure Investment Management Limited (MIIML) for the trusts and Macquarie Capital Funds (Europe) Limited (MCFEL) for the company.

The two trusts are ASIC-registered managed investment schemes and their combined trustee/manager, MIIML, is known as the responsible entity. Its management role is defined by the trust constitutions, the Corporations Act and the general law. There is no separate management agreement.

The Bermudan company has a different board and decision making process to MIIML and has a separate advisory deed with MCFEL.

There is also a stapling agreement in place between all entities and MIIML and MCFEL setting out cooperation arrangements for the operation of the stapled structure.

The management arrangements are broadly consistent across the three entities and the key terms are described below.

Investment mandate

MIG’s principal investment policy is widely defined and includes investments in:

  • Infrastructure assets in OECD and OECD equivalent countries, and
  • Non-infrastructure assets where ancillary to a major infrastructure investment or acquisition.

MIG has a stated focus on toll road investments, both greenfield and operating.

Management arrangements

The securities of the three entities are listed on the ASX and must trade together.

 Entity 1: MIT(I) Responsible Entity/Manager: MIIML (Australian and North American toll road investments). Entity 2: MIGIL Advisers: MCFEL (UK, European and North American toll road investments). Entity 3: MIT(II) Responsible Entity/Manager: MIIML (Australian and North American toll road investments)

Services (adviser to the company)

  • Investment and divestment evaluation and recommendations
  • Asset management
  • Capital management
  • Financial reporting
  • Investor communications and meetings
  • General fund administration (subject to outsourcing of registry and trust custodial services to Computershare Investor Services Pty Limited (ABN 48 078 279 277) and Trust Company Limited (ABN 59 004 027 749) respectively, and company secretarial services in Bermuda to Butterfield Fund Services (Bermuda) Limited)
  • Monitoring of fund operational risk and compliance.

Term

In perpetuity for both trusts and company or until the manager/adviser is removed or retires.


Termination

Both trusts and company, without cause, by security holder vote. The manager of the company can only be removed on a vote if the responsible entity of the trusts is also removed on a vote.

For both trusts and company the resolution must be passed by at least 50% of votes cast at a meeting by security holders entitled to vote. Managers and associates may vote their securities on the resolution.

No termination fees are payable other than accrued base fees and outstanding performance fee instalments.


Fees

Refer to principle 8 on page 41 and the remuneration report on page 73 for details.


Expenses

Refer to principle 8 on page 41 for details.


Discretions

MIT(I) and MIT(II)

The board of the responsible entity of the trusts makes all investment, divestment and operational decisions.

MIGIL
The manager mandate for the company is non-discretionary. All investment, divestment and operational decisions are made by the board of the company. The manager only makes recommendations.

Related party protocols

The trusts and company have adopted a detailed related party protocol covering transactions with and services provided by Macquarie companies and other managed funds/vehicles.

All related party transactions or services are on arm’s length terms and approved by the MIG independent directors only. Macquarie executive directors do not vote or, unless invited to do so by the independent directors, participate in discussion on related party matters.

Asset acquisition or sale transactions with related parties for 5% or greater of fund value are supported by an independent valuation.

Mandates for the provision of services to MIG stapled entities or their controlled businesses are subject to third party independent review unless the independent directors determine otherwise on the basis of appropriate market information or practice.

Third party independent review is mostly carried out by the corporate advisory divisions of large accounting firms. In the case of the provision of services, the reviewers have regard to market evidence gathered from their own enquiries, including information requested from Macquarie.

For asset sales or acquisitions, the reviewer carries out its own valuation if required. MIG independent directors have put in place a panel of reviewers (which does not include the MIG auditor) and the reviewer for a particular service or transaction is usually chosen by them on a rotational basis.

Swap and foreign exchange transactions with Macquarie companies solely for hedging purposes are subject to pre-approvals if certain conditions are met.

Significant volume securities transactions with a Macquarie broker require independent director approval.


Change of Control

MIG co-invests from time to time with other Macquarie companies or managed vehicles. Co-investment arrangements may include pre-emption, tag-along and drag-along rights in favour of each other, typical of those agreed with third party co-investors. They may also include pre-emptive rights which are triggered on removal of the Macquarie managers. Refer to the asset description in relation to APRR on page 22 for details.

In addition, loan facilities for MIG stapled entities (which are currently undrawn) or MIG businesses may provide for acceleration of loan payments if MIG is no longer managed by a Macquarie company.

Removal of manager trigger events are typically put in place because counterparties (both equity and debt providers) require ongoing Macquarie involvement in the management of the fund or particular businesses.

