Wrap Text
BHP Billiton Results for the Half Year Ended 31 December 2012
20 February 2013
For Announcement to the Market
Name of Companies: BHP Billiton Limited (ABN 49 004 028 077) and
BHP Billiton Plc (Registration No. 3196209)
Report for the half year ended 31 December 2012
This statement includes the consolidated results of the BHP Billiton Group, comprising BHP Billiton
Limited and BHP Billiton Plc, for the half year ended 31 December 2012 compared with the half year
ended 31 December 2011 and the year ended 30 June 2012.
The results are prepared in accordance with IFRS and are presented in US dollars.
Headline Earnings
In accordance with the JSE Listing Requirements, Headline Earnings is presented below.
Half Year Half Year Year
ended ended Ended
31 December 31 December 30 June
2012 2011 2012
US$M US$M US$M
Earnings attributable to ordinary shareholders 4,238 10,045 15,417
Adjusted for:
Gain on sale of PP&E, Investments and Operations (1,816) (87) (116)
Impairments/(reversal of impairments) 4,579 19 3,734
Recycling of re-measurements from equity to the income statement (299) 1 203
Tax effect of above adjustments (1,027) 17 (1,231)
Subtotal of Adjustments 1,437 (50) 2,590
Headline Earnings 5,675 9,995 18,007
Diluted Headline Earnings 5,675 9,995 18,007
Basic earnings per share denominator (millions) 5,321 5,323 5,323
Diluted earnings per share denominator (millions) 5,338 5,346 5,346
Headline Earnings per share (US cents) 106.7 187.8 338.3
Diluted Headline Earnings per share (US cents) 106.3 187.0 336.8
NEWS RELEASE
Release Time IMMEDIATE
Date 20 February 2013
Number 04/13
BHP BILLITON RESULTS FOR THE HALF YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2012
- The December 2012 half year was more challenging for the global resources industry.
Against this backdrop, BHP Billiton’s solid financial results were built on the foundations of
strong operating performance, our continued focus on costs and the benefits of our
differentiated strategy.
- Underlying EBIT(1)(2) declined by 38% to US$9.8 billion. Substantially lower commodity prices,
a weak US dollar and inflation more than offset the positive contribution from stronger
volumes and operating cost savings.
- The Group’s Underlying EBIT margin(3) of 32% was supported by a US$1.9 billion reduction in
controllable cash costs(4) on an annualised basis.
- Attributable profit excluding exceptional items(3) declined by 43% to US$5.7 billion.
Exceptional items totalling US$1.4 billion contributed to the 58% decrease in Attributable
profit to US$4.2 billion.
- A targeted divestment program continues to realise significant value for shareholders with
asset sales totalling US$4.3 billion announced or completed during the period.
- A four per cent increase in the interim dividend takes the compound annual growth rate of
our progressive dividend to 24% over the last 10 years.
Half year ended 31 December 2012 2011 Change
US$M US$M %
Revenue 32,204 37,480 (14.1%)
Underlying EBITDA(1) 13,244 18,743 (29.3%)
Underlying EBIT(1)(2) 9,782 15,853 (38.3%)
Profit from operations 7,005 15,853 (55.8%)
Attributable profit – excluding exceptional items 5,683 10,045 (43.4%)
Attributable profit 4,238 10,045 (57.8%)
Net operating cash flows(5) 6,402 12,280 (47.9%)
Basic earnings per share – excluding exceptional items (US cents) 106.8 188.7 (43.4%)
Basic earnings per share (US cents) 79.6 188.7 (57.8%)
Underlying EBITDA interest coverage (times)(1)(3) 34.3 60.5 (43.3%)
Dividend per share (US cents) 57.0 55.0 3.6%
The financial report on pages 19 to 46 is prepared in accordance with IFRS. This news release including the financial report is unaudited.
Refer to page 16 for footnotes, including explanations of the non-IFRS measures used in this announcement. Variance analysis relates to the
relative financial and/or production performance of BHP Billiton and/or its operations during the December 2012 half year compared with the
December 2011 half year, unless otherwise noted.
RESULTS FOR THE HALF YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2012
Safety is a priority
BHP Billiton’s safety performance continued to improve in the December 2012 half year as the Group’s Total
Recordable Injury Frequency (TRIF) declined to 4.6 per million hours worked. Regrettably, however, the tragic
loss of two colleagues in the current financial year underlines the need to eliminate fatal risks across the industry
and within our business.
Solid financial results despite substantially lower prices
The December 2012 half year was more challenging for the global resources industry as substantially lower
commodity prices and resilient producer currencies, such as the Australian dollar and the Chilean peso, weighed
on margins and profitability. Against this backdrop, BHP Billiton’s solid financial results were built on the
foundations of strong operating performance, our continued focus on costs, and the benefits of our differentiated
strategy which is to own and operate large, long life, low cost, expandable, upstream assets diversified by
commodity, geography and market.
Underlying EBIT for the December 2012 half year declined by 38 per cent or US$6.1 billion to US$9.8 billion,
while Attributable profit excluding exceptional items decreased by 43 per cent to US$5.7 billion. The external
influence of lower commodity prices, a weak US dollar and inflation reduced Underlying EBIT by a cumulative
US$6.2 billion and more than offset the contribution from stronger volumes and operating cost savings.
Exceptional items totalling US$1.4 billion (after tax) contributed to the 58 per cent reduction in Attributable profit to
US$4.2 billion.
Despite these challenges, the Group’s Underlying EBIT margin remained in excess of 30 per cent, while
Underlying return on capital(3) (excluding capital investment associated with projects not yet in production(6)) was a
robust 18 per cent. BHP Billiton’s interim dividend increased by four per cent to 57 US cents per share.
On track to deliver strong growth at a lower unit cost
At the end of the December 2012 half year, BHP Billiton’s 20 relatively low risk, largely brownfield projects
remained on schedule and budget, with the majority expected to deliver first production before the end of the
2015 financial year. Over 95 per cent of the US$22.2 billion capital budget associated with these projects has
been allocated to Customer Sector Groups (CSGs) that have generated an average Underlying EBITDA margin of
40 per cent or more during the last five financial years. The quality of this project pipeline and the attractive
investment returns on offer reflects the disciplined manner in which shareholder capital is being deployed within
the business.
This high margin volume growth and the release of latent capacity at a number of our major businesses is
expected to deliver a compound annual production growth rate of 10 per cent, in copper equivalent terms, over
the two years to the end of the 2014 financial year. The associated increase in productivity, broader economies of
scale and our ongoing cost reduction program is expected to underpin the Group’s superior operating margins.
On an annualised basis, controllable cash costs(4) declined by US$1.9 billion in the first six months of the year. A
number of ongoing initiatives are expected to deliver additional gains.
US$4.3 billion from our targeted divestment program
BHP Billiton’s targeted divestment program realised significant value for our shareholders during the December
2012 half year with asset sales totalling US$4.3 billion either announced or completed during the period.
Consistent with our ongoing commitment to simplify the portfolio over time, we will continue to selectively pursue
asset divestment opportunities, with a firm focus on value.
In addition to the proceeds realised from transactions completed during the period, BHP Billiton reported net
operating cash flows of US$6.4 billion. The Group’s strong cash generating capacity, gearing of 31 per cent and a
net debt to Underlying EBITDA ratio of 1.1 times, aligns the Company’s capital structure within the parameters
defined by its solid A credit rating.
2
BHP Billiton Results for the half year ended 31 December 2012
Outlook
Economic outlook
The start of the 2013 financial year was characterised by slowing global growth and a heightened level of
economic uncertainty. International trade had contracted and China, the most significant driver of recent global
economic growth, had implemented measures aimed at rebalancing its economy. China was also preparing for a
transition in leadership, the United States was heading towards its Presidential elections, and there were
significant concerns about the level of sovereign indebtedness, most notably in Europe.
Since then, measured economic stimulus has helped stabilise China’s economy. The United States economy has
made steady progress, partly driven by an improvement in the housing market and underlying construction
activity, despite ongoing uncertainty regarding fiscal policy. Eurozone markets have stabilised somewhat following
the European Central Bank’s commitment to provide more financial support and the region’s governments now
appear more likely to implement the necessary structural reforms.
Notwithstanding short term volatility, a modest improvement in the global economy is therefore anticipated over
the next 12 months. In China, infrastructure investment and fiscal policy are likely to be adjusted in a prudent
manner to underpin stable growth, consistent with the Government’s target. The United States appears well
placed to benefit from relatively low energy costs and the ongoing recovery of the housing market. More broadly,
lower inflation has provided policy makers in India with the scope to stimulate the economy, while Japan’s
economic performance is likely to improve should the central bank move more aggressively to end deflation.
Commodities outlook
Commodity prices were particularly volatile in the December 2012 half year, consistent with the prevailing level of
uncertainty in the global economy, although a number of markets strengthened towards the end of the period as
sentiment improved and economic growth accelerated. The iron ore market was affected by this change in
sentiment and prices responded following a deep inventory cycle within China that temporarily disrupted the
supply demand balance. The price of oil and liquefied natural gas (LNG) remained relatively strong and the Henry
Hub gas price continued to recover from the lows recorded in the 2012 financial year.
In the short term, we expect a general improvement in the global economy to support demand and prices for a
number of commodities. However, the addition of low cost supply in many markets is expected to dampen the
pricing upside. In iron ore, substantial new supply from the low cost basins of the Pilbara (Australia) and Brazil is
either in construction or planned, while demand growth rates are expected to decelerate as the Chinese economy
matures following a period of steel-intensive, infrastructure-led growth. Similarly, rising metallurgical coal demand
is likely to be met by supply from the low cost, high quality basins, while overcapacity in the aluminium and nickel
industries is likely to persist for the foreseeable future.
Copper supply growth in the very near term is expected to result in a more balanced market, despite numerous
project delays and curtailments. The longer term outlook for the copper price, however, continues to be
underpinned by operating and capital cost pressure associated with rising strip ratios and grade decline at existing
operations and a scarcity of advanced, high quality development opportunities.
In summary, the global economy is expected to strengthen over the next 12 months, providing support for
commodities demand and pricing. The longer term outlook remains robust, although supply is now better placed
to keep pace with demand for some commodities. BHP Billiton’s low cost, upstream strategy and broader level of
diversification ensures the company is well positioned for this ongoing transition.
3
Development projects
At the end of the December 2012 half year, BHP Billiton’s 20 relatively low risk, largely brownfield projects
remained on schedule and budget, with the majority expected to deliver first production before the end of the
2015 financial year.
During the December 2012 half year, BHP Billiton approved the US$520 million (BHP Billiton share) Longford Gas
Conditioning Plant (LGCP) project as part of the Gippsland Basin Joint Venture (Australia). The LGCP will add
carbon dioxide (CO2) removal capacity which is necessary to condition production from the Bass Strait Turrum
project currently in development.
The Western Australia Iron Ore (WAIO) Port Hedland Inner Harbour Expansion project achieved first production
following the commissioning of the fifth car dumper at Finucane Island during the December 2012 half year.
Debottlenecking and optimisation projects across the WAIO supply chain are currently being evaluated and have
the potential to underpin significant growth well beyond recently expanded port capacity of 220 million tonnes per
annum (100 per cent basis). WAIO Orebody 24 also delivered first production during the period.
The Bass Strait Kipper gas field (Australia) offshore production facilities were completed in the December 2012
half year and are ready to commence production pending resolution of the mercury content.
Projects completed during the December 2012 half year
Customer Project Capacity(i) Capital expenditure Date of initial
Sector (US$M)(i) production(ii)
Group
Budget Actual(iii) Target Actual
Petroleum Bass Strait Kipper 10,000 barrels of condensate 900 900 2012 Q3 2012(iv)
(Australia) per day and processing
BHP Billiton capacity of 80 million cubic
32.5% - 50% feet of gas per day.
Non operator
900 900
(i) All references to capacity are 100 per cent unless noted otherwise. All references to capital expenditure are BHP Billiton’s share unless
noted otherwise.
(ii) References are based on calendar years.
(iii) Number subject to finalisation.
(iv) Facilities ready for first production pending resolution of mercury content.
Projects approved during the December 2012 half year
Customer Project Capacity(i) Budgeted capital Target date
Sector expenditure for initial (i) (ii)
Group (US$M)(i) production(ii)
Petroleum Bass Strait Longford Designed to process approximately 400 520 2016
Gas Conditioning Plant million cubic feet per day of high CO2
(Australia) gas.
BHP Billiton - 50%
Non operator
520
(i) All references to capacity are 100 per cent unless noted otherwise. All references to capital expenditure are BHP Billiton’s share unless
noted otherwise.
(ii) References are based on calendar years.
4
BHP Billiton Results for the half year ended 31 December 2012
Projects currently under development (approved in prior years)
Customer Project Capacity(i) Budgeted capital Target date
Sector expenditure for initial
Group (US$M)(i) production(ii)
Petroleum Macedon (Australia) 200 million cubic feet of gas per day. 1,050 2013
BHP Billiton – 71.43%
Operator
Bass Strait Turrum 11,000 barrels of condensate per day 1,350 2013 (iii)
(Australia) and processing capacity of 200
BHP Billiton – 50% million cubic feet of gas per day.
