2021 Sustainability Report - AWS
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Sustainability
Report
2021
In this
1
Introduction
report from Chairman
& Managing
Director
2 4
Sustainability About
at a glance this report
5 6 8
Section 1: Our Section 2:
About GWA brands Innovation
in water
sustainability
12 17 23
Section 3: Section 4: Section 5:
Our people Environment Ethical and
sustainable
sourcing
26 28
Section 6: Section 7:
Community Governance
and risk
management
Introduction from
Chairman & Managing Director
We are pleased to present GWA’s third During the year we continued to deliver innovative and
sustainable products and solutions which are detailed in
Sustainability Report. this report.
Despite the impact of COVID-19 on our operations over the In addition, COVID-19 has driven a requirement for hygiene
past year, sustainability remains fundamental to the way we and touchless solutions in bathrooms. GWA has responded
conduct our business. to the increasing requirements for sustainable hygiene
solutions in the built environment through the launch of
Indeed, part of our response to the challenges posed by the
new anti-bacterial solutions in sanitaryware. We are also
pandemic was a clear focus on our sustainability agenda
progressing new ranges of touchless fixture solutions for
during the year.
residential and commercial bathrooms.
Our priority through the pandemic remains the health,
Sustainable sourcing continues to be an area of focus and
safety and wellbeing of our people and in continuing to
we lodged our first Modern Slavery Statement in 2021,
provide a safe operating environment for everyone at GWA
detailing our assessment and approach to risks of modern
and visitors to our sites.
slavery across our workplace and supply chain.
GWA has a rich pedigree in contributing to more sustainable
While the COVID-19 pandemic has delayed some of our
communities through our operations and in providing
sustainability initiatives in FY21, we continued to make
superior products and solutions for people to enjoy and
progress in key areas of our sustainability agenda which
sustain water, our planet’s most precious resource.
are reflected in this report.
Our approach to sustainability continues to be based
We would like to acknowledge and thank the team at
around two central objectives:
GWA for their continued contribution over the past year,
• Operating in a sustainable manner across our business particularly in ensuring the health and safety of everyone
by managing our resources as efficiently as possible across our business. Our continued progress in our
and by acting in a socially responsible manner; sustainability agenda is testament to the ongoing efforts
• Providing leading edge products and systems of our people.
that contribute to sustainability by making life
better through sustainable water saving solutions
for the built environment.
This report details the initiatives we have launched across
the business to support these two objectives.
We continue to implement measures across our operating
facilities targeted towards reducing our operational
footprint in the key environmental areas of energy, water
and waste reduction. Darryl D McDonough
Chairman
GWA is a low user of energy and water and a low emitter of
carbon emissions at our controlled sites compared to other 10 September 2021
industry sectors. While we continue to implement measures
to improve our environmental footprint, we remain focused
on those areas of sustainability where we believe we can
make the most impact. Primarily, this includes sustainable
water solutions for the built environment.
Urs B Meyerhans
Managing Director
10 September 2021
GWA GROUP LIMITED | 2021 SUSTAINABILITY REPORT | 1
KEY HIGHLIGHTS FY21
Sustainability
at a glance
SUSTAINABLE
WATER SOLUTIONS
AND INNOVATION
GWA contributes to environmental
sustainability through the
development of products and
systems which deliver water efficient
and water saving solutions in the
built environment.
Focus on water
OUR PEOPLE efficiency with over
We remain committed to providing 80% of Caroma taps 5
a safe, challenging and rewarding or 6 star WELS (Water
environment for our people to Efficiency Labelling and
support them reaching their Standards Scheme) rated
potential, which in turn helps GWA
while 95% of Caroma
reach its goals.
sanitaryware products
are 4 star rated
Focus on the health,
safety and wellbeing of Intelligent and touch-free
employees, contractors, IoT water management
visitors to our sites solution, Caroma Smart
during the COVID-19 Command® now installed
pandemic in 127 sites — up from
49 in prior year
Delivery of a broad
suite of training and Launch of the Caroma
development courses Smart Command®
and programs covering Eco-Valve which
compliance, products, remotely prevents,
systems, functional skills stops and isolates leaks
and leadership before they cause harm
to a commercial building
All GWA sites accredited
We act in a socially to ISO45001 (global best Launch of bathroom
responsible manner and practice safety standard) hygiene solution,
leverage our market leading with safety policies and Caroma GermGard®
position to provide a range of procedures updated in an antimicrobial formula
products, practices and systems line with standard applied to products
that contribute to sustainability which kills 99.9% of
Gender diversity harmful bacteria and
by making life better through
improvement with the spread of germs and
superior water saving solutions
43% female composition makes cleaning easier
for the built environment. of GWA’s workforce —
Selected highlights over the up from 42% in prior year
past year include:
2 | GWA GROUP LIMITED | 2021 SUSTAINABILITY REPORT
GWA continues
to operate with
COMMUNITY
sustainability
GWA partners with community-
ENVIRONMENTAL at our forefront based and charitable organisations
by managing
to support their endeavours which
IMPACT is in line with our vision of making
GWA has an active program our resources life better.
to minimise our impact on the
environment by operating in a efficiently. Partnership with
sustainable manner and managing
The Smith Family
our resources as efficiently
— supporting the
as possible.
educational outcomes
ETHICAL AND of 60 disadvantaged
The consolidation of the
distribution network in
SUSTAINABLE children in drought
affected areas in Australia
Australia/NZ from 14 to 5 SOURCING with $125,000 donated
facilities has resulted in a GWA’s commitment to conducting over the past 3 years
reduction in water, waste its business in an environmental
and energy consumption and socially responsible manner Sponsorship of
also extends to the expectations Sustainable Coastlines,
Improvement in key we maintain of our manufacturing
assists to remove 30,000
environmental metric — supply partners to operate to the
litres of rubbish annually
same exacting standards.
