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UNITED STATES SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549
FORM 20-F
(Mark one)
     
o   REGISTRATION STATEMENT PURSUANT TO SECTION 12(b) OR (g) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
OR
     
þ   ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the fiscal year ended December 31, 2007
OR
     
o   TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
OR
     
o   SHELL COMPANY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
METAL STORM LIMITED
(Exact Name of Registrant as Specified in its Charter)
Australia
(Jurisdiction of Incorporation or Organization)
Building 4
848 Boundary Road
Richlands, Queensland 4077
Australia
(Address of principal executive offices)
Securities registered or to be registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:
None
Securities registered or to be registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act:
Ordinary Shares in the form of American Depositary Shares, evidenced by American Depositary Receipts
(Title of Class)
Securities for which there is a reporting obligation pursuant to Section 15(d) of the Act:
None
     Indicate the number of outstanding shares of each of the issuer’s classes of capital or common stock as of the date of the close of the period covered by the annual report.
598,680,579 Fully Paid Ordinary Shares
     Indicate by check mark if the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act.
Yes o    No þ
     If this report is an annual or transition report, indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934.
Yes o    No þ
     Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) for the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days.
Yes þ    No o
     Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, or a non-accelerated filer. See definition of “accelerated filer and large accelerated filer” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act. (Check one):
Large accelerated filer o       Accelerated filer o       Non-accelerated filer þ
     Indicate by check mark which basis of accounting the registrant has used to prepare the financial statements included in this filing:
         
U.S. GAAP o   International Financial Reporting Standards as issued   Other o
    by the International Accounting Standards Board þ    
     If “Other” has been checked in response to the previous question, indicate by check mark which financial statement item the registrant has elected to follow.
o Item 17     o Item 18
     If this is an annual report, indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act).
Yes o    No þ
 
 

 


 

Table of Contents
             
  Identity of Directors, Senior Management and Advisors     4  
  Offer Statistics and Expected Timetable     4  
  Key Information     4  
  Information on Metal Storm     14  
  Unresolved Staff Comments     23  
  Operating and Financial Review and Prospects     23  
  Directors, Senior Management and Employees     29  
  Major Shareholders and Related Party Transactions     34  
  Financial Information     35  
  The Offer and Listing     35  
  Additional Information     38  
  Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosure about Market Risk     50  
  Description of Securities Other than Equity Securities     50  
  Defaults, Dividend Arrearages and Delinquencies     50  
  Material Modifications to the Rights of Security Holders and the Use of Proceeds     50  
  Controls and Procedures     50  
  Audit Committee Financial Expert     52  
  Code of Ethics     52  
  Principal Accountant Fees and Services     52  
  Exemptions from the Listing Standards for Audit Committees     53  
  Purchases of Equity Securities by the Issuer and Affiliated Purchasers     53  
  Financial Statements     53  
  Financial Statements     53  
  Exhibits     53  
  EX-4.6: EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENT
  EX-8.0: SUBSIDIARIES
  EX-12.1: CERTIFICATION
  EX-12.2: CERTIFICATION
  EX-13.1: CERTIFICATION
  EX-13.2: CERTIFICATION

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CURRENCY OF PRESENTATION AND EXCHANGE RATES
     All references herein to “A$” and “$” are to Australian dollars. All references herein to “US$” and “U.S. dollar” are to United States dollars. Except as otherwise stated, all monetary amounts in this annual report are presented in Australian dollars. When necessary, historic data were converted at the applicable rate for the date or year indicated. The exchange rate used to convert balance sheet accounts at December 31, 2007 was A$1.00 = US$0.8776.
     For your convenience, we have translated some Australian dollar amounts into U.S. dollar amounts at the noon buying rate in The City of New York for cable transfers in Australian dollars as certified for customs purposes by the Federal Reserve Bank of New York (the “noon buying rate”). On June 26, 2008, the noon buying rate for Australian dollars into U.S. dollars was A$1.00 =US$0.9573.
The following table contains information for the noon buying rate for the Australian dollar into U.S. dollars for the periods indicated.
                                 
    At            
    Period   Average        
    End   Rate (1)   High   Low
Year ended December 31,
                               
2003
    0.7520       0.6589       0.7520       0.5629  
2004
    0.7805       0.7384       0.7979       0.6840  
2005
    0.7342       0.7620       0.7974       0.7261  
2006
    0.7884       0.7535       0.7914       0.7056  
2007
    0.8776       0.8389       0.9369       0.7724  
Month
                               
January 2008
    0.8968       0.8823       0.8981       0.8654  
February 2008
    0.9370       0.9133       0.9463       0.8934  
March 2008
    0.9132       0.9221       0.9411       0.8958  
April 2008
    0.9419       0.9309       0.9488       0.9067  
May 2008
    0.9551       0.9492       0.9644       0.9338  
 
(1)   Determined by averaging noon buying rates on the last day of each full month during the period.
FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS
     Certain statements in this annual report may constitute “forward-looking statements”. Such forward-looking statements are based on the beliefs of our management as well as assumptions based on information available to us. When used in this annual report, the words “anticipate”, “believe”, “estimate”, “project”, “intend” and “expect” and similar expressions, as they relate to us or our management, are intended to identify forward-looking statements. Such forward-looking statements reflect our current views with respect to future events and are subject to certain known and unknown risks, uncertainties and assumptions. Many factors could cause our actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements that may be expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. These include, but are not limited to, risks or uncertainties associated with the development of our technology, our ability to obtain government research and development grants, our ability to raise additional capital, our ability to protect our proprietary technology, the market for our products, government regulation in Australia and the United States, changes in tax and other laws, changes in competition, the loss of key personnel and other factors identified under Item 3D “Key Information — Risk Factors” of this annual report. Should one or more of these risks or uncertainties materialize, or should underlying assumptions prove incorrect, actual results may vary materially from those described in this annual report as anticipated, believed, estimated or expected. Accordingly, you should not place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements. These statements speak only as of the date of this annual report and shall not be revised or updated to reflect events after the date of this document.

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PART I
Item 1. Identity of Directors, Senior Management and Advisers
     Not applicable.
Item 2. Offer Statistics and Expected Timetable
     Not applicable.
Item 3. Key Information
A. Selected Financial Data
     The following table presents our selected financial information at the dates and for each of the years indicated. You should read the following information together with the information contained in Item 5 “Operating and Financial Review and Prospects”, as well as our financial statements and the related notes and other financial information appearing elsewhere in this annual report.
     Until 2005, we prepared financial statements in Australian dollars and in accordance with Australian generally accepted accounting principles that existed at the time (“historical Australian GAAP”) in order to comply with requirements of the Australian Securities Exchange, which is our primary listing. In addition, we voluntarily prepared financial statements in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States (“U.S. GAAP”) for inclusion in our annual report on Form 20-F.
     Commencing with fiscal years beginning on or after January 1, 2005, Australian companies such as Metal Storm must comply with Australian equivalents to International Financial Reporting Standards (“A-IFRS”) as well as International Financial Reporting Standards (“IFRS”) and interpretations adopted by the International Accounting Standards Board. We believe that U.S. investors better understand IFRS than historical Australian GAAP and, as a result, we no longer prepare financial statements in accordance with U.S. GAAP.
     Our financial statements for 2007, 2006 and 2005 have been prepared in Australian dollars and in accordance with A-IFRS and also comply with IFRS as issued by the International Accounting Standards Board. For the purpose of comparability, the 2004 financial information included in this annual report has been prepared on a basis to comply with IFRS.
     Our selected financial data set forth below for 2007, 2006, 2005 and 2004 are presented in accordance with IFRS. Income statement data for the years ended December 31, 2007, 2006 and 2005 the balance sheet data as at December 31, 2007, 2006 and 2005 have been derived from our audited financial statements, which are included elsewhere in this annual report.
                                 
    As of and for the year ended December 31,  
    2007     2006     2005     2004  
    A$     A$     A$     A$  
Income Statement data in accordance with IFRS:
                               
Revenue
    3,205,381       2,339,310       830,645       837,201  
Expenses
    (8,269,116 )     (15,454,051 )     (10,107,359 )     (12,382,001 )
 
                       
Loss from continuing operations
    (5,063,735 )     (13,114,741 )     (9,276,714 )     (11,544,800 )
Finance costs
    (4,934,415 )     (2,183,013 )     (35,496 )     (43,568 )
Income tax benefit
                       
Loss after tax from continuing operations
    (9,998,150 )     (15,297,754 )     (9,312,210 )     (11,588,368 )
Loss after tax from discontinued operation
          (39,256 )     (1,602,390 )     (1,515,759 )
 
                       
Loss attributable to members of the parent
    (9,998,150 )     (15,337,010 )     (10,914,600 )     (13,104,127 )
 
                       
Basic and diluted loss per share(1)
    (0.0169 )     (0.0285 )     (0.0209 )     (0.0262 )
Weighted average ordinary number of shares outstanding
    590,721,934       537,796,067       521,970,978       500,886,725  
Balance Sheet data in accordance with IFRS:
                               
Total current assets
    17,069,966       26,605,477       7,115,554       17,349,971  
Total assets
    18,788,277       27,856,081       7,429,721       20,327,317  
Total current liabilities
    21,812,546       26,424,955       1,564,696       3,507,365  
Long term obligations (including finance leases)
    283,301       333,794       85,163       619,959  
Total liabilities
    22,095,847       26,758,749       1,649,859       4,127,324  
Contributed equity
    65,428,400       59,985,634       56,559,039       56,559,039  

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    As of and for the year ended December 31,  
    2007     2006     2005     2004  
    A$     A$     A$     A$  
Total equity
    (3,307,570 )     1,097,332       5,779,862       16,199,993  
Other Financial Data:
                               
Dividends per share
                       
 
(1)   Net loss per ordinary share — basic and diluted is calculated as net loss for the period divided by adjusted weighted average number of ordinary shares outstanding for the same period.
     Our selected financial data set forth below for 2003 is presented in Australian dollars and in accordance with U.S. GAAP. Income statement data for the year ended December 31, 2003 and the balance sheet data as at December 31, 2003 have been derived from our audited financial statements.
         
    As of and for the year ended  
    December 31, 2003  
    (A$)  
Amounts in accordance with U.S. GAAP
       
Income Statement data:
       
Total operating income
    348,570  
Total operating expenses
    (8,153,088 )
 
     
Loss from operations
    (7,804,518 )
Total other income
    997,985  
Loss after tax from discontinued operations
    (373,244 )
 
     
Net loss
    (7,179,777 )
 
     
Net loss per ordinary share — basic and diluted (1)
    (0.016 )
Weighted average ordinary number of shares outstanding
    442,525,034  
Balance Sheet data:
       
Total current assets
    9,451,860  
Total current liabilities
    4,100,085  
Total assets
    15,101,660  
Ordinary share capital
    31,506,515  
Total shareholders’ equity
    9,353,392  
Other financial data:
       
Dividends per share
     
 
(1)   Net loss per ordinary share — basic and diluted is calculated as net loss for the period divided by adjusted weighted average number of ordinary shares outstanding for the same period.
B. Capitalization and Indebtedness
     Not applicable.
C. Reasons for Offer and Use of Proceeds
     Not applicable.
D. Risk Factors
There is uncertainty regarding Metal Storm continuing as a going concern .
     In order to meet Metal Storm’s objectives to develop, manufacture and market commercial products effectively, we will require additional funding until such time that product sales are of sufficient volume to generate positive cash flows from operations. This has taken longer and has cost more than originally anticipated. Based on the expected levels of operating expenditures, in order to continue its operations, Metal Storm will require additional sources of capital. While Metal Storm has previously been successful in raising additional capital, there can be no assurance that we will be able to raise sufficient capital to continue our operations. If we are unsuccessful in our efforts to obtain sufficient financing to continue to fund our current operations, we will be required to significantly reduce or cease operations altogether. Accordingly, there exists a substantial doubt about Metal Storm’s ability to continue as a going concern.

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     Our directors believe that Metal Storm will succeed in securing additional funding in the near future. As discussed below, in September 2006, we raised A$27.5 million through the issuance of convertible notes that mature in September 2009. We are in discussions with the largest holder of our convertible notes, Harmony Investment Fund Limited (“Harmony”), to extend the maturity date of the convertible notes. Under the Convertible Note Trust Deed (“Trust Deed”) entered into with ANZ Executors & Trustee Company Limited (“Trustee”) on July 11, 2006 which governs the convertible notes, an affirmative vote of 75% of the holders of the outstanding convertible notes is required to effect an amendment extending the maturity date. As of June 2, 2008, Harmony held approximately 81% of the outstanding convertible notes. In addition, we are seeking to raise approximately A$6 million by way of a rights issue of new convertible notes to existing noteholders who reside outside the United States and a placement of new notes to Harmony. This proposal would require various consents and approvals, including existing noteholders and potentially shareholder approval, and could be subject to other conditions, including the sale by Harmony of some of its existing convertible notes. There can be no assurance that the maturity of the existing convertible notes will be extended or whether the proposed new issuance of convertible notes will occur or, if it does occur, what the terms would be.
     If such funding were to be unavailable, there would be significant uncertainty as to whether Metal Storm would continue as a going concern and, therefore we may not realize the value of our assets and settle our liabilities at amounts different from those stated in our financial statements. No adjustments have been made to the financial statements relating to the recoverability and classification of the assets carrying amounts or classification of liabilities that might be necessary should Metal Storm not continue as a going concern.
We may be required to redeem convertible notes before maturity, which redemption could cause us to become insolvent.
     In September 2006, we raised A$27.5 million under a rights offer of unsecured convertible notes (“Rights Offer”) in Australia and New Zealand. The convertible notes mature in September 2009 at which time Metal Storm must repay the face value of any convertible notes unless a holder of convertible notes (“Noteholder”) has elected to convert them into ordinary shares. As previously mentioned, we are in discussions with the largest holder of our convertible notes to extend the maturity date. In connection with the Rights Offer, Metal Storm entered into the Trust Deed. On the occurrence of a default event under the Trust Deed, Metal Storm must, if required by the Trustee, redeem all convertible notes outstanding by payment of the face value of the convertible note together with all accrued but unpaid interest.
     Under the terms of the Trust Deed, Metal Storm must maintain specific minimum cash balances for various periods through December 2008. Failure to satisfy this or other requirements could result in early redemption of the convertible notes. For further details of the Trust Deed, see Item 10C “Additional Information—Material Contracts—Terms of convertible notes—Trust Deed in connection with the Rights Offer”. In the event of early redemption of the convertible notes, Metal Storm would have to raise funds to meet such obligations. It is likely that it will not be able to do so in a timely manner, or at all, in which case Metal Storm could become insolvent.
We may need additional capital and may not be able to raise additional capital on favorable terms, if at all.
     We may not have commercialized our technology when existing funds have been fully expended. Metal Storm will require additional capital by mid-2009 to fund product development programs. In addition, we may seek to exploit business opportunities that will require us to raise additional capital from equity or debt sources. In particular, developing and commercializing new technology and products to develop our business could require a significant commitment of additional resources that could, in turn, require us to obtain additional funding. We may also require further funds to pursue regulatory clearances, prosecute and defend our intellectual property rights, develop marketing capabilities and fund operating expenses.
     Our ability to obtain additional financing will be subject to a number of factors, including market conditions and our operating performance. These factors may render the timing, amount, terms and conditions of additional financing unattractive for us. The sale of additional equity or convertible debt securities would result in dilution to our existing stockholders. Additional debt could result in increased expenses and could result in further covenants that would restrict our operations. We cannot be certain that we will be able to raise any required funding or capital on favorable terms or at all. If we are unable to obtain such additional funding or capital when needed, we may be required to reduce the scope of our anticipated plans, including our research and development activities, which could materially adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations.
     We have incurred operating losses in each year since our inception. We had net losses of A$10.0 million and A$15.3 million for the years ended December 31, 2007 and 2006, respectively. We expect to incur additional operating losses over the next few years. Our profitability is dependent on our ability, alone or with others, to complete the successful product engineering of our technology,