Non operator
North West Shelf 2,500 million cubic feet of gas per 850 2013
North Rankin B Gas day.
Compression (Australia)
BHP Billiton – 16.67%
Non operator
North West Shelf Greater To maintain LNG plant throughput 400 2016
Western Flank-A from the North West Shelf operations.
(Australia)
BHP Billiton – 16.67%
Non operator
Base Metals Escondida Organic Growth Replaces the Los Colorados 2,207 H1 2015
Project 1 (Chile) concentrator with a new 152,000
BHP Billiton – 57.5% tonnes per day plant.
Escondida Oxide Leach New dynamic leaching pad and 414 H1 2014
Area Project (Chile) mineral handling system. Maintains
BHP Billiton – 57.5% oxide leaching capacity.
Diamonds & EKATI Misery Open Pit Project consists of a pushback of the 323 2015
Specialty Project (iv) (Canada) existing Misery open pit which was
Products BHP Billiton – 80% mined from 2001 to 2005.
Iron Ore WAIO Jimblebar Mine Increases mining and processing 3,300(v) Q1 2014
Expansion (Australia) capacity to 35 million tonnes per
BHP Billiton – 96% annum with incremental
debottlenecking opportunities to
55 million tonnes per annum.
WAIO Port Hedland Inner Increases total inner harbour capacity 1,900(v) Delivered first
Harbour Expansion to 220 million tonnes per annum. production in
(Australia) Debottlenecking opportunities that Q4 2012, as
BHP Billiton – 85% would add substantial, low cost planned.
capacity are being evaluated.
WAIO Port Blending and Optimises resource and enhances 1,400 H2 2014
Rail Yard Facilities efficiency across the WAIO supply
(Australia) chain.
BHP Billiton – 85%
WAIO Orebody 24 Maintains iron ore production output 698 Delivered first
(Australia) from the Newman Joint Venture production in
BHP Billiton – 85% operations. Q4 2012, as
planned.
Samarco Fourth Pellet Increases iron ore pellet production 1,750 H1 2014
Plant (Brazil) capacity by 8.3 million tonnes per
BHP Billiton – 50% annum to 30.5 million tonnes per
annum.
Metallurgical Daunia (Australia) Greenfield mine development with 800 2013
Coal BHP Billiton – 50% 4.5 million tonnes per annum of
export metallurgical coal capacity.
Broadmeadow Life Increases productive capacity by 0.4 450 2013
Extension (Australia) million tonnes per annum and
BHP Billiton – 50% extends the life of the mine by 21
years.
5
Customer Project Capacity(i) Budgeted capital Target date
Sector expenditure for initial
Group (US$M) (i) production(ii)
Hay Point Stage Three Increases port capacity from 44 1,250 (v) 2014
Expansion (Australia) million tonnes per annum to 55
BHP Billiton – 50% million tonnes per annum and
reduces storm vulnerability.
Caval Ridge (Australia) Greenfield mine development to 1,870(v) 2014
BHP Billiton – 50% produce an initial 5.5 million tonnes
per annum of export metallurgical
coal.
Appin Area 9 (Australia) Maintains Illawarra Coal’s production 845 2016
BHP Billiton – 100% capacity with a replacement mining
domain and capacity to produce 3.5
million tonnes per annum of
metallurgical coal.
Energy Coal Cerrejon P40 Project Increases saleable thermal coal 437 2013
(Colombia) production by 8 million tonnes per
BHP Billiton – 33.3% annum to approximately 40 million
tonnes per annum.
Newcastle Third Port Increases total coal terminal capacity 367 2014
Project Stage 3 (Australia) from 53 million tonnes per annum to
BHP Billiton – 35.5% 66 million tonnes per annum.
21,661
(i) All references to capital expenditure are BHP Billiton’s share unless noted otherwise. All references to capacity are 100 per cent unless
noted otherwise.
(ii) References are based on calendar years.
(iii) Initial production through the Turrum facilities, scheduled for the 2013 calendar year, will be low CO2 gas. Additional high CO2 production
from the Turrum reservoir will come online with completion of the Longford Gas Conditioning Plant in the 2016 calendar year.
(iv) BHP Billiton has agreed to sell its diamonds business, comprising its interests in the EKATI Diamond Mine and Diamonds Marketing
operations, to Harry Winston Diamond Mines Ltd. The transactions are subject to regulatory approval and other customary conditions.
Completion is expected in the first half of the 2013 calendar year.
(v) Excludes announced pre-commitment funding.
6
BHP Billiton Results for the half year ended 31 December 2012
Income statement
To provide clarity into the underlying performance of our operations we present Underlying EBIT, which is a
measure used internally and in our Supplementary Information, that excludes any exceptional items. The
difference between Underlying EBIT and Profit from operations is set out in the following table:
Half year ended 31 December 2012 2011
US$M US$M
Underlying EBIT 9,782 15,853
Exceptional items (before taxation) (2,777) –
Profit from operations 7,005 15,853
Underlying EBIT
The following table and commentary describes the approximate impact of the principal factors that affected
Underlying EBIT for the December 2012 half year compared with the December 2011 half year:
US$M US$M
Underlying EBIT for the half year ended 31 December 2011 15,853
Change in volumes:
Increase in volumes 809
Decrease in volumes (374)
435
Net price impact:
Change in sales prices (5,714)
Price linked costs 287
(5,427)
Change in costs:
Costs (rate and usage) 59
Exchange rates (418)
Inflation on costs (337)
(696)
Asset sales (61)
Ceased and sold operations (119)
New and acquired operations (303)
Exploration and business development 209
Other (109)
Underlying EBIT for the half year ended 31 December 2012 9,782
Volumes
At the end of the December 2012 half year, BHP Billiton’s 20 relatively low risk, largely brownfield projects
remained on schedule and budget, with the majority expected to deliver first production before the end of the
2015 financial year. Over 95 per cent of the US$22.2 billion capital budget associated with these projects has
been allocated to CSGs that have generated an average Underlying EBITDA margin of 40 per cent or more
during the last five financial years. The quality of this project pipeline and the attractive investment returns on offer
reflects the focused manner in which shareholder capital is being deployed within the business. This high margin
volume growth and the release of latent capacity at a number of our major businesses is expected to deliver a
compound annual production growth rate of 10 per cent, in copper equivalent terms, over the two years to the end
of the 2014 financial year.
In that context, strong operating performance at Escondida (Chile) and record sales volumes at WAIO, Antamina
(Peru) and Illawarra Coal (Australia) were the major contributors to the US$435 million volume related variance in
Underlying EBIT in the December 2012 half year. Notwithstanding the general level of improvement recorded
across the Group, natural field decline in our conventional Petroleum business and lower diamonds production at
EKATI (Canada) reduced Underlying EBIT by US$374 million in the period.
7
Prices
Substantially lower prices reduced Underlying EBIT by US$5.4 billion in the December 2012 half year, net of price
linked costs. The level of price volatility that characterised the period was most acute in the iron ore market as a
deep inventory cycle in China temporarily disrupted the supply demand balance. The resultant decline in iron ore
prices reduced Underlying EBIT by US$3.2 billion in the December 2012 half year, net of price linked costs.
Weak demand and a recovery in low cost supply also led to a significant decline in metallurgical coal prices, which
reduced Underlying EBIT by further US$1.6 billion, net of price linked costs. Overcapacity in the nickel, aluminium
and energy coal industries also weighed on profitability, although a four per cent increase in the average realised
price of copper contributed to a US$249 million increase in Underlying EBIT in the period.
Costs
BHP Billiton has responded to general inflationary pressure across the industry and the persistent strength of
producer currencies, such as the Australian dollar and Chilean peso. In this regard, the Company’s continuing
focus on its operating costs and sustaining capital requirements has intensified over the recent six month period.
This focused approach, the release of latent capacity at a number of our high margin businesses and a reduction
in our exploration and business development expenditure has enabled BHP Billiton to reduce its controllable cash
costs(4) by US$944 million during the December 2012 half year, excluding one-off items. This included operating
cost efficiencies of US$397 million, a general reduction in overhead costs of US$87 million and a decline in
exploration and business development expenditure of US$557 million. Conversely, the decision to increase our
operating capability at WAIO prior to the full ramp-up of expanded capacity more than offset volume related
efficiencies achieved across the business. In addition, price linked costs declined by US$287 million during the
period, although this was partially offset by a US$98 million increase in fuel and energy input costs.
From an earnings perspective, a US$41 million decrease in non-cash costs during the December 2012 half year
was more than offset by a number of one-off items. These one-off items, many of which relate to the Group’s
restructuring initiatives, reduced Underlying EBIT by US$271 million in the period. Consequently, despite the
sustainable reduction in cash costs achieved in the December 2012 half year, total costs (including one-off items)
increased Underlying EBIT by a lesser US$59 million.
Exchange rates
The Australian dollar strengthened in the December 2012 half year, despite a significant decline in iron ore and
coal prices, while the Chilean peso continued to reflect the compelling longer term fundamentals of the copper
market. The restatement of monetary items in the balance sheet associated with the general strength of these and
other producer currencies reduced Underlying EBIT by US$574 million.
The following exchange rates against the US dollar have been applied:
Average Average
Half year ended Half year ended As at As at As at
31 December 31 December 31 December 31 December 30 June
2012 2011 2012 2011 2012
Australian dollar(i) 1.04 1.03 1.04 1.01 1.00
Chilean peso 480 491 480 520 510
Colombian peso 1,802 1,857 1,768 1,941 1,807
Brazilian real 2.04 1.70 2.04 1.87 2.08
South African rand 8.48 7.61 8.49 8.18 8.41
(i) Displayed as US$ to A$1 based on common convention.
Inflation on costs
Inflation had an unfavourable impact on all CSGs and reduced Underlying EBIT by US$337 million during the
December 2012 half year. The pressure was most notable in Australia and South Africa, which accounted for
approximately 75 per cent of the total variance.
8
BHP Billiton Results for the half year ended 31 December 2012
Asset sales
The contribution of asset sales to Underlying EBIT declined by US$61 million in the December 2012 half year.
This variance was largely attributable to a post-closing payment received during the December 2011 half year that
followed the 2006 divestment of our interests in Cascade and Chinook (US).
Ceased and sold operations
Underlying EBIT from ceased and sold operations, which included a reduced contribution from Richards Bay
Minerals (South Africa) following the sale of our 37 per cent interest in the operation to Rio Tinto, declined by
US$119 million in the December 2012 half year.
New and acquired operations
Assets are reported as new and acquired operations until there is a full year period for comparison. New and
acquired operations reduced Underlying EBIT by US$303 million in the December 2012 half year. The Onshore
US result in the prior corresponding period included a one-off gain of US$222 million associated with legacy US
gas derivatives.
Exploration and business development
A 39 per cent reduction in BHP Billiton’s exploration expenditure to US$671 million in the December 2012 half
year reflected the Group’s sharpened focus on high value petroleum and greenfield copper porphyry targets, as
well as a broader commitment to reduce discretionary expenditure. The associated decline in the Group’s
exploration expense increased Underlying EBIT by US$78 million, despite a US$97 million impairment of
previously capitalised exploration.
A general reduction in business development expenditure increased Underlying EBIT by a further US$131 million
in the December 2012 half year.
Other
A US$109 million decline in Underlying EBIT in the December 2012 half year was largely accounted for by a
number of non-recurring items at Queensland Coal (Australia), which included flood-related insurance proceeds
received in the prior corresponding period.
Net finance costs
A US$161 million increase in net finance costs to US$544 million in the December 2012 half year was primarily
attributable to increased net interest expense on higher net debt and exchange rate variations.
Taxation expense
Total taxation expense including royalty related taxation, exceptional items and exchange rate movements was
US$2.2 billion, representing an effective rate of 33.5 per cent (31 December 2011: 34.4 per cent; 30 June 2012:
32.5 per cent).
Excluding the impacts of royalty related taxation, exceptional items and exchange rate movements, taxation
expense was US$2.8 billion representing an Underlying effective tax rate(3) of 30.4 per cent (31 December 2011:
31.0 per cent; 30 June 2012: 30.5 per cent).
Government imposed royalty arrangements calculated by reference to profits after adjustment for temporary
differences are reported as royalty related taxation. Royalty related taxation (excluding exceptional items)
contributed US$566 million to taxation expense representing an effective rate of 8.8 per cent (31 December 2011:
US$462 million and 3.0 per cent; 30 June 2012: US$889 million and 3.9 per cent). The increase from the
December 2011 half year largely reflected a US$150 million revaluation of deferred tax balances associated with
Australian resource rent taxes.
9
Other royalty and excise arrangements which do not have these characteristics are recognised as operating costs
within profit before taxation. These amounted to US$1.4 billion during the period (31 December 2011:
US$1.7 billion; 30 June 2012: US$3.1 billion).