The MIG independent directors obtain separate legal advice as necessary and the arrangements are approved by the independent directors and disclosed to security holders.


Variation to management arrangements

Any variations adverse to security holders’ rights
or in respect of changes to fee structures to increase fees would involve trust constitution amendments
and therefore effectively require approval by 75% by value of votes cast at a meeting by security holders entitled to vote.


Director appointment rights

The combined managers have director appointment rights for 75% of the board of the company.

Macquarie appoints the board of the manager of the trusts, as it is a Macquarie subsidiary.

Refer to principle 2 on page 34 for more detail.


What you can find on our website:

  • MIT(I) constitution
  • MIT(II) constitution
  • MIGIL constitution.

MIG’s approach to corporate governance

The MIG boards are committed to MIG’s achievement of superior financial performance and long-term prosperity, while meeting stakeholders’ expectations of sound corporate governance practices. This statement outlines MIG’s main corporate governance practices as at 30 June 2008. Unless otherwise stated, they reflect the practices in place throughout the financial year ending on that date.

The boards determine the corporate governance arrangements for MIG. As with all its business activities, MIG is proactive in respect of corporate governance and puts in place those arrangements which it considers are in the best interests of MIG and its investors, and consistent with its responsibilities to other stakeholders. It actively reviews Australian and international developments in corporate governance.

MIG is part of the stable of Macquarie managed vehicles. Accordingly, in setting the corporate governance framework the MIG boards have also undertaken to comply with the Macquarie Funds Management Policy (Macquarie Fund Policy). This policy has been devised by Macquarie to safeguard the interests of investors in the managed vehicles, which at times may conflict with those of Macquarie as managers of the vehicles.

The key elements of the Macquarie Fund Policy are:

  • Conflicts of interest arising between Macquarie managed vehicles and its related parties should be managed appropriately and, in particular:
    • Related party transactions should be identified
      clearly and conducted on arm’s length terms
    • Related party transactions should be tested by reference to whether they meet market standards
    • Decisions about transactions between Macquarie managed vehicles and Macquarie or its affiliates should be made by parties independent of Macquarie.
  • The boards of both the corporate vehicles and the management company/responsible entity of the trusts of listed Macquarie managed vehicles which are stapled groups will comprise at least 50% independent directors and at least one of the boards in each stapled group will have a majority of independents.
  • The funds management business should be resourced appropriately. In particular:
    • There is a separate Macquarie Capital Funds (MacCap Funds) division and staff in this area should be dedicated to the funds management business
    • All recommendations to the boards of Macquarie managed vehicles should be reviewed or prepared by MacCap Funds staff
    • Each listed Macquarie managed vehicle that invests in operating businesses should have its own managing director or chief executive officer, and
    • Chinese walls operate to separate Macquarie’s investment advisory and equity capital markets businesses from MacCap Funds.

ASX Corporate Governance Principles

The ASX Corporate Governance Council (the Council) has Corporate Governance Principles and Recommendations (the Principles) which are designed to maximise corporate performance and accountability in the interests of shareholders and the broader economy. The Principles encompass matters such as board composition, committees and compliance procedures.

The Principles can be viewed at www.asx.com.au.
The Principles are not prescriptive; however listed entities (including MIG) are required to disclose the extent of their compliance with the Principles, and to explain why they have not adopted a Principle if they consider it inappropriate in their particular circumstances.

On 2 August 2007 the Council issued revised Principles. While the revised Principles take effect for financial years commencing after 1 January 2008, MIG has elected to report early against the revised Principles.

MIG’s corporate governance statement is in the form
of a report against the Principles. MIG’s corporate governance policies largely conform to the Principles. Any deviation is because of MIG’s externally managed structure and the requirements of the Macquarie Fund Policy. We have noted the differences in our reporting.

Principle 1

Lay solid foundations for management and oversight

Responsibility for corporate governance and the internal working of each MIG entity rests with the board of MIIML or MIGIL, as the case may be. The board of each company has adopted a formal charter of directors’ functions and matters to be delegated to management, having regard to the recommendations in the Principles.

An outline of the boards’ responsibilities as set out in each company’s charter is set out below:

  • Setting objectives, goals and strategic direction for management, with a view to maximising investor wealth
  • Monitoring the implementation of MIG’s investment policy
  • Approving and monitoring the progress of major capital expenditure, capital management, acquisitions and divestures
  • Adopting an annual budget for the managed vehicle and monitoring its financial performance
  • Consulting with Macquarie on the appointment or, where appropriate, removal of the CEO or CFO or their equivalents
  • Participating in the review of the performance of the CEO and CFO or their equivalents and, where appropriate, replacing those officers
  • Appointing and removing the company secretary
  • Monitoring senior management’s, or in the case of MIGIL, MCFEL’s performance, implementation of strategy, and resources
  • Reviewing, ratifying and monitoring systems of risk management, compliance and codes of conduct
  • Approving and monitoring financial and other reporting
  • Setting the highest business standards and codes for ethical behaviour.