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obtain any required regulatory clearances, and commercialize our products. We cannot be certain if or when we will achieve profitability.
We are in the product engineering phase and do not yet have any product for sale based on our core technology.
     Most of our technology requires further research, development, testing and possibly regulatory approval prior to any commercial sales. Metal Storm does not currently derive any revenue from the commercial sale of any applications of our technology. We cannot be sure of the extent to which the technology or any products we develop will be able to penetrate the potential markets for defense or commercial applications or gain market acceptance.
We cannot be certain of market acceptance of our technology or the rate of any market acceptance.
     We plan to develop our technology for use in a range of military, law enforcement, counter-terrorism and commercial applications. It is not yet known whether our technology will be accepted in the market for any of these applications or the rate of any market acceptance. The degree of market acceptance will depend on a number of factors, including the receipt and timing of any regulatory approvals, the establishment and demonstration of the need, safety, efficacy and cost-effectiveness of our technology and products, and our technology’s advantages over existing technologies. It is not yet known whether we will be able to fully develop or commercialize our technology and products, even if they perform successfully in research and evaluation trials.
We are dependent on retaining key personnel.
     There is competition among defense development companies for qualified technical employees and retaining and attracting qualified individuals is critical to our success. The responsibility of overseeing day to day management and the strategic management of Metal Storm is concentrated amongst a small number of key people. In February 2008, our Chief Engineer resigned for personal reasons. The loss of the services of key personnel could have a material adverse effect upon Metal Storm, as we may not be able to recruit replacements for the key personnel within a short timeframe.
Any catastrophic event involving our technology could adversely affect Metal Storm’s reputation.
     Any catastrophic accident involving the testing of our technology or the use of products that are developed utilizing our technology could severely damage Metal Storm’s reputation, marketing ability and results of operations.
We work on research and development programs.
     Some of our technology applications progress in collaboration with U.S. and Australian government defense research and development program support. We have obtained such support from both the U.S. and Australian governments. We have entered into agreements with the departments of defense of these countries that provide conditions to the funding of research and development grants. For example, generally we are required to achieve certain milestones with respect to the development of our technology prior to receiving payment under the agreements. In addition, we have granted exclusive licensing rights under certain agreements and we are also in some circumstances required to repay money received under the agreements. Further, although the Australian programs provided for funding contributions by consortium members, we have received no direct funds from these programs. If Metal Storm is unable to continue existing research and development programs or to enter into new research and development programs, if there is a decrease of available funding in respect of such programs, or if the U.S. or Australian governments choose to exercise powers available to them under export control regulations to control the export of Metal Storm technology or products developed from it, this could have a material adverse affect on us.
There are some limitations relating to our technology.
     In its usual configuration, the Metal Storm technology stacks a number of projectiles in each barrel, and a quantity of propellant or gunpowder is located in a space that separates the projectiles. As a result, to hold the additional propellant that may be required for barrels may be longer and therefore heavier. For these reasons, the development risk of our technology increases as the operating pressure of the system increases. The extent to which these factors will affect the development of and the practical applications of our technology is uncertain. Unlike conventional gun systems, which are mechanical in operation, our technology is reliant on a 100% electronic fire control system. Electronic systems may be adversely affected by electromagnetic interference. Failure to design the electronics systems to minimize susceptibility to natural or man-made electromagnetic interference may result in unplanned and potentially catastrophic failure of our technology.

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We may not have adequate protection for our intellectual property.
     We principally rely upon patents, trade secret, copyright and contract law to protect our proprietary technology. We cannot be certain that any protective measures we have taken will be adequate to protect our proprietary technology. Many of the laws of foreign countries treat the protection of proprietary rights differently from, and may not protect our proprietary rights to the same extent as do, laws in Australia, the United States and Patent Co-operation Treaty countries. In addition, the laws of many countries, including Australia and the United States, provide governments with the ability to control or restrict the use of defense technologies.
     Patent matters involve complex legal and factual questions. Accordingly, we cannot predict the availability and breadth of claims sought in relation to patents. Statutory differences in patentable subject matter may limit the protection we can obtain for some of our inventions, or prevent us from obtaining patent protection, which could materially adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations.
     Additionally, the enforceability of a patent is dependent on a number of factors, which may vary between jurisdictions. These factors may include the novelty of the invention, the requirement that the invention not be obvious in light of prior art, including prior use or publication of the invention, the utility of the invention and the extent to which the patent clearly describes the best method of working the invention.
     While we have obtained and continue to seek patent protection for our technology, we cannot be certain that:
    any of the pending or future patent applications filed by us or on our behalf will be approved;
 
    we will develop any additional proprietary products or processes that are patentable; or
 
    third parties will not independently develop similar products or processes, duplicate any of the products or processes we have or are developing relating to our technology, or design around the patents we own with competitive advantages.
     Furthermore, we cannot be certain that patents held by third parties will not prevent the commercialization of products incorporating our technology or that third parties will not challenge or seek to narrow, invalidate or circumvent any of our issued, pending, or future patents.
Protecting our proprietary technology from infringement by others may affect our business.
     We may need to engage in litigation to enforce patents, or to determine the scope and validity of third party proprietary rights. This could result in substantial costs to us and divert efforts from our business. We may have to participate in opposition proceedings before the Australian Patent Office or a foreign patent office, or in interference proceedings declared by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office, to determine priority of invention of patent applications filed by competitors. Any such litigation, interference or opposition proceeding, regardless of the outcome, could be expensive and time consuming and adverse determinations in any such proceedings could prevent us from developing, manufacturing or commercializing our technology or products, which could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.
     In addition to patent protection, we rely on unpatented trade secrets, know-how and proprietary technological innovation and expertise, which are protected, in part, by confidentiality agreements with our employees, advisers and consultants. We cannot be certain that these agreements will not be breached, that we will have adequate remedies for any breach, or that our unpatented proprietary intellectual property will not otherwise become known or independently discovered by competitors. We also cannot be certain that relevant inventions will not be developed by persons not bound by such agreements.
We may be subject to patent infringement claims from our competitors and other third parties.
     Our commercial success may depend, in part, on our ability to avoid infringing on patents issued to others. Although we are not aware of any action or threatened action alleging patent infringement or improper use of proprietary information by us, if we have to defend any such claims we could incur substantial costs and our management resources could be diverted. This could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.
     If we were found to be infringing any third party patents, we could be required to pay damages, alter our products or processes, obtain licenses or cease certain activities. We cannot be certain that if we required licenses for patents held by third parties that they would be made available on terms acceptable to us, if at all. To the extent that we required such licenses for the development of our

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technology and we were unable to obtain them, we could be foreclosed from the development, manufacture or commercialization of technology or products requiring such licenses, or encounter delays in product introductions while attempting to design around such patents. This could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.
The Australian and U.S. governments may take action on patent applications and patents.
     Under the provisions of the Patents Act 1990 (Commonwealth of Australia) (“Patents Act”), the Commonwealth of Australia has the right to exploit, or authorize others in writing to exploit, an invention for the services of the Commonwealth of Australia at any time after a patent application has been made. The remuneration and terms for exploitation are determined by agreement between the person entitled to the benefit of the patent application, or the person’s nominee, and the Commonwealth of Australia. If there is no agreement, the determination is made by a prescribed court.
     Under the provisions of the Patents Act, a patent or a patent application may also be acquired by the Commonwealth of Australia. In that instance, all rights in the patent, or the patent application, vest in the Commonwealth of Australia. Compensation must be paid in an amount to be agreed between the person entitled to be compensated, and the Commonwealth of Australia. If there is no agreement, the amount of compensation is determined by a prescribed court. As such an acquisition clearly involves an acquisition of property, the terms of that acquisition must be “just”, within the meaning of the Australian Constitution.
     The Patents Act also allows the Commissioner of Patents, on the direction of the relevant Minister of the Commonwealth of Australia, to prohibit or restrict the publication of information about the subject matter of a patent application. While any such order is in force, the complete specification of the application is not open to public inspection, acceptance must not be notified and a patent must not subsequently be granted. As a result, if the Commonwealth of Australia were to take action on one or more of our patents under the Patents Act, we may not be able to exclusively commercially exploit such patents in the way we currently intend. Additionally, the compensation we receive in connection with such actions may be significantly less than what we would receive if we were to retain full rights to the patent.
     Under the U.S. Patent Act, the U.S. government may use an invention described in and covered by a U.S. patent without license of the owner. Where this occurs, the owner’s only remedy is an action against the U.S. government for the recovery of reasonable and entire compensation for the use and manufacture of the invention.
     Under the U.S. Patent Act, if one of the authorized offices of various government agencies identified under the Act holds the opinion that publication or disclosure of an invention described in a patent application would be detrimental to the national security, the Commissioner of Patents being so notified shall order that the invention be kept secret and also withhold the publication of the application or the grant of a patent for such period as the national interest requires. The owner of an application that has been placed under a secrecy order shall have the right to appeal from the order to the Secretary of Commerce. An applicant whose patent is withheld shall have the right to apply for compensation for the damage caused by the order of secrecy.
     It is also possible that countries other than Australia or the United States could take action that may impact upon our patents and patent applications. Any actions on our patents by the governments of Australia, the United States or other countries could affect our ability to protect our technology and our ability to effectively commercialize our technology. This could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.
We have contracted to perform some systems integration work at a fixed price, which could turn out to be less than our costs.
     We perform systems integration work for third parties under contracts. Several of our contracts are bid on a fixed price basis. As such, there is inherent risk that our actual costs to perform the contracted job could exceed the agreed upon fixed price, which could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.
There are potential adverse effects from competition and technological changes.
     The defense industry market is highly competitive and can be subject to significant technological change. Large, well-established defense companies are engaged in research and development and have considerably greater resources than Metal Storm to develop applications for defense technology. We cannot be certain that our competitors will not succeed in developing technologies and products that are more effective than any which we are developing, or which would render our technology and products obsolete or non-competitive. Much of the research being conducted on defense technology is funded principally by government agencies in the United States. We compete with such other companies for government resources allocated to such research and development projects.

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There are existing defense companies that may have target markets similar to, if not the same as, ours. Such companies may be developing their own technology and products, which may ultimately compete with ours. This could have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations and financial condition.
     The defense industry market is characterized by changing technology, evolving industry standards, introductions and enhancements and changing customer demands. These market characteristics are exacerbated by the nature of the defense industry. Accordingly, Metal Storm’s success may depend on our ability to adapt to changing technologies, our ability to adapt our technology to evolving industry standards, and to continually improve the performance, features and reliability of our technology, in response to both evolving demands of the marketplace and competitive product offerings. If we fail to adapt to such changes and evolution, this could have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations and financial condition.
     There are existing companies who may have target markets similar to, if not the same as, ours. Such companies may be developing their own technology and products, which may ultimately compete with ours. Our technology may be perceived by our competitors as threatening existing markets and therefore may be resisted. As a result, we cannot be certain that we will be successful in commercializing our technology or that we will be able to penetrate the potential markets for our products.
There may be reductions or changes in military expenditures.
     We anticipate that our primary customers will be the U.S. and Australian governments, the agencies of the U.S. and Australian governments’ Departments of Defense, the U.S. Department of Justice and the global defense industry. Our markets may be limited by U.S. and Australian government requirements pertaining to foreign markets. We also cannot predict future levels of defense spending with certainty and declines in military expenditures could materially adversely affect our results of operations and financial condition. The impact of possible declines in the level of defense procurement on our results of operations and financial condition will depend upon the timing and size of the changes and our ability to mitigate their impact with new business, business consolidations or cost reductions. The loss or significant curtailment of a material program in which we participate could have a material adverse affect on our future results of operations and financial condition.
We are subject to government regulation.
     We are developing products for sale in the defense and law enforcement industries, which are subject to extensive regulation. This regulation may adversely affect our business. For example, products incorporating our technology are required to undergo rigorous testing as well as extensive regulatory approval processes. These processes take significant time and require us to expend substantial resources. Delays in obtaining regulatory approvals could adversely affect the development and commercialization of our technology and products and could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition or results of operations.
     We will need to obtain operating licenses and permits. Such licenses and permits may be difficult to obtain and retain depending on government policies, customs, changes in political leadership, and other factors. We cannot assure you that we will continue to be in compliance with any such licenses or permits or any other governmental requirements. If we fail to comply with any such licenses or permits or any other governmental requirements, it could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.
     Products to be manufactured using our technology may also be subject to government regulation, including regulations governing use, specification, manufacture, handling, disposal, packaging, labeling, transport and import/export in Australia, the United States and in each of the countries into which such products are intended to be exported. See Item 4B “Information on Metal Storm - Business Overview—Regulation” for a discussion of government regulations that we are subject to in Australia and the United States.
     Compliance with government regulation requires us to allocate resources to monitoring compliance, training, security of goods, reporting and reviewing legislative and other changes to ensure we are complying with the relevant regulations in the jurisdictions in which we operate. Failure to comply with government regulations could result in our inability to sell our products in those jurisdictions.
There are risks inherent in U.S. government contracts.
     We expect that a significant portion of our sales will be associated with contracts and programs for the U.S. government in which there are significant inherent risks, including risks particular to the defense industry. The primary risks relate to:
    Contract Termination

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     Any contracts we may enter into with the U.S. government may be subject to termination by it either for its convenience or in the event of a default by us as the contractor. Termination for convenience provisions may only provide for the recovery by us of costs incurred or committed, settlement expenses and profit on work completed prior to termination. Termination for default provisions may render us liable for excess costs incurred by the U.S. government in procuring undelivered items from another source.
    Loss of Appropriations
     U.S. government contracts are usually conditional upon the continuing availability of U.S. Congressional appropriations. Congress usually appropriates funds for a given program on a fiscal-year basis even though contract performance may take more than one year. Consequently, at the outset of a major program, the contract is usually partially funded, and additional monies are normally committed to the contract by the procuring agency only as appropriations are made by Congress for future fiscal years. In addition, most U.S. government contracts are subject to modification in the event of changes in funding. Any failure by Congress to appropriate additional funds to any program in which we participate or any contract modification as a result of funding changes could materially delay or terminate such program and therefore have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations or financial condition.
    Procurement and Other Related Laws and Regulations
     If we enter into contracts with the U.S. government we may be subject to extensive and complex U.S. government procurement laws and regulations. These laws and regulations provide for ongoing U.S. government audits and reviews of contract procurement, performance and administration. Failure to comply, even inadvertently, with these laws and regulations and with laws governing the export of munitions and other controlled products and commodities, and any significant violations of any other U.S. federal law, could subject us to potential contract termination, civil and criminal penalties, and under certain circumstances, suspension and debarment from future U.S. government contracts for a specified period of time. Any such actions could have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations or financial condition.
    Protection of Proprietary Technology
     If we enter into U.S. government contracts, and in particular contracts that involve modification or development of our technology or products, we may face a risk that the U.S. government would seek to assert far-reaching rights to our inventions and technology. Such assertions could compromise our competitive position.
    Changes and Adjustments
     The U.S. government often directs changes in contract work, particularly in the case of products under development. Recovery of additional costs and profit attributable to the changed work may require a protracted effort that could adversely affect our cash flow.
    Competitive Bidding and Domestic Preferences
     We may need to obtain military contracts through either competitive bidding or sole-sourced procurement. We cannot be certain that we will be successful in having our bids accepted or, if accepted, that awarded contracts will be profitable. We may be disadvantaged in competing for contracts by laws and regulations that give preference to firms that offer products manufactured in the United States or to small or minority-owned businesses. We may also be disadvantaged by regulations limiting the access of non-U.S. citizens to classified information of the U.S. government or the use or storage of such information at facilities outside the United States. We have organized Metal Storm Inc., our U.S. subsidiary, as a U.S. owned “small business”, as defined by applicable U.S. Department of Defense requirements, which allows Metal Storm Inc. to contract directly with U.S. government and defense agencies in accordance with U.S. Department of Defense requirements. Our other U.S. subsidiary, Metal Storm U.S.A. Limited, is 100% owned by us and was formed to contract with both U.S. government agencies as well as non-government defense contractors.
     Additionally, inherent in either procurement process is the risk that if a bid is submitted and a contract is subsequently awarded, actual performance costs may exceed the projected costs upon which the submitted bid or contract price was based. To the extent that actual costs exceed the projected costs on which bids or contract prices were based, our potential profitability could be materially adversely affected.