total carbon emissions from New Zealand
from GWA’s controlled beaches and waterways
facilities of 1,869 tonnes Audits in FY21 of 2
CO2e, a reduction of (FY20: 2) major Support of Wigan and
11.8% on the prior year Asian supply partners Leigh Hospice, Macmillan
representing a combined Cancer Support and
All Australian sites have 12% of GWA supplier Fareshare in the UK
installed a Caroma Smart spend with no modern
Command® intelligent slavery issues identified Support of KidsCan in
bathroom system for
New Zealand raising
monitoring and control No material breaches of $40,000 for vulnerable
of water use, and ethical sourcing policies children in need with
improved hygiene were identified food, clothing, and
health products
GWA continues its Partner First Modern Slavery
Membership with the Statement released in
Australian Packaging August 2020 and lodged
Convenant (APC) which with the Australian
guides the recyclability of Border Force
our packaging options
Implemented policy
against slavery and
trafficking in persons
including progress with
risk mitigation actions
GWA GROUP LIMITED | 2021 SUSTAINABILITY REPORT | 3
About this report
This is GWA’s third stand-alone GWA also continues to reference the Task Force on
Climate-related Financial Disclosures (TCFD) and the
Sustainability Report. The structure of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals in
Sustainability Report is outlined below: this report, particularly as they relate to the risks and
opportunities to climate change.
1. About GWA
2. Innovation in water sustainability STAKEHOLDER ENGAGEMENT
3. Our people GWA is committed to building and maintaining strong
4. Environment relationships with our stakeholders. In preparing this report,
5. Ethical and sustainable sourcing GWA has consulted with various stakeholders to identify
6. Community key risks and opportunities relevant to our business.
7. Governance and risk management Stakeholders most relevant to our operations with whom
This report includes data for the period 1 July 2020 to we continue to engage include:
30 June 2021 unless otherwise stated. • Our people
The environmental data included in this report for water, • Institutional and retail shareholders
waste and energy is for GWA-operated sites and does not • Governance advisers
include data for sites which are not controlled or operated • Customers
by GWA (e.g. manufacturing supply partners). • Manufacturing supply partners
• Debt markets/lenders
GWA has not formally adopted the Global Reporting • Insurers
Initiative (GRI) framework for this report. However, in • Regulatory authorities
preparing this report GWA continues to reference the • Unions
relevant core principles of the GRI reporting system as it • Industry groups
relates to our sustainability practices and performance • Others
across our business.
SECTION 1
About GWA
GWA is a leading innovator, designer and
supplier of product solutions, services OUR BRANDS
and intelligent technology focused on the
delivery of sustainable water solutions for
bathrooms, kitchens and laundries.
We own and distribute market-leading brands and
state of the art product solutions across our ranges of
sanitaryware, tapware, showers, basins, baths, kitchen
sinks, laundry tubs, bathroom/kitchen accessories
and valves. We have an intelligent bathroom system
incorporating IoT smart water management solutions.
GWA operates and has sale and distribution facilities
across its primary markets of Australia, New Zealand,
United Kingdom and China.
We are highly respected within the building industry for
innovation, water efficiency and safety, product reliability
and quality, technical expertise and superior service.
We maintain quality and cost efficient long-term supply
agreements with selected, exclusive manufacturing
partners across Asia and Europe. GWA has an
experienced senior management team in R&D, design,
brand building, customer engagement, supply and
distribution.
Our
Our Our cultural
purpose strategy pillars
Making everyday water To be the trusted and We are one team.
experiences extraordinary integrated solutions We are customer focused.
— today, and for tomorrow. partner in the delivery
of sustainable water We care for each other.
solutions for bathrooms,
kitchens and laundries.
Our brands
AUSTRALIA’S BATHROOM BRAND
With over 78 years of innovation, Caroma
believes that quality bathrooms are a balance
of form, function and aesthetics. Caroma
designs bring to life a guiding vision of creating
sustainable-luxury with superior technology and
performance. Design that enables enjoyable
bathroom experiences that both complement
and elevate your lifestyle, from an energising
morning start to an indulgent, relaxing moment
of luxury, all underpinned by sustainability.
Designing for Australians and New Zealanders,
from all walks of life, with different tastes and
needs. We have a wide range of classic to
artisanal styles, smart designs and sustainable
innovations providing you with everything you
need to create the sanctuary of your dreams.
CREATING AMAZING
WATER EXPERIENCES
At Methven we are all about making water
amazing. Creating amazing water experiences is
what we do every day at Methven and have done
since 1886. Today, Methven is world renowned
for beautifully designed, award winning showers,
taps and valves. Over the years we have
learned how to harness the power of water to
cleanse, calm, refresh and invigorate. And it’s
this expertise — combined with our passion for
design and innovation — that fuels our ongoing
mission to create amazing water experiences,
just for you.
6 | GWA GROUP LIMITED | 2021 SUSTAINABILITY REPORT
BEAUTIFULLY DESIGNED,
THOUGHTFULLY ENGINEERED
Never compromising on design and always
focused on quality, for 70 years Dorf has pushed
the boundaries of what’s possible in tapware.
Influenced by artisans across Australia — who
in turn are inspired by the beauty, creativity and
individualism of the world around them — Dorf
delivers an exceptional water experience, the
Australian way.
AUTHENTIC, AUSTRALIAN SPIRIT
Since 1941, CLARK has worked tirelessly to make
Australian kitchens and laundries more appealing
and practical. CLARK, now extending into the
Bathroom space, offers a variety of versatile
and stylish designs to suit even the smallest
of Bathroom spaces, no matter how tight the
budget. The Australian in-house design team
and like-minded collaborators have designed
and engineered a range of products right
here in Australia that are thoughtfully simple
and refreshingly smart, bringing pleasure and
enjoyment to customers every day.
GWA GROUP LIMITED | 2021 SUSTAINABILITY REPORT | 7
SECTION 2:
Innovation in
water sustainability
GWA has a proven long-standing history
in developing innovative solutions for
water. This is reflected in our continued
pioneering approach in innovation and
design delivering state of the art water
saving solutions for the built environment.
8 | GWA GROUP LIMITED | 2021 SUSTAINABILITY REPORTSustainable design is part of the GWA DNA. In 2019 the
Caroma Design Team was awarded the prestigious The
Good Design Team of the Year from Good Design Australia.