Exchange rate movements increased taxation expense by US$119 million (31 December 2011: increase of
US$70 million; 30 June 2012: increase of US$250 million).
Exceptional items decreased taxation expense by US$1.3 billion (31 December 2011: no exceptional items;
30 June 2012: decrease of US$1.7 billion).
Exceptional items
Half year ended 31 December 2012 Gross Tax Net
US$M US$M US$M
Exceptional items by category
Sale of Yeelirrie uranium deposit 420 – 420
Sale of Richards Bay Minerals 1,373 (185) 1,188
Announced sale of diamonds business (287) 76 (211)
Announced sale of East and West Browse Joint Ventures – 211 211
Impairment of Nickel West assets (1,172) 307 (865)
Impairment of Worsley assets (2,190) 657 (1,533)
Other impairments arising from capital project review (921) 266 ( 655)
(2,777) 1,332 (1,445)
On 27 August 2012, the Group announced the sale of its wholly owned Yeelirrie uranium deposit (Australia) and
the transaction was completed on 19 December 2012. A gain on sale of US$420 million was recorded, while the
associated tax expense was offset by the recognition of deferred tax benefits on available tax losses.
On 7 September 2012, the Group announced it had completed the sale of its 37 per cent interest in Richards Bay
Minerals. A gain on sale of US$1.2 billion (after tax expense) was recognised in the December 2012 half year.
On 13 November 2012, the Group announced the sale of its diamonds business, comprising its interests in the
EKATI Diamond Mine and Diamond Marketing operations, for an aggregate cash consideration of US$500 million.
An impairment charge of US$211 million (after tax benefit) has been recognised. The transaction is expected to
close in the first half of the 2013 calendar year and the business has been classified as held for sale.
On 12 December 2012, the Group signed a definitive agreement to sell its 8.33 per cent interest in the East
Browse Joint Venture and 20 per cent interest in the West Browse Joint Venture (Australia). Given completion of
the sale is highly probable, a tax benefit of US$211 million, mainly due to the recognition of deferred tax benefits
on available tax losses, has been reported in the December 2012 half year.
As a result of continued strength in the Australian dollar and the weak nickel and alumina pricing environment,
BHP Billiton has recognised an impairment of US$865 million (after tax benefit) at Nickel West (Australia) and an
impairment of US$1.5 billion (after tax benefit) at Worsley (Australia) in the December 2012 half year.
In the December 2012 half year, WAIO refocused its attention on the capital efficient expansion opportunity that
exists within the Port Hedland inner harbour and all early works associated with the outer harbour development
option were suspended. This revision to the WAIO development sequence and the change in status of other
minor capital projects across the Group has resulted in the recognition of impairment charges totalling
US$618 million (after tax benefit) and other restructuring costs of US$37 million (after tax benefit) in the
December 2012 half year.
10
BHP Billiton Results for the half year ended 31 December 2012
Cash flows
Net operating cash flows decreased by 48 per cent to US$6.4 billion in the December 2012 half year. The major
contributor to the decline was a US$6.1 billion decrease in cash generated from operations (after changes in
working capital balances). A US$154 million increase in net interest payments further reduced net operating cash
flows, however this was more than offset by a US$374 million reduction in royalty related taxation payments.
Investing cash flows included proceeds from the divestment of jointly controlled entities of US$1.7 billion and
disposal of property, plant and equipment of US$523 million. Capital and exploration expenditure totalled
US$12.2 billion in the December 2012 half year. Expenditure on major growth projects was US$9.7 billion,
including US$3.4 billion on Petroleum projects and US$6.3 billion on Minerals projects. Capital expenditure on
sustaining and other items was US$1.8 billion. Exploration expenditure was US$671 million, including
US$548 million classified within net operating cash flows.
Net financing cash flows included proceeds from borrowings of US$7.8 billion, partially offset by dividend
payments of US$3.1 billion and debt repayments of US$945 million. Proceeds from borrowings included the
issuance of a two tranche Euro bond of €2.0 billion, a two tranche Sterling bond of £1.75 billion and a single
tranche Australian bond of A$1.0 billion.
Net debt, comprising interest bearing liabilities less cash and cash equivalents, was US$30.4 billion, an increase
of US$6.8 billion compared to the net debt position at 30 June 2012.
Dividend
BHP Billiton has a progressive dividend policy. The aim of this policy is to steadily increase or at least maintain
the dividend in US dollars at each half yearly payment. Our Board today declared an interim dividend of 57 cents
per share.
The dividend to be paid by BHP Billiton Limited will be fully franked for Australian taxation purposes. Dividends for
the BHP Billiton Group are determined and declared in US dollars. However, BHP Billiton Limited dividends are
mainly paid in Australian dollars, and BHP Billiton Plc dividends are mainly paid in pounds sterling and South
African rand to shareholders on the UK section and the South African section of the register, respectively.
Currency conversions will be based on the foreign currency exchange rates on the Record Date, except for the
conversion into South African rand, which will take place on the last day to trade (cum dividend) on JSE Limited,
being 1 March 2013. Please note that all currency conversion elections must be registered by the Record Date,
being 8 March 2013. Any currency conversion elections made after this date will not apply to this dividend.
The timetable in respect of this dividend will be:
Last day to trade cum dividend on JSE Limited (JSE) and currency conversion into rand 1 March 2013
Ex-dividend date Australian Securities Exchange (ASX) and JSE 4 March 2013
Ex-dividend date London Stock Exchange (LSE) and New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) 6 March 2013
Record Date (including currency conversion and currency election dates, except for rand) 8 March 2013
Payment date 28 March 2013
American Depositary Shares (ADSs) each represent two fully paid ordinary shares and receive dividends
accordingly.
BHP Billiton Plc shareholders registered on the South African section of the register will not be able to
dematerialise or rematerialise their shareholdings between the dates of 4 and 8 March 2013 (inclusive), nor will
transfers between the UK register and the South African register be permitted between the dates of 1 and
8 March 2013 (inclusive).
Details of the currency exchange rates applicable for the dividend will be announced to the relevant stock
exchanges following conversion and will appear on the Group’s website.
11
Debt management and liquidity
During the December 2012 half year, the Group issued a two tranche Euro bond comprising €1.25 billion 2.250%
bonds due 2020 and €750 million 3.250% bonds due 2027; a two tranche Sterling bond comprising £750 million
3.250% bonds due 2024 and £1.0 billion 4.300% bonds due 2042; and a single tranche Australian bond of
A$1.0 billion 3.750% bonds due 2017.
In October 2012, the Group increased its existing Revolving Credit Facility from US$4.0 billion to US$5.0 billion.
This facility expires in December 2015. In December 2012, the Group arranged a new US$1.0 billion Revolving
Credit Facility which expires in December 2013. An option to extend the term of this facility is included in the
agreement. Both facilities are undrawn and support the Group’s commercial paper program.
As at 31 December 2012, the Group had US$1.5 billion outstanding in the US commercial paper market and the
Group’s cash and cash equivalents on hand was US$5.1 billion.
Our commitment to retain a solid A credit rating remains unchanged.
Corporate governance
There were no appointments to, or resignations from, the Board during the period.
CUSTOMER SECTOR GROUP SUMMARY
The following table provides a summary of the performance of the Customer Sector Groups for the December
2012 half year and the corresponding period.
Half year ended 31 December Revenue Underlying EBIT(i)
(US$M) 2012 2011 Change % 2012 2011 Change %
Petroleum 6,654 6,754 (1.5%) 3,161 4,100 (22.9%)
Aluminium and Nickel 3,485 3,915 (11.0%) (285) (66) (331.8%)
Base Metals 6,121 5,250 16.6% 1,967 1,641 19.9%
Diamonds and Specialty Products 320 654 (51.1%) (118) 86 (237.2%)
Iron Ore 9,166 12,149 (24.6%) 4,814 7,901 (39.1%)
Manganese 1,012 1,087 (6.9%) 177 149 18.8%
Metallurgical Coal 2,817 4,390 (35.8%) (101) 1,538 (106.6%)
Energy Coal 2,579 3,135 (17.7%) 246 787 (68.7%)
Group and unallocated items(ii) 88 173 N/A (79) (283) N/A
Less: inter-segment revenue (38) (27) N/A – – N/A
BHP Billiton Group 32,204 37,480 (14.1%) 9,782 15,853 (38.3%)
(i) Underlying EBIT includes trading activities comprising the sale of third party product. Underlying EBIT for the Group is reconciled to Profit
from operations on page 7.
(ii) Includes consolidation adjustments, unallocated items and external sales from the Group's freight, transport and logistics operations.
12
BHP Billiton Results for the half year ended 31 December 2012
Petroleum
Petroleum production of 121 million barrels of oil equivalent for the December 2012 half year underpins full year
guidance, which remains unchanged at 240 million barrels of oil equivalent. The ongoing development of our
Onshore US liquids and gas assets contributed to the strong production performance of the business.
Underlying EBIT for the December 2012 half year declined by US$939 million to US$3.2 billion. This variance
largely reflected the impact of a series of one-off items that increased Underlying EBIT by US$440 million in the
prior corresponding period. Natural field decline at Pyrenees and Stybarrow (both Australia), a four per cent
reduction in the realised price of oil (to US$105.42 per barrel) and a six per cent decline in the realised price of
natural gas (to US$3.63 per thousand cubic feet) also contributed to the fall in Underlying EBIT. In contrast, the
realised liquefied natural gas price increased by six per cent (to US$14.93 per thousand standard cubic feet)
during the period.
BHP Billiton invested US$2.1 billion in Onshore US drilling and development in the December 2012 half year and
guidance for the 2013 financial year remains unchanged at US$4.0 billion. More than 80 per cent of this
expenditure will be deployed in the liquids rich areas of the Eagle Ford and Permian. In Australia, the operated
US$1.1 billion (BHP Billiton share) Macedon gas project was 90 per cent complete at the end of the period and
initial production is anticipated on schedule in the 2013 calendar year.
BHP Billiton also signed a definitive agreement with PetroChina International Investment (Australia) Pty Ltd to sell
its 8.33 per cent interest in the East Browse Joint Venture and 20 per cent interest in the West Browse Joint
Venture, located offshore Western Australia, for a cash consideration of US$1.63 billion. The transaction is
subject to regulatory approval and other customary conditions. Completion is expected in the first half of the
2013 calendar year.
Aluminium and Nickel
Strong performance at Worsley contributed to record alumina production in the December 2012 half year. In
contrast, aluminium metal production was lower as Hillside (South Africa) recovered from a major unplanned
outage that occurred in the March 2012 quarter. Hillside production returned to full technical capacity in the
December 2012 quarter, ahead of schedule.
Nickel production was broadly unchanged from the prior corresponding period as robust operating performance at
Cerro Matoso (Colombia) was offset by planned maintenance at both the Nickel West Kalgoorlie smelter and
Kwinana refinery, which was completed during the period.
Underlying EBIT for the December 2012 half year declined by US$219 million to a loss of US$285 million. An
eight per cent reduction in the average realised price of aluminium (to US$2,191 per tonne), a 15 per cent fall in
the average realised price of alumina (to US$291 per tonne) and a 15 per cent decline in the average realised
price of nickel (to US$16,433 per tonne) reduced Underlying EBIT by US$385 million, net of price linked costs.
This was partially offset by a US$159 million reduction in controllable cash costs(4) achieved in the period, which
included lower overheads associated with the formation of the combined Aluminium and Nickel CSG.
Base Metals
Copper in concentrate production at Escondida increased by 70 per cent in the December 2012 half year.
Production benefited from a transition to higher grade ore feed and the successful completion of large scale
maintenance programs that have increased concentrator throughput. The average copper grade mined during the
period increased to 1.37 per cent and total Escondida copper production is on track to increase by 20 per cent in
the 2013 financial year. Record production at Antamina also contributed to the 14 per cent increase in total copper
production in the period.
13
Underlying EBIT for the December 2012 half year increased by US$326 million to US$2.0 billion. The strong
recovery in copper production and higher realised prices were the major contributors to this result and increased
Underlying EBIT by US$457 million, net of price linked costs. In addition, controllable cash cost(4) savings
associated with productivity gains and broader economies of scale increased Underlying EBIT by US$237 million.
This was partially offset by major planned maintenance programs at Escondida and Olympic Dam (Australia),
which reduced Underlying EBIT by US$144 million.
At 31 December 2012, the Group had 311,847 tonnes of outstanding copper sales that were revalued at a
weighted average price of US$7,915 per tonne. The final price of these sales will be determined over the
remainder of the 2013 financial year. In addition, 278,547 tonnes of copper sales from the 2012 financial year
were subject to a finalisation adjustment in the current period. The finalisation adjustment and provisional pricing
impact as at 31 December 2012 increased earnings before interest and tax by US$48 million for the period.