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We may have product liability exposure in the future.
     The testing, marketing and sale of our technology may result in products that are used in situations that may result in serious, permanent bodily injury, or even death, to those involved. A person injured in connection with the use of our products may bring legal action against us to recover damages on the basis of claims including personal injury, wrongful death, negligent design, dangerous product or inadequate warning. We may also be subject to lawsuits involving allegations of misuse of our products. If successful, personal injury, misuse and other claims could have a material adverse effect on our business, operating results and financial condition. There can be no assurance that adequate or necessary insurance coverage will be available or will be obtained to limit our product liability exposure.
We may be dependent on third party manufacturers, suppliers and teaming partners.
     We currently do not have any manufacturing capabilities. In the future, we may be required to enter into contracting arrangements with third party manufacturers in order to manufacture our products for large-scale, later-stage testing. If we need to use a third party to manufacture all, or a portion of, our products we cannot be certain that we will be able to enter into satisfactory arrangements with such contract manufacturers. If, at any time, we are unable to maintain or expand as necessary or contract for manufacturing on acceptable terms, our manufacturing capabilities and our ability to conduct tests with our products will be adversely affected, resulting in delays in submissions for regulatory approvals.
     We may also need to develop manufacturing resources, enter into collaborative arrangements with other parties who have established manufacturing capabilities, or have third parties manufacture our products on a contractual basis. We cannot be certain that we will have access on acceptable terms to the extensive additional financing, qualified personnel and relevant technologies that would be required in order for us to scale-up production and develop effective commercial manufacturing processes and technologies, or that we will be able to enter into collaborative or contractual arrangements on acceptable terms with parties that will meet our requirements in respect of quality, quantity and time lines.
     In addition, we may be dependent upon suppliers of parts for our projectile launching systems and teaming partners with whose weapons platforms our systems may be integrated. Any failure in delivery or performance by these third parties could cause a delay in the development or commercialization of our systems.
Our share price has been and will likely continue to be volatile.
     As Metal Storm is a listed company in both Australia and in the United States, our share price will be subject to the numerous influences that may affect both the broad trend in the local and international share market and the share prices of individual companies and sectors. Investors should recognize that the price of ordinary shares and options in Metal Storm may fall as well as rise. Our share price has been and is likely to continue to be volatile, particularly due to our relatively limited trading volume. Our share price could fluctuate significantly due to a number of factors, including:
    variations in our anticipated or actual operating results;
 
    sales of substantial amounts of our shares;
 
    announcements about us or about our competitors, including new products;
 
    litigation and other developments relating to our patents or other proprietary rights or those of our competitors;
 
    governmental regulation and legislation;
 
    our available cash resources or the need to seek additional funding through public or private equity or debt financings; and
 
    changes in securities analysts’ estimates of our performance, or our failure to meet analysts’ expectations.
     Many of these factors are beyond our control.
     Our major shareholder, James Michael O’Dwyer, beneficially owns 31% of Metal Storm’s ordinary shares. He has sold some shares recently and, in the past, he has indicated an intention to sell approximately one-half of his shareholding to someone who would

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likely be a long term investor. Any such sale and any significant subsequent resales may cause volatility in our share price. In addition, a significant number of shares could be issued upon conversion of the convertible notes and the exercise of options issued to Noteholders in September 2006. See Item 7A “Major Shareholders.”
We are not currently paying dividends and we may not pay dividends in the future.
     Until we make a profit, our directors will not be able to recommend that any dividends be paid to our shareholders. Our directors will not resolve a formal dividend policy for us until we generate profits. Our future profitability will depend on future earnings, as well as our working capital requirements. Our directors’ current intention is to reinvest our income in the continued development and operation of our business. We may continue to generate operating losses on research projects until such time as our technology, or products resulting from research into our technology, are successfully commercialized. There are a number of factors beyond our control and our directors’ control, for example changes in technology, market competition, exchange rate fluctuations and governmental policy, which may also impact on our profitability and ability to pay dividends.
We have been, and likely will be again, classified as a passive foreign investment company for U.S. federal income tax purposes.
     We believe that we were a passive foreign investment company (“PFIC”) for U.S. federal income tax purposes in 2000, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005 and 2006 but not in 2001 and 2007. Metal Storm could become a PFIC again in the future.
     For any U.S. holder that owns our American Depositary Shares or ordinary shares during any taxable year in which we qualify as a PFIC, our status as a PFIC could, among other things, have a material effect on the timing and character of income and gain, for U.S. federal income tax purposes, with respect to the holder’s American Depositary Shares or ordinary shares. It could also have a material adverse effect on the amount of U.S. federal income tax owed by the U.S. holder as a result of owning, receiving dividends on or disposing of American Depositary Shares or ordinary shares. See Item 10E “Additional Information—Taxation—U.S. Federal Income Tax Considerations—Passive Foreign Investment Company Status” for a more detailed description of the U.S. tax consequences of owning stock in a PFIC.
     U.S. holders are urged to consult their tax advisors regarding the consequences of owning and disposing of American Depositary Shares or ordinary shares, including the desirability of making, and the availability of, certain elections with respect to our American Depositary Shares or ordinary shares. Metal Storm provides no advice on your taxation matters. The above should not be taken as advice by the reader of this document.
Our ADR holders are not shareholders and do not have shareholder rights.
     The Bank of New York, as depositary, executes and delivers our American Depositary Receipts, or ADRs, on our behalf. Each ADR is a certificate evidencing a specific number of American Depositary Shares, also referred to as ADSs. Our ADR holders will not be treated as shareholders and do not have the rights of shareholders. The depositary will be the holder of the shares underlying our ADRs. Holders of our ADRs will have ADR holder rights. A deposit agreement among us, the depositary and our ADR holders, and the beneficial owners of ADRs, sets out ADR holder rights as well as the rights and obligations of the depositary. New York law governs the deposit agreement and the ADRs.
     Our ADR holders do not have the same voting rights as our shareholders. Shareholders are entitled to our notices of general meetings and to attend and vote at our general meetings of shareholders. At a general meeting, every shareholder present (in person or by proxy, attorney or representative) and entitled to vote has one vote on a show of hands. Every shareholder present (in person or by proxy, attorney or representative) and entitled to vote has one vote per fully paid ordinary share on a poll. This is subject to any other rights or restrictions which may be attached to any shares. Our ADR holders may instruct the depositary to vote the ordinary shares underlying their ADRs, but only if we ask the depositary to ask for their instructions. If we do not ask the depositary to ask for the instructions, our ADR holders are not entitled to receive our notices of general meeting or instruct the depositary how to vote. Our ADR holders will not be entitled to attend and vote at a general meeting unless they withdraw the ordinary shares. However, our ADR holders may not know about the meeting enough in advance to withdraw the shares. If we ask for our ADR holders’ instructions, the depositary will notify our ADR holders of the upcoming vote and arrange to deliver our voting materials and form of notice to them.
     The depositary will try, as far as practical, subject to Australian law and the provisions of the depositary agreement, to vote the shares as our ADR holders instruct. The depositary will not vote or attempt to exercise the right to vote other than in accordance with the instructions of the ADR holders. We cannot assure our ADR holders that they will receive the voting materials in time to ensure

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that they can instruct the depositary to vote their shares. In addition, there may be other circumstances in which our ADR holders may not be able to exercise voting rights.
Item 4. Information on Metal Storm
A. History and Development of Metal Storm
     Our legal and commercial name is Metal Storm Limited, which was incorporated under the laws of Australia on April 13, 1994. Our principal office is located at Building 4, 848 Boundary Road, Richlands, Queensland, Australia 4077. Our telephone number is 011-61-7-3123-4700. Our website address is www.metalstorm.com. Information on our website and websites linked to it do not constitute part of this annual report. In 2001, our subsidiary Metal Storm Inc. opened an office in Arlington, Virginia, which is close to the Pentagon. Our agent for service of process in the United States is Mr. Peter D. Faulkner, 4350 N. Fairfax Drive, Suite 810, Arlington, VA 22203.
     In 1994, we acquired patents and intellectual property from Mr. J.M. O’Dwyer. In consideration for these patents, we issued to Mr. J.M. O’Dwyer 1,125,000 ordinary shares. Between May 1994 and March 1999, a total of 2,625,000 ordinary shares were issued to a variety of investors raising a total of A$1,993,875.
     In anticipation of our initial public offering in Australia, we effected a 21.4 to 1 stock split in March 1999 that increased our issued capital from 3,750,002 to 80,250,042 ordinary shares. In June 1999, we raised A$12 million in an initial public offering in Australia by offering and selling 4,000,000 ordinary shares at an issue price of A$3.00 per share. Our ordinary shares were listed on the Australian Securities Exchange in July 1999 under the symbol “MST.” In May 2000, we effected a 5 to 1 stock split, thereby increasing our issued capital from 84,250,042 to 421,250,210 ordinary shares.
     In 2000, we commenced a Level 1 American Depositary Receipts (“ADR”) program with The Bank of New York as depositary and our ADRs traded on the over-the-counter market. In December 2001, we commenced a Level 2 ADR program with The Bank of New York as depositary and our ADRs commenced trading on the NASDAQ Capital Market under the ticker symbol “MTSX”. From 2001 through 2004, we raised A$27.3 million through a share purchase plan that was available only to Australian residents and various private placements of ordinary shares in Australia.
     In December 2003, we acquired Seattle-based ProCam Machine LLC (“ProCam”) in exchange for the issuance of 5,524,926 ordinary shares of Metal Storm Limited and US$189,739 (A$256,716) cash. As part of this acquisition, Metal Storm assumed US$2.2 million (A$2.9 million) in debt. ProCam is a manufacturer of precision-machined parts for the defense, electronics, aircraft and space propulsion industries. In June 2005, Metal Storm sold the ProCam business.
     In May 2006, we raised A$2.7 million, net of transactions costs, through a share purchase plan available only to shareholders resident in Australia and New Zealand. In September 2006, we raised A$25.6 million net of transaction costs, under a fully underwritten renounceable rights offer (“Rights Offer”) of convertible notes available only to shareholders resident in Australia and New Zealand. The Rights Offer was made concurrently with an offer of one new share option for every convertible note allotted.
B. Business Overview
     Metal Storm is a defense technology company with offices in Australia and the United States. We specialize in the research, design, development and integration of projectile launching systems utilizing our “electronically initiated/stacked projectile” technology for use in the defense, homeland security, law enforcement and industrial markets.
Strategy
     The 40mm weapons system category has been chosen as our primary focus in the short to medium term because we believe it provides the quickest path to the initial commercialization of our technology. We believe that Metal Storm technology is ideally suited to the 40mm category because the market for 40mm weapons and munitions is worldwide and covers both military and law enforcement sectors and this market is growing due to the increased use of 40mm weapons in modern warfare.
     Most contracted research and development projects are for 40mm weapons systems or components so the development work required aligns to the strategy points discussed above. Contracted research and development projects provide a valuable source of market opportunities as well as generating revenue. Contracts are generally funded by potential customers and are a recognized channel to market, particularly in the U.S. defense industry, where they can lead to eventual purchase orders.

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     Our focus over the past 18 months has been to continue with the commercialization strategy of 40mm weapons system. This has included meeting the performance requirements of the Trust Deed governing our convertible notes. Specifically these were to demonstrate to the satisfaction of Noteholders or an independent expert appointed by the Trustee by June 30, 2007:
     (i) two fully functional prototypes of stabilized remotely operable weapons systems, including an Electro Optic Systems Pty Limited (“Electro Optic Systems”) electronic fire control system (known as “Redback™”) and a Metal Storm Ballistic Weapon that are assembled and ready for inspection;
     (ii) two fully functional prototype units of the Three Shot Grenade Launcher (known as “3GL”) are assembled and ready for inspection; and
     (iii) a successful live test firing of low velocity air burst rounds and low velocity high explosive rounds suitable for Metal Storm Ballistic Weapons in conjunction with Singapore Technologies Kinetics Ltd (“ST Kinetics”).
     These performance requirements were aligned with Metal Storm’s commercialization strategy and were successfully achieved in June 2007.
     The majority of our current and ongoing work is focused on low velocity/low pressure systems with progression into some specific higher velocity applications planned to occur in the near future. Metal Storm’s current commercialization strategy has the following key elements:
    completing the engineering of current Metal Storm 40mm weapon system components to a standard suitable for certification by relevant government agencies;
 
    building and demonstrating new and selected existing weapon prototypes designed to attract demand for early adoption by end-users;
 
    producing weapon prototypes to customer specifications in funded programs;
 
    obtaining certification of components and product prototypes by relevant government agencies, particularly the U.S. Department of Defense;
 
    merging our technology into fully integrated weapons systems that are adaptable to a variety of applications in current demand by military customers;
 
    securing customer production orders for certified products; and
 
    using the successful commercialization of 40mm weapons systems as a platform from which we can then branch out into other weapons categories and other applications of our core technology.
     We have entered in to a Joint Collaboration Agreement with Singapore Technologies Kinetics to collaborate in the design, development, testing, qualification and manufacture of prototypes and demonstration weapons and munitions as well as the commercial production and marketing of munitions and selected Metal Storm ballistic weapons that use those munitions. This agreement is expected to provide appropriately-qualified munitions and 3-shot grenade launcher (“3GL”) weapons for soldiers to trial and prepare these weapons for full-scale production.
     We continue to submit proposals for funded contracts based on the Metal Storm 40mm weapons systems and other calibers as opportunities arise.
     To help us achieve these goals, we have populated Metal Storm with highly qualified professional staff with specific skills and experience in required areas, built a strong team of engineers and scientists to focus on the accelerated development of potential products and increased our business development activities in key U.S. defense and homeland security markets and selected international markets.

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Recent achievements
     Recent achievements, arising out of this strategic focus, include the successful completion of live firing trials and demonstrations of the 40mm weapons technology in several different configurations, including:
    the successful test firing of the Redback™ weapon system and munitions in collaboration with Electro Optic Systems and ST Kinetics in February 2006, March 2007, April 2007 and June 2007;
 
    the successful live fire demonstration of the FireStorm™ weapons system with non-lethal munitions for the U.S. Army in December 2007;
 
    the initial test firing and trials of a prototype high explosive 40mm grenade assembly developed in collaboration with ARDEC in March 2006;
 
    the successful live fire demonstrations of the MAUL 18mm grenade launcher to the U.S. Marine Corp in February 2008;
 
    successful live fire demonstration from an unmanned aerial vehicle in collaboration with Dragonfly Pictures Inc. in September 2006;
 
    ongoing development and firings of the 3GL weapons; and
 
    ongoing refinement and development of munitions for use in all Metal Storm 40mm weapons systems.
      Engineering
     Metal Storm has progressed from the rapid iteration stage of development to a longer development cycle as the product is refined beyond proof of concept to a commercial ready product. System and quality testing along with system safety are key elements of this phase. This involves the mutual development of the system and the munitions to provide a complete solution.
     Most of the above work is being carried out in our Australian office, while our U.S. office is focused on contract performance on customer-specified systems. The combined tactics of systems development and application insertion are designed to help assure customer interest in Metal Storm-enabled systems, while providing feedback to Metal Storm engineers.
     The current labor breakdown is that approximately 90% of the Australian engineering effort is focused on 3GL weapon systems and associated munitions with 10% focused on other 40mm systems. In the United States, approximately 90% of the engineering effort is concentrated on contracted systems development and 10% is on internal research and development for systems improvements.
      Business Development
     Our strategy is to focus on winning commercial contracts for the supply and integration of our weapon systems. Our business model is to integrate our unique technology into a range of military systems as the foundation for growing a wider business. We aim to generate a range of products that exploit the unique selling points of our technology and which match current market needs in areas where sustainable long-term profit growth is possible. Our business development effort is focused on building a customer base for a line of products predominately based on our 40mm weapons system technology.
     A key element of our business development strategy is live-fire demonstrations to showcase the technical and operational capabilities of our technology and prototype products. These demonstrations serve a technical development and data gathering purpose, and a business development purpose. Typically we seek to conduct these demonstrations for a select audience of military and defense industry decision-makers.
     Metal Storm also seeks business partners who are experts in key areas such as target acquisition and aiming, turreting and recoil management systems, and communications protocols. In the area of targeting, we are interested in all available technologies, including optical, laser, radar and infrared functionalities. We are also seeking partners among software and communications companies that can help Metal Storm further develop the essential command, control, communications and computer capabilities needed for remotely controlled systems. As business development efforts continue, we expect to receive contracts to produce prototypes and otherwise take our products through the development and testing phases.