Full board meetings are held at least bimonthly for MIIML and MIGIL, and other meetings are called as required. Directors are provided with board reports in advance of board meetings, which contain sufficient information to enable informed discussion of all agenda items.

Each independent/non-executive director of MIIML
and MIGIL has received a letter of appointment which details the key terms of their appointment. This letter has been enhanced for the more recent board appointments to include all of the recommended matters in the Principles.

The CEO and CFO, being MIG’s senior executives, have formalised job descriptions and, as Macquarie Capital employees, letters of appointment.

To ensure that the MIG senior executives properly perform their duties, the following procedures
are in place:

  • The CEO and CFO are Macquarie Capital employees seconded to MIIML or MCFEL as required. Their performance is assessed by Macquarie in March
    each year as part of Macquarie’s formal employee performance evaluation process. The relevant boards provide annual feedback on the performance of the CEO and CFO
  • A review of the performance of MCFEL as adviser against its contractual obligations by the MIGIL independent directors, with external assistance
    if required
  • A formal induction program to allow senior executives to participate fully and actively in management
    decision making
  • Access by executives to continuing education to update and enhance their skills and knowledge.

The above process was followed for the year ended 30 June 2008.

What you can find on our website:

  • A summary of the MIIML and MIGIL board charters.

Principle 2

Structure the board to add value

1. Composition
MIIML
Board of directors

The MIIML board of directors is comprised as follows:

Mark Johnson, Chairman
Non-executive
Director for 12 years (including 10 years as chairman)


Michael Carapiet, Director
Executive
Director for less than 1 year


David Mortimer AO, Director
Independent
Director for 8 years


Paul McClintock, Director
Independent
Director for 5 years


David Walsh, Director
Independent
Director for 4 years


John Roberts, Alternate Director to Mark Johnson and Michael Carapiet
Executive
Director for 5 years


Profiles of these directors can be found later in this report.

MIGIL
Board of directors

The MIGIL board of directors is comprised as follows:

Robert Mulderig, Chairman
Independent
(MCFEL appointment)
Director for 4 years


Dr Peter Dyer, Director
Non-executive
(MCFEL appointment)
Director for 4 years


Mark Johnson, Director
Non-executive
(MIT(II) appointment)
Director for 4 years


Jeffrey Conyers, Deputy Chairman
Independent
Director for 4 years

2. Appointment to the boards

ASX has granted listing rule waivers to facilitate Macquarie appointed directors for the Bermudan company in the same way as they are appointed for the responsible entity of the trusts. In the context of an externally managed vehicle, Macquarie believes these arrangements promote consistency of management and are for the benefit of investors. Macquarie considers the selection of appropriately experienced independent directors as an important contribution to MIG’s performance. From an investor protection viewpoint, MIG has a majority of independent directors on the combined MIG boards. Though Macquarie appointees, these directors are reputable, appropriately qualified and experienced businessmen who satisfy market-standard independence criteria. These directors have a duty at law to prefer the interests of MIG investors to those of Macquarie.

Details of the appointment arrangements are set out below.

MIIML

MIIML is a wholly owned subsidiary of Macquarie Group Limited (MGL) and directors are appointed to MIIML in consultation with the MGL board. The following board composition and membership criteria have been adopted by the board in consultation with MGL:

  • The board is to comprise at least four directors. Additional directors may be appointed if the board feels that additional expertise is required in specific areas, or when an outstanding candidate is identified
  • New appointments to the board require full MIIML board approval
  • Independent directors are to comprise a majority of the board
  • The board is to comprise directors with an appropriate range of qualifications and expertise
  • Directors can be removed by MIIML’s sole shareholder, MGL, in its absolute discretion and at any time
  • The chairman of the board is to be a Macquarie executive or closely connected ex-Macquarie executive. Note, Mark Johnson ceased to be a Macquarie executive effective 31 March 2007
  • The chairman must be nominated by the MGL board and requires full MIIML board approval
  • A lead independent director is to be appointed each financial year using an alphabetical 12-month rotation system
  • To ensure that the board has the benefit of regular new input and to avoid the potential for loss of objectivity over time, independent directors will retire after 12 years.

Independence of directors determined by objective criteria is acknowledged as being desirable to protect investor interests and optimise the financial performance of the fund and returns to investors.