The successful completion of the Escondida Ore Access and Laguna Seca debottlenecking projects underpins
the forecast increase in Escondida copper production to over 1.3 million tonnes (100 per cent basis) in the
2015 financial year. The Escondida Organic Growth Project 1 and the Oxide Leach Area Project are expected to
sustain Escondida copper production at an elevated level for the remainder of this decade. Mining operations at
Pinto Valley (US) restarted in the December 2012 quarter, as planned, and are expected to add 60 thousand
tonnes per annum of copper in concentrate to the Group’s production profile. Mill throughput is expected to reach
capacity in the September 2013 quarter.
Diamonds and Specialty Products
During the period, BHP Billiton announced the sale of its diamonds business, comprising its interests in the EKATI
Diamond Mine and Diamonds Marketing operations, to Harry Winston Diamond Mines Ltd for an aggregate cash
consideration of US$500 million. The transactions are subject to regulatory approval and other customary
conditions. Completion is expected in the first half of the 2013 calendar year.
In addition, BHP Billiton completed the sale of its 37 per cent non-operated interest in Richards Bay Minerals to
Rio Tinto for a cash consideration of US$1.9 billion (before adjustments).
Underlying EBIT declined by US$204 million in the December 2012 half year, to a loss of US$118 million. Lower
production at EKATI was the major contributor to this fall in profitability, although this was partially offset by a
reduction in the potash exploration expense, which reflected the cessation of activities in Ethiopia. Construction of
the production and service shafts at our Jansen potash project (Canada) continued as planned during the period.
The project remains subject to Board approval.
Iron Ore
WAIO delivered a twelfth consecutive December half year production and sales record as the business continued
to benefit from the Company’s decade long investment in supply chain capacity. WAIO production remains on
track to grow by five per cent in the 2013 financial year.
Underlying EBIT for the December 2012 half year declined by US$3.1 billion to US$4.8 billion. A 28 per cent
reduction in the average realised price of iron ore, a stronger Australian dollar and inflation decreased Underlying
EBIT by US$3.5 billion, net of price linked costs. In contrast, record sales volumes at WAIO increased Underlying
EBIT by US$451 million.
Our Pilbara operations achieved several significant milestones during the period. For example, first ore was
loaded by the two recently installed ship loaders at Nelson Point and the fifth car dumper at Finucane Island was
commissioned. This car dumper is the last major piece of infrastructure required to increase WAIO port capacity
from the December 2012 quarter run-rate of 188 million tonnes per annum to 220 million tonnes per annum
(100 per cent basis). Notably, higher costs associated with our decision to invest in operating capability ahead of
the full commissioning and ramp-up of this capacity reduced Underlying EBIT by US$164 million.
14
BHP Billiton Results for the half year ended 31 December 2012
The Jimblebar Mine Expansion, which is on schedule for first production in the March 2014 quarter, will broadly
match mine and port capacity at the expanded 220 million tonnes per annum rate, while the progressive
debottlenecking of the supply chain is expected to underpin substantial low cost, longer term growth in our WAIO
business.
Manganese
Record ore production in the December 2012 half year reflected a substantial improvement in plant availability at
GEMCO (Australia). The decline in alloy production, however, reflected the permanent closure of energy intensive
silicomanganese production at Metalloys (South Africa) and the temporary suspension of production at TEMCO
(Australia), both of which contributed to the substantial reduction in operating costs achieved in recent periods.
Underlying EBIT for the December 2012 half year increased by US$28 million to US$177 million. Higher
manganese ore sales, a weaker South African rand and controllable cash cost(4) savings associated with broader
productivity gains, increased Underlying EBIT by a combined US$98 million. In contrast, a four per cent reduction
in the average realised price of ore and a nine per cent decline in the average realised price of alloy reduced
Underlying EBIT by US$58 million, net of price linked costs.
The US$167 million (BHP Billiton share) GEEP2 expansion project will strengthen GEMCO’s position as one of
the lowest cost and largest manganese mines in the industry. On completion, the GEEP2 project will increase
processing capacity from 4.2 to 4.8 million tonnes per annum (100 per cent basis), with first production anticipated
on schedule in the second half of the 2013 calendar year.
Metallurgical Coal
Record sales volumes at Illawarra Coal underpinned a five per cent increase in total metallurgical coal sales in the
December 2012 half year. However, the strong recovery in production that followed the conclusion of the BMA
Enterprise Agreement was largely offset by planned wash plant outages at South Walker Creek and Goonyella,
the closure of high cost capacity at Gregory and Norwich Park (all Australia), and planned longwall moves at
Illawarra Coal.
Underlying EBIT for the December 2012 half year declined by US$1.6 billion to a loss of US$101 million. A 39 per
cent and 37 per cent fall in hard coking coal and weak coking coal prices, respectively, reduced Underlying EBIT
by US$1.6 billion, net of price linked costs. A stronger Australian dollar and inflation reduced Underlying EBIT by a
further US$183 million, although this was more than offset by controllable cash cost(4) savings achieved in the
period.
At the end of the December 2012 half year, Queensland Coal production was approaching full supply chain
capacity. The associated increase in productivity, broader economies of scale and the closure of high cost
capacity is expected to deliver a substantial reduction in unit costs in the second half of the 2013 financial year.
The Group’s five major metallurgical coal projects remain on schedule and budget. The Daunia (Australia)
development is forecast to deliver first production in the first half of the 2013 calendar year, while commissioning
of the Caval Ridge (Australia) mine is expected to commence the following year. In aggregate, these projects will
add 10 million tonnes (100 per cent basis) of metallurgical coal production capacity by the end of the 2014
calendar year.
Energy Coal
A seven per cent increase in production in the December 2012 half year was underpinned by record production at
New South Wales Energy Coal (Australia), which continued to benefit from the ramp-up of the RX1 project.
Underlying EBIT for the December 2012 half year declined by US$541 million to US$246 million. A 21 per cent
reduction in export coal prices, inflation and a stronger Australian dollar reduced Underlying EBIT by
US$515 million, net of price linked costs. In contrast, a higher proportion of export coal sales associated with the
accelerated expansion of New South Wales Energy Coal, together with controllable cash cost(4) savings achieved
in the period, increased Underlying EBIT by US$151 million.
15
The Cerrejon P40 Project (Colombia) is on budget and schedule to achieve first production in the 2013 calendar
year and will increase export capacity to approximately 40 million tonnes per annum (100 per cent basis) over a
two year period. During the December 2012 half year, BHP Billiton entered into a non-binding Memorandum of
Understanding to transfer full ownership of the BHP Navajo Coal Company (US) to the Navajo Nation. The
transfer is subject to ongoing negotiation.
Group and Unallocated items
The Underlying EBIT expense for Group and Unallocated in the December 2012 half year declined by
US$204 million to US$79 million. A fair value adjustment to Group employee share awards, the partial release of
a workers compensation provision and benefits associated with the closure of the Group’s marketing office in The
Hague were the major contributors to this variance.
The following notes explain the terms used throughout this profit release:
(1) Underlying EBIT is earnings before net finance costs, taxation and any exceptional items. Underlying EBITDA is Underlying EBIT before
depreciation, impairments and amortisation of US$3,462 million for the half year ended 31 December 2012 and US$2,890 million for the
half year ended 31 December 2011. We believe that Underlying EBIT and Underlying EBITDA provide useful information, but should not
be considered as an indication of, or alternative to, Attributable profit as an indicator of operating performance or as an alternative to cash
flow as a measure of liquidity.
(2) Underlying EBIT is used to reflect the underlying performance of BHP Billiton’s operations. Underlying EBIT is reconciled to Profit from
operations on page 7.
(3) Non-IFRS measures are defined as follows:
- Attributable profit excluding exceptional items – comprises Profit after taxation attributable to members of BHP Billiton Group less
exceptional items as described in note 3 to the financial report.
- Underlying EBITDA interest coverage – for the purpose of deriving interest coverage, net interest comprises Interest on bank loans
and overdrafts, Interest on all other borrowings, Finance lease and hire purchase interest less Interest income.
- Underlying effective tax rate – comprises Total taxation expense excluding Royalty related taxation, exceptional items and Exchange
rate movements included in taxation expense divided by Profit before taxation and exceptional items.
- Underlying EBIT margin – comprises Underlying EBIT excluding third party EBIT, divided by revenue excluding third party product
revenue.
- Underlying EBITDA margin – comprises Underlying EBITDA excluding third party EBITDA, divided by revenue excluding third party
product revenue.
- Underlying return on capital – represents net profit after tax, excluding exceptional items and net finance costs (after tax), divided by
average capital employed. Capital employed is net assets after adding back net debt.
(4) The variance in controllable cash costs comprises operating, overhead and volume related efficiencies, and exploration and business
development activity; excludes variances in non-cash and one-off items, price linked costs and fuel and energy.
(5) Net operating cash flows are after net interest and taxation.
(6) Capital investment associated with projects not yet in production comprises assets under construction and exploration and evaluation
assets.
(7) Underlying EBIT for the Petroleum Customer Sector Group for the half year ended 31 December 2011 has been restated to reflect
adjustments from final acquisition accounting for the acquisition of Petrohawk Energy Corporation.
16
BHP Billiton Results for the half year ended 31 December 2012
Forward-Looking Statements
This release includes forward-looking statements within the meaning of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 regarding
future events, conditions, circumstances and the future financial performance of BHP Billiton, including for capital expenditures, production
volumes, project capacity, and schedules for expected production. Often, but not always, forward-looking statements can be identified by the
use of the words such as “plans”, “expects”, “expected”, “scheduled”, “estimates”, “intends”, “anticipates”, “believes” or variations of such
words and phrases or state that certain actions, events, conditions, circumstances or results “may”, “could”, “would”, “might” or “will” be taken,
occur or be achieved. These forward-looking statements are not guarantees or predictions of future performance, and involve known and
unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors, many of which are beyond our control, and which may cause actual results to differ materially
from those expressed in the statements contained in this release. For more detail on those risks, you should refer to the sections of our annual
report on Form 20-F for the year ended 30 June 2012 entitled “Risk factors”, “Forward looking statements” and “Operating and financial review
and prospects” filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. All estimates and projections in this release are illustrative only. Our
actual results may be materially affected by changes in economic or other circumstances which cannot be foreseen. Nothing in this release is,
or should be relied on as, a promise or representation either as to future results or events or as to the reasonableness of any assumption or
view expressly or impliedly contained herein.
Non-IFRS Financial Information
BHP Billiton results are reported under International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) including Underlying EBIT and Underlying EBITDA
which are used to measure segment performance. This release also includes certain non-IFRS measures including Attributable profit
excluding exceptional items, Underlying EBITDA interest coverage, Underlying effective tax rate, Underlying EBIT margin, Underlying EBITDA
margin and Underlying return on capital. These measures are used internally by management to assess the performance of our business,
make decisions on the allocation of our resources and assess operational management. Non-IFRS measures have not been subject to audit
or review.
No Offer of Securities
Nothing in this release should be construed as either an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy or sell BHP Billiton securities in any
jurisdiction.
Reliance on Third Party Information
The views expressed in this release contain information that has been derived from publicly available sources that have not been
independently verified. No representation or warranty is made as to the accuracy, completeness or reliability of the information. This release
should not be relied upon as a recommendation or forecast by BHP Billiton.
17
Further information on BHP Billiton can be found on our website: www.bhpbilliton.com
Sponsor: Absa Capital (the investment banking division of Absa Bank Limited, affiliated with Barclays)
Media Relations Investor Relations
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email: Eleanor.Nichols@bhpbilliton.com Tara Dines
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email: Ruban.Yogarajah@bhpbilliton.com Brendan Harris
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BHP Billiton Limited ABN 49 004 028 077 BHP Billiton Plc Registration number 3196209
Registered in Australia Registered in England and Wales
Registered Office: 180 Lonsdale Street Registered Office: Neathouse Place
Melbourne Victoria 3000 Australia London SW1V 1BH United Kingdom
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Members of the BHP Billiton Group which is headquartered in Australia
18
BHP Billiton Financial Report for the half year ended 31 December 2012
Contents
Half Year Financial Statements Page
Consolidated Income Statement ................................................................................................ 21
Consolidated Statement of Comprehensive Income ............................................................................... 22
Consolidated Balance Sheet ................................................................................................... 23
Consolidated Cash Flow Statement.............................................................................................. 24
Consolidated Statement of Changes in Equity................................................................................... 25
Notes to the Half Year Financial Statements ................................................................................. .28
1. Accounting policies ...................................................................................................28
2. Segment reporting .....................................................................................................29
3. Exceptional items .....................................................................................................33
4. Interests in jointly controlled entities...............................................................................36
5. Net finance costs .....................................................................................................36
6. Taxation ..............................................................................................................37
7. Earnings per share ....................................................................................................37
8. Dividends .............................................................................................................38
9. Subsequent events .....................................................................................................38
10. Business combinations .................................................................................................39
Directors’ Report ............................................................................................................ 41
Directors’ Declaration of Responsibility ..................................................................................... 43
Lead Auditor’s Independence Declaration under Section 307C of the Corporations Act 2001 ...................................... 44
Independent Review Report .................................................................................................... 45
20
BHP Billiton Financial Report for the half year ended 31 December 2012
Consolidated Income Statement
for the half year ended 31 December 2012
Notes Half year ended Half year ended Year ended
31 December 31 December 30 June
2012 2011 2012
US$M US$M US$M
Revenue
Group production 30,735 35,690 68,747
Third party products 2 1,469 1,790 3,479
Revenue 2 32,204 37,480 72,226
Other income 2,110 359 906
Expenses excluding net finance costs (27,309) (21,986) (49,380)
Profit from operations 7,005 15,853 23,752
Comprising:
Group production 6,946 15,779 23,626
Third party products 59 74 126
7,005 15,853 23,752
Financial income 5 77 102 225
Financial expenses 5 (621) (485) (955)
Net finance costs 5 (544) (383) (730)
Profit before taxation 6,461 15,470 23,022
Income tax expense (1,629) (4,863) (7,238)
Royalty related taxation (net of income tax benefit) (533) (462) (252)
Total taxation expense 6 (2,162) (5,325) (7,490)
Profit after taxation 4,299 10,145 15,532
Attributable to non-controlling interests 61 100 115
Attributable to members of BHP Billiton Group 4,238 10,045 15,417
Earnings per ordinary share (basic) (US cents) 7 79.6 188.7 289.6
Earnings per ordinary share (diluted) (US cents) 7 79.4 187.9 288.4
Dividends per ordinary share – paid during the period
(US cents) 8 57.0 55.0 110.0
Dividends per ordinary share – declared in respect of
the period (US cents) 8 57.0 55.0 112.0
The accompanying notes form part of these half year financial statements.