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Technology
     Metal Storm’s technology is an electronically initiated, stacked projectile system that removes the mechanisms required to fire a conventional weapon. Effectively, the only parts that move in Metal Storm’s technology are the projectiles contained within the barrels. Multiple projectiles are stacked in a barrel. The technology allows each projectile to be fired sequentially from the barrel.
     Metal Storm’s fully loaded barrel tubes are essentially serviceable weapons, without the traditional ammunition feed or ejection system, breech opening or any other moving parts. Metal Storm barrels can be effectively grouped in multiple configurations to meet a diversity of applications.
     Metal Storm’s technology is ideally suited to the new generation of ‘network centric’ weapons that are designed to connect with today’s battlefield. Importantly, Metal Storm enabled systems are designed to be capable of local or remote operation through a computerized fire control system. This is of particular value as combat becomes focused on remotely operated weapons and the use of robotic platforms.
     Our technology achieves its performance through the concept of numerous projectiles stacked in a barrel, in which each projectile, in most configurations, has its own propellant load, such that the leading propellant can be reliably ignited to fire the projectile, without the resulting high pressure and temperature causing unplanned blow-by ignition of the following propellant load, and without collapse of the projectile column in the barrel.
     Our technology has the following features and benefits:
    electronically programmable rates of fire from single shots to ultra-rapid rates;
 
    no moving parts, resulting in increased reliability and availability because there is less maintenance required and decreased possibility of malfunction;
 
    increased firepower to weight ratio resulting in a lighter weapon with greater firepower compared to conventional weapons;
 
    modular pods that could operate as a complete weapon system in one container;
 
    100% electronic operation;
 
    the potential of grouping multiple calibers and multiple lethalities in one gun allowing the user to vary the use to a specific situation;
 
    numerous hybrid configurations and capability for special applications; and
 
    fast second round strike capability before recoil effect.
Joint Collaboration Agreement with ST Kinetics
     In February 2008, Metal Storm entered into a Joint Collaboration Agreement with ST Kinetics that is designed to progress the 3GL and 40mm munitions to the manufacturing stage. Metal Storm and ST Kinetics have agreed to collaborate in the design, development, testing, qualification, manufacture of prototypes and demonstration weapons and munitions as well as the commercial production and marketing of munitions and selected Metal Storm ballistic weapons that only use those munitions. Both parties will contribute funds toward completing the demonstration and trial 3GL weapons and munitions. The agreement is expected to result in munitions that are compatible with all of Metal Storms’ 40mm weapons and could allow Metal Storm to expand its operationally-ready munitions to additional types. The agreement terminates in December 2020, unless terminated earlier pursuant to the terms of the agreement.
     In September 2005, Metal Storm entered into an exclusive Teaming Agreement with ST Kinetics for the development, testing, manufacture and marketing of munitions to be used in conjunction with Metal Storm projects. The agreement terminates in December 2012 unless terminated earlier by joint agreement of the parties or upon a default by one party. The agreement provides that intellectual property that is developed solely by one party under the agreement will be owned solely by that party. Intellectual property that is developed through the collaboration of both parties will be owned solely or jointly by Metal Storm, except for technology

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relating to the internal workings of the warheads, which will be owned by ST Kinetics. Each party is responsible for its own development costs under the agreement.
Internal Product Development
     Currently, the two primary internally-funded development programs consist of Redback™, which is a four barrel pod for a rapid slewing weapons mount, and 3GL, which is a rifle-mounted or handheld three-shot grenade launcher. The research not only encompasses the weapons themselves, but also associated electronic fire control systems and projectile technology.
      3GL
     The 3GL is a modular semi-automatic grenade launcher that is being designed to attach to an existing assault rifle and be capable of being mounted to a separate stock for stand-alone use. The advantage of the system is that it would be able to fire three grenade rounds without reloading, enabling the soldier to maintain aim at the target. It is expected that, once developed, the 3GL would provide a higher probability of hitting a target than a conventional grenade launcher. This project is being developed entirely by Metal Storm with munitions potentially being supplied by ST Kinetics. Several 3GL proof-of-concept models have been built and successfully tested in Australia and in Singapore. Under the collaborative agreement with ST Kinetics, a commercialization program for the 3GL is underway with the goal of having the weapon qualified for firing by the end of 2008.
      Redback™
     The Redback™ weapons system is a multi-barreled pod that is designed to detect a target, slew into position, and be fired at extremely high speeds. The system includes detection, acquisition and tracking electronics that are ultimately aimed at protecting vehicles from incoming rocket-propelled grenade, or RPG, attacks. Unlike other anti-RPG systems, Redback™ could be used as a conventional weapon for engaging conventional targets.
     Redback™ is being developed in a consortium with Electro Optic Systems, who will supply the gimbal, mount and acquisition and tracking electronics, and ST Kinetics, who will provide the ammunition. The weapon components are being funded and developed by Metal Storm. The Redback™ program commenced in November 2005. The project has already demonstrated the adaptation of existing ST Kinetics high explosive rounds to Metal Storm configuration for stacking ammunition in a barrel. Trials witnessed by an independent expert were conducted in Singapore in June 2007, proving it had reached fully functional prototype status. Electro Optic Systems is currently working on its targeting and sensor suite for anti-RPG Applications.
     Effective August 2005, Metal Storm entered into an exclusive Teaming Agreement with Electro Optic Systems for the joint development, manufacturing and marketing of a stabilized remote weapon system. The agreement terminates on December 31, 2012 unless terminated earlier by joint agreement of the parties or upon the occurrence of certain termination events. Each party is responsible for its own development costs under the agreement. The agreement provides that intellectual property which is developed solely by one party under the agreement will be owned solely by that party. Intellectual property that is developed through the collaboration of both parties will be owned by Electro Optic Systems except for technology that can only be utilized in connection with Metal Storm’s stacked-round systems, which will be owned by Metal Storm. If a weapon system developed under the agreement is ordered by a customer, Metal Storm will be paid for the components it provides under the terms of a separate purchase agreement.
      FireStorm
     FireStorm is a lightweight multi barrel 40mm electronic weapon system that is expected to provide solutions to the defense, security and law enforcement communities. The system can be mounted to fixed or mobile platforms to provide mission support for operations to include:
    military operations on urban terrain;
 
    reconnaissance patrol;
 
    border patrol;
 
    critical infrastructure protection; and
 
    crowd control.
     FireStorm has successfully demonstrated its capabilities under separate contracts for the U.S. Navy and U.S. Army. Recent demonstrations have proven the system capable of delivering high explosive and a range of less-lethal munitions.

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      Fireworks
     Metal Storm holds a number of patents relating to the formation of aerial images. The fireworks research is intended to add value to this intellectual property. Initial development has demonstrated the ability to launch, spin-stabilize and light the fuse of fireworks projectiles in a stacked configuration. There are currently no specific fireworks products under development.
      Systems for Unmanned Vehicles
     Metal Storm weapon systems are well suited to robotic vehicle applications as they are lightweight with all projectiles pre-stacked in the barrel. Additionally, with the lack of mechanical parts associated with conventional reload systems, the weapons are expected to be reliable and suitable for tele-robotic applications.
     Metal Storm has already demonstrated such systems, including a series of live fire demonstrations that were held at the U.S. Army’s range facility at Picatinny Arsenal in New Jersey in March 2005. The demonstrations consisted of multiple live firings of a purpose-built version of the Metal Storm 40mm weapon system, mounted on a TALON unmanned ground vehicle produced by Foster Miller.
     We have also worked with Dragonfly Pictures Inc., a U.S. designer/manufacturer of unmanned helicopters, to weaponize a version of its DP-4X Vertical Take Off and Landing Unmanned Aerial Vehicle. Demonstrations of this system were held in September 2006.
     In October 2007 Metal Storm entered into an memorandum of understanding with iRobot, a worldwide leader in the supply of military robots. The FireStorm weapon has been integrated with the iRobot Warrior robot. This was successfully demonstrated to both the U.S. Army and U.S. Navy proving its ability to deliver 40mm less-lethal and lethal rounds from a remote robotic platform.
     Metal Storm continues to pursue opportunities for the application of its technology to unmanned robotic platforms.
      MAUL
     The Metal Storm Multi-Shot Accessory Underbarrel Launcher (“MAUL”) is a lightweight 12-gauge gun system that attaches to the barrel of the M4 and M16 individual combat weapons. The MAUL uses Metal Storm’s stacked round firing system to allow four shots to be simultaneously loaded in a single chamber to maximize mission effectiveness.
     Traditionally soldiers have carried separate weapons to perform door-breaching and less-lethal force missions. The MAUL, which attaches to the primary weapons, allows both missions to be performed by a single weapon system with minimal weight overhead.
     Originally developed as a door-breaching capability, the MAUL is capable of firing both lethal and less-lethal munitions. It is bore sight aligned to the host gun sighting system.
     Constructed from carbon fibre with a steel barrel, the MAUL weighs only 2.75 pounds. Because there is no conventional mechanical action, the MAUL exhibits superior performance over other 12-gauge guns and operates over a wider range of climatic conditions. The MAUL is powered from a single, common stock, military grade lithium ion battery and will provide months of use from a single cell.
      Handgun
     We have been developing a production prototype “smartgun” version of the Metal Storm electronically initiated handgun, which is based on our small caliber launching system in conjunction with the New Jersey Institute of Technology (“NJIT”). Using the NJIT’s Dynamic Grip Recognition authorizing technology, this product would be designed to meet the requirements specified under legislation in the State of New Jersey, and then other markets.
     After thorough analyses of the state of our handgun technology, the challenges of obtaining certification, likely production and marketing costs, the state of competition and market sensitivities, and the time and funds required to successfully generate a product, it is clear that the handgun in either its basic or smartgun form, should not be our primary focus for internal investment at this time.
      Electronically Initiated Munitions Development — ST Kinetics

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     This program involves the development of a range of electronically initiated munitions in collaboration with ST Kinetics, specifically for use with Metal Storm weapons. The range will be based on the existing ST Kinetics family of 40mm munition types, adapted to Metal Storm configuration. The program commenced in September 2005. High explosive and enhanced blast rounds plus air burst munitions were successfully test-fired in February 2006, June 2007 and March 2008.
External Development Programs
     In addition to our internal product development programs, we seek external funding from military and government agencies to develop products in collaboration with other parties.
      U.S. Navy SBIR Contract — Metal Storm Active Protection System
     This contract was for the development of a remotely controlled Active Protection System for mounting on various types of unmanned ground vehicles. It was funded through a Phase II Small Business Innovation Research (“SBIR”) contract sponsored by the U.S. Navy’s Space and Naval Warfare Systems Command and the Office of Naval Research. Metal Storm provided an unattended remotely operated weapon system designed to operate in a networked environment for the protection of very high value assets. The contract, which commenced in January 2006, was completed in March 2008.
      U.S. Army SBIR Contract — Metal Storm Crowd Control System
     This contract was for the development and testing of a Crowd Control System using Metal Storm 40mm weapons technology and less-lethal munitions. It was funded through a U.S. Army Phase II SBIR contract sponsored by the U.S. Army ARDEC. The contract required Metal Storm to develop and fabricate specific less-lethal rounds capable of being fired from Metal Storm weapon systems in a variety of configurations as a means to control potentially hostile crowds from infringing upon or interrupting ongoing operations. This contract, which commenced in December 2005, was completed in January 2008.
      StarChase Contract — Pursuit Management System Phase II Lead System Integrator
     StarChase LLC engaged Metal Storm to act as the lead systems integrator on the commercialization of the patented StarChase vehicle tagging technology. The contract required Metal Storm to generate a production-ready configuration of the StarChase system, and to produce, implement, and provide support for a limited number of systems to be used for operational testing. The contract commenced in May 2006 and was completed in October 2007. Metal Storm is continuing to provide services to StarChase in support of the product commercialization.
      U.S. Marine Corps — 18mm Stacked Round Firing System
     This contract was for the design, fabrication and test of 18mm stacked round firing systems. Under the terms of the contract, Metal Storm explored the feasibility of employing 18mm fin stabilized high explosive projectiles from an accessory under-barrel weapon for the M-16A4 service rifle. The firing technology led to a test bed capability potentially leading to U.S. Marine Corps experimentation with larger diameter finned projectiles than are possible with shot gun-launched munitions. The contract was announced in July 2006 and was successfully completed in March 2008.
      U.S. Navy — 12-gauge Multi-shot Grenade Launcher
     In June 2008, the U.S. Office of Naval Research awarded a contract to further develop a 12-guage, multi-short grenade launcher. The contract was awarded on “cost plus fixed fee” basis and is valued at US$936,695. This project will extend work performed previously under a contract with the U.S. Marine Corps for a Multi-Shot Accessory Underbarrel Launcher. The MAUL is a lightweight grenade launcher and shotgun attachment that fits under the barrel of a combat weapon such as the M-16 or M-4.
      U.S. Army — Explosive Ordinance Disposal
     Under this contract with the U.S. Army, Metal Storm completed the preliminary design for a multiple shot disrupter to counter Improvised Explosive Devices (“IED”) and other explosive devises. This was received as a sole source, fixed price contract from the U.S. Army. The success of this preliminary design effort may lead to a follow on effort where design details will be finalized and proof guns and munitions will be fabricated. This contract was awarded in 2006 and was completed in June 2007.

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      U.S. Navy — Weapons Pod Assembly and Spares
     Under this purchase order with the U.S. Naval Surface Warfare Center, Dahlgren Division, Metal Storm delivered a 4-barrel weapons pod, fire control unit, and 3-spare weapon assemblies for bench and field testing and evaluation. The purchase order was awarded July 2007 and completed in October 2007. Metal Storm is continuing to support the U.S. Navy in the integration of the Metal Storm weapons with its Cougar vehicle.
      Commercial Contract — Design Support Services
     Under this contract, Metal Storm is providing design support and participating in a series of tests for a major defense contractor. The contract was awarded in late December 2007 and is scheduled to be completed in September 2008.
Research Agreements with Government Agencies
     We currently have no active agreement with Australian government agencies for the development of our technology.
Competition
     Until we commercialize a product using our technology, we continue to compete for technology research and development funding available through various areas that are administered by the U.S. Department of Defense and other government agencies, including, for example, under the SBIR Program.
     The commercial success of products that we develop will depend in part on competing products. Large, well-established defense companies and other entities with collaborative arrangements with the government are also engaged in research and development and may have considerably greater resources than us to develop applications for defense technology. We cannot be certain that our competitors will not succeed in developing technologies and products that are more effective than any which we are developing, or which would render our technology and products obsolete or non-competitive.
     We also compete with manufacturers of handguns in developing the technology for our handgun. These companies are in the process of developing or have developed technology that may have some of the same or similar features to our handgun.
Regulation
     Our research and development activities are, and the production and marketing of the products that we are developing are likely to be, subject to regulation by governmental authorities in Australia, the United States and other countries where we may market our technology. Prior to marketing, our technology and any product may be required to undergo rigorous testing as well as extensive regulatory approval processes.
      Australia
     We have authority under the Weapons Act 1990 (Queensland) to engage in scientific or experimental work. In compliance with the Australian Weapons Act and Australian Controls on the Export of Defense and Strategic Goods, we have a weapons movement procedure policy. We do not currently envisage manufacturing any products in Australia, however, in the event that we do, we would be required to obtain a manufacturer’s license to enable us to manufacture and export our products. In addition, we would be regulated by the Australian Department of Defense Export Controls under which we would be required to obtain an export distribution license. Licenses and permits may be difficult to obtain and retain depending on government policies, customs, changes in political leadership, and other factors. These processes and obtaining licensing and permits may take many years and require the expenditure of substantial resources.
     To the extent our activities under Australian government contracts may require access to or result in the development of information classified by the Australian government, such activities may become subject to Australian government regulations.
     Products to be manufactured using our technology may also be subject to government regulation. These may include regulations governing use, specification, manufacture, handling, disposal, packaging, labeling, transport and import and export in Australia and in each of the countries into which such products are intended to be exported.
    United States

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     Sales to U.S. military and to federal law enforcement agencies will be regulated by the U.S. Federal Acquisition Regulations and Defense Federal Acquisition Regulations. Sales to local and state law enforcement agencies will be subject to the procurement regulations of the jurisdictions involved, as well as applicable Federal regulations. We plan to be in compliance with all regulatory and licensing requirements.
     To the extent our activities under U.S. government contracts may require access to or result in the development of information classified by the U.S. government, such activities may become subject to U.S. government regulations, including the Defense Industrial Security Regulations and the National Industrial Security Program Operating Manual, which impose restrictions on a foreign company’s ability to control or to have access to information in the possession of a cleared U.S. company performing classified contracts. The U.S. and Australian governments have entered into a Statement of Principles for Enhanced Cooperation in Matters of Defense Equipment and Industry that is intended to facilitate sharing classified information between the governments and cleared companies.
Intellectual Property
     We principally rely upon patents, trade secret, copyright and contract law to protect the intellectual property in our proprietary technology. See Item 3D “Key Information — Risk Factors” for a discussion of risks associated with protecting our intellectual property.
     We aggressively pursue patent applications for new inventions. Since our inception, we have filed many patent applications, including, but not limited to, applications relating to:
    stacked projectile delivery systems and stacked projectile weapon systems, in particular the sealing, reload and ignition thereof;
 
    technology related to encoding weapons to permit authorized access only;
 
    ammunition and projectiles;
 
    electronic firing technology;
 
    area denial;
 
    fire fighting;
 
    seismic testing;
 
    increased first shot kill probability;
 
    multi-barrel systems;
 
    fireworks;
 
    missile defense and target interception;
 
    directional control of missiles;
 
    unmanned aerial vehicle weaponization;
 
    adapting conventional munitions to Metal Storm configuration; and
 
    selectable kinetic energy systems.
     As of December 31, 2007, we were maintaining:
    25 granted U.S. patents and 15 pending U.S. patents;
 