We contribute to environmental sustainability through the
development of products and systems which deliver water
efficient and water saving solutions for residential and CASE STUDY
commercial premises. GWA DRIVES IMPROVED BATHROOM
We are committed to investing in local innovation hubs in HYGIENE SOLUTIONS
Australia and New Zealand and providing our teams with Protecting bathroom users from the spread of harmful
the resources and technology to strongly support our bacteria and illness and ensuring cleanliness and hygiene
innovation outcomes. GWA has two centres of excellence in public or shared bathroom spaces is now more
including: important than ever, particularly in the context
of COVID-19.
• Caroma Innovation and Distribution Centre at Prestons
in NSW; and As public or shared bathrooms are high traffic
• GWA Experience and Distribution Centre at Avondale in spaces, they carry with them a higher risk of bacterial
New Zealand. spread. It is therefore important that fixtures and
systems be put in place that can help reduce risk
RESEARCH TEST RIGS of bacteria transmission and drive more hygienic
In support of GWA’s commitment to the creation of outcomes for users.
innovative sustainable designs and systems that conserve In response, one of GWA’s key product innovations
water, two state of the art research test rigs have been during the year has been the launch of Caroma
developed at the Caroma Innovation and Distribution GermGard®.
Centre at Prestons, NSW. The rigs will be used as working
research laboratories where actual operating system Caroma GermGard® protection is a unique, proprietary
conditions can be replicated for both commercial buildings antimicrobial formula that kills a minimum of 99.9%
and residential applications enabling new plumbing bacteria it comes into contact with, when applied
technologies and systems to be explored and validated. to products. This technology not only helps prevent
The rigs comprise: the spread of bacteria but also makes cleaning even
easier, making it ideal not only for households and
• Commercial test rig with varying building and bathroom commercial premises, but also care applications such
product layouts connected to clear drainline pipework as hospitals, aged care facilities and accessible or
over four levels where the influence of new plumbing ambulant bathrooms.
technologies and systems in buildings can be evaluated;
and Caroma GermGard® is tested to JIS Z 2801:2010
• Domestic test rig over 60 metres in length with four
Antibacterial Products — Test for Antibacterial Activity
clear drainline configurations where the influence of new and Efficacy, which is recognised internationally
plumbing technologies and systems in domestic long for testing the response to harmful bacterial
run applications can be evaluated. Staphylococcus aureus (“Staph”) and Escherichia coli
(“E Coli”).
The rigs provide a unique advanced capability for GWA to
Caroma GermGard® protection is now available on
produce the next generation of sustainable technologies
Caroma Care Support Grab Rails, Caroma Toilet Seats
and systems for Australia and New Zealand.
and Urbane II Pans. GermGard® antimicrobial formula
is also integrated into the specially designed rubber
seals on Caroma Care Support Grab Rails, making
cleaning the concealed flange easier and preventing
infection while providing support for people in need.
GWA GROUP LIMITED | 2021 SUSTAINABILITY REPORT | 9Our history of delivering
innovative solutions
1980 1986 2004 2006 2009
WORLD’S FIRST DUAL AUSTRALIA’S FIRST METHVEN SATINJET® FIRST WELS 6 STAR FIRST WELS 5 STAR
FLUSH TOILET SINGLE PIECE SINK SHOWER URINAL TOILET SUITE
In 1980, Caroma During the 1980s, Clark Unlike conventional In 2006, the Caroma The Caroma Profile 5
developed the first was the first in Australia showers, the award- Cube 0.8L Smartflush® toilet was Australia’s
Dual Flush toilet which to successfully launch winning Satinjet® Urinal technology was first 5 Star toilet suite
saved approximately Monobloc sinks made uses unique twin-jet the first to achieve the featuring a cistern with
32,000 litres of water from a single piece of technology to create maximum 6 Star Water a dual-flush push button
per household per stainless steel. optimum water droplet Efficiency Labelling and spout combination.
annum due to the size and pressure, with Scheme (WELS) rating The design enables the
introduction of full/half over 300,000 droplets for water conservation, same water to be used
flush technology which per second. leveraging technology for two purposes, fresh
allowed homeowners and to maximise water water is first used for
businesses to have the efficiency by eliminating hand washing and then
option of an 11L (full) or unnecessary false flows into the cistern to
5.5L (half) flush. flushing. ultimately flush the toilet.
1980s 1990s 2000s
1985 1993 2005 2009 2009
AUSTRALIA’S FIRST FIRST REDUCED CAROMA PATENTED ORBITAL® CAROMA’S INVISI
SINGLE LEVER MIXER FLUSH DUAL FLUSH SMARTFLUSH® TOILET CONNECTOR SERIES II TOILET
TAP TOILET 6L/3L
In 2005, Caroma’s Designed to overcome In 2009, Caroma
Dorf was the first tap A major step change Smartflush® technology major issues around launched the Invisi Series
brand in Australia to to reduce global water won the Australian plumbing set-out II range and won the
introduce a single-lever usage, Caroma launches International Design connections, extending Australian International
mixer – Flickmixer. a range of 6L full/3L Award and Home set-out up to a 50mm Design Award.
Still today, the name half flush toilet suites. Beautiful Product of the radius. A solution
‘Flickmixer’ is regularly Significantly reducing the Year. Caroma Smartflush® that solves common
used to refer to any traditional 11L (full)/5.5L further reduces water installation issues and
mixer tap. (half) flush systems consumption to only 4.5L saves time for plumbers;
with matching reduced (full) or 3L (half) flush. a flexibility welcomed by
flush pan technology. the plumbing community.
The technology won
the Australian Design
Award together with
the Powerhouse
Museum Award.
10 | GWA GROUP LIMITED | 2021 SUSTAINABILITY REPORT2015 2018 2019 2021
METHVEN AURAJET® CAROMA SMART CAROMA CAROMA
SHOWER COMMAND® ADJUSTABLE GERMGARD®
TOUCHLESS FLUSHPIPE
The award-winning Caroma GermGard®
Aurajet® technology INTELLIGENT protection is a unique,
For behind the wall
delivers a full-bodied BATHROOM SYSTEM concealed toilet suites proprietary antimicrobial
spray with maximum the pans require precise formula that kills a
body contact. Delivers In October 2018, Caroma minimum of 99.9%
placement of the flush
a highly efficient announced the next bacteria it comes into
water inlet. Any variation
shower with 20% more evolution in sustainable contact with, when
from specified floor levels
spray force and twice water management with applied to products.
will require expensive
the amount of water the launch of Caroma This technology not only
rectification work to
contact on skin than a Smart Command®, a helps prevent the spread
install the toilet pan.
conventional Methven comprehensive touchless of bacteria but also
Caroma’s new adjustable
shower. intelligent IoT solution for makes cleaning easier.
flushpipe allows plumbers
commercial bathrooms.
to quickly realign the
In 2019 Caroma Smart
water inlet without
Command® – won the
visible damage to
Good Design Award
bathroom walls, saving
Best in Class from Good
on significant rectification
Design Australia.
costs and on-site time.