In determining the status of a director, both MGL and the board have adopted the standards of independence required by the Macquarie Fund Policy. Details are as follows.

An independent director is a director of the responsible entity and/or special purpose vehicle who is not a member of management (a non-executive director) and who (to the satisfaction of the MGL board corporate governance committee) meets the following criteria:

  • Is not a substantial shareholder of:
    • MGL or MIG, or
    • A company holding more than 5% of the voting securities of MGL or MIG
  • Is not an officer, or otherwise associated directly or indirectly with a shareholder holding more than 5% of the voting securities, of MGL or MIG
  • Has not, within the last three years, been:
    • Employed in an executive capacity by the responsible entity and/or special purpose vehicle, or by another Macquarie entity, or
    • A director of any such entity after ceasing to hold any such employment
  • Is not and has not within the last three years been a principal or employee of a professional adviser to MIG, Macquarie or other Macquarie managed vehicles whose billings to MIG, Macquarie or other Macquarie managed vehicles over the previous full year, in aggregate, exceed 5% of the adviser’s total revenues over that period. A director who is or within the last three years has been a principal or employee of a professional adviser will not participate in any consideration of the possible appointment of the professional adviser and will not participate in the provision of any service to MIG, Macquarie or another Macquarie managed vehicle
  • Is not a significant supplier or customer of MIG, Macquarie or other Macquarie managed vehicles, or an officer of or otherwise associated directly or indirectly with a significant supplier or customer. A significant supplier is defined as one whose revenues from MIG, Macquarie and other Macquarie managed vehicles exceed 5% of the supplier’s total revenue. A significant customer is one whose amounts payable to MIG, Macquarie and other Macquarie managed vehicles exceed 5% of the customer’s total operating costs
  • Has no material contractual relationship with Macquarie other than as a director of a responsible entity and/or special purpose vehicle
  • Is not a director of more than two Macquarie related responsible entities or special purpose vehicle boards
  • Has no other interest or relationship that could interfere with the director’s ability to act in the best interests of the Macquarie managed vehicle and independently of management of Macquarie.

Where an individual may not meet one or more of the above criteria but the MGL board corporate governance committee makes a specific determination that, in the particular overall circumstances of that individual, the fact that these criteria have not been met would not prevent the individual from exercising independent judgment on the relevant board(s).

The standards of independence which have been applied are substantively similar to but are not the same as those suggested in the Principles.

The main area of difference is that the Macquarie Fund Policy is designed to ensure that independent directors are independent from both MIG management and Macquarie. The directors believe that the adoption of the Macquarie Fund Policy definition of independence better reflects the true nature of independence in the present circumstances and does not materially prejudice security holders.

The ability of independent directors to serve on up to two separate managed vehicle boards is considered appropriate because the time commitment and level of remuneration for these roles is not so significant as to compromise independence.

MIG considers that the independence of its directors, each of whom is a highly qualified and reputable business person and professional who satisfies the above criteria, does not depend on who appoints them but on their independence of mind, including an ability to constructively challenge and independently contribute to the boards. Independent directors are asked to confirm their independence status on appointment, and on an annual basis, and to notify the board if they cease to satisfy the criteria.

The following guidelines apply to director selection and nomination by Macquarie:

  • Integrity
  • Particular expertise (sector and functional) and the degree to which they complement the skill set of the existing board members
  • Reputation and standing in the market
  • In the case of prospective independent directors, actual (as prescribed by the above definition) and perceived independence from Macquarie.

The board has not appointed a nomination committee. The board does not consider such a committee appropriate in circumstances where there is only one shareholder and it has adopted the Macquarie Fund Policy set out above. It is considered that this process is sufficiently transparent to justify not appointing a nomination committee.

MIGIL

Under the MIGIL bye-laws, MCFEL has been issued with an A Special Share (and has rights under the advisory deed) which entitles it to appoint the managing director and other director(s) constituting up to 50% of the MIGIL board. MIIML, as responsible entity of MIT(II), has been issued with a B Special Share which entitles it to appoint director(s) constituting up to 25% of the MIGIL board while the entities are stapled. Neither the A nor B Special Share has any economic interest, which means that the holders of those shares are not entitled to any dividends and are only entitled to the par value of those shares on a winding up of MIGIL.

The balance of the directors is elected by MIG investors. Of the present board, Jeffrey Conyers is subject to rotation and security holder approval.

The MIGIL board has 50% independent directors rather than a majority of independent directors. This reflects the requirement of the Macquarie Fund Policy for the boards of the responsible entity of the stapled trusts and the stapled company to have at least 50% independent directors and at least one of the boards in each stapled structure to have a majority of independent directors.