    24 granted Australian patents and 13 pending Australian patent applications including one allowed application; and
 
    158 other patents granted outside the United States and Australia and 152 pending applications outside the United States and Australia, including 10 allowed applications (including 16 pending European Patent Convention and 3 PCT applications).
Raw Materials
     We use the following principal raw materials: aluminum, steel, steel alloys, graphite fiber, epoxy resins, adhesives, nitrates, propellants and general electronic materials. Such materials are easily obtained from a variety of sources and are generally readily available in the market. With the exception of aluminum and steel, the prices of such materials have not been subject to large fluctuations.
Seasonality

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     Our business is primarily research and development and is not subject to seasonality fluctuations. However, U.S. Department of Defense contracts are typically awarded on a cyclical basis, and many of our research and development programs will follow this cycle.
C. Organizational Structure
     Not applicable.
D. Property, Plant and Equipment
     We lease approximately 16,194 square feet of office and workshop space in Richlands, Australia. The annual gross rental payments are approximately A$130,716 payable in monthly installments of approximately A$10,893. The lease expires on June 30, 2009.
     We lease approximately 6,149 square feet of office space in Arlington, Virginia. The annual gross rent effective March 2007 is US$213,432 (A$233,724), payable in monthly installments of approximately US$17,786 (A$19,477). The lease expires on June 30, 2010.
Item 4A. Unresolved Staff Comments
     Not applicable.
Item 5. Operating and Financial Review and Prospects
     You should read the following discussion and analysis in conjunction with Item 3A “Key Information — Selected Financial Data” and our consolidated financial statements, the notes to the consolidated financial statements and other financial information appearing elsewhere in this annual report. The consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards (“IFRS”). In addition to historical information, the following discussion and other parts of this annual report contain forward-looking statements that reflect our plans, estimates, intentions, expectations and beliefs. Our actual results could differ materially from those discussed in the forward-looking statements. See Item 3D “Key Information — Risk Factors” and other forward-looking statements in this annual report for a discussion of some, but not all factors that could cause or contribute to such differences.
A. Operating Results
Overview
     Metal Storm Limited was incorporated as a private company in Australia in April 1994. We are a defense technology company that is involved in the research, development and commercialization of projectile launching systems that utilize electronically fired, “stacked projectile” technology. In 2007, we worked on several contracts with various U.S. government departments and private companies.
     In order to meet Metal Storm’s objectives to develop, manufacture and market commercial products effectively, we may require further funding until such time that product sales are of sufficient volume to generate positive cash flows from operations. This has taken longer and has cost more than originally anticipated. Based on the expected levels of operating expenditures, in order to continue its operations past mid-2009, Metal Storm may require additional sources of capital. While Metal Storm has previously been successful in raising additional capital, there can be no assurance that we will be able to raise sufficient capital to continue our operations. If we are unsuccessful in our efforts to obtain sufficient financing to continue to fund our current operations, we will be required to significantly reduce or cease operations altogether.
     We intend to continue to devote substantial resources to research and development as we transition our technology from proof of concept to product implementation. Most of our funding for our external development programs has come from capital raisings in Australia. We have also received revenue from grants and contracts under various government programs. We fund our internal product development through our accumulated funds.

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     We have incurred net losses since our inception. We recognized a net loss of A$10.9 million, A$15.3 million and A$10.0 million in the years ended December 31, 2005, 2006 and 2007, respectively. Our accumulated losses from inception to December 31, 2007 are A$77.8 million. We expect to incur increasing losses in the foreseeable future as we continue to invest in the research and development of our patented electronically initiated “stacked projectile” technology prior to entering into commercialization phase. We expect that losses will fluctuate from period to period and that such fluctuations may be substantial as a result of, among other things, the results of our research and development programs, the number of future prototypes we produce and test and potential design changes required as a result of testing. We are approaching the latter stage of product development and do not expect any revenues from product sales until at least the second half of 2009. While there has been significant interest in our proof-of-concept demonstrations, we cannot give assurance that we will manufacture or sell our products successfully or ever achieve or sustain profitability.
Where We Derive Our Revenue
     In 2007 and 2006, our principal sources of revenue were systems integration work and interest income.
Critical Accounting Policies
     Our discussion and analysis of our operating and financial review and prospects are based upon our consolidated financial statements, which have been prepared in accordance with IFRS. The preparation of these consolidated financial statements requires us to make estimates and judgments that affect the reported amounts of revenue, assets, liabilities and expenses. We re-evaluate our estimates on an on-going basis. Our estimates are based on historical experience and on various other assumptions that we believe to be reasonable under the circumstances. Actual results may differ from these estimates under different assumptions or conditions.
     We believe the following are our critical accounting policies that affect our more significant judgments and estimates used in the preparation of our financial statements.
      Revenue Recognition
     Revenue is recognized and measured at the fair value of the consideration received or receivable to the extent that it is probable that the economic benefits will flow to Metal Storm and the revenue can be reliably measured. The following specific recognition criteria must also be met before revenue is recognized:
      Sale of goods
     Revenue is recognized when the significant risks and rewards of ownership of the goods have passed to the buyer and the costs incurred or to be incurred in respect of the transaction can be measured reliably. Risks and rewards of ownership are considered passed to the buyer at the time of delivery of the goods to and acceptance by the customer, and collectibility of the selling price is reasonably assured.
      Rendering of services
     Revenue is recognized when key milestones or deliverables specified within each agreement are achieved and accepted by all parties to the agreement, no performance obligation with respect to the milestone or deliverables remains, the arrangement fee is fixed, and collectibility is reasonably assured. For most of our contract service revenue arrangements, revenue is recognized upon delivery of a report summarizing the findings of specified research activities requested by our customers. For those contracts requiring acceptance of the delivery of our report by our customers, we recognize revenue upon receipt of written acceptance or payment in lieu of written acceptance.
      Construction contracts
     Construction revenue and expenses are recognized in accordance with the percentage of completion method unless the outcome of the contract cannot be reliably estimated. Where it is probable that a loss will arise from a construction contract, the excess of total expected contract costs over total expected contract revenue is recognized as an expense immediately.

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     For fixed price contracts, the stage of completion is measured by reference to labor hours incurred to date as a percentage of estimated total labor hours for each contract. Revenue from cost-plus contracts is recognized by reference to the recoverable costs incurred during the reporting period plus the percentage of fees earned.
     The percentage of fees earned is measured by the proportion that costs incurred to date bear to the estimated total costs of the contract. Where the outcome of a contract cannot be reliably estimated, contract costs are recognized as an expense as incurred, and where it is probable that the costs will be recovered, revenue is recognized to the extent of costs incurred.
      Share-based payment transactions
     We provide benefits to employees (including directors) of Metal Storm in the form of share-based payment transactions, whereby employees render services in exchange for shares or rights over shares (“equity-settled transactions”). We currently provide these benefits through (i) options issued to executives and employees as part of a remuneration package issued in accordance with the power contained in our constitution and (ii) the Employee Share Option Plan (“ESOP”).
     The cost of these equity-settled transactions with employees is measured by reference to the fair value at the date at which they are granted. The fair value is determined using a Black-Scholes model. In valuing equity-settled transactions, no account is taken of any performance conditions, other than conditions linked to the price of the shares of Metal Storm (‘market conditions’). The cost of equity-settled transactions is recognized, together with a corresponding increase in equity, over the period in which the performance conditions are fulfilled, ending on the date on which the relevant employees become fully entitled to the award (‘vesting date’).
     The cumulative expense recognized for equity-settled transactions at each reporting date until vesting date reflects (i) the extent to which the vesting period has expired and (ii) the number of awards that, in the opinion of the Directors of Metal Storm, will ultimately vest. This opinion is formed based on the best available information at balance date. No adjustment is made for the likelihood of market performance conditions being met as the effect of these conditions is included in the determination of fair value at grant date.
Comparison of Annual Results of Operations
      2007 compared with 2006
      Revenue. Revenue increased by A$866,071 from A$2,339,310 in 2006 to A$3,205,381 in 2007 due to higher fees earned from systems integration work carried out by our U.S. office and higher interest income, which increased by A$595,768 to A$1,354,048 as a result of higher average cash balances.
     Contract revenue was generated from six contracts during 2007. In addition, we completed a long-term contract with StarChase LLC valued at US$1.2 million. While some revenue relating to this contract had been recognized in 2006, no revenue was recognized in 2007 because the terms of the contract provided for the delay of payment until 2008, which is when we expect to recognize the balance of revenue from this contract.
      Expenses. Total expenses decreased A$4.5 million (25%) from A$17.7 million in 2006 to A$13.2 million in 2007. Significant movements in expenses were:
    Employee expenses decreased A$1,133,346 (20.7%) from A$5,481,934 in 2006 to A$4,348,588 in 2007 due to a reduction in share based payments, termination payments and staff restructuring.
 
    Research and development expenses increased A$681,035 (68.8%) due to the increased costs of test firings associated with the performance milestones of the Trust Deed.
 
    Professional fees decreased A$410,227 (23.7%) primarily due to a non recurring expense in 2006 of A$399,141 associated with a proposed capital raising that was terminated in 2006.
 
    In 2007, we had a fair value movement gain of A$2,421,388 on the embedded derivative that reflects the movement in the fair value of the conversion option embedded in the convertible notes issued in 2006. In 2006, we had a fair value loss of A$4,469,042.

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    Finance expenses increased A$2,751,402 in 2007. Finance expenses primarily relate to the convertible notes that we issued in September 2006. Accordingly, interest and accretion expenses for 2006 reflect the period from September to December whereas finance expenses in 2007 reflect the full year.
      Net Loss. As a result of the foregoing, our net loss decreased from approximately A$15.3 million in 2006 to A$10.0 million in 2007. Due to our continuing losses, no income tax expense has been recognized.
      2006 compared with 2005
      Revenue. Revenue increased by A$1,508,665 from A$830,645 in 2005 to A$2,339,310 in 2006 principally due to higher fees earned from systems integration work carried out by our U.S. office on four contracts. This increase is also due in part to higher interest revenue, which increased by A$158,378 to A$758,280 due to additional interest earned which resulted from the increase in cash from the proceeds of the Rights Offer.
      Expenses. Total expenses, excluding finance costs, increased A$4.1 million (41%) from A$10.1 million in 2005 to A$15.5 million in 2006. Significant movements in operating expenses were:
    Employee expenses increased A$873,708 (19.6%) from A$4,468,640 in 2005 to A$5,342,348 in 2006, primarily due to the costs of additional staff employed throughout the year and executive bonuses.
 
    Professional fees decreased A$42,456 (2.4%) from A$1,774,369 in 2005 to A$1,731,913 in 2006 due to cost savings achieved through performing more work in-house rather than using external consultants. These savings were off-set by professional fees of A$399,141 associated with a proposed capital raising that commenced in 2005 and was terminated in 2006.
 
    Research and development expenses decreased A$156,342 (13.6%) from A$1,146,364 in 2005 to A$990,022 in 2006 reflecting the change in focus of the U.S. office from research and development on our internal programs to contract performance.
 
    Administrative expenses decreased A$97,284 (10.5%) from A$928,931 in 2005 to A$831,647 in 2006 primarily due to a aggressive cost saving activities.
 
    Facilities and equipment expenses increased A$218,950 (41.9%) from A$522,693 in 2005 to A$741,643 in 2006 primarily due to higher costs required to maintain two facilities in Brisbane for six months while a new engineering facility was being established plus higher depreciation costs resulting from the purchase of new plant and equipment.
 
    Travel and entertainment expenses increased A$89,573 (20.6%) from A$433,859 in 2005 to A$523,432 in 2006 primarily due to an increase in travel costs associated with research and development activities and A$65,200 of travel costs relating to a proposed capital raising that commenced in 2005 and was terminated in 2006.
 
    Public relations and compliance expenses decreased A$155,580 (31.4%) from A$494,786 in 2005 to A$339,206 primarily due to savings achieved through more work performed in-house rather than using external consultants.
 
    In 2006, we had an A$4,469,042 embedded derivative expense that reflects the movement in the fair value of the conversion option embedded in the convertible notes issued in 2006. The fair value of the liability component of convertible notes is carried as a current liability on an amortized cost basis until extinguished on conversion or redemption.
      Finance Cost. Our finance costs increased A$2,260,351 from A$35,496 in 2005 to A$2,183,013 in 2006 due to the issue of unsecured convertible notes in connection with the Rights Offer in September 2006. These finance costs include the accretion of the convertible note liability of A$753,262 and the quarterly interest payable on the convertible notes of A$897,327. The finance costs also include A$467,000 which represents the fair value of options issued to Harmony Investment Fund Limited (“Harmony”) in accordance with a facilitation agreement dated July 20, 2006. Harmony was sub-underwriter of the Rights Offer.
      Net Loss. As a result of the foregoing, our net loss increased from approximately A$10.9 million in 2005 to A$15.3 million in 2006. Due to our continuing losses, no income tax expense has been recognized.
Effects of Currency Fluctuations

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     Our functional currency and reporting currency is the Australian dollar.
     In accordance with IFRS, costs not denominated in Australian dollars are re-measured in Australian dollars, when recorded, at the prevailing exchange rates for the purposes of our financial statements. Consequently, fluctuations in the rates of exchange between the Australian dollar and U.S. dollar currencies will affect our results of operations. An increase in the value of a particular currency relative to the Australian dollar will increase the Australian dollar reporting value for transactions in that particular currency, and a decrease in the value of that currency relative to the Australian dollar will decrease the Australian dollar reporting value for those transactions.
     The effect of foreign currency translation is reflected in our financial statements in the statements of changes in shareholders’ equity and is reported as accumulated translation reserve. At December 31, 2007, the impact of the foreign currency translation was an accumulated reserve of (A$68,559) compared to accumulated reserve balance of (A$84,572) at December 31, 2006. The fluctuations are caused by fluctuations in the exchange rate between the Australian dollar and the U.S. dollar. We have not entered into any hedging arrangements to mitigate the effects of currency fluctuations.
B. Liquidity and Capital Resources
      Overview
     We have incurred substantial losses since the formation of Metal Storm and anticipate incurring substantial additional losses over at least the next few years as we continue our research and development activities and conduct further trials of our technology. Our operations have been financed primarily from capital contributions by investors, interest income earned on cash and cash equivalents, and grants from government agencies.
     The following table sets forth our consolidated cash flows for the past two years.
                 
    Year ended December 31
    2007   2006
    A$   A$
Net cash used in operating activities
    (11,255,896 )     (7,456,339 )
Net cash provided by investing activities
    2,214,431       2,603,896  
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities
    (59,772 )     28,046,849  
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash
    (1.482 )      
 
               
Net movement in cash and cash equivalents
    (9,102,719 )     23,194,406  
 
               
     Cash used in operating activities in each of the past two years consisted primarily of losses incurred in operations.
     In 2006, net cash provided by investing activities was a result of the sale of some of our fixed interest securities and the purchase of property, plant, and equipment. In 2007, net cash provided by investing activities consisted of interest income on deposits and the sale of financial investments.
     In 2006, financing activities were the result of a A$2.7 million, net of transaction costs, capital raising from shareholders resident in Australia and New Zealand through a share purchase plan conducted in May. In addition, we raised A$25.6 million net of costs in September 2006 through the Rights Offer. In 2007, financing activities consisted of the repayment of borrowings from short term loans.
      Borrowings
     In 2006, Metal Storm issued 203,703,704 convertible notes to existing shareholders in Australia and New Zealand at the rate of one convertible note for every 2.674 existing ordinary shares held to raise gross proceeds of A$27.5 million on September 1, 2006 under the Rights Offer. The Rights Offer was made concurrently with the offer of one new share option for every two convertible notes allotted, which resulted in 101,852,055 listed options being granted. In addition, 10 million options were granted to Harmony or its nominees in consideration for a short term working capital facility of A$5 million which was never drawn on by Metal Storm. A further 65 million options were issued to Harmony as payment for Harmony’s commitment to sub-underwrite the Rights Offer up to A$26.1 million.