2010s 2020s onward...
2016 2018 2020 2021
CAROMA METHVEN VJET® CAROMA SMART METHVEN KIRI MK2
CLEANFLUSH® TOILET SHOWER COMMAND® LOW FLOW SHOWER
INTELLIGENT SHOWER
Caroma Cleanflush® The award-winning Methven launched Kiri
uses patented rimless VJet® technology allows AND ECO-VALVE MK2 Low Flow Shower
technology combining the user to activate a into the Australian
Caroma Smart Command®
Caroma’s unique flush seamless spray transition market in 2021. With a
launched two new
and flow innovation to – from a firm, invigorating WELS 5 star, 5.5L/min
products as part of its
improve hygiene and shower spray, to a gentle, rating and the inclusion
water solutions system.
cleaning effectiveness enveloping warmth and of award-winning
The Intelligent Shower’s
whilst still leveraging the everything in between. Satinjet® technology, this
control mechanism,
lowest water per flush Crafted from high grade product delivers superior
shower display and ‘smart
usage available. In 2016, stainless steel which is performance and comfort
diversion of pre-warmed
Caroma won the Best both stylish and durable. whilst saving water and
water’ can reduce a
in Class, Good Design energy, and supports the
building’s water usage.
Award for the Cleanflush® sustainability goals of
The Eco-Valve can prevent
technology toilet range. commercial end of
major and minor leaks
trip facilities.
within a building and as
such save water.
GWA GROUP LIMITED | 2021 SUSTAINABILITY REPORT | 11SECTION 3:
Our people
GWA recognises that our people are critical The Code of Conduct is reviewed annually and updated
to ensure that it reflects current good practice and to
to our success. promote the ethical behaviour of all employees.
We are committed to providing a safe, challenging and OUR ONGOING RESPONSE TO COVID-19
rewarding environment for our people to support them
As a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, GWA’s sustainability
reaching their potential, which in turn helps GWA reach
agenda is focused on the health, safety and wellbeing
its goals.
of our staff, visitors and contractors to our sites as we
We continue to conduct our business with the highest continue our role as an essential supplier to the plumbing
standards of personal and corporate integrity consistent and construction sectors.
with our Cultural Pillars.
Our focus has been on saving lives and livelihoods and we
Our Code of Conduct continues to guide the behaviour aligned our motto of “stay calm, stay focused, stay safe” to
of our people and demonstrates the commitment of the our Cultural Pillars.
Group to ethical practices.
We quickly mobilised to enable all office-based staff to
Meanwhile, our Cultural Pillars outline the company values work from home. Our warehouse staff were considered
and set the tone for the behaviours that are expected in essential workers and continued to work during lockdowns
relation to how we operate and conduct business in order with reassurance in our relentless adherence to COVID-19
to achieve the Group’s objectives. safe practices and protocols.
Our Cultural Pillars remain at the heart of everything we We established intranet sites for staff to access all
do and there is an expectation that everyone behaves COVID-19 resources including safety facts, training videos,
consistently with these Cultural Pillars. wellness tools and resources, and access to our employee
The Code of Conduct complements the Group’s risk assistance program (EAP). The EAP program has been an
management and internal control practices. The Code of important resource to assist staff and their families with
Conduct is supported by the Group’s Whistle Blower Policy mental health and wellbeing during the pandemic and
and system of reporting activity suspected of breaching associated lockdowns.
the Code of Conduct.Our training during COVID-19 was heavily focussed on • Safety Homecoming training is now into its fourth
mental health and wellbeing and included topics such as: year and continues to be rolled out to all employees
across Australia, New Zealand and for the first time
• Working safely from home
to the United Kingdom. The roll-out into China was
• Building resilience and mental and physical wellbeing
delayed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Safety
• Managing through change
Homecoming is designed to develop and drive safety
• R U OK? workshops
behaviour engagement for staff at all levels. The intent
• COVID-19 safety — mask wearing and hand washing
is to acknowledge and celebrate safe demonstrated
We created a Wellness Hub on the GWA intranet site where behaviour whilst engaging and addressing
we shared resources from meditation techniques, healthy at-risk behaviour;
eating recipes, financial tips and exercise suggestions to • Improved monitoring of driver behaviour and safety
support mental and physical wellbeing. This supported a was a clear focus. Reporting on telematics devices by
range of other initiatives including regular wellness check- Ctrack and insights from fleet management are readily
ins and team-based activities to support connectedness. available to drivers and management. This has seen an
We continue to closely monitor and adjust our business improvement in driver behaviour and a reduction in
operations as required and in accordance with the latest road accidents;
Government and regulatory health and safety advice. • Mental health ambassadors were identified and
appointed across the business and trained in mental
WORKPLACE HEALTH & SAFETY health first aid as part of our continuing focus on
the wellbeing of staff including metal health issues
GWA’s focus remains on ensuring that we provide a safe
associated with the COVID-19 pandemic. R U OK?
workplace for our employees, contractors, visitors and
training was also rolled out throughout the organisation;
customers, while driving a positive safety culture and
• The New Zealand Methven factory was successfully
actively reducing and mitigating risk.
scaled down without injury or serious incident. The
“We care for each other” is a Cultural Pillar of the high-risk work of dismantling and moving the machinery
organisation that drives our objective to ensure everyone was well planned and executed allowing the project to
is safe, every day. The GWA management structure for be conducted in a safe and compliant manner;
Workplace Health and Safety (WHS) continues to be • The New Zealand Avondale distribution centre was
centrally led by the Head of Risk, Safety and Compliance. temporarily relocated to Highbrook while work was
This executive addresses the Board and Executive conducted to convert the previous factory to a larger
Leadership Team (ELT) on a regular basis to discuss all distribution centre as part of integrating the Caroma and
matters relating to WHS. This provides an opportunity for Methven businesses. The entire Highbrook distribution
updates, scope discussions and to monitor progress of the centre has now been moved to Avondale. The project
WHS strategy and performance. was completed with safety as the highest priority and
The ELT members regularly review key risk areas aligned completed with zero injuries or serious incidents; and
with our business risk profile. These include chain of • The Methven Heshan, China factory was sold during
responsibility, health and wellbeing, environment FY21 which lowers the Group’s overall WHS risk.
and waste.