21
BHP Billiton Financial Report for the half year ended 31 December 2012
Consolidated Statement of Comprehensive Income
for the half year ended 31 December 2012
Half year ended Half year ended Year ended
31 December 31 December 30 June
2012 2011 2012
US$M US$M US$M
Profit after taxation 4,299 10,145 15,532
Other comprehensive income
Items that may be reclassified subsequently to the income statement:
Available for sale investments:
Net valuation gains/(losses) taken to equity 3 (32) (32)
Net valuation (gains)/losses transferred to the income statement (2) 1 (2)
Cash flow hedges:
Gains/(losses) taken to equity 454 - (320)
(Gains)/losses transferred to the income statement (297) - 205
Exchange fluctuations on translation of foreign operations taken to equity (4) (2) 19
Tax recognised within other comprehensive income (48) (5) 23
Total items that may be reclassified subsequently to the income statement 106 (38) (107)
Items that will not be reclassified to the income statement:
Actuarial losses on pension and medical schemes (23) (44) (250)
Tax recognised within other comprehensive income 35 (53) 66
Total items that will not be reclassified to the income statement 12 (97) (184)
Total other comprehensive income/(loss) for the period 118 (135) (291)
Total comprehensive income 4,417 10,010 15,241
Attributable to non-controlling interests 60 98 117
Attributable to members of BHP Billiton Group 4,357 9,912 15,124
The accompanying notes form part of these half year financial statements.
22
BHP Billiton Financial Report for the half year ended 31 December 2012
Consolidated Balance Sheet
as at 31 December 2012
31 December 31 December 30 June
2012 2011 2012
US$M US$M US$M
ASSETS
Current assets
Cash and cash equivalents 5,086 3,616 4,781
Trade and other receivables 7,719 8,061 7,704
Other financial assets 183 748 282
Inventories 6,571 6,406 6,233
Assets classified as held for sale 1,089 - 848
Current tax assets 211 169 137
Other 499 360 466
Total current assets 21,358 19,360 20,451
Non-current assets
Trade and other receivables 1,498 2,038 1,475
Other financial assets 2,135 1,692 1,881
Inventories 431 408 424
Property, plant and equipment 97,540 89,575 95,247
Intangible assets 5,207 5,321 5,112
Deferred tax assets 5,347 3,551 4,525
Other 169 161 158
Total non-current assets 112,327 102,746 108,822
Total assets 133,685 122,106 129,273
LIABILITIES
Current liabilities
Trade and other payables 10,740 10,542 12,024
Interest bearing liabilities 3,650 6,354 3,531
Liabilities classified as held for sale 425 - 433
Other financial liabilities 112 576 200
Current tax payable 1,145 2,868 2,811
Provisions 2,505 2,174 2,784
Deferred income 293 223 251
Total current liabilities 18,870 22,737 22,034
Non-current liabilities
Trade and other payables 402 456 509
Interest bearing liabilities 31,835 18,713 24,799
Other financial liabilities 101 88 317
Deferred tax liabilities 5,177 6,152 5,287
Provisions 8,837 8,848 8,914
Deferred income 286 391 328
Total non-current liabilities 46,638 34,648 40,154
Total liabilities 65,508 57,385 62,188
Net assets 68,177 64,721 67,085
EQUITY
Share capital – BHP Billiton Limited 1,186 1,183 1,186
Share capital – BHP Billiton Plc 1,069 1,069 1,069
Treasury shares (549) (535) (533)
Reserves 1,929 1,853 1,912
Retained earnings 63,299 59,990 62,236
Total equity attributable to members of BHP Billiton Group 66,934 63,560 65,870
Non-controlling interests 1,243 1,161 1,215
Total equity 68,177 64,721 67,085
The accompanying notes form part of these half year financial statements.
23
BHP Billiton Financial Report for the half year ended 31 December 2012
Consolidated Cash Flow Statement
for the half year ended 31 December 2012
Half year ended Half year ended Year ended
31 December 31 December 30 June
2012 2011 2012
US$M US$M US$M
Operating activities
Profit before taxation 6,461 15,470 23,022
Adjustments for:
Non-cash exceptional items 2,742 – 3,417
Depreciation and amortisation expense 3,365 2,871 6,408
Net gain on sale of non-current assets (23) (87) (116)
Impairments of property, plant and equipment, financial assets and intangibles 97 19 100
Employee share awards expense 103 125 270
Financial income and expenses 544 383 730
Other (198) (250) (481)
Changes in assets and liabilities:
Trade and other receivables (75) 788 1,464
Inventories (584) (194) (208)
Trade and other payables (552) (556) (288)
Net other financial assets and liabilities 28 (292) (18)
Provisions and other liabilities (434) (704) (1,026)
Cash generated from operations 11,474 17,573 33,274
Dividends received 10 11 25
Interest received 36 55 127
Interest paid (436) (301) (715)
Income tax refunded – 225 530
Income tax paid (4,318) (4,545) (7,842)
Royalty related taxation paid (364) (738) (1,015)
Net operating cash flows 6,402 12,280 24,384
Investing activities
Purchases of property, plant and equipment (11,522) (7,903) (18,385)
Exploration expenditure (671) (1,097) (2,452)
Exploration expenditure expensed and included in operating cash flows 548 716 1,602
Purchase of intangibles (234) (122) (220)
Investment in financial assets (210) (243) (341)
Investment in subsidiaries, operations and jointly controlled entities, net of their cash – (12,549) (12,556)
Cash outflows from investing activities (12,089) (21,198) (32,352)
Proceeds from sale of property, plant and equipment 523 139 159
Proceeds from financial assets 190 92 151
Proceeds from divestment of subsidiaries, operations and jointly controlled entities,
net of their cash 1,700 - 6
Net investing cash flows (9,676) (20,967) (32,036)
Financing activities
Proceeds from interest bearing liabilities 7,770 7,300 13,287
Proceeds/(settlements) from debt related instruments 11 – (180)
Repayment of interest bearing liabilities (945) (1,701) (4,280)
Proceeds from ordinary shares 8 18 21
Contributions from non-controlling interests 42 66 101
Purchase of shares by Employee Share Ownership Plan (ESOP) Trusts (348) (323) (424)
Share buy-back – BHP Billiton Plc – (83) (83)
Dividends paid (3,065) (2,943) (5,877)
Dividends paid to non-controlling interests (11) (56) (56)
Net financing cash flows 3,462 2,278 2,509
Net increase/(decrease) in cash and cash equivalents 188 (6,409) (5,143)
Cash and cash equivalents, net of overdrafts, at beginning of period 4,881 10,080 10,080
Effect of foreign currency exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents (1) (64) (56)
Cash and cash equivalents, net of overdrafts, at end of period 5,068 3,607 4,881
The accompanying notes form part of these half year financial statements.
24
BHP Billiton Financial Report for the half year ended 31 December 2012
Consolidated Statement of Changes in Equity
for the half year ended 31 December 2012
For the half year ended 31 December 2012 Attributable to members of the BHP Billiton Group
US$M Share Share Treasury Reserves Retained Total equity Non- Total equity
capital capital shares earnings attributable to controlling
– BHP – BHP members of interests
Billiton Billiton BHP Billiton
Limited Plc Group
Balance as at 1 July 2012 1,186 1,069 (533) 1,912 62,236 65,870 1,215 67,085
Profit after taxation – – – – 4,238 4,238 61 4,299
Other comprehensive income:
Net valuation gains on available for sale investments taken to equity – – – 2 – 2 1 3
Net valuation gains on available for sale investments transferred to the
income statement – – – (2) – (2) – (2)
Gains on cash flow hedges taken to equity – – – 454 – 454 – 454
Gains on cash flow hedges transferred to the income statement – – – (297) – (297) – (297)
Exchange fluctuations on translation of foreign operations taken to equity – – – (4) – (4) – (4)
Actuarial losses on pension and medical schemes – – – – (20) (20) (3) (23)
Tax recognised within other comprehensive income – – – (58) 44 (14) 1 (13)
Total comprehensive income – – – 95 4,262 4,357 60 4,417
Transactions with owners:
Purchase of shares by ESOP Trusts – – (348) – – (348) – (348)
Employee share awards exercised net of employee contributions – – 332 (163) (162) 7 – 7
Accrued employee entitlement for unexercised awards – – – 103 – 103 – 103
Dividends – – – – (3,055) (3,055) (11) (3,066)
Equity contributed – – – – – – 42 42
Divestment of jointly controlled entities – – – (18) 18 – (63) (63)
Balance as at 31 December 2012 1,186 1,069 (549) 1,929 63,299 66,934 1,243 68,177
The accompanying notes form part of these half year financial statements.
25
BHP Billiton Financial Report for the half year ended 31 December 2012
Consolidated Statement of Changes in Equity
for the half year ended 31 December 2012 (continued)
For the half year ended 31 December 2011 Attributable to members of the BHP Billiton Group
US$M Share Share Treasury Reserves Retained Total equity Non- Total equity
capital capital shares earnings attributable to controlling
– BHP – BHP members of interests
Billiton Billiton BHP Billiton
Limited Plc Group
Balance as at 1 July 2011 1,183 1,070 (623) 2,001 53,131 56,762 993 57,755
Profit after taxation – – – – 10,045 10,045 100 10,145
Other comprehensive income:
Net valuation losses on available for sale investments taken to equity – – – (32) – (32) – (32)
Net valuation losses on available for sale investments transferred to the
income statement – – – 1 – 1 – 1
Exchange fluctuations on translation of foreign operations taken to equity – – – (2) – (2) – (2)
Actuarial losses on pension and medical schemes – – – – (42) (42) (2) (44)
Tax recognised within other comprehensive income – – – (113) 55 (58) – (58)
Total comprehensive income – – – (146) 10,058 9,912 98 10,010
Transactions with owners:
BHP Billiton Plc shares cancelled – (1) 83 1 (83) – – –
Purchase of shares by ESOP Trusts – – (323) – – (323) – (323)
Employee share awards exercised net of employee contributions – – 328 (128) (168) 32 – 32
Accrued employee entitlement for unexercised awards – – – 125 – 125 – 125
Dividends – – – – (2,948) (2,948) (56) (3,004)
Equity contributed – – – – – – 126 126
Balance as at 31 December 2011 1,183 1,069 (535) 1,853 59,990 63,560 1,161 64,721
26
BHP Billiton Financial Report for the half year ended 31 December 2012
Consolidated Statement of Changes in Equity
for the half year ended 31 December 2012 (continued)
For the year ended 30 June 2012 Attributable to members of the BHP Billiton Group
US$M Share Share Treasury Reserves Retained Total equity Non- Total equity
capital capital shares earnings attributable to controlling
– BHP – BHP members of interests
Billiton Billiton BHP Billiton
Limited Plc Group
Balance as at 1 July 2011 1,183 1,070 (623) 2,001 53,131 56,762 993 57,755
Profit after taxation - - - 15,417 15,417 115 15,532
Other comprehensive income:
Net valuation losses on available for sale investments taken to equity - - - (32) (32) - (32)
Net valuation gains on available for sale investments transferred to the
income statement - - - (2) - (2) - (2)
Losses on cash flow hedges taken to equity - - - (320) - (320) - (320)
Losses on cash flow hedges transferred to the income statement - - - 205 - 205 - 205
Exchange fluctuations on translation of foreign operations taken to equity - - - 19 - 19 - 19
Actuarial (losses)/gains on pension and medical schemes - - - - (253) (253) 3 (250)
Tax recognised within other comprehensive income - - - (33) 123 90 (1) 89
Total comprehensive income - - - (163) 15,287 15,124 117 15,241
Transactions with owners:
Proceeds from the issue of shares 3 - - 3 - 3
BHP Billiton Plc shares cancelled (1) 83 1 (83) - - -
Purchase of shares by ESOP Trusts - - (424) - - (424) - (424)
Employee share awards exercised net of employee contributions - - 431 (189) (213) 29 - 29
Employee share awards forfeited - - - (8) 8 - - -
Accrued employee entitlement for unexercised awards - - - 270 - 270 - 270
Dividends - - - - (5,894) (5,894) (56) (5,950)
Equity contributed - - - - - - 161 161
Balance as at 30 June 2012 1,186 1,069 (533) 1,912 62,236 65,870 1,215 67,085
27
BHP Billiton Financial Report for the half year ended 31 December 2012
Notes to the Half Year Financial Statements
1. Accounting policies
This general purpose financial report for the half year ended 31 December 2012 is unaudited and has been
prepared in accordance with IAS 34 ‘Interim Financial Reporting’ as issued by the International Accounting
Standards Board (IASB), IAS 34 ‘Interim Financial Reporting’ as adopted by the EU, AASB 134 ‘Interim Financial
Reporting’ as issued by the Australian Accounting Standards Board (AASB) and the Disclosure and Transparency
Rules of the Financial Services Authority in the United Kingdom and the Australian Corporations Act 2001 as
applicable to interim financial reporting.