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     Convertible notes bear interest at the rate of 10% per annum on the face value of A$0.135 per convertible note over the term. Interest is payable quarterly in arrears, however, Metal Storm may elect to defer payment of some or all of the interest for the first year. The term of the convertible notes is three years from the date of issue unless converted into ordinary shares. The maturity date of the convertible notes is September 1, 2009, at which time Metal Storm must repay the face value of A$0.135 per convertible note to the Noteholders, unless Noteholders have elected to convert some or all of their convertible notes into ordinary shares at a conversion price which is the lesser of A$0.135 or 90% of the volume weighted average price of Metal Storm’s ordinary shares during the 30 business days immediately preceding the conversion date. Noteholders can elect to convert some or all of their convertible notes into ordinary shares at the beginning of each quarter, at the maturity date and at certain other times.
     The convertible notes were issued under Trust Deed, the details of which are discussed in Item 10.C of this Form 20-F. It is possible that the convertible notes could become due and payable in 2008 if certain default events were to occur, most notably a breach of particular minimum cash levels. See Item 3D “Key Information— Risk Factors —We may be required to redeem convertible notes before maturity, which redemption could cause us to become insolvent.”
     Metal Storm has finance leases for workshop equipment and demountable buildings with a carrying amount of A$306,180. These leases expire within three years with no option to renew the leases or purchase the assets at the completion of the lease term. These finance leases are secured through a bank guarantee deposit.
     In addition, our annual insurance premiums are paid by a third party financier to whom we make monthly repayments with interest. In 2007, the amount of this insurance premium was A$419,703 of which A$36,465 (including interest) is payable per month.
      Other Material Commitments
     We had no material capital expenditures during the past two years and do not expect to incur any material capital expenditure in 2008.
      Future Cash Needs
     We expect that operating expenses will continue to be the principal use of our cash resources. Available cash resources are expected to provide us with sufficient capital to fund our operations through mid-2009. We will need to raise additional sources of funding before then and may seek it through equity or debt financings. The sale of additional equity or convertible debt could result in dilution to our shareholders. Additional debt would result in additional expenses and could result in covenants that would restrict our operations.
     Our convertible notes mature in September 2009. We are in discussions with our largest holder of our convertible notes, Harmony, to seek to extend the maturity date of the convertible notes. Under the Trust Deed entered into with the Trustee which governs the convertible notes, an affirmative vote of 75% of the holders of the outstanding convertible notes is required to effect an amendment extending the maturity date. As of June 2, 2008, Harmony held approximately 81% of the outstanding convertible notes. In addition, we are seeking to raise approximately A$6 million by way of a rights issue of new convertible notes to existing noteholders who reside outside the United States and a placement of new notes to Harmony. This proposal would require various consents and approvals, including existing noteholders and potentially shareholder approval, and could be subject to other conditions, including the sale by Harmony of some of its existing convertible notes. There can be no assurance that the maturity of the existing convertible notes will be extended or whether the proposed new issuance of convertible notes will occur or, if it does occur, what the terms would be.
C. Research and Development: Patents and Licenses
     Our primary activity since incorporation in 1994 has been the research and development of our technology. Expenditure on this activity was A$1.7 million and A$1.0 million for the years ended December 31, 2007 and 2006, respectively inclusive of the tax concession for research and development. Our policy is to focus our research on selected internal product development projects as well as external development programs under which we work in collaboration with other parties. See Item 4B “Information on Metal Storm — Business Overview”.
D. Trend Information
     We are a development stage company. Most of our technology requires further investment, research, development, testing and possibly regulatory approval prior to any commercial sales. We do not currently derive any revenue from the commercial sale of any applications of our technology. We cannot be sure of the extent to which the technology, or any products we develop, will be able to

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penetrate the potential markets and generate revenue. We believe that our future success depends on our ability to commercialize our technology. See Item 3D “Key Information — Risk Factors”.
E. Off-Balance sheet arrangements
     Not applicable.
F. Tabular disclosure of contractual obligations
     The following table summarizes our contractual obligations and commitments as of December 31, 2007:
                                         
    Payments due by period
    Total   Less Than                   More than
    A$   1 Year   1 — 3 Years   4 — 5 Years   5 Years
Capital (finance) lease obligations
    278,943       63,907       215,036          
Operating lease obligations
    919,951       443,858       476,093          
Convertible Notes
    24,041,577       2,060,868       21,980,709          
 
                               
Total
    25,240,471       2,568,633       22,671,838          
 
                               
Item 6. Directors, Senior Management and Employees
A. Directors and Senior Management
The following people comprise our board of directors and executive officers:
     
Name   Position
Terence J. O’Dwyer
  Chairman
Dr. Peter D. Jonson
  Director
John R. Nicholls
  Director
Dr. Lee J. Finniear
  Chief Executive Officer
Brett I. Farmer
  Chief Financial Officer
Peter D. Faulkner
  General Manager – MS Inc
Peter R. Wetzig
  Company Secretary
      Terence J. O’Dwyer. Mr. O’Dwyer, a chartered accountant in Australia, has been a director of Metal Storm since 1998. He was Executive Chairman between April 2006 and February 2007, when he assumed the day to day management of Metal Storm but, in line with our cost reduction strategy, did not receive any compensation for this role. He is a past Chairman of BDO Kendalls, a large Queensland accountancy firm of which he had been a partner for 28 years until his retirement in 2005. He is also a director of Bendigo Bank Limited and Qld Theatre Co.
      Dr. Peter D. Jonson. Dr. Jonson was appointed as a Director in February 2006. He has had government and commercial experience in leadership positions. He is a professional director and economist and spends a considerable part of his time directly or indirectly helping scientists and technologists produce commercial outcomes from their research. Dr. Jonson is a director of Pro Medicus Limited and Village Roadshow Limited and is chairman of Bionomics Ltd. Dr. Jonson is also Chairman of Australian Institute for Commercialisation, Australian Aerospace and Defense Innovations Ltd and the Australian Government’s Cooperative Research Centers Committee. He is Chairman Emeritus of the Melbourne Institute Advisory Board. He also held a number of senior positions as an economist with the Reserve Bank of Australia from 1972 to 1988.
      John R. Nicholls. Mr. Nicholls was appointed as a Director in September 2006 pursuant to an agreement with Harmony Capital Partners Pte Limited, which was a sub-underwriter for the Rights Offer. Mr. Nicholls has extensive experience with start-up and established companies, having held senior management positions and directorships for several Australian and international companies in the manufacturing, distribution, trading and merchant banking industries. He is a director of Nylex Limited and Brandrill Limited, each of which is listed on the Australian Securities Exchange.
      Dr. Lee J. Finniear. Dr. Finniear was appointed Chief Executive Officer in February 2007 and Managing Director in May 2007. He is responsible for the overall management of the operations of Metal Storm as well as managing our investor relations and capital requirements and corporate affairs. Prior to joining Metal Storm, Dr. Finniear was Chief Executive Officer of Derceto Ltd from May 2006 to January 2007. He was Vice President Asia Pacific with Intergraph Corporation’s largest division from 2003 to 2006. He has

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held senior executive roles in technology companies that service defense organizations worldwide and has direct experience with defense industry acquisition procedures. Dr. Finniear holds a PhD in an engineering related field.
      Brett I. Farmer. Mr. Farmer was appointed Chief Financial Officer in August 2007. He is a certified public accountant in Australia and previously worked in senior accounting positions for a number of years, including as Financial Controller of Metal Storm from June 2005 until his appointment as Chief Financial Officer.
      Peter D. Faulkner. Mr. Faulkner is General Manager – Metal Storm Inc. He is responsible for the management and administration of Metal Storm Inc operations and contracting activities and provides oversight of the Metal Storm Inc team. Mr. Faulkner has more than 25 years of experience as a Department of Defense contractor, focused on military weapons support systems. Prior to joining Metal Storm, he served as Vice President for ManTech International Corporation, one of the U.S. government’s leading providers of innovative technologies and solutions for mission-critical national security programs. Preceding his 21 years at ManTech, Mr. Faulkner worked at Aircraft Armaments Incorporated.
      Peter R. Wetzig. Mr. Wetzig was General Manager — Commercial of Metal Storm from August 1999 to December 2002 and re-joined Metal Storm in May 2007 as Company Secretary. He has been a professional corporate governance consultant to public and private company groups for the past four years. Mr. Wetzig is a Fellow of both the Chartered Institute of Company Secretaries and the Institute of Chartered Accountants in Australia.
B. Compensation
     In 2007, the aggregate remuneration we paid and that accrued to our directors and senior management was A$1,805,158.
     The remuneration and benefits paid to our directors and executive officers during 2007, on an individual basis, are set out in the table below.
                                                                     
                        Non                             Total     Perfor-  
        Salary &     Cash     Monetary                             Remuner     mance  
Name   Position   Fees     Bonus     Benefit     Other     Super     Options     -ation     Related  
   
        A$     A$     A$     A$     A$     A$     A$     %  
T. J O'Dwyer  
Chairman (Non-Executive)
    80,000                                     80,000        
B. S. McComish  
Director (Non-Executive) - resigned March 2007
    12,333                                     12,333        
J. M. Crunk  
Director (Non-Executive) - resigned May 2008
    85,248                                     85,248        
P. D. Jonson  
Director (Non-Executive)
    60,000                                     60,000        
J. R. Nicholls  
Director (Non-Executive)
    50,000                                     50,000        
L. J. Finniear  
Managing Director & Chief Executive Officer - appointed February 2007
    214,361       40,000                   21,597       89,700       365,658       10.9 %
P. R. Wetzig  
Company Secretary - appointed April 2007
    50,720                                     50,720        
B. I. Farmer  
Chief Financial Officer - appointed August 2007
    50,365                         4,533             54,898        
P. D. Faulkner  
General Manager-MS Inc
    227,929       19,709       10,279       2,937             10,223       271,077       7.3 %
J. Cronin  
Managing Engineer - resigned effective Feb. 2008
    177,368       19,500       17,632             19,364             233,864       8.3 %
J. D. MacDonald  
Chief Financial Officer-resigned April 2007
    142,905       22,750                   10,712             176,366       12.9 %
S. T. Rolander  
Vice President - Corporate Services-MS Inc
    144,339       13,076       7,730       2,021                   167,166       7.8 %
A. D. Schatz  
Vice President - Business Development - MS Inc
    174,484                   2,334                   176,818        
G. L. Bergeron  
Chief Technical Officer - resigned January 2007
    19,475             1,318       216                   21,009        
Total Remuneration     1,489,527       115,035       36,959       7,508       56,205       99,923       1,805,158       6.4 %

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     During the year ended December 31, 2007, the following options over ordinary shares were granted as equity remuneration benefits to directors and executives. Options issued to executives were granted as equity compensation for services performed in the 2007 year in accordance with employment contracts and letters of offer. These options were not issued as part of an incentive plan.
                                                                         
    Granted   Terms and Conditions for each Grant   Vested
                    Fair                                
                    Value                                
                    per                   First   Last        
            Grant   Option   Exercise   Expiry   Exercise   Exercise        
    No.   Date   (1)   Price   Date   Date   Date   No.   %
Directors
                                                                       
T. J O’Dwyer
                                                     
L. J. Finniear
    500,000       2/26/07     $ 0.09     $ 0.19       3/08/12       8/18/07       3/08/12       500,000       100.0  
L. J. Finniear (2)
    500,000       2/26/07     $ 0.09     $ 0.19       3/08/12       2/18/08       3/08/12       500,000       100.0  
J. M. Crunk
                                                     
P. D. Jonson
                                                     
J. R. Nicholls
                                                     
B. S. McComish
                                                     
 
                                                                       
Other Key Management Personnel                                                                
P. R. Wetzig
                                                     
B. I. Farmer
                                                     
P. D. Faulkner
    25,000       2/06/06     $ 0.10     $ 0.40       3/31/12       3/31/07       3/31/12       25,000       100.0  
P. D. Faulkner
    25,000       2/06/06     $ 0.10     $ 0.40       6/30/12       6/30/07       6/30/12       25,000       100.0  
P. D. Faulkner
    25,000       2/06/06     $ 0.11     $ 0.40       9/30/12       9/30/07       9/30/12       25,000       100.0  
J. Cronin
                                                     
J. D. MacDonald
                                                     
S. T. Rolander
                                                     
A. D. Schatz
                                                     
G. L. Bergeron
                                                     
 
                                                                       
Total
    1,075,000                                                       1,075,000          
 
                                                                       
 
(1)   See Note 14 to the accompanying consolidated financial statements for a discussion of our share-based payment plan.
 
(2)   500,000 share options vested after December 31, 2007 but before the date of this report.
C. Board Practices
     Under our constitution, our board of directors is required to be comprised of at least three directors. As of December 31, 2007, our board was comprised of five directors and is currently comprised of four directors. Our directors are elected to the board of directors for a three-year term and one-third of the directors retire by rotation at each annual general meeting of shareholders. Mr. John Nicholls was appointed as a Director in September 2006 pursuant to an agreement with Harmony in connection with the Rights Offer.
     The board of directors has established an Audit Committee that consists of three directors. Current members of our Audit Committee are Dr. Peter Jonson, Mr. John Nicholls and Mr. Terry O’Dwyer.
     Under its charter, the Audit Committee:
    retains independent auditors and reviews and discusses the independence of the auditors;
 
    sets the engagement policies for the independent auditors;

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    reviews and discusses the audit plan, the conduct of the audit and the audit results;
 
    reviews and discusses financial statements and disclosures;
 
    determines and administers internal audit procedures;
 
    reviews and discusses the systems of internal accounting controls;
 
    reviews and discusses the recommendations of independent auditors;
 
    approves related party transactions; and
 
    establishes procedures for complaints regarding financial statements or accounting policies.
     The Audit Committee invites external auditors to attend Audit Committee meetings where appropriate. The Audit Committee also meets to receive reports from the external auditors concerning any matters that arise in connection with the performance of their role, including the adequacy of internal controls.
     Our board of directors has established a Finance Committee that is intended to be an oversight body on capital raisings, mergers and acquisitions and the financial function of Metal Storm’s operations. The Board disbanded this committee in March 2008.
     The board of directors has also established a Nominations and Remuneration Committee, whose members are: Mr. Nicholls and Dr. Jonson. The board of directors’ remuneration objective is to motivate directors and management to pursue the long-term growth and success of Metal Storm within an appropriate control network.
     The Nominations and Remuneration Committee reviews the compensation arrangements of all directors and executive officers on an annual basis and makes recommendations to the board. The Nominations and Remuneration Committee reviews and assesses the appropriateness of compensation arrangements of directors and executive officers by reference to relevant employment market conditions and with regard to performance based on set key performance indicators. Executive bonuses are linked to the achievement of pre-determined key performance indicators, and can also be granted based on the discretion of the Nominations and Remuneration Committee. In order to retain and attract executives of sufficient caliber to facilitate the efficient and effective management of our operations, the Nominations and Remuneration Committee seeks the advice of external advisers in connection with the structure of remuneration packages. It is the Nominations and Remuneration Committee’s policy that employment agreements are entered into with all executives.
     Remuneration packages contain the following key elements:
    salary/fees;
 
    benefits — including the provision of retirement and health benefits; and
 
    incentive schemes — including performance-related bonuses and share options under the discretionary share option plan.
     It is the Nominations and Remuneration Committee’s policy that payment of equity based remuneration to executive and non-executive directors is subject to shareholder approval. Metal Storm operates a discretionary employee option plan to enable the board of directors to provide an incentive to and to reward, full time executives and employees for the role that they play in the future success of Metal Storm. Invitations to participate in the discretionary employee option plan are at the absolute discretion of the board of directors. Invitations to participate in the employee option plan specify the details of the invitation, such as maximum number of shares, date by which the application must be made by the invitee, the exercise price, any conditions attached to the exercise of the option and any disposal restrictions. The exercise price is not less than the market value of Metal Storm’s shares on the date determined by the board of directors, and the aggregate number of shares subject to options cannot exceed 5% of Metal Storm’s shares then on issue. There are also individual limits on the number of options that may be granted to employees and individual limits on the number of shares that may be allotted and issued to employees upon exercise of the options. The exercise period for the options granted under the employee option plan is the earliest of (a) the third anniversary of the date of grant of the option; (b) the date on which any special circumstances including death, disability, redundancy, retirement or cessation of employment arise; (c) a takeover,

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compulsory acquisition, reconstruction, amalgamation or liquidation; and ending on the earliest of (d) the date which is 2 days before the tenth anniversary of the date of grant; (e) the last day before the first anniversary of the date on which any special circumstance arises; and (f) the expiry of specified time frames set out in the employee option plan in relation to the circumstances in (c) above. An option lapses upon expiry of the exercise period, termination of the option holder’s employment otherwise than in a special circumstance, upon the option holder being adjudicated bankrupt, or any purported transfer, assignment or alienation of the options by the option holder. The board of directors may at any time cease making further offers or invitations, but the subsisting rights of options are not affected in such circumstances. Non-executive directors do not have service contracts with Metal Storm.
D. Employees
     We employed 30 staff as at December 31, 2007.
E. Share Ownership
At June 2, 2008, the beneficial interests of the directors and executives in the ordinary shares and options of Metal Storm were:
                 
            Number of Options
    Number of Shares Held   Exercisable
T. J O’Dwyer
    180,855 (2)     33,819 (3)
P. D. Jonson
    680,000        
J. R. Nicholls(4)
           
L. J. Finniear
          1,000,000  
P. D. Faulkner
          200,000  
J. Cronin
          200,000  
P. R. Wetzig
    400        
 
(1)   At June 2, 2008, the number of outstanding shares was 608,443,049. There are 18,863,438 unlisted share options and 176,756,604 options quoted on Australian Securities Exchange.
 