During FY21, GWA continued to make substantial progress
on implementing our safety strategy. This strategy focuses CASE STUDY
on leadership and behavioural aspects of safety together ZERO MEDICALLY TREATED INJURIES
with identifying and mitigating physical risks in our IN FY21
operations. The increased focus on cultural and behavioural
For the second successive year, GWA has maintained a
drivers has resulted in an improvement in most of the
MTIFR (medically treated injury frequency rate) at zero.
Group’s lead and lag indicators of safety performance.
GWA has steadily improved its safety performance over the This result has been achieved from a continued focus
last 12 years, but has seen an increase in lost time injuries on safety culture and behavioural change at all sites
during the year due to manual handling incidents. We have across the GWA network, including Australia, New
implemented customised training strategies to address the Zealand, China and the United Kingdom.
root cause of the injuries. At each site we are focusing on preventative measures,
Key achievements during the year included: including hazard reduction and near miss reporting
to drive cultural change in the way we interact at our
• GWA meets the requirements to ensure the health
sites which has led to this result for the second year in
and safety of its workers under WHS legislation
a row.
and continued the external auditing process for
WHS compliance at its sites. During FY21, the Group The roll-out of Safety Homecoming training is
commenced the transition from Australian safety continuing to deliver a major improvement in safety
standard AS4801 accreditation to the new international culture across the business.
safety standard ISO45001, and all GWA sites were The implementation of site specific activities such
accredited to this new standard; as daily tool-box meetings, site audits and root-cause
• GWA completed the review and update of all safety analysis of incidents is assisting in driving the ongoing
policies, procedures and tools to bring these in line with behavioural change to deliver this improved result.
ISO45001 international safety standards. This has been
a significant task to standardise operating procedures to
deliver a consistent and measurable approach to safety
across the Group;
GWA GROUP LIMITED | 2021 SUSTAINABILITY REPORT | 13SAFETY PERFORMANCE INDICATORS Following the improvement trend in the TIFR since FY18
and a significant reduction in FY20, GWA experienced
GWA measures a range of balanced safety performance
an increase in the rate from 0.9 in FY20 to 4.3 in FY21,
indicators. We continuously identify, implement and
primarily as a result of an increase in manual handling
monitor our activities to ensure we eliminate unsafe acts
injuries. We are renewing our focus on behaviours and have
and practices.
implemented customised training strategies, revised our
These activities, identified as proactive ‘LEAD’ indicators, standard operating procedures and trained staff to address
include the number of safety interactions conducted, the root causes to reduce manual handling injuries.
hazards reported, site inspections and actions closed. GWA
GWA recorded a Medically Treated Injury Frequency Rate
also measures key ‘LAG’ indicators that measure lost time
(MTIFR) of 0.0 for FY21.
and medically treated injuries, hours lost due to injury and
total injuries which represent a combination of lost time GWA is committed to maintaining the positive safety
and medically treated injuries. culture in the Group and our ongoing proactive approach
to identifying and mitigating safety risks. Workplace safety
LEAD INDICATORS remains an ongoing focus for the Board and the executives
During FY21, GWA’s safety performance measured by Lead of the Group.
indicators is detailed below:
DEVELOPING A HIGH PERFORMANCE
Metric Result in FY21 CULTURE
Safety Interactions Conducted 100% GWA fosters a high-performance culture through programs
Recorded Safety Events 418 and practices that encourage our people to perform at
Hazards Closed 100% their best while upholding our Cultural Pillars.
Actions Closed 100% Fundamental to this philosophy is our belief that every
person in the business is a leader and we expect everyone
Site Inspection Completion 100%
to act as one team with a common purpose aligned with
LAG INDICATORS our Cultural Pillar, “We are on one team”. Since 2018, GWA
has partnered with AON (now Kincentric) for our Making
During FY21, GWA’s safety performance measured by Lag
Life Better Employee Survey. For our most recent survey
indicators is detailed below:
in FY20, we had a 90% participation rate and our Group
Metric Result in FY21 engagement score was 61% which is above the median for
companies in Australia and New Zealand.
LTI FYTD 5.0
To emphasise our belief that everyone is a leader,
LTIFR Rolling 4.3
employees that completed the survey received their
MTI FYTD Nil own, individual engagement report which showed their
MTIFR Rolling Nil personal engagement score and actions to improve their
own engagement.
TI FYTD 5.0
TIFR Rolling 4.3 To reinforce a high-performance culture, all non-EBA
employees have been included in an incentive bonus plan.
Payment is based on business results, achieving personal
Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) and ensuring behaviour
GWA TOTAL INJURY FREQUENCY RATE (TIFR)
is aligned to our Cultural Pillars. This has resulted in a
25 strengthened performance management process to ensure
alignment to the Group’s overall strategy.