The rationale for this approach is that under the stapling arrangements, the practical operation of the MIIML and MIGIL boards is such that no significant decision (in particular strategy, capital raisings, borrowings, and investments) can be made by one board without the consultation and consideration of the other board, and the MIGIL board has a sufficient quorum of independent directors to vote on transactions with Macquarie companies.

The MIGIL board charter also provides that there must not be half or more of the board located in any jurisdiction other than Bermuda. Robert Mulderig and Jeffrey Conyers are Bermuda-based. Mark Johnson is based in Australia and Dr Peter Dyer in the UK.

In determining the status of directors, the MIGIL board has adopted the standards of independence required by the Macquarie Fund Policy.

The candidates for the board are selected by MCFEL or MIIML, as the case may be, using the same selection and MGL nomination approval process as for MIIML directors. In the case of candidates to be elected by security holders, the nominee is then recommended by MCFEL to the MIGIL board for approval.

The MIGIL board has not constituted a nomination committee because, as a consequence of the management arrangements established for MIGIL and its participation in the stapling arrangements with MIT(I) and MIT(II), its directors are nominated by the relevant Macquarie companies having regard to the board charter criteria and Macquarie Fund Policy requirements.

3. Chairman

Mark Johnson, being the former deputy chairman of Macquarie Bank until his retirement on 19 July 2007, is a non-executive chairman of MIIML and does not satisfy the independence recommendation of the Principles. The Macquarie Fund Policy requires the chairman to be a current or closely connected ex-Macquarie executive because MIIML is a Macquarie company and MIG is externally managed and Macquarie branded.

The MIIML board has resolved to appoint a lead independent director. David Walsh was the lead independent director from July 2007 to June 2008 and Paul McClintock is lead independent director until 30 June 2009. A different lead independent director is to be appointed each financial year using an alphabetical rotation system.

It is MIGIL’s policy to have an independent chairman and Robert Mulderig, chairman of MIGIL, is independent even though he is appointed by MCFEL. Mr Mulderig satisfies the independence test in the Macquarie Fund Policy.

In both cases, the chairman does not exercise the role of CEO. That role is performed by John Hughes, who was appointed as CEO in November 2007.

Both the MIIML and MIGIL board charters provide that all independent directors will meet at least once per year in the absence of management and at other times as they determine. The convenor of the meetings will be the lead independent director in the case of MIIML, and the chairman in the case of MIGIL. This requirement was met for the year ended 30 June 2008.

4. Independent professional advice

The directors of MIIML and MIGIL are entitled to obtain independent professional advice at the cost of the relevant trust or company subject to the estimated costs being first approved by the chairman as reasonable.

5. Board performance

To ensure that the directors of MIIML and MIGIL are properly performing their duties, the following procedures are in place:

  • A formal annual performance self-assessment of the board, the audit and risk committees and individual directors
  • A formal induction program for directors
  • Access by directors to continuing education to update and enhance their skills and knowledge.

The procedure for evaluation of the boards’ performance is:

  • Directors are given the opportunity to discuss individual performance and feedback on performance with the chairman, and in the case of MIGIL, the most senior Macquarie executive director, and the chairman meets with each non-executive and independent director to discuss the effectiveness of the board and board committees as a whole
  • The board as a whole discusses and analyses board and committee performance during the year, including suggestions for change or improvement, based on the chairman’s feedback from conducting separate meetings with the non-executive and independent directors.

The above process was followed for the year ended 30 June 2008.

Principle 3

Promote ethical and responsible decision making

MIG’s code of conduct sets out principles and standards for the directors and executives in respect of practices necessary to maintain confidence in MIG’s integrity, and the responsibility and accountability of individuals for reporting and investigating reports of unethical behaviour. The code includes whistleblower, anti-corruption and dealing with governments and anti-money laundering policies.

The code also encompasses principles for compliance with legal and other obligations to MIG’s stakeholders, including security holders, employees, customers, and the broader financial and other communities in which MIG operates.

The code is periodically reviewed and endorsed by the MIIML, MIGIL and MCFEL boards. The code is distributed to all directors and staff and reinforced at induction and other training programs.

A policy on securities dealings is in place under which directors and staff involved in the management of MIG are restricted in their ability to deal in MIG stapled securities. Security trading by MIG directors, officers and staff is permitted only during four-week special trading windows following the release of MIG’s half-yearly and yearly financial results, and following the annual general meeting or lodgement with ASIC and ASX of a disclosure document for a capital raising or a cleansing statement for a rights issue.