(2)   101,233 shares are owned by Mr. Terence J. O’Dwyer and Mrs. P.M. O’Dwyer, 79,622 shares are owned by Louclaben Pty Ltd in trust for the O’Dwyer Family Account.
 
(3)   Options were issued in connection with the Rights Offer and are quoted and may be traded on Australian Securities Exchange.
 
(4)   John Nicholls is a director of Metal Storm and a director of Harmony Capital Partners Pte Limited (“Harmony Capital Partners”). Harmony Investment Fund Limited is an entity that is managed by Harmony Capital Partners and which owns securities in Metal Storm. At June 2, 2008, Citicorp Nominees Pty Ltd held 29,476,097 ordinary shares, 121,509,108 quoted convertible notes and 123,226,332 quoted options on behalf of Harmony Investment Fund Limited. Mr. Nicholls disclaims beneficial ownership of securities owned by Harmony Investment Fund Limited.
     We can grant options to purchase shares to our directors and employees under our constitution and under our discretionary share option scheme and under various employment agreements. See Item 10B “Additional Information — Our Constitution” for a summary of the provisions of our constitution relating to the issuance of options and Note 14 to the accompanying consolidated financial statements and Item 6B “Directors, Senior Management and Employees — Compensation” for a summary of the terms of our various option schemes.
Item 7. Major Shareholders and Related Party Transactions
A. Major Shareholders
     The following table presents certain information regarding the beneficial ownership of our ordinary shares as of June 2, 2008 by each person known by us to be the beneficial owner of more than 5% of our ordinary shares, based upon a review of our share registry and filings made by shareholders with the Australian Securities Exchange. Beneficial ownership is determined according to the rules of the Securities and Exchange Commission and generally means that a person has beneficial ownership of a security if he or she possesses sole or shared voting or investment power of that security, and includes options that are exercisable within 60 days.

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Information with respect to beneficial ownership has been furnished to us by each director, executive officer or 5% or more shareholder, as the case may be. Unless otherwise indicated, to our knowledge, each shareholder possesses sole voting and investment power over the shares listed, subject to community property laws where applicable.
     All holders of our ordinary shares have the same voting rights.
     The below table lists applicable percentage ownership based on 608,443,049 ordinary shares outstanding as of June 2, 2008. Options to purchase our ordinary shares that are exercisable or convertible notes that can be converted into ordinary shares within 60 days of June 2, 2008 are deemed to be beneficially owned by the persons holding these options for the purpose of computing percentage ownership of that person, but are not treated as outstanding for the purpose of computing any other person’s ownership percentage.
                 
    Number of Ordinary    
Name of Shareholder   Shares (2)   Percentage of Class
James Michael O’Dwyer(1)
    187,423,610       30.8 %
 
(1)   Includes 62,026,783 shares owned by Mr. J.M. O’Dwyer, 125,396,722 shares owned by O’Dwyer Investments Pty Ltd as trustee for the O’Dwyer Family Discretionary Trust and 105 shares owned by Rhonda Clare O’Dwyer in trust for Mr. J.M. O’Dwyer. The percentage of Mr. J.M. O’Dwyer’s shareholding to total outstanding shares has decreased from 36.68% in June 2006 and 34.0% in April 2007.
     As of June 2, 2008, Harmony Investment Fund Limited was the beneficial owner of 29,476,097 ordinary shares, 106,097,590 convertible notes and 123,226,332 options. If all these options and convertible notes were exercised or converted and no other optionholder or Noteholder converted their holdings, Harmony would hold in excess of 40% of the ordinary shares in Metal Storm Limited. The diluting effect of this transaction would make Harmony the largest shareholder. Harmony has indicated an interest in selling some of its convertible notes on the Port Moresby Stock Exchange, where the convertible notes were recently listed.
     As of June 2, 2008, 1.1% of our ordinary shares were held by 59 U.S. holders of record and 97.9% of our ordinary shares were held by 8,753 Australian holders of record.
     As of June 2, 2008, 6,621,855 American Depositary Shares, representing 132,437,100 ordinary shares, were outstanding.
B. Related Party Transactions
     During 2007, Backwell Lombard Capital Ptd Ltd, of which our Director Terence O’Dwyer is a principal, was appointed to undertake consultancy work for Metal Storm. As at December 31, 2007, no fees were paid or payable to Backwell Lombard Capital Pty Ltd. Subsequent to that date, services have been performed resulting in a fee payable of A$30,000.
C. Interest of Experts and Counsel
     Not applicable.
Item 8. Financial Information
A. Consolidated Financial Statements and Other Financial Information
     Our financial statements are included as the “F” pages to this annual report.
Legal Proceedings
     None.
Dividends

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     We have never declared or paid any cash dividends on our ordinary stock and we do not anticipate paying any cash dividends in the foreseeable future. Dividends may only be paid out of our profits. Payment of cash dividends, if any, in the future will be at the discretion of our board of directors or, if our directors do not exercise their power to issue dividends, our shareholders in a general meeting may exercise the powers. See Item 10B “Additional Information — Our Constitution — Rights and Restrictions on Classes of Shares — Right to Share in Our Profits.” Our Directors’ current intention is to reinvest any income in the continued development and operation of our business.
B. Significant Changes
     None.
Item 9. The Offer and Listing
A. Listing Details — Price History
      Australian Securities Exchange
     Our ordinary shares were initially quoted and admitted to trading on the Australian Securities Exchange (symbol: “MST”) in 1999. The following table presents, for the periods indicated, the reported low and high market prices for our ordinary shares as quoted on the Australian Securities Exchange. All figures are in Australian dollars.
                 
    Price Per
    Ordinary Share
    High   Low
Year Ended   A$   A$
December 31, 2007
               
First Quarter
  $ 0.21     $ 0.16  
Second Quarter
  $ 0.17     $ 0.12  
Third Quarter
  $ 0.15     $ 0.09  
Fourth Quarter
  $ 0.12     $ 0.08  
December 31, 2006
               
First Quarter
  $ 0.28     $ 0.18  
Second Quarter
  $ 0.21     $ 0.12  
Third Quarter
  $ 0.16     $ 0.10  
Fourth Quarter
  $ 0.17     $ 0.13  
December 31, 2005
               
Annual
  $ 0.31     $ 0.10  
December 31, 2004
               
Annual
  $ 0.66     $ 0.20  
December 31, 2003
               
Annual
  $ 0.68     $ 0.32  
                 
    Price Per
    Ordinary Share
    High   Low
Month Ended   A$   A$
May 2008
  $ 0.07     $ 0.06  
April 2008
  $ 0.08     $ 0.05  
March 2008
  $ 0.08     $ 0.06  
February 2008
  $ 0.08     $ 0.07  
January 2008
  $ 0.09     $ 0.06  
December 2007
  $ 0.11     $ 0.08  
      NASDAQ Capital Market — American Depositary Receipts
     Our ordinary shares in the form of ADRs were listed for trading on the NASDAQ Capital Market (symbol: “MTSX”) in December 2001. Each ADR represents 20 ordinary shares. The following table presents, for the periods indicated, the high and low closing prices in U.S. dollars of our ADRs as reported on the NASDAQ Capital Market.

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    Price Per
    Ordinary Share
    High   Low
Year Ended   US$   US$
December 31, 2007
               
First Quarter
  $ 3.38     $ 2.15  
Second Quarter
  $ 2.87     $ 2.00  
Third Quarter
  $ 2.53     $ 1.81  
Fourth Quarter
  $ 2.25     $ 1.15  
December 31, 2006
               
First Quarter
  $ 4.04     $ 2.32  
Second Quarter
  $ 3.05     $ 1.75  
Third Quarter
  $ 2.40     $ 1.80  
Fourth Quarter
  $ 3.20     $ 2.00  
December 31, 2005
               
Annual
  $ 4.84     $ 1.75  
December 31, 2004
               
Annual
  $ 14.47     $ 2.95  
December 31, 2003
               
Annual
  $ 8.53     $ 3.97  
                 
    Price Per
    Ordinary Share
    High   Low
Month Ended   US$   US$
May 2008
  $ 1.25     $ 1.00  
April 2008
  $ 1.25     $ 0.81  
March 2008
  $ 2.90     $ 0.91  
February 2008
  $ 1.50     $ 1.30  
January 2008
  $ 1.57     $ 1.00  
December 2007
  $ 1.78     $ 1.15  
B. Plan of Distribution
     Not applicable.
C. Markets
     Our ordinary shares are traded on the Australian Securities Exchange under the symbol “MST” and on the NASDAQ Capital Market in the form of American Depositary Receipts under the symbol “MTSX”.
Exemptions from certain Nasdaq Corporate Governance Rules
     Exemptions from the corporate governance standards of The Nasdaq Stock Market Inc. (“Nasdaq”) are available to foreign private issuers such as Metal Storm when those standards are contrary to a law, rule or regulation of any public authority exercising jurisdiction over such issuer or contrary to generally accepted business practices in the issuer’s country of domicile. In connection with Metal Storm’s NASDAQ Capital Market Listing Application, Nasdaq granted Metal Storm exemptions from certain corporate governance standards that were contrary to the laws, rules, regulations or generally accepted business practices in Australia. These exemptions and the practices followed by Metal Storm during the fiscal year ended December 31, 2007 are described below.
  Metal Storm was exempt from Nasdaq’s independence requirements for a majority of the board of directors. The Australian Securities Exchange Listing Rules did not require Metal Storm to have a majority of independent directors on the board during 2007. During most of the fiscal year ended December 31, 2007, Metal Storm did, however, have a majority of directors who were “independent” as defined in the Australian Securities Exchange Corporate Governance Principles, which definition differs from Nasdaq’s definition. Accordingly, because Australian law and generally accepted business practices in Australia regarding director independence differ to Nasdaq’s independence requirements, Metal Storm claimed this exemption in 2007.

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  Metal Storm was exempt from Nasdaq’s quorum requirements applicable to meetings of shareholders. Consistent with Australian law, Metal Storm’s constitution provides that five shareholders present shall constitute a quorum for a general meeting. Nasdaq requires that an issuer provide for a quorum as specified in its by-laws for any meeting of the holders of common stock, which quorum may not be less than 33 1/3% of the outstanding shares of an issuer’s voting common stock. Accordingly, because applicable Australian law and rules governing quorums at shareholder meetings differ to Nasdaq’s quorum requirements, Metal Storm claimed this exemption in 2007.
 
  Metal Storm was exempt from the Nasdaq requirement that an issuer’s auditors be subject to a “peer review.” Neither Australian law nor the Australian Securities Exchange Listing Rules required “peer review” of independent public accountants during 2007. Accordingly, Metal Storm claimed this exemption in 2007.
 
  Metal Storm was exempt from the Nasdaq requirement that issuers obtain shareholder approval prior to the issuance of securities in connection with the establishment or amendment of certain stock option, purchase or other compensation plans. Applicable Australian law and rules differ to the Nasdaq requirements, with the Australian Securities Exchange Listing Rules providing generally for prior shareholder approval in numerous circumstances, including (i) issuance of equity securities exceeding 15% of the issued share capital of Metal Storm in any 12 month period (but in determining the 15% limit, securities issued under an exception to the rule or with shareholder approval are not counted), (ii) issuance of equity securities to related parties (as defined in the Australian Securities Exchange Listing Rules), and (iii) directors or their associates acquiring securities under an employee incentive plan. Generally accepted business practices in Australia also provide for plans involving the issue of shares to directors and employees being capped at no more than 5% of the total number of shares on issue. Metal Storm’s Discretionary Share Option Scheme applies this 5% cap. Due to differences between Australian law and rules and the Nasdaq shareholder approval requirements, Metal Storm claimed this exemption in 2007.
D. Selling Shareholders
     Not applicable.
E. Dilution
     Not applicable.
F. Expenses of the Issue
     Not applicable.
Item 10. Additional Information
A. Share Capital
     Not applicable.
B. Our Constitution
     We are a public company limited by shares registered under the Corporations Act 2001 (Commonwealth of Australia) (“Corporations Act”) by the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (“ASIC”). We were registered as a private company in Queensland, Australia on April 13, 1994 and our registered company number is 064 270 006. Our constituent document is a constitution which is similar in nature to the by-laws of a company incorporated under the laws of the U.S. Our constitution does not provide for or prescribe any specific objectives or purposes of Metal Storm. Our constitution is subject to the terms of the Listing Rules of the Australian Securities Exchange and the Corporations Act. Our constitution may be amended or repealed and replaced by special resolution of shareholders, which is a resolution passed by at least 75% of the votes cast by shareholders entitled to vote on the resolution.
     Our current constitution was adopted on May 14, 1999. Under Australian law, a company has the legal capacity and powers of an individual both inside and outside Australia. The material provisions of our constitution are summarized below. This summary is not intended to be complete, nor to constitute a definitive statement of the rights and liabilities of our shareholders and is qualified in its entirety by reference to the constitution, which is available on request.
Directors

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      Interested Directors
     A director may not vote in respect of any contract or arrangement in which the director has, directly or indirectly, any material interest according to our constitution. Such director may not be counted in the quorum present at the meeting and if the director does vote, such vote may not be counted. Either or both of these prohibitions may be relaxed or suspended to any extent by resolution passed at a general meeting of shareholders.
     The Corporations Act prohibits directors of companies listed on the Australian Securities Exchange from voting on matters in which they have a material personal interest, requires disclosure of such interest to shareholders, and requires shareholders’ approval of any provision of related party benefits.
      Directors’ Compensation
     Our directors are paid remuneration for their services as directors, which is determined in a general meeting of shareholders. The aggregate, fixed sum for directors’ remuneration is to be divided among the directors in such proportion as the directors themselves agree, and in accordance with our constitution. The fixed sum remuneration for directors may not be increased except at a general meeting of shareholders and the particulars of the proposed increase are required to have been provided to shareholders in the notice convening the meeting.
     Pursuant to our constitution any director who devotes special attention to our business or who otherwise performs services which in the opinion of our board of directors are outside the scope of the ordinary duties of a director, or who at the request of the board of directors engages in any journey related to our business, may be paid extra remuneration which is determined by the board.
     In addition to other remuneration provided in our constitution, all directors are entitled to be paid by us for reasonable travel accommodation and other expenses incurred by the directors in attending company meetings, board meetings, committee meetings or while engaged on our business.
     Additionally in accordance with our constitution, a director may be paid a retirement benefit as determined by the board of directors in accordance with the Corporations Act and the Australian Securities Exchange Listing Rules.
      Borrowing Powers Exercisable by Directors
     Pursuant to our constitution, the management and control of our business affairs are vested in our board of directors. The board has the powers to raise or borrow money, guarantee the debts or obligations of any person and enter into any other financial arrangement, in each case in the manner and on the terms it thinks fit. The board may also charge any of our property or business or any uncalled capital and may issue debentures or give any other security for any of our debts, liabilities or obligations or of any other person, in each case, in the manner and on terms it deems fit.
      Retirement of directors
     Pursuant to our constitution, one third of directors other than the director who is the managing director, must retire from office at every annual general meeting. If the number of directors is not a multiple of three then the number nearest to but not less than one third must retire from office. The directors who retire in this manner are required to be the directors or director longest in office since last being elected. A director, other than the director who is a managing director, must retire from office at the conclusion of the third annual general meeting after which the director was elected.
      Share Qualifications
     There are no requirements under our constitution or elsewhere for directors to own our shares in order to qualify as directors.
Rights and Restrictions on Classes of Shares
     Subject to the Corporations Act and the Australian Securities Exchange Listing Rules, rights attaching to our shares are detailed in our constitution. Our constitution provides that any of our shares may be issued with preferred, deferred or other special rights, whether in relation to dividends, voting, return of share capital, payment of calls or otherwise as the board of directors may determine