20
15
10
5
0
FY09 FY10 FY11 FY12 FY13 FY14 FY15 FY16 FY17 FY18 FY19 FY20 FY21
25
20
DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION
15
(COULD BE STOCK)
10
5
0
9
0
1
2
4
5
6
7
8
9
0
1
13
/0
/1
/1
/1
/1
/1
/1
/1
/1
/1
/2
/2
2/
08
09
10
11
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
01
20
20
20
20
20
20
20
20
20
20
20
20
20
14 | GWA GROUP LIMITED | 2021 SUSTAINABILITY REPORTDIVERSITY AND INCLUSION The result of this review identified any variations in pay
across similar roles were attributed to non-gender related
GWA recognises and celebrates the value and contribution
variables. Gender pay equity reviews are built into the
each individual brings to the workplace and appreciates
annual remuneration review process and will remain an
the value of attracting and retaining employees
ongoing focus for GWA.
from different backgrounds. GWA is committed to
creating a working environment that is fair, flexible and The measurable objectives to increase gender diversity
supportive of all our staff and that promotes personal are assessed annually and are reported in the Corporate
and professional growth. Governance Statement which is available on the Group’s
website at www.gwagroup.com.au under Corporate
GWA embraces and celebrates diversity in the
Governance. The objectives and supporting actions include:
workforce which contributes to business success
and benefits employees, customers, consumers and 1. INCREASE THE PERCENTAGE OF FEMALES
shareholders. Leveraging diversity in the workplace EMPLOYED BY GWA WITH A MINIMUM 30% TARGET
fosters engagement, enhances creativity, improves FOR BOARD COMPOSITION
decision making and increases productivity to deliver • Ensure the recruitment process and practices continue
a strong competitive advantage. to comply with equal opportunity principles.
We remain committed to promoting diversity and inclusion Women comprise 43% of GWA’s overall workforce for the
through the implementation of policies and initiatives reporting period. For the prior year, female composition
to achieve a diverse workforce. The Group’s Diversity of the global workforce was 42%. The Group’s focus
and Inclusion Policy is available on the Group’s on diversity and inclusion has been recognised by
website at www.gwagroup.com.au under Corporate employees and is demonstrated by increased scores in
Governance Policies. our latest engagement survey which was two percentage
We understand that each individual is unique and points above the Australian norm. The current female
we recognise individual differences. These differences representation on the Board is close to the minimum 30%
can include skills, experience, thought, gender, target as outlined in the table below.
age, disability, ethnicity, cultural or socio-economic In June 2021, the Group lodged its 2021 Australia
background, religion, sexual orientation, political or Workplace Gender Equality Report with the Workplace
ideological beliefs as well as other dimensions such Gender Equality Agency (WGEA) in accordance with the
as lifestyle and family responsibilities. Australian Workplace Gender Equality Act 2012 (Act).
The Group notified its employees and employee
organisations of the lodgement of the report and
At GWA we are committed to:
advised how it may be accessed. The Group also allowed
• a workplace which is free from discrimination, employees and employee organisations to make comments
harassment, bullying, victimisation and vilification; on the report. The report is available on the Group’s
• treating employees fairly and with respect; website at www.gwagroup.com.au under Gender Equality
• a workplace culture that is inclusive and embraces Reporting. The Group received notification from the WGEA
individual differences; that it is compliant with the Act.
• equal employment opportunities based on ability,
The following table is a summary of GWA’s Australian
performance and potential;
workplace profile at 31 March 2021 as reported to the
• awareness in all staff of their rights and
WGEA:
responsibilities with regards to fairness, equity and
respect for all aspects of diversity; Title % Female
• flexible work practices and policies to support
Board of Directors 29%1
employees and their changing needs;
• attraction, retention and development of a diverse Key Management Personnel 0%2
range of talented people; Senior Managers/Other Managers 32%
• equitable frameworks and policies, processes and
Total Management 37%
practices that limit potential unconscious bias.
Total Non-Management 45%
Overall Total 43%
In 2012, the Board established a number of measurable
objectives to promote and encourage increased gender Note:
diversity within the workforce as outlined below. The 1 33% of GWA’s non-executive directors are female.
Board will continue to work on increasing the percentage 2 KMP for WGEA reporting includes the Acting CEO, Chief Financial
Officer and Company Secretary roles with the other non-KMP
of females employed by GWA including committing to a executives included in Management.
minimum 30% target for Board composition in line with the
Principles and Recommendations of the ASX Corporate
Governance Council having regard to business needs,
the best available candidates and all facets of diversity in
addition to gender.
GWA has made significant progress in recent years to
address gender pay equity anomalies and have addressed
these as part of the annual salary review process. In
February 2021, a gender pay equity review was performed
in the Australian business.
GWA GROUP LIMITED | 2021 SUSTAINABILITY REPORT | 152. PROVIDE AND PROMOTE FLEXIBLE WORK INVESTING IN OUR PEOPLE
PRACTICES TO ATTRACT AND RETAIN DIVERSE
GWA remains committed to investing in its people and
TALENT
developing leadership skills to create the leaders for
• Continue to promote awareness of current flexible the future. Our leadership programs are designed to
work practices to existing employees and potential provide our people with the knowledge, skills and support
candidates; to enable them to perform at their best. In FY21 we
• Investigate and implement any additional flexible introduced the target for employees to have at least 20
work arrangements appropriate to the needs of hours of training during the year.
employees to support personal circumstances. Across the business, we had 14,194 training courses
Across GWA we continue to review employment policies completed with 169 online courses on offer spanning
and practices to ensure that, among other things, flexibility compliance, technical and soft skills development.
is offered to attract and retain talent. GWA fully supports We maintain a range of leadership and development
and encourages flexible working arrangements and many programs that are aligned to our purpose of making life
employees take advantage of different ways to get the better with superior solutions for water and the Good
job done including working from home or working to Great Journey which was communicated across the
flexible hours. organisation in August 2018.
The existing wide use of flexible work practices enabled GWA continues to operate development programs at two
the Group to quickly respond to the COVID-19 pandemic levels:
with all office-based staff having the ability to work from
• Group-wide programs for all employees;
home. GWA also provided additional tools and training
• Business-specific training programs to develop
during the pandemic to ensure that staff were supported
particular skills relevant to specific areas of the business
to work remotely as part of our ongoing focus on their
or key target groups across the business such as
safety and wellbeing. In the latest employee survey, 77% of
frontline sales leaders.
employees felt that they “have the flexibility to modify their
work schedule to address personal situations” which is two GROUP-WIDE PROGRAMS
percentage points above the Australian average.