The half year financial statements represent a ‘condensed set of financial statements’ as referred to in the UK
Disclosure and Transparency Rules issued by the Financial Services Authority. Accordingly, they do not include
all of the information required for a full annual report and are to be read in conjunction with the most recent annual
financial report. The comparative figures for the financial year ended 30 June 2012 are not the statutory accounts
of the BHP Billiton Group for that financial year. Those accounts, which were prepared under IFRS, have been
reported on by the Company’s auditors and delivered to the registrar of companies. The auditors have reported on
those accounts; their report was unqualified, did not include a reference to any matters to which the auditors drew
attention by way of emphasis without qualifying their report and did not contain statements under Section 498(2)
or (3) of the UK Companies Act 2006.
The half year financial statements have been prepared on the basis of accounting policies and methods of
computation consistent with those applied in the 30 June 2012 annual financial statements contained within the
Annual Report of the BHP Billiton Group.
Rounding of amounts
Amounts in this financial report have, unless otherwise indicated, been rounded to the nearest million dollars.
Comparatives
Where applicable, comparatives have been adjusted to disclose them on the same basis as current period
figures. Certain comparatives have also been restated on finalisation of business combination accounting – refer
note 10.
Exchange rates
The following exchange rates relative to the US dollar have been applied in the financial statements:
Average Average Average
Half year ended Half year ended Year ended As at As at As at
31 December 31 December 30 June 31 December 31 December 30 June
2012 2011 2012 2012 011 2012
Australian dollar (a) 1.04 1.03 1.03 1.04 1.01 1.00
Brazilian real 2.04 1.70 1.78 2.04 1.87 2.08
Canadian dollar 0.99 1.00 1.00 0.99 1.02 1.03
Chilean peso 480 491 492 480 520 510
Colombian peso 1,802 1,857 1,825 1,768 1,941 1,807
South African rand 8.48 7.61 7.77 8.49 8.18 8.41
Euro 0.79 0.72 0.75 0.76 0.77 0.80
UK pound sterling 0.63 0.63 0.63 0.62 0.65 0.64
(a) Displayed as US$ to A$1 based on common convention.
28
BHP Billiton Financial Report for the half year ended 31 December 2012
2. Segment reporting
The Group operates eight Customer Sector Groups (CSGs) aligned with the commodities which we extract and
market, reflecting the structure used by the Group’s management to assess the performance of the Group.
During the half year the Group completed the consolidation of the Stainless Steel Materials and the Aluminium
CSGs to form the Aluminium and Nickel CSG. In view of the new management structure, the Aluminium and
Nickel CSG is now considered to be a single reportable segment. There were no inter-segment transactions
between the Stainless Steel Materials and Aluminium CSGs and therefore the comparative amounts reported for
Aluminium and Nickel for the half year ended 31 December 2011 and year ended 30 June 2012 represent an
aggregation of previously reported amounts.
Reportable Segment Principal activities
Petroleum Exploration, development and production of oil and gas
Aluminium and Nickel Mining of bauxite, refining of bauxite into alumina and smelting of alumina
into aluminium metal
Mining and production of nickel products
Base Metals Mining of copper, silver, lead, zinc, molybdenum, uranium and gold
Diamonds and Specialty Products Mining of diamonds and titanium minerals; potash development
Iron Ore Mining of iron ore
Manganese Mining of manganese ore and production of manganese metal and alloys
Metallurgical Coal Mining of metallurgical coal
Energy Coal Mining of thermal (energy) coal
Group and unallocated items represent Group centre functions. Exploration and technology activities are
recognised within relevant segments.
It is the Group’s policy that inter-segment sales are made on a commercial basis.
29
BHP Billiton Financial Report for the half year ended 31 December 2012
2. Segment reporting (continued)
US$M Petroleum Aluminium Base Diamonds Iron Ore Manganese Metallurgical Energy Group and BHP
and Nickel Metals and Coal Coal unallocated Billiton
Specialty items/ Group
Products eliminations
Half year ended 31 December 2012
Revenue
Group production 6,569 2,823 5,802 320 9,045 977 2,817 2,286 – 30,639
Third party products 45 653 319 – 36 35 – 293 88 1,469
Rendering of services 40 – – – 56 – – – – 96
Inter-segment revenue – 9 – – 29 – – – (38) –
Total revenue (a) 6,654 3,485 6,121 320 9,166 1,012 2,817 2,579 50 32,204
Underlying EBIT (b) 3,161 (285) 1,967 (118) 4,814 177 (101) 246 (79) 9,782
Net finance costs (544)
Exceptional items (2,777)
Profit before taxation 6,461
(a) Revenue not attributable to reportable segments reflects sales of freight and fuel to third parties.
(b) Underlying EBIT is earnings before net finance costs, taxation and any exceptional items.
30
BHP Billiton Financial Report for the half year ended 31 December 2012
2. Segment reporting (continued)
US$M Petroleum Aluminium Base Diamonds Iron Ore Manganese Metallurgical Energy Group and BHP
and Nickel Metals and Coal Coal unallocated Billiton
Specialty items/ Group
Products eliminations
Half year ended 31 December 2011
Revenue
Group production 6,596 3,116 5,043 654 11,969 1,084 4,386 2,682 – 35,530
Third party products 125 790 207 – 45 3 – 447 173 1,790
Rendering of services 33 – – – 117 – 4 6 – 160
Inter-segment revenue – 9 – – 18 – – – (27) –
Total revenue (a) 6,754 3,915 5,250 654 12,149 1,087 4,390 3,135 146 37,480
Underlying EBIT (b) 4,100 (66) 1,641 86 7,901 149 1,538 787 (283) 15,853
Net finance costs (383)
Exceptional items –
Profit before taxation 15,470
31
BHP Billiton Financial Report for the half year ended 31 December 2012
2. Segment reporting (continued)
US$M Petroleum Aluminium Base Diamonds Iron Ore Manganese Metallurgical Energy Group and BHP
and Nickel Metals and Coal Coal unallocated Billiton
Specialty items/ Group
Products eliminations
Year ended 30 June 2012
Revenue
Group production 12,616 6,198 11,162 1,326 22,156 2,136 7,569 5,155 – 68,318
Third party products 230 1,547 434 – 86 16 – 856 310 3,479
Rendering of services 91 – – – 320 – 7 11 – 429
Inter-segment revenue – 14 – – 39 – – – (53) –
Total revenue (a) 12,937 7,759 11,596 1,326 22,601 2,152 7,576 6,022 257 72,226
Underlying EBIT (b) 6,348 (259) 3,965 199 14,201 235 1,570 1,227 (248) 27,238
Net finance costs (730)
Exceptional items (3,486)
Profit before taxation 23,022
32
BHP Billiton Financial Report for the half year ended 31 December 2012
3. Exceptional items
Half year ended 31 December 2012 Gross Tax Net
US$M US$M US$M
Exceptional items by category
Sale of Yeelirrie uranium deposit 420 – 420
Sale of Richards Bay Minerals 1,373 (185) 1,188
Announced sale of diamonds business (287) 76 (211)
Announced sale of East and West Browse Joint Ventures – 211 211
Impairment of Nickel West assets (1,172) 307 (865)
Impairment of Worsley assets (2,190) 657 (1,533)
Other impairments arising from capital project review (921) 266 (655)
(2,777) 1,332 (1,445)
Sale of Yeelirrie uranium deposit:
On 27 August 2012, the Group announced the sale of its wholly owned Yeelirrie uranium deposit and the
transaction was completed on 19 December 2012. A gain on sale of US$420 million was recognised in the half
year ended 31 December 2012, while the associated tax expense was offset by the recognition of deferred tax
benefits on available tax losses.
Sale of Richards Bay Minerals:
On 7 September 2012, the Group announced it had completed the sale of its 37.76 per cent interest in Richards
Bay Minerals. As a result of the sale, a gain on sale of US$1,188 million (after tax expense) was recognised in the
half year ended 31 December 2012.
Announced sale of diamonds business:
On 13 November 2012, the Group announced the sale of its diamonds business, comprising its interests in the
EKATI Diamond Mine and Diamond Marketing operations for an aggregate cash consideration of US$500 million.
An impairment charge of US$211 million (after tax benefit) has been recognised. Completion of the sale is
expected in the first half of calendar year 2013 and the assets and liabilities of the diamonds business have been
classified as held for sale.
Announced Sale of East and West Browse Joint Ventures:
On 12 December 2012, the Group signed a definitive agreement to sell its 8.33 per cent interest in the East
Browse Joint Venture and 20 per cent in the West Browse Joint Venture. The Group’s share of assets and
liabilities in the joint ventures, have been disclosed as held for sale pending completion of the sale. Given
completion of the sale is highly probable, a tax benefit of US$211 million, mainly due to the recognition of deferred
tax benefits on available tax losses, has been reported in the December 2012 half year.
Impairment of Nickel West assets:
As a result of continued strength in the Australian dollar and weak nickel prices the Group has recognised an
impairment charge of US$865 million (after tax benefit) in the half year ended 31 December 2012.
Impairment of Worsley assets:
The Group has recognised impairment of assets at Worsley as a result of continued strength in the Australian
dollar and weak alumina prices. A total impairment charge of US$1,533 million (after tax benefit) was recognised
in the half year ended 31 December 2012.
33
BHP Billiton Financial Report for the half year ended 31 December 2012
3. Exceptional items (continued)
Other impairments arising from capital project review:
In the half year ended 31 December 2012, West Australia Iron Ore (WAIO) refocused its attention on the capital
efficient expansion opportunity that exists within the Port Hedland inner harbour and all early works associated
with the outer harbour development option were suspended. This revision to the WAIO development sequence
and the change in status of other minor capital projects across the Group has resulted in the recognition of
impairment charges of US$618 million (gross: US$868 million, tax benefit: US$250 million) and other restructuring
costs of US$37 million (gross: US$53 million, tax benefit: US$16 million) in the half year ended 31 December
2012.
Assets held for sale:
At 31 December 2012 the assets and liabilities of the diamonds business (part of the Diamonds and Specialty
Products segment) and the East and West Browse Joint Ventures (part of the Petroleum segment) have been
classified as current assets held for sale of US$1,089 million (predominantly comprising inventories of US$232
million and property, plant and equipment of US$751 million), and as current liabilities held for sale of US$425
million (predominantly comprising trade and other payables of US$68 million and provisions of US$293 million).
Half year ended 31 December 2011 Gross Tax Net
US$M US$M US$M
There were no exceptional items in the half year ended 31 December 2011.
Year ended 30 June 2012 Gross Tax Net
US$M US$M US$M
Exceptional items by category
Impairment of Fayetteville goodwill and other assets (2,835) 996 (1,839)
Impairment of Nickel West goodwill and other assets (449) 94 (355)
Suspension or early closure of operations and the
change in status of specific projects (a) (502) 108 (394)
Settlement of insurance claims (a) 300 (90) 210
Recognition of deferred tax assets on enactment of
MRRT and PRRT extension legislation in Australia – 637 637
(3,486) 1,745 (1,741)
(a) Includes amounts attributable to non-controlling interests of US$(34) million (US$7 million tax expense).
Impairment of Fayetteville goodwill and other assets:
As a result of the fall in United States domestic gas prices and the company’s decision to adjust its development
plans, the Group has recognised impairments of goodwill and other assets in relation to its Fayetteville shale gas
assets. A total impairment charge of US$1,839 million (after tax benefit) was recognised in the year ended 30
June 2012.