When the trading window is not opened following results announcements, pending disclosure of significant transactional activity being undertaken by MIG, a special four-week trading window may apply following an ASX release in respect of the transaction.

Special arrangements apply for the trading by MIIML, MCFEL and associates of MIG securities issued in connection with base fees and performance fees. Standing instructions must be given to a Macquarie broker during a designated directors and staff trading window to sell at above a designated price with the trade to take place at any time in accordance with the instructions. Any instructions given will be on the basis that Chinese walls are operating with the broker at all times during the currency of the instruction. Alternatively, the securities will be placed in a blind trust with an external broker during a trading window, with irrevocable instructions to sell at above a designated price with the trade to take place at any time in accordance with instructions.

MIG’s approach to environmental and social responsibility management is set out on pages 26 to 29 of this report.

What you can find on our website:

  • A summary of the code of conduct
  • A summary of the main provisions of the securities (windows) trading policy
  • A description of MIG’s environmental and social responsibility management policy.

Principle 4

Safeguard integrity in financial reporting

1. Audit and risk committees

Each of MIIML and MIGIL has appointed an audit and risk committee.

MIIML

The audit and risk committee, which complies with the requirements of the Principles, is currently comprised as follows:

David Mortimer AO, Chairman
Independent 5*


David Walsh
Independent 4*


Paul McClintock
Independent 5*


* Meetings attended (5 held). David Walsh replaced Michael Easson as a member of the audit and risk committee on 23 August 2007. Michael Easson attended the audit and risk committee meeting held on 20 August 2007.

MIGIL

The audit and risk committee does not comply with the principles and is currently comprised as follows:

Jeffrey Conyers, Chairman
Independent 4*


Robert Mulderig
Independent 4*


* Meetings attended (4 held).

Given the size and composition of the MIGIL board, the audit and risk committee does not comply with the ASX three-member recommendation. However the members of both the MIIML and MIGIL committees are all independent directors.

As the MIIML board alone is responsible for signing the MIG consolidated financial statements, the ASX has advised that only the MIIML audit committee must comply with the ASX listing rule requirements in respect of size and composition.

The qualifications of the members of both audit and risk committees can be found on our website and later in this report.

2. Audit and risk committee charters

In establishing its audit and risk committee, each of MIIML and MIGIL has established a charter under which the committee is to operate. The charter is materially the same for both companies.

The responsibilities of the audit and risk committee under each charter in relation to financial reporting are to:

  • Review and report to the board on the financial statements and related notes, and on the external auditor’s audit of the financial statements and the report thereon
  • Recommend to the board the appointment and removal of the external auditor, review the terms of its engagement including arrangements for the rotation of external audit partners, and the scope and quality of the audit
  • Monitor auditor independence. The audit and risk committee meets with the external auditor at least twice a year and more frequently if required.

Details of the risk monitoring duties of the audit and risk committee are set out in the Principle 7 commentary.

3. Auditor independence

The audit and risk committees have adopted a policy which includes the following to ensure the independence of the external auditor:

  • The external auditor must remain independent from Macquarie and MIG at all times and must comply with APES 110: Code of Ethics for Professional Accountants pertaining to financial independence, and business and employment relationships
  • The external auditor must monitor its independence and report to the board every six months that it has remained independent
  • Significant permissible non-audit assignments awarded to the external auditor must be approved in advance by the audit and risk committees (or their chairmen between meetings)
  • All non-audit assignments are to be reported to the audit and risk committees every six months
  • The MIG audit engagement partner and review partner must be rotated every five years.

The MIIML and MIGIL boards and audit and risk committees are of the view that, at the present time, PwC is best placed to provide MIG’s audit services.

PwC is a top tier professional services firm and has provided audit services to MIG since its establishment and is familiar with its structure and businesses. The auditor is required to be independent from MIG and Macquarie. PwC meets this requirement.

The auditor attends MIG’s annual general meetings and is available to answer security holder questions on the conduct of the audit, and the preparation and content of the auditor’s report.

What you can find on our website:

  • The audit and risk committee charters for MIIML and MIGIL
  • Procedures for selection and appointment of the external auditor and for rotation of external audit engagement partners.

Principle 5

Make timely and balanced disclosure

It is MIG’s policy to provide timely, open and accurate information to all stakeholders, including investors, regulators and the wider investment community. Under the terms of the stapling deed, MIIML, MIGIL and MCFEL are obliged to exchange relevant information and coordinate ASX releases and financial reporting.

MIG has an external communications policy which includes policies and procedures in relation to disclosure and compliance with the disclosure requirements in the ASX Listing Rules.