Great Beginnings: Onboarding and induction blended
In addition to a number of employee benefit programs, learning program including information on the business
a purchased leave plan is also in place which allows history, strategy, customers, innovation, sales and
employees to “purchase” additional leave of up to four marketing as well as a Waterworks teambuilding activity
weeks per year via salary sacrifice. aligned to our purpose (building a water purification unit
3. SUCCESSION PLANNING AND HIGH POTENTIAL for donation to people in need).
EMPLOYEE DEVELOPMENT H20: short, online courses which help people with skills on
GWA ensures a diverse group of high potential employees How 2 Operate (excel, Salesforce, Microsoft teams, etc.).
are identified as part of the Group’s succession planning Good 2 Know: Lunch and learn on a variety of topics such
process and actively developed for career progression. The as cyber security, career development, product training.
Group’s recruitment and development strategy continues
Great Conversations: 1-2 hour sessions with internal and
to focus on attracting, developing and retaining a diverse
external thought leaders. A number of these sessions have
pool of talent to deliver our growth strategy.
been targeted for female talent.
GWA has regular talent reviews to strengthen our
iLead: Management training programs with training for
succession plans. These talent discussions include career
4 levels of leadership (Leading Yourself, Leading Others,
development actions which are regularly reviewed.
Leading a Department/Function, Leading the Business).
Managers are aware of their responsibility to develop talent
In FY21 we launched a number of new leadership courses
and in the last survey, 81% of Managers responded
including Situational Leadership II and Personal Excellence.
“I am accountable for developing high performers” which is
In total 245 employees attended leadership programs
a strong score for Australian organisations.
during the year.
Learning Festival: An annual multi-week event focused on
supporting a learning culture. The FY21 Learning Festival
held in November 2020 featured 20 live events, 32 on
demand courses with over 1,000 learning seats.
BUSINESS-SPECIFIC TRAINING PROGRAMS
Supply Chain/Operations: Warehouse management
system training.
Sales and Customer Service: In FY21 we launched our
Sales Academy with first phase featuring product training
across Caroma Smart Command®, sanitaryware and
tapware products.
GWA’s leadership and development programs are
supported by our Learning Management System, iLearn.
16 | GWA GROUP LIMITED | 2021 SUSTAINABILITY REPORTSECTION 4:
Environment
CLIMATE RISKS AND OPPORTUNITIES UNITED NATIONS SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS
GWA acknowledges climate-related risks and The United Nations Sustainable Development Goals
opportunities within its business operations. The address global challenges including those related to
manufacture of bathroom and kitchen products consume poverty, inequality, climate, environmental degradation,
resources and energy and therefore GWA is indirectly prosperity, peace and justice.
exposed to carbon emission regulations which may impact GWA continues to reference the UN 2030 Agenda
input pricing in the manufacturing process. for Sustainable Development and Sustainable
Another effect of climate change relates to scarcity of Development Goals. While in a broad sense, each of the
water. The World Economic Forum (WEF) 2020 Global 17 goals are important to our business, GWA references
Risk Report classified water scarcity as one of the five 3 goals specifically:
highest risks in terms of impact. This represents an
opportunity for GWA regarding the development of water-
saving products and technology. GOAL 1: ENSURE ACCESS TO CLEAN
GWA is a low emitter of greenhouse gas emissions,
WATER AND SANITATION FOR
however, we appreciate the ongoing need to reduce ALL
our greenhouse gas emissions and encourage our GWA maintains a strong pedigree and history
manufacturing supply chain partners to do the same. We in developing innovative solutions for water
are committed to further improving our disclosures in with Caroma developing the world’s first dual flush toilet
reference to the key recommendations of the TCFD. in 1980 with the introduction of full flush/half flush water
The TCFD framework for disclosure of climate change risks saving technology. This is reflected in our continued
and opportunities includes two main categories of climate- innovative approach in new product development and
related risks including: commercialisation in delivering water saving solutions
for our customers.
• risks related to transition; and
• risks related to physical impacts. We contribute to environmental sustainability through
the development of products and systems which deliver
We continue to assess transition risks including policy water-efficient and water-saving solutions in the built
and legal risks; technological risks and market or environment. This is relevant for both residential and
reputational risks which may be applicable to our business. commercial premises. For example, Caroma’s Dual and
The physical risks emanating from climate change include Smart flush technologies continue to save on average
risks to our assets and interruption of our business 32,000 litres per year for each toilet in which they are
from increased activity in weather-related perils such as used — the equivalent of one Sydney harbour saved
Cyclones, Earthquakes, Floods and Bushfires. each and every year.
We assess these risks as part of our internal due diligence
procedures in establishing new company sites and
engaging new suppliers to the business to ensure risks are
properly assessed and managed. In addition, our property
and business interruption insurer assess these risks as part
of their annual review of our controlled locations and those
of our key suppliers.
We conduct periodic detailed site risk assessments and
reviews of risk mitigations and contingency plans as part
of our internal audit program and utilising the expertise of
external advisers as required.
GWA ensures that perils are adequately insured with
reputable insurers, robust limits and breadth of cover
based on advice from our insurance broker.
GWA GROUP LIMITED | 2021 SUSTAINABILITY REPORT | 17CASE STUDY
CAROMA SMART COMMAND® SAVING
WATER AT THE GLASS HOUSE OFFICE
BUILDING MACQUARIE PARK NSW
Caroma Smart Command® is an ecosystem of intelligent
products that enable building managers to monitor and
control water use in near real-time and make smarter
decisions that reduce maintenance costs, while improving
hygiene and up-time.
An innovative range of intelligent tapware, showers,
urinals and Invisi toilets have been developed to
seamlessly integrate with Caroma’s Smart Command®
technology.
CASE STUDY
These intuitive products incorporate the latest in touch-
GWA DELIVERING HIGH WELS-RATED
free technology for optimal hygiene for a more efficient
SANITARYWARE AND TAPWARE bathroom design which reduces cleaning
Design and construction professionals play a critical and maintenance.
role in Australia’s future by implementing sustainable
Caroma Smart Command® enabled bathrooms allow
water management in building design. Showers, taps and
building managers to precisely track every detail and
toilets are the biggest consumers of water in the average
collect data in real time, from water usage per appliance,
Australian home.
to the number of activations. This data can be accessed
The Water Efficiency Labelling Standards (WELS) is locally from a mobile app or integrated to an existing
a mandatory, national and federal government-run Building Management System (BMS) or cloud platforms.
water efficiency labelling scheme. WELS requires the
At one facility, the Glasshouse office building in
registration and labelling of showers, taps, toilets, urinals,
Macquarie Park NSW, there are a total of 449 Caroma
clothes washers, dishwashers and flow controllers. This
Smart Command® fixtures and fittings installed across the
scheme aims to encourage wise water usage by informing
building. The installation of Caroma Smart Command®
customers about the water efficiency of a product at the
fixtures was able to demonstrate a 22% bathroom water
point of sale. WELS provides transparent water efficiency
saving (237,800L) which contributed to 6% of the overall
information and star ratings for regulated products.
building water saving.