Impairment of Nickel West goodwill and other assets:
The Group has recognised impairments of goodwill and other assets at Nickel West as a result of the continued
downturn in the nickel price and margin deterioration. A total impairment charge of US$355 million (after tax
benefit) was recognised in the year ended 30 June 2012.
34
BHP Billiton Financial Report for the half year ended 31 December 2012
3. Exceptional items (continued)
Suspension or early closure of operations and the change in status of specific projects:
As part of our regular portfolio review, various operations and projects around the Group have either been
suspended, closed early or changed in status. These include: the change in status of the Olympic Dam expansion
project; the temporary suspension of production at TEMCO and the permanent closure of the Metalloys South
Plant in South Africa; the indefinite cessation of production at Norwich Park; and the suspension of other minor
capital projects. As a result, impairment charges of US$338 million (gross: US$422 million, tax benefit: US$84
million), idle capacity costs and inventory write-down of US$28 million (gross: US$40 million, tax benefit: US$12
million) and other restructuring costs of US$28 million (gross: US$40 million, tax benefit: US$12 million) were
recognised in the year ended 30 June 2012.
Settlement of insurance claims:
During 2008, extreme weather across the central Queensland coalfields affected production from the BHP Billiton
Mitsubishi Alliance (BMA) and BHP Billiton Mitsui Coal (BMC) operations. The Group settled insurance claims in
respect of the lost production and insurance claim income of US$210 million (after tax expense) was recognised
in the year ended 30 June 2012.
Recognition of deferred tax assets on enactment of MRRT and PRRT extension legislation in Australia:
The Australian MRRT and PRRT extension legislation were enacted in March 2012. Under the legislation, the
Group is entitled to a deduction against future MRRT and PRRT liabilities based on the market value of its coal,
iron ore and petroleum assets. A deferred tax asset, and an associated net income tax benefit of US$637 million,
was recognised in the year ended 30 June 2012 to reflect the future deductibility of these market values for MRRT
and PRRT purposes, to the extent they are considered recoverable.
Assets held for sale:
In February 2012 the Group announced it had exercised an option to sell its non-operated interest in Richards
Bay Minerals (part of the Diamonds and Specialty Products segment) to Rio Tinto. At 30 June 2012 the
remaining assets and liabilities of the Richards Bay Minerals joint venture were classified as current assets held
for sale of US$848 million (predominantly comprising cash and cash equivalents of US$120 million, trade and
other receivables of US$196 million, inventories of US$128 million and property, plant and equipment of US$369
million), and as current liabilities held for sale of US$433 million (predominantly comprising trade and other
payables of US$153 million, interest bearing liabilities of US$178 million and tax liabilities of US$67 million).
35
BHP Billiton Financial Report for the half year ended 31 December 2012
4. Interests in jointly controlled entities
Major shareholdings in jointly Ownership interest at BHP Billiton
controlled entities Group reporting date (a) Contribution to profit after taxation
Half year Half year
ended ended Year ended
31 December 31 December 30 June 31 December 31 December 30 June
2012 2011 2012 2012 2011 2012
% % % US$M US$M US$M
Mozal SARL 47.1 47.1 47.1 (14) 14 (5)
Compañia Minera Antamina SA 33.75 33.75 33.75 313 262 553
Minera Escondida Limitada 57.5 57.5 57.5 910 461 1,367
Samarco Mineração SA 50 50 50 228 549 909
Carbones del Cerrej?n LLC 33.33 33.33 33.33 87 153 294
Other (b) 2 64 145
Total 1,526 1,503 3,263
(a) The ownership interest at the Group’s and the jointly controlled entity’s reporting date are the same. When the annual financial reporting
date is different to the Group’s, financial information is obtained as at 31 December in order to report on a basis consistent with the
Group’s reporting date.
(b) Includes the Group’s effective interest in the Richards Bay Minerals joint venture of 37.76 per cent up to the date of its effective disposal
on 3 September 2012 (31 December 2011: 37.76 per cent; 30 June 2012: 37.76 per cent), the Guinea Alumina project (ownership interest
33.3 per cent; 31 December 2011: 33.3 per cent; 30 June 2012: 33.3 per cent), the Newcastle Coal Infrastructure Group Pty Ltd
(ownership interest 35.5 per cent; 31 December 2011: 35.5 per cent; 30 June 2012: 35.5 per cent) and other immaterial jointly controlled
entities.
5. Net finance costs
Half year ended Half year ended
31 December 31 December Year ended
2012 2011 30 June 2012
US$M US$M US$M
Financial expenses
Interest on bank loans and overdrafts 5 9 22
Interest on all other borrowings 411 349 696
Finance lease and hire purchase interest 6 5 37
Dividends on redeemable preference shares – – –
Discounting on provisions and other liabilities 256 228 481
Discounting on post-retirement employee benefits 52 60 129
Interest capitalised (a) (140) (143) (314)
Fair value change on hedged loans (75) 185 345
Fair value change on hedging derivatives 87 (184) (376)
Exchange variations on net debt 19 (24) (65)
621 485 955
Financial income
Interest income (35) (53) (122)
Expected return on pension scheme assets (42) (49) (103)
(77) (102) (225)
Net finance costs 544 383 730
(a) Interest has been capitalised at the rate of interest applicable to the specific borrowings financing the assets under construction or, where
financed through general borrowings, at a capitalisation rate representing the average interest rate on such borrowings. For the half year
ended 31 December 2012 the capitalisation rate was 2.22 per cent (31 December 2011: 2.79 per cent; 30 June 2012: 2.83 per cent).
36
BHP Billiton Financial Report for the half year ended 31 December 2012
6. Taxation
Half year ended Half year ended Year ended
31 December 31 December 30 June
2012 2011 2012
US$M US$M US$M
Taxation expense including royalty related
taxation
UK taxation expense 14 146 (21)
Australian taxation expense 1,063 3,707 6,043
Overseas taxation expense 1,085 1,472 1,468
Total taxation expense 2,162 5,325 7,490
Total taxation expense including royalty related taxation, exceptional items and exchange rate movements, was
US$2,162 million, representing an effective rate of 33.5 per cent (31 December 2011: 34.4 per cent; 30 June
2012: 32.5 per cent).
Exchange rate movements increased taxation expense by US$119 million (31 December 2011: increase of
US$70 million; 30 June 2012: increase of US$250 million).
Exceptional items decreased taxation expense by US$1,332 million (31 December 2011: no exceptional item
impacting taxation expense; 30 June 2012: decrease of US$1,745 million) – refer to note 3.
Government imposed royalty arrangements calculated by reference to profits after adjustment for temporary
differences are reported as royalty related taxation. Royalty related taxation (excluding exceptional items)
contributed US$566 million to taxation expense representing an effective rate of 8.8 per cent (31 December
2011: US$462 million and 3.0 per cent; 30 June 2012: US$889 million and 3.9 per cent).
7. Earnings per share
Half year ended Half year ended Year ended
31 December 31 December 30 June
2012 2011 2012
US$M US$M US$M
Basic earnings per ordinary share (US cents) 79.6 188.7 289.6
Diluted earnings per ordinary share (US cents) 79.4 187.9 288.4
Basic earnings per American Depositary Share
(ADS) (US cents) (a) 159.2 377.4 579.2
Diluted earnings per American Depositary Share
(ADS) (US cents) 158.8 375.8 576.8
Basic earnings (US$M) 4,238 10,045 15,417
Diluted earnings (US$M) 4,238 10,045 15,417
The weighted average number of shares used for the purposes of calculating diluted earnings per share
reconciles to the number used to calculate basic earnings per share as follows:
Half year ended Half year ended Year ended
31 December 31 December 30 June
2012 2011 2012
Million Million Million
Weighted average number of shares
Basic earnings per ordinary share denominator 5,321 5,323 5,323
Shares and options contingently issuable under
employee share ownership plans 17 23 23
Diluted earnings per ordinary share denominator 5,338 5,346 5,346
(a) Each American Depositary Share represents two ordinary shares.
37
BHP Billiton Financial Report for the half year ended 31 December 2012
8. Dividends
Half year ended Half year ended Year ended
31 December 31 December 30 June
2012 2011 2012
US$M US$M US$M
Dividends paid/payable during the period
BHP Billiton Limited 1,840 1,780 3,559
BHP Billiton Plc – Ordinary shares 1,206 1,168 2,335
– Preference shares (a) – – –
3,046 2,948 5,894
Dividends declared in respect of the period
BHP Billiton Limited 1,840 1,780 3,621
BHP Billiton Plc – Ordinary shares 1,206 1,168 2,376
– Preference shares (a) – – –
3,046 2,948 5,997
(a) 5.5 per cent dividend on 50,000 preference shares of £1 each declared and paid annually (31 December 2011: 5.5 percent; 30 June
2012: 5.5 percent).
Half year ended Half year ended Year ended
31 December 31 December 30 June
2012 2011 2012
US cents US cents US cents
Dividends paid during the period (per share)
Prior year final dividend 57.0 55.0 55.0
Interim dividend N/A N/A 55.0
57.0 55.0 110.0
Dividends declared in respect of the period (per share)
Interim dividend 57.0 55.0 55.0
Final dividend N/A N/A 57.0
57.0 55.0 112.0
Dividends are declared after period end in the announcement of the results for the period. Interim dividends are
declared in February and paid in March. Final dividends are declared in August and paid in September.
Dividends declared are not recorded as a liability at the end of the period to which they relate. Subsequent to half
year end, on 20 February 2013, BHP Billiton declared an interim dividend of 57.0 US cents per share (US$3,046
million), which will be paid on 28 March 2013 (31 December 2011: interim dividend of 55.0 US cents per share –
US$2,948 million; 30 June 2012: final dividend of 57.0 US cents per share – US$3,049 million).
BHP Billiton Limited dividends for all periods presented are, or will be, fully franked based on a tax rate of 30 per
cent.
9. Subsequent events
Other than the matters outlined elsewhere in this financial report, no matters or circumstances have arisen since
the end of the half year that have significantly affected, or may significantly affect, the operations, results of
operations or state of affairs of the Group in subsequent accounting periods.
38
BHP Billiton Financial Report for the half year ended 31 December 2012
10. Business combinations
The Group’s 31 December 2011 half year financial report included three business combinations reported with
provisionally determined fair values. These transactions were as follows: Petrohawk Energy Corporation, HWE
Mining and Fayetteville Shale gas. As reported in the 30 June 2012 Annual Report, subsequent to 31 December
2011 final fair values for all three business combinations were determined. Comparative amounts for 31
December 2011 have been restated in this financial report, including the consolidated income statement and
consolidated balance sheet as presented below. Consequential adjustments were also made to comparative
amounts in the consolidated statement of comprehensive income, the consolidated cash flow statement and the
consolidated statement of changes in equity.
Consolidated Income Statement Published Adjustments Restated
for the half year ended 31 December 2011 US$M US$M US$M
Revenue
Group production 35,690 – 35,690
Third party products 1,790 – 1,790
Revenue 37,480 – 37,480
Other income 359 – 359
Expenses excluding net finance costs (22,150) 164 (21,986)
Profit from operations 15,689 164 15,853
Comprising:
Group production 15,615 164 15,779
Third party products 74 – 74
15,689 164 15,853
Financial income 102 – 102
Financial expenses (485) – (485)
Net finance costs (383) – (383)
Profit before taxation 15,306 164 15,470
Income tax expense (4,803) (60) (4,863)
Royalty related taxation (net of income tax benefit) (462) – (462)
Total taxation expense (5,265) (60) (5,325)
Profit after taxation 10,041 104 10,145
39
BHP Billiton Financial Report for the half year ended 31 December 2012
10. Business combinations (continued)
Consolidated Balance Sheet Published Adjustments Restated
as at 31 December 2011 US$M US$M US$M
ASSETS
Current assets
Cash and cash equivalents 3,616 - 3,616
Trade and other receivables 8,056 5 8,061
Other financial assets 748 - 748
Inventories 6,405 1 6,406
Assets classified as held for sale - - -
Current tax assets 169 - 169
Other 360 - 360
Total current assets 19,354 6 19,360
Non-current assets
Trade and other receivables 2,038 - 2,038
Other financial assets 1,692 - 1,692
Inventories 408 - 408
Property, plant and equipment 95,601 (6,026) 89,575
Intangible assets 1,162 4,159 5,321
Deferred tax assets 3,551 - 3,551
Other 161 - 161
Total non-current assets 104,613 (1,867) 102,746
Total assets 123,967 (1,861) 122,106
LIABILITIES
Current liabilities
Trade and other payables 10,541 1 10,542
Interest bearing liabilities 6,354 - 6,354
Liabilities classified as held for sale - - -
Other financial liabilities 576 - 576
Current tax payable 2,873 (5) 2,868
Provisions 2,174 - 2,174
Deferred income 223 - 223
Total current liabilities 22,741 (4) 22,737
Non-current liabilities
Trade and other payables 456 - 456
Interest bearing liabilities 18,713 - 18,713
Other financial liabilities 88 - 88
Deferred tax liabilities 8,137 (1,985) 6,152
Provisions 8,824 24 8,848
Deferred income 391 - 391
Total non-current liabilities 36,609 (1,961) 34,648
Total liabilities 59,350 (1,965) 57,385
Net assets 64,617 104 64,721
EQUITY
Share capital – BHP Billiton Limited 1,183 - 1,183
Share capital – BHP Billiton Plc 1,069 - 1,069
Treasury shares (535) - (535)
Reserves 1,853 - 1,853
Retained earnings 59,886 104 59,990
Total equity attributable to members of BHP Billiton Group 63,456 104 63,560
Non-controlling interests 1,161 - 1,161
Total equity 64,617 104 64,721
40
BHP Billiton Financial Report for the half year ended 31 December 2012
Directors’ Report
The Directors present their report together with the half year financial statements for the half year ended
31 December 2012 and the auditor’s review report thereon.
Review of Operations
A detailed review of the Group’s operations, the results of those operations during the half year ended
31 December 2012 and likely future developments are given on pages 1 to 18. The Review of Operations has
been incorporated into, and forms part of, this Directors’ Report.