The procedures include dealing with potentially price-sensitive information which includes referral to the CEO and company secretary/general counsel for a determination as to disclosure required. The ASX liaison person is the MIIML company secretary.

What you can find on our website:

  • External communications policy summary.

Principle 6

Respect the rights of shareholders

MIG has developed a security holder communications policy. The cornerstone of this policy is the delivery of timely and relevant information as described below.

Investors are provided with an annual report and financial statements, either by accessing MIG’s website or in hard copy if specifically requested, which keep them informed of MIG’s performance and operations. Investors are notified in writing when this material becomes available and are provided with details of how to access it.

MIG’s policy is to lodge market-sensitive information with the ASX and place it on its website, including annual and interim result announcements and analyst presentations, as soon as practically possible. MIG’s website (www.macquarie.com/mig) contains recent announcements, presentations, past and current reports to security holders, answers to frequently asked questions and at least a three-year summary of key financial data. Investors may also register here to receive email copies of MIG’s significant ASX announcements.

Domestic investor roadshows are held regularly throughout Australia. International roadshows are also held for institutional investors. Where they contain new information, analyst and roadshow presentations are released to the ASX and included on the MIG website.

MIG also produces an analyst package which is updated annually. This comprehensive guide aims to provide transparency of MIG’s investments and structure. The analyst package is released to the ASX and consists of detailed business descriptions, corresponding financial variables and financial modelling tools.

Meetings of the three MIG entities are convened at least once a year, usually in October or November. MIGIL is required to hold an annual general meeting (AGM) each year.

In the case of the trusts, which are not required under the Corporations Act to hold an AGM, these are usually informal annual meetings unless there is formal business to be considered. An AGM is held for MIGIL at the same time. Presentations by the chairman and CEO at the AGM are webcast.

For formal meetings, an explanatory memorandum on the resolutions is included with the notice of meeting.Unless specifically stated in the notice of meeting, all holders of fully paid securities are eligible to vote on all resolutions. In the event that security holders cannot attend formal meetings they are able to lodge a proxy in accordance with the Corporations Act or Bermudan Companies Act as applicable. Proxy forms can be mailed or lodged by facsimile or electronically.

What you can find on our website:

  • External communications policy summary
  • The latest annual report and full financial statements.

Principle 7

Recognise and manage risk

Both MIIML and MIGIL have formalised risk management policies. Compliance with these policies is monitored by their respective audit and risk committees.

Risks are managed through the risk management framework in place and include:

  • Investment risks
  • Regulatory and reporting risks
  • Financial risks (such as liquidity, interest rate, currency, investment, credit)
  • Legal risks (such as contract enforceability, covenants, litigation)
  • Compliance risks
  • Operational risks (such as people, processes, infrastructure, technology, systems, outsourcing and geographic coverage)
  • Environmental and social risks
  • Occupational health and safety risks
  • Project risks
  • Business performance risks
  • Reputation risks (such as investor relations, media management)
  • Strategic risks.

As part of its risk monitoring duties each audit and risk committee is required to:

(i) Enquire of management and the external auditor about significant risks or exposures and assess the steps management (MIIML) or the adviser (MCFEL) has taken to minimise such risk to the trusts or company as applicable

(ii) Consider and review with the external auditor:

  • The adequacy of the trusts’/company’s internal controls including computerised information system controls and security
  • Any related significant findings and recommendations of the external auditor on the matter of internal controls together with management’s responses thereto

(iii) Monitor and review (at least annually) the effectiveness of the trusts’/company’s operational risk management framework and compliance with key risk management policies

(iv) Review the scope of any internal audit to be conducted and the independence of any internal audit team.

As required by the Corporations Act, a compliance committee and designated compliance staff assist the MIIML board in overseeing the trusts’ risk management framework by monitoring compliance plans and ensuring that there is an underlying compliance framework including detailed policies and procedures, staff training and supervision and appropriate compliance reporting.

The compliance committee is currently comprised as follows:

  • Brendan Riordan, Chairman, External
  • Ray Kellerman, External
  • John Hughes, Macquarie
  • Andrew Sims/Stuart Green/Mary Nicholson (alternates for John Hughes), Macquarie

The external compliance committee members must satisfy the independence criteria set out in s601JB (2) of the Corporations Act. External members are required to certify their compliance with these requirements on an annual basis and otherwise notify MIIML if they cease to satisfy the criteria.

Both MIIML and MCFEL, as part of Macquarie, are subject to periodic review conducted by Macquarie’s internal audit division.

Each of MIG’s businesses maintains its own risk management framework and supporting infrastructure to manage its own risk. MIG’s ability to control or influence this framework and infrastructure differs based on MIG’s level of ownership and control. It is MIG’s policy to confirm that each business has an appropriate risk management framework in place to assist the business to effectively manage its risks.