An inefficient showerhead can use approximately
The savings were identified from:
15L-25L of water per minute. For a standard four-person
household, replacing a showerhead that flows at 15L/ • leak detection 48%
min with a WELS 3-star showerhead at 9L/min saves • optimised smart fixtures 36%
approximately 70kL each year. In the same scenario, a • behavioural changes 16%
WELS 4-star shower at 6L/min will save approximately
Caroma Smart Command® also results in improved user
105kL each year.
experience. As a result of near real-time data, Caroma
Flow rates for taps are included on water rating labels — a Smart Command® ensures bathrooms operate to their
high WELS star rating equates to less water consumption. maximum potential. The building’s tenants can enjoy
The best-performing water efficient taps have a WELS a touchless experience that provides a new level of
6-star rating, with a flow rate of 4L per minute or less. cleanliness and hygiene.
GWA continues to focus on upgrading its sanitaryware This resulted in a Hygiene Index of 1.6. This score
and tapware products to higher WELS ratings to target is the combination of hand washing duration and
greater water efficiency and enable residential and the relationship between sanitaryware and tapware
households to use less water. activations. A score of 1.0 is considered ‘good’. It also
resulted in a 7% improvement in hand washing duration
Over 80% of Caroma taps are 5 or 6 star WELS rated
by deploying behavioural change suggestions within
while 95% of Caroma sanitaryware products are 4 star
the bathrooms.
WELS rated.
As of 30 June 2021, Caroma Smart Command® has been
installed in 127 sites across Australia and New Zealand,
with a solid bank of additional projects in the pipeline for
FY22. 40 sites have been migrated to the cloud platform.
18 | GWA GROUP LIMITED | 2021 SUSTAINABILITY REPORTGOAL 2: BUILD RESILIENT GOAL 3: MAKE CITIES INCLUSIVE, SAFE,
INFRASTRUCTURE, PROMOTE RESILIENT AND SUSTAINABLE
SUSTAINABLE INDUSTRIALISATION GWA’s rich heritage in designing and
AND FOSTER INNOVATION delivering water saving and efficient products
GWA is committed to designing and and systems continue to assist cities and
developing new products and systems in communities achieve sustainability goals,
Australia and New Zealand for our customers, particularly in the area of water efficiency.
and with quality and performance that
exceed stringent local standards and contribute to water CASE STUDY
efficiency in the built environment. CAROMA SMART COMMAND® ECO-VALVE
GWA has two centres of excellence; our Caroma The Caroma Smart Command® Eco-Valve remotely prevents,
Innovation and Distribution centre at Prestons, NSW which stops and isolates leaks before they cause harm to a
includes a state of the art 2,000 square metre innovation commercial building.
centre and our GWA experience and distribution centre at
The Eco-Valve will isolate the flow of water when
Avondale, New Zealand. Both facilities are purpose built
it detects one or more of the following configurable
research and development sites which are committed
conditions:
to innovation and design excellence. They specialise in
water efficient products and systems that enhance the • Exceeds continuous water volume — where a pre-
bathroom, kitchen and laundry environments. GWA’s configured volume of water is exceeded e.g. a tap not
design and innovation centres are at the forefront of turning off.
global innovation, designing everything from the world’s • Exceeds maximum flow rate — where the valve
first two button dual flush and reduced flushing systems identifies a sudden excess of water flow e.g. burst pipe.
to patented shower experiences. • Exceeds continuous flow time — where there is
constant water flowing through the valve for an
CASE STUDY extended period e.g. toilet outlet valve running on.
• Self-learning micro leakage — monitors pipeline static
METHVEN KIRI MK2 LOW FLOW SHOWER
pressure reduction over time to learn usual patterns
During the year, Methven launched Kiri MK2 Low Flow and identify outliers.
Shower into the Australian market. With a WELS 5 star,
CAROMA SMART COMMAND® ECO-VALVE
5.5L/min rating and the inclusion of award-winning Satinjet®
technology, this product delivers superior performance and
IN PRACTICE
comfort whilst saving water and energy. In a Sydney commercial office tower, the Caroma Smart
Command® eco-system was deployed with two Eco-
With Satinjet® technology, twin-jets collide to
Valves protecting both the male and female amenities.
create optimum droplet size and pressure, delivering
At approximately 3:30pm the pipe downstream from the
thousands of tiny droplets per second.
Eco-Valve protecting the female amenities burst, resulting
Kiri MK2 Low Flow offers significant water and financial in an excess of water leaking, which if left unchecked
savings opportunity across both commercial and could quickly cause a great deal of damage to the
residential premises. building and significant water wastage.
In commercial end of trip applications, in the place of a The Eco-Valve detected the abnormality when the pre-set
typical 7.5L/min shower, almost 1/3 less water could be limit for water volume was exceeded under the first leak
used per year with a Low Flow (5.5L/min), resulting in a detection protocol, prompting the Eco-Valve to shut and
13% potential water saving.* instantly notifying the on-site maintenance plumber of
In a residential setting, the Kiri MK2 Low Flow can the leak who was able to begin works to rectify the issue
potentially save 11,680 litres of water annually.** when the water shut-off.
* S
ource: Caroma Smart Command Sustainability Case Study | In addition to stopping the leak, the Eco-Valve sent alerts
Sustainability case study Report — Norman Disney & Young — to the Facilities Manager and Caroma Smart Command®
Aug 2019
team via the cloud to inform of the events which lead to
** Based on the assumption that one single person showers for 8
minutes per day Source: National Water Usage Report –Australian the Eco-Valve closure.
Bureau of Statistics — 2017-2019
GWA GROUP LIMITED | 2021 SUSTAINABILITY REPORT | 19You can also read