Principal Risks and Uncertainties
Because of the international scope of the Group's operations and the industries in which it is engaged, there are a
number of risk factors and uncertainties which could have an effect on the Group's results and operations.
Material risks that could impact on the Group's performance include those referred to in the ‘Outlook’ section as
well as:
- Fluctuations in commodity prices and impacts of - We may not recover our investments in mining and
ongoing global economic volatility may negatively oil and gas projects
affect our results
- Our financial results may be negatively affected by - The commercial counterparties we transact with
currency exchange rate fluctuations may not meet their obligations which may
negatively impact our results
- Reduction in Chinese demand may negatively - Operating cost pressures, reduced productivity and
impact our results labour shortages could negatively impact our
operating margins and expansion plans
- Actions by governments or political events in the - Unexpected natural and operational catastrophes
countries in which we operate could have a may adversely impact our operations
negative impact on our business
- Failure to discover new reserves, maintain or - Our non-controlled assets may not comply with our
enhance existing reserves or develop new standards
operations could negatively affect our future results
and financial condition
- We may not be able to successfully complete - Breaches in our information technology security
acquisitions or integrate our acquired businesses processes may adversely impact the conduct of our
business activities
- Our human resource talent pool may not be - Health, safety, environmental and community
adequate impacts, incidents or accidents and related
regulations may adversely affect our people,
operations and reputation or licence to operate
- Increased costs and schedule delays may - Climate change and greenhouse effects may
adversely affect our development projects adversely impact our operations and markets
- If our liquidity and cash flow deteriorate significantly - A breach of our governance processes may lead to
it could adversely affect our ability to fund our major regulatory penalties and loss of reputation
capital programs
Further information on the above risks and uncertainties can be found on pages 7 to 11 of the Group's Annual
Report for the year ended 30 June 2012, a copy of which is available on the Group's website at
www.bhpbilliton.com.
41
BHP Billiton Financial Report for the half year ended 31 December 2012
Dividend
Full details of dividends are given on page 38.
Board of Directors
The Directors of BHP Billiton at any time during or since the end of the half year are:
Mr J Nasser – Chairman since March 2010 (a Director Mr M J Kloppers – an Executive Director since
since June 2006) January 2006
Mr M W Broomhead – a Director since March 2010 Mr L P Maxsted – a Director since March 2011
Sir J G Buchanan – a Director since February 2003 Mr W W Murdy – a Director since June 2009
Mr C A Cordeiro – a Director since February 2005 Mr K C Rumble – a Director since September 2008
Mr D A Crawford – a Director since May 1994 Dr J M Schubert – a Director since June 2000
Mr L P Davies – a Director since June 2012 Baroness S Vadera – a Director since January 2011
Ms C J Hewson – a Director since March 2010
Auditor’s independence declaration
KPMG in Australia are the auditors of BHP Billiton Limited. Their auditor’s independence declaration under
Section 307C of the Australian Corporations Act 2001 is set out on page 44 and forms part of this Directors’
Report.
Rounding of amounts
BHP Billiton Limited is a company of a kind referred to in Australian Securities and Investments Commission
Class Order No 98/100, dated 10 July 1998. Amounts in the Directors’ Report and half year financial statements
have been rounded to the nearest million dollars in accordance with that Class Order.
Signed in accordance with a resolution of the Board of Directors.
J Nasser AO – Chairman M Kloppers – Chief Executive Officer
Dated this 20th day of February 2013
42
BHP Billiton Financial Report for the half year ended 31 December 2012
Directors’ Declaration of Responsibility
The half year financial report is the responsibility of, and has been approved by, the Directors. In accordance with
a resolution of the Directors of BHP Billiton, the Directors declare that, to the best of their knowledge and in their
reasonable opinion:
(a) the half year financial statements and notes, set out on pages 21 to 40, have been prepared in
accordance with IAS 34 ‘Interim Financial Reporting’ as issued by the IASB, IAS 34 ‘Interim Financial
Reporting’ as adopted by the EU, AASB 134 ‘Interim Financial Reporting’ as issued by the AASB and the
Disclosure and Transparency Rules of the Financial Services Authority in the United Kingdom and the
Australian Corporations Act 2001, including:
(i) complying with applicable accounting standards and the Australian Corporations Regulations
2001; and
(ii) giving a true and fair view of the financial position of the BHP Billiton Group as at
31 December 2012 and of its performance for the half year ended on that date;
(b) the Directors’ Report, which incorporates the Review of Operations on pages 1 to 18, includes a fair
review of the information required by:
(i) DTR4.2.7R of the Disclosure and Transparency Rules in the United Kingdom, being an indication
of important events during the first six months of the current financial year and their impact on the
half year financial statements, and a description of the principal risks and uncertainties for the
remaining six months of the year; and
(ii) DTR4.2.8R of the Disclosure and Transparency Rules in the United Kingdom, being related party
transactions that have taken place in the first six months of the current financial year and that
have materially affected the financial position or performance of the BHP Billiton Group during
that period, and any changes in the related party transactions described in the last annual report
that could have such a material effect; and
(c) in the Directors’ opinion, there are reasonable grounds to believe that each of BHP Billiton Limited and
BHP Billiton Plc will be able to pay its debts as and when they become due and payable.
Signed in accordance with a resolution of the Board of Directors.
J Nasser AO – Chairman
M Kloppers – Chief Executive Officer
Dated this 20th day of February 2013
43
BHP Billiton Financial Report for the half year ended 31 December 2012
Lead Auditor’s Independence Declaration under Section 307C of the Corporations Act 2001
To: the Directors of BHP Billiton Limited:
I declare that, to the best of my knowledge and belief, in relation to the review for the half-year ended 31
December 2012 there have been:
i. no contraventions of the auditor independence requirements as set out in the Australian Corporations Act
2001 in relation to the review; and
ii. no contraventions of any applicable code of professional conduct in relation to the review.
This declaration is in respect of BHP Billiton and the entities it controlled during the financial period.
KPMG
Martin Sheppard
Partner
Melbourne
20 February 2013
KPMG, an Australian partnership and member firm of the KPMG network of
independent member firms affiliated with KPMG International Cooperative
(‘KPMG International’) a Swiss entity.
KPMG Australia’s liability limited by a scheme approved under Professional
Standards Legislation.
44
BHP Billiton Financial Report for the half year ended 31 December 2012
Independent Review Report
Independent Review Report of KPMG Audit Plc (“KPMG UK”) to BHP Billiton Plc and KPMG (“KPMG
Australia”) to the Members of BHP Billiton Limited
Introduction
For the purposes of these reports, the terms “we” and “our” denote KPMG UK in relation to its responsibilities
under its terms of engagement to report to BHP Billiton Plc and KPMG Australia in relation to Australian
professional and regulatory responsibilities and reporting obligations to the members of BHP Billiton Limited.
The BHP Billiton Group (“the Group”) consists of BHP Billiton Plc and BHP Billiton Limited and the entities they
controlled at the end of the half-year or from time to time during the half-year ended 31 December 2012.
We have reviewed the condensed half-year financial statements of the Group for the half-year ended 31
December 2012 (“half-year financial statements”), set out on pages 21 to 40, which comprises the consolidated
income statement, consolidated statement of comprehensive income, consolidated balance sheet, consolidated
cash flow statement, consolidated statement of changes in equity, summary of significant accounting policies and
other explanatory notes 1 to 10. We have read the other information contained in the half-year financial report
and considered whether it contains any apparent misstatements or material inconsistencies with the information in
the half-year financial statements. KPMG Australia has also reviewed the directors’ declaration set out on page
43 in relation to Australian regulatory requirements contained in section (a) and (c) of the directors’ declaration.
Directors’ Responsibilities
The half-year financial report is the responsibility of, and has been approved by, the Directors. The Directors are
responsible for preparing the half-year financial report:
- in accordance with the Disclosure and Transparency Rules (“the DTR”) of the United Kingdom’s Financial
Services Authority (“the UK FSA”), and under those rules, in accordance with IAS 34 Interim Financial
Reporting as adopted by the European Union; and
- in accordance with Australian Accounting Standards and the Australian Corporations Act 2001. This
responsibility includes establishing and maintaining internal control relevant to the preparation and fair
presentation of the half-year financial statements that are free from material misstatement, whether due to
fraud or error; selecting and applying appropriate accounting policies; and making accounting estimates
that are reasonable in the circumstances.
Respective Responsibilities of KPMG UK and KPMG Australia
KPMG UK’s report is made solely to BHP Billiton Plc in accordance with the terms of KPMG UK’s engagement to
assist BHP Billiton Plc in meeting the requirements of the DTR of the UK FSA. KPMG UK’s review has been
undertaken so that it might state to BHP Billiton Plc those matters it is required to state to it in this report and for
no other purpose. To the fullest extent permitted by law, KPMG UK does not accept or assume responsibility to
anyone other than BHP Billiton Plc, for KPMG UK’s review work, for this report, or for the conclusions it has
reached.
KPMG Australia has performed an independent review of the half-year financial statements and directors’
declaration in order to state whether, on the basis of the procedures described, it has become aware of any
matter that makes KPMG Australia believe that the half-year financial statements and directors’ declaration are
not in accordance with the Australian Corporations Act 2001 including: giving a true and fair view of the Group’s
financial position as at 31 December 2012 and its performance for the half-year ended on that date; and
complying with Australian Accounting Standard AASB 134 Interim Financial Reporting and the Australian
Corporations Regulations 2001.
Our responsibility is to express a conclusion on the half-year financial statements in the half-year financial report
based on our review.
45
BHP Billiton Financial Report for the half year ended 31 December 2012
Scope of Review
KPMG UK conducted its review in accordance with International Standard on Review Engagements (UK and
Ireland) 2410 Review of Interim Financial Reports performed by the Independent Auditor of the Entity issued by
the Auditing Practices Board for use in the United Kingdom.
KPMG Australia conducted its review in accordance with Auditing Standard on Review Engagements ASRE 2410
Review of a Financial Report Performed by the Independent Auditor of the Entity as issued by the Australian
Auditing and Assurance Standards Board. As auditor of BHP Billiton Limited, KPMG Australia is required by
ASRE 2410 to comply with the ethical requirements relevant to the audit of the annual financial report.
A review of half-year financial statements consists of making enquiries, primarily of persons responsible for
financial and accounting matters, and applying analytical and other review procedures. A review is substantially
less in scope than an audit conducted in accordance with auditing standards and consequently does not enable
us to obtain assurance that we would become aware of all significant matters that might be identified in an audit.
Accordingly, we do not express an audit opinion.
Independence
In conducting its review, KPMG Australia has complied with the independence requirements of the Australian
Corporations Act 2001.
Review conclusion by KPMG UK
Based on our review, nothing has come to our attention that causes us to believe that the condensed half-year
financial statements in the half-year financial report for the six months ended 31 December 2012 are not
prepared, in all material respects, in accordance with IAS 34 Interim Financial Reporting, as adopted by the EU,
and the DTR of the UK FSA.
Stephen Oxley
For and on behalf of KPMG Audit Plc
Chartered Accountants
London
20 February 2013
Review conclusion by KPMG Australia
Based on our review, which is not an audit, we have not become aware of any matter that makes us believe that
the condensed half-year financial statements and directors’ declaration of the Group are not in accordance with
the Australian Corporations Act 2001, including:
a) giving a true and fair view of the Group’s financial position as at 31 December 2012 and of its
performance for the half-year ended on that date; and
b) complying with Australian Accounting Standard AASB 134 Interim Financial Reporting and the Australian
Corporations Regulations 2001.
KPMG
Martin Sheppard KPMG, an Australian partnership and member firm of the KPMG network of
independent member firms affiliated with KPMG International Cooperative
Partner (‘KPMG International’) a Swiss entity.
Melbourne
KPMG Australia’s liability limited by a scheme approved under Professional
20 February 2013 Standards Legislation.
46
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