During the year management has reported to the audit and risk committees as to the effectiveness of MIG’s management of its material risks. In addition, the MIIML board has received assurance from the CEO and CFO that their declaration under s295A of the Corporations Act 2001 is founded on a sound system of risk management and internal control and that the system is operating in all material respects in relation to financial reporting risks.

What you can find on our website:

  • A description of MIG’s risk management policies and framework
  • A description of MIG’s environmental and social responsibility management policy
  • A description of MIG’s occupational health and safety risk management policy
  • The compliance plan for MIT(I) and MIT(II)
  • Details of the qualifications of the MIT(I) and MIT(II) compliance committee members.

Principle 8

Remunerate fairly and responsibly

Below is a brief description of management and performance fee arrangements for MIIML as responsible entity and MCFEL as adviser, remuneration arrangements in relation to MIG staff (whose remuneration is paid by Macquarie Capital, not MIG) and also the fees paid to MIG external directors. Full details and a discussion of MIG remuneration arrangements, alignment of interest and manager and staff incentives are set out in the remuneration report on pages 73 to 75. Responsible entity and adviser expenses reimbursed by MIG are set out on page 73.

1. Responsible entity and adviser fees

MIIML, as responsible entity of MIT(I) and MIT(II), and MCFEL as adviser of MIGIL, are entitled to be paid base management fees and also performance fees for discharging their management/advisory functions.

These fees are calculated in accordance with a defined formula under the trust constitutions and the advisory deed. The fee arrangements were fully disclosed to investors on fund inception and subsequent restructure and continue to be disclosed on the MIG website and in annual reports so that investors originally invested and continue to invest on this basis. The structure and level of the fee arrangements are consistent with those paid in the market in respect of similar externally managed vehicles and are not subject to review.

Any changes to the fee provisions which would have the effect of increasing the fees would need to be approved by investors.

2. Reimbursement of responsible entity and adviser expenses

MCFEL and MIIML are also entitled to be reimbursed for expenses incurred by them in relation to the proper performance of their duties, out of the assets of MIG. This includes routine ongoing expenses such as the third party costs of acquiring businesses and managing them, as well as capital raising costs, registry, audit, insurance, compliance costs and other expenses as set out in the trust constitutions and advisory deed.

3. Staff remuneration

MIIML and MCFEL make available employees, including senior executives, to discharge their obligations to the relevant MIG entity. These staff are employed by entities in Macquarie and made available through formalised resourcing arrangements with MIIML and MCFEL. Their remuneration is not a MIG expense. It is paid by Macquarie Capital. Instead MIG pays management fees to Macquarie for providing management and advisory services. These fees are MIG expenses and are disclosed on page 73. MIGIL does not have employees and relies on the MCFEL management staff under the advisory deed arrangements to implement operational decisions and carry out administrative functions.

MIG holds its toll road businesses through interests in special purpose project vehicles. Most of these vehicles have their own internal management paid for at the business level. Where MIIML or MCFEL staff are required to serve as directors on the boards of these vehicles, or are seconded to them from time to time, any fees paid in respect of these arrangements are paid to MIG.

Senior MIIML and MCFEL executives may have some of or their entire performance bonus retentions notionally invested by Macquarie in MIG securities so that the amount varies as if they were actually invested in the securities. Executives may also receive MGL options as part of their remuneration package.

4. Director remuneration

MIIML independent and non-executive director fees are paid by MIIML in its personal corporate capacity. They are not paid by the trusts.

In the case of the Macquarie Capital executive directors, remuneration earned in connection with their roles as MIIML or MIGIL directors, as the case may be, is paid by Macquarie Capital and not by MIIML or MIGIL.

MIGIL non-executive director fees are paid by MIGIL. None of the MIIML or MIGIL directors is entitled to MIG options or securities or to retirement benefits as part of their remuneration package.

Senior Macquarie Capital executives who are MIG directors may have some of or all of their performance bonus retentions notionally invested by Macquarie in MIG securities so that the amount varies as if they were actually invested in the securities, and may also receive MGL options as part of their remuneration package.

5. Remuneration committee

The boards of each of MIIML, as responsible entity of MIT(I) and MIT(II), and MIGIL do not consider it necessary or appropriate to constitute a remuneration committee. Given the payment of the management fee (and the fact that any change to the determination of that fee would require security holder approval) and MIIML’s and MIGIL’s lack of exposure to remuneration expenses, a remuneration committee is not justified.

What you can find on our website:

  • The MIG remuneration report.