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from time to time. Except as provided by contract or by our constitution to the contrary, all unissued shares are under the control of the board which may grant options on the shares, allot or otherwise dispose of the shares on the terms and conditions and for the consideration it deems fit. Currently our outstanding share capital consists of only one class of ordinary shares.
      Dividend Rights
     The board may from time to time determine to pay dividends to shareholders. All unclaimed dividends may be invested or otherwise made use of by the board for our benefit until claimed or otherwise disposed of in accordance with our constitution.
      Voting Rights
     Under our constitution, each shareholder has one vote determined by a show of hands at a meeting of the shareholders. On a poll vote each shareholder shall have one vote for each fully paid share and a fractional vote for each share which is not fully paid, such fraction being equivalent to the proportion of the amount which has been paid to such date on that share. Under Australian law, shareholders of a public company are not permitted to approve corporate matters by written consent. Our constitution does not provide for cumulative voting.
      Right to Share in our Profits
     Pursuant to our constitution, our shareholders are entitled to participate in our profits only by payment of dividends. The board may from time to time determine to pay dividends to the shareholders, however no dividend is payable except out of our profits. A declaration by the board as to the amount of our profits is conclusive.
      Rights to Share in the Surplus in the Event of Liquidation
     Our constitution provides for the right of shareholders to participate in a surplus in the event of our liquidation. In certain circumstances, any division may be otherwise than in accordance with the legal rights of the contributories, and in particular, any class may be given preferential or special rights or may be excluded altogether or in part from participation in a surplus in the event of liquidation. In the case of any division otherwise than in accordance with the legal rights of the contributories, any contributory who would be prejudiced by the division has a right to dissent and has ancillary rights, as if the determination were a special resolution passed pursuant to the Corporations Act relating to the sale or transfer of our assets by a liquidator or in a voluntary winding up.
      Redemption Provisions
     There are no redemption provisions in our constitution in relation to ordinary shares. Under our constitution and subject to the Corporations Act, any preference shares may be issued on the terms that they are, or may at our option be, liable to be redeemed.
      Sinking Fund Provisions
     There are no sinking fund provisions in our constitution in relation to ordinary shares.
      Liability for Further Capital Calls
     According to our constitution, the board may make any calls from time to time upon shareholders in respect of all monies unpaid on shares, subject to the terms upon which any of the shares have been issued. Each shareholder is liable to pay the amount of each call in the manner, at the time, and at the place specified by the board. Calls may be made payable by installment.
      Provisions Discriminating Against Holders of a Substantial Number of Shares
     There are no provisions under our constitution discriminating against any existing or prospective holders of a substantial number of our shares.
Variation of Share Rights
     Our constitution provides that, unless otherwise provided by the terms of issue of the shares of such class, the rights attaching to any class of shares may, subject to the Australian Securities Exchange Listing Rules, be varied with the consent in writing of members

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with at least 75% of the votes in the class or with the sanction of a special resolution passed at a separate meeting of the holders of the shares of such class. Our constitution also provides that the rights conferred upon holders of shares of any class issued with preferred or other rights are, unless otherwise expressly provided by the terms of issue of the shares of that class, deemed not to be varied by the creation or issue of further shares ranking equally with the first mentioned shares. These conditions are not more significant than required by the Corporations Act.
General Meetings of Shareholders
     General meetings of shareholders may be called by the board of directors. Except as permitted under the Corporations Act, shareholders may not convene a meeting. Under the Corporations Act, shareholders with at least 5% of the votes which may be cast at a general meeting may call and arrange to hold a general meeting. The Corporations Act requires the directors to call and arrange to hold a general meeting on the request of shareholders with at least 5% of the votes that may be cast at a general meeting or at least 100 shareholders who are entitled to vote at the general meeting. Twenty-eight days’ notice of the proposed meeting of our shareholders is required under the Corporations Act.
     According to our constitution, the chairman of the general meeting may refuse admission to or exclude from the meeting, any person who is in possession of a picture recording or sound recording device, in possession of a placard or banner, in possession of an object considered by the chairman to be dangerous, offensive or liable to cause disruption, any person who refuses to produce or permit examination of any object, any person who behaves or threatens to behave in a dangerous, offensive or destructive manner, or any person who is not a director or one of our auditors, one of our shareholders or a proxy, attorney or representative of one of our shareholders.
Foreign Ownership Regulation
     There are no limitations on the rights to own securities imposed by our constitution. However, acquisitions and proposed acquisitions of shares in Australian companies may be subject to review and approval by the Australian Federal Treasurer under the Foreign Acquisitions and Takeovers Act 1975 (Commonwealth of Australia). Generally this Act applies to acquisitions or proposed acquisitions:
  (a)   by a foreign person, as defined in the Foreign Acquisitions and Takeovers Act, or associated foreign persons which would result in such persons having an interest in 15% or more of the issued shares of, or control of 15% or more of the voting power in, an Australian company, and
 
  (b)   by a non-associated foreign person which would result in such foreign person having an interest in 40% or more of the issued shares of, or control of 40% or more of the voting power in, an Australian company.
     The Australian Federal Treasurer may prevent a proposed acquisition in the above categories or impose conditions on such acquisition if the Treasurer is satisfied that the acquisition would be contrary to the national interest. If a foreign person acquires shares or an interest in shares in an Australian company in contravention of the Act, the Australian Federal Treasurer may order the divestiture of such person’s shares or interest in shares in the company. The Australian Federal Treasurer may order divestiture pursuant to the Act if he determines that the acquisition has resulted in that foreign person, either alone or together with other non-associated or associated foreign persons, controlling the company and that such control is contrary to the national interest.
Merger, Acquisition or Restructure
     Our constitution indicates that where offers to purchase our shares have been made under a proportional takeover scheme, we are prohibited from registering a transfer which would give effect to the contract resulting from the acceptance of such an offer unless and until a resolution to approve the proportional takeover scheme is approved at a meeting by the persons entitled to vote on such resolution. The offeror or an associate of the offeror is not entitled to vote on such resolution. A person, other than an offeror or associate of the offeror, who, as at the end of the day in which the first offer under the proportional takeover scheme was made, held shares in that class of shares, is entitled to one vote for each of the shares held in that class.
Ownership Threshold
     There are no provisions in our constitution that require a shareholder to disclose ownership above a certain threshold. The Corporations Act, however, requires a substantial shareholder to notify us and the Australian Securities Exchange once a 5% interest

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in our shares is obtained. Further, once a shareholder owns a 5% interest in us, such shareholder must notify us and the Australian Securities Exchange of any increase or decrease of 1% or more in its holding of our shares.
Conditions for Change of Capital
     There are no conditions imposed by our constitution relating to changes in our capital which are more stringent than are required by the Corporations Act.
Stock Issues and Takeover Attempts
     We are governed by the Corporations Act which provides shareholders with broad protection in relation to takeovers, including:
    that the acquisition of control over voting shares takes place in an efficient, competitive and informed market;
 
    that shareholders have enough information to assess the merits of a proposal; and
 
    that shareholders all have a reasonable and equal opportunity to participate in any benefits accruing to the shareholders through any proposal under which a person would acquire a substantial interest.
     Further, subject to certain limited exceptions provided in the Australian Securities Exchange Listing Rules, we must not issue or agree to issue shares, without the approval of holders of our ordinary shares, for three months after we are told in writing that a person is making or proposes to make, a takeover for our shares.
     The exceptions to the Australian Securities Exchange Listing Rules are as follows:
    an issuance or agreement to issue which we have notified the Australian Securities Exchange of before we are told a person is making or proposes to make a takeover offer for our shares;
 
    an issuance to our ordinary shareholders on a pro-rata basis;
 
    an issuance made due to an exercise of rights of conversion already in existence;
 
    an issuance by us as consideration for an off-market takeover bid made by us where we are required to comply with the provisions of the Corporations Act;
 
    an issuance under a dividend stock distribution plan that is in operation before we are told a person is making or proposes to make a takeover for our shares; and
 
    if there is an agreement to issue shares and such agreement is conditional on ordinary shareholders approving the issuance before the issuance is made.
Access to and Inspection of Documents
     Inspection of our records is governed by the Corporations Act. Any member of the public has the right to inspect or obtain copies of our company registers on the payment of a prescribed fee. Shareholders are not required to pay a fee for inspection of our registers or minute books of the meetings of shareholders. Other corporate records including minutes of directors meetings, financial records and other documents are not open for inspection by shareholders. Where a shareholder is acting in good faith and an inspection is deemed to be made for a proper purpose, a shareholder may apply to the court to make an order for inspection of our books.
CHESS
     We participate in the Clearing House Electronic Sub-Register System, known as CHESS, which is maintained by the CHESS Securities Clearing House pursuant to the Australian Securities Exchange Listing Rules and the Securities Clearing House business rules. CHESS is an automated, electronic transfer and settlement system with no requirement for physical title or transfer documents. Accordingly, the legal registered record of holding balances for our CHESS-approved shares are recorded on either of the electronic CHESS sub-register or the electronic issuer sponsored sub-register, which together form the complete company register. We do not

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issue share certificates to shareholders. Instead, we provide shareholders with a holding statement (similar to a bank account statement) that sets out the number of ordinary shares registered in each shareholder’s name. This statement also advised shareholders of their holder identification number or shareholder reference number and relevant particulars. If a shareholding changes during any month, shareholders will receive a statement after the end of that month. Shareholders may also request statements at any other time (subject to payment of a small administration fee).
C. Material Contracts
      Terms of convertible notes
     The terms of the convertible notes were set out in the Rights Offer prospectus that was approved by the Board of Metal Storm in July 2006. At the maturity date of September 1, 2009 (“Maturity Date”), Metal Storm must repay the face value of A$0.135 to the holders of convertible notes (“Noteholders”), unless the Noteholders have elected to convert some or all of their convertible notes into ordinary shares at a conversion price which is the lesser of A$0.135 per share and 90% of the volume weighted average closing price of ordinary shares during the 30 business days immediately preceding the conversion date. Noteholders can elect to convert some or all of their convertible notes into ordinary shares at the beginning of each quarter, at the Maturity Date and at certain other times.
     Metal Storm cannot redeem any convertible notes prior to the Maturity Date. On the Maturity Date, the convertible notes must be redeemed by Metal Storm paying to the Noteholder the face value of the notes (unless the Noteholder has previously elected to convert their notes into ordinary shares). On the occurrence of an event of default (examples of which are set out below), if required by ANZ Executors & Trustee Company Limited (“Trustee”), Metal Storm must redeem all the convertible notes on issue by paying to the Noteholders the face value together with all accrued but unpaid interest at the date of redemption.
     Interest is payable on the face value at a rate of 10% per annum. Interest is payable quarterly in arrears on the last day of each quarter until the earlier of conversion or redemption of the convertible notes. Until conversion or redemption, the convertible notes are unsecured debt obligations of Metal Storm and rank equally with other ordinary unsecured creditors. The convertible notes rank behind any of our secured creditors but rank ahead of shares outstanding. Each share issued on conversion of the notes will rank equally with all existing shares then on issue. The convertible notes do not carry any entitlement to participate in rights offers, any returns of capital, bonus issue or capital reconstruction.
      Trust Deed in connection with the Rights Offer
     On July 11, 2006, Metal Storm entered into a trust deed with ANZ the Trustee in connection with the Rights Offer. Under the agreement, the Trustee has agreed to hold on trust for the Noteholders, the right to enforce Metal Storm’s obligation to repay the face value of the convertible notes.
     The Trustee has covenanted that it will exercise reasonable diligence to ascertain whether Metal Storm has committed any breach of the terms applicable to convertible notes, the Trust Deed or Chapter 2L of the Australian Corporations Act.
     An event of default under the terms of the Trust Deed includes, but is not limited to, if Metal Storm:
    fails to pay principal or interest in respect of any convertible note within 5 business days after it becomes due and payable;
 
    if, without the prior approval of Noteholders by way of ordinary resolution, the total amount of cash held in Metal Storm’s bank accounts and in marketable securities falls below the following minimum cash levels:
         
Period   Minimum Cash Balance
September 1, 2006 to December 31, 2006
  A$22.5 million
January 1, 2007 to June 30, 2007
  A$19.5 million
July 1, 2007 to December 31, 2007
  A$15.0 million
January 1, 2008 to June 30, 2008
  A$12.5 million
July 1, 2008 to December 31, 2008
  A$  7.5 million
    if the process of commercialization of the key technology of Metal Storm fails to achieve the following milestones to the satisfaction of Noteholders (resolved by way of ordinary resolution) or an independent expert appointed by the Trustee:

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     (i) two fully functional prototypes of stabilized remotely operable weapons systems, including an Electro Optic Systems electronic fire control system and a Metal Storm Ballistic Weapon, as defined in the Teaming Agreement between Electro Optic Systems Pty Limited and Metal Storm dated August 2, 2005 (subsequently named the Redback™ System) are assembled and ready for inspection by representatives of Harmony and customers before June 30, 2007;
     (ii) two fully functional prototype units of the Three Shot Grenade Launcher (known as “3GL”) are assembled and ready for inspection by representatives of Harmony and customers before June 30, 2007; and
     (iii) a successful live test firing of low velocity air burst rounds and low velocity high explosive rounds suitable for Metal Storm Ballistic Weapons in conjunction with ST Kinetics (as defined in the Teaming Agreement between the Metal Storm and ST Kinetics dated September 28, 2005) before June 30, 2007.
      Cash Advance Facility Agreement
     In June 2006, Metal Storm signed a Cash Advance Facility Agreement with Harmony Investment Fund Limited (an affiliate of Harmony Capital Partners Pte Limited) to establish a A$5 million short-term working capital secured loan facility. The working capital facility was never drawn on by Metal Storm and all security has since been discharged by Harmony. Metal Storm granted 10,000,000 options to purchase ordinary shares to Harmony Investment Fund Limited on completion of the Rights Offer as consideration for the working capital facility.
D. Exchange Controls
     The Australian dollar is convertible into U.S. dollars at freely floating rates. There are no legal restrictions on the flow of Australian dollars between Australia and the United States. The Commonwealth of Australia has, however enacted laws to make effective the United Nations Security Council resolutions that impose a freeze on financial assets and foreign exchange dealings with certain persons and entities. In addition, transactions involving the transfer of funds or payments to, by the order of, or on behalf of prescribed entities, or any undertaking owned or controlled directly or indirectly, by prescribed entities, are not permitted without the specific approval of the Reserve Bank of Australia.
E. Taxation
     The following is a summary of certain material U.S. federal income tax and Australian tax consequences to U.S. holders, as defined below, of the acquisition, ownership and disposition of American Depositary Shares (“ADSs”) or ordinary shares and is based on the laws in force as at the date of this annual report. Holders are advised to consult their tax advisors concerning the overall tax consequences of the acquisition, ownership and disposition of ADSs or ordinary shares in their particular circumstances. This discussion is not intended, and should not be construed, as legal or professional tax advise. This discussion relies in part on representations by the depositary in the deposit agreement and related documents and the assumption that each obligation in the deposit agreement and related documents will be performed in accordance with their terms.
U.S. Federal Income Tax Considerations
      To ensure compliance with U.S. Treasury Department Circular 230, investors are hereby notified that: (a) any discussion of U.S. Federal tax issues in this document is not intended or written by Metal Storm to be relied upon, and cannot be relied upon by investors in the ADSs or ordinary shares, for the purpose of avoiding penalties that may be imposed on investors in the ADSs or ordinary shares under the U.S. Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the “Code”), (b) such discussion is written in connection with the promotion or marketing of the transactions or matters addressed herein by Metal Storm, and (c) investors in the ADSs or ordinary shares should seek advice based on their particular circumstances from their own independent tax advisors. U.S. counsel does not intend to be, and is not, engaged in the promotion or marketing of the transactions or matters described in this offering memorandum, and no inference to the contrary shall be implied by reason of the U.S. tax discussion set forth herein .
     In this section, we discuss certain material U.S. federal income tax considerations applicable to an investment in ADSs, which are evidenced by American Depositary Receipts (“ADRs”), or ordinary shares by a U.S. holder, as defined below, that will hold the ADSs or ordinary shares as capital assets within the meaning of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the “Code”). We do not discuss any tax considerations that may apply to holders subject to special tax rules, such as banks, insurance companies, dealers in securities or currencies, tax-exempt entities, persons subject to the alternative minimum tax, persons that hold ADSs or ordinary

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shares as a position in a straddle or as part of a hedging, constructive sale or conversion transaction for U.S. federal income tax purposes, persons that have a functional currency other than the U.S. dollar, persons that own 10% or more of our equity or persons that are not U.S. holders.
     This section is based on the Code, income tax regulations issued under the Code, and judicial and administrative interpretations of the Code and the income tax regulations, all as of the date of this annual report. All of the foregoing are subject to change at any time, and any change could be retroactive.
     In this section, a “U.S. holder” means a beneficial owner of ADSs or ordinary shares that is, for U.S. federal income tax purposes:
    an individual who is a citizen or resident of the United States for U.S. federal income tax purposes;
 
    a corporation, or other entity treated as a corporation for U.S. federal income tax purposes, created or organized in or under the laws of the United States or any state thereof or the District of Columbia;
 
    an estate the income of which is subject to U.S. federal income taxation regardless of its source; or
 
    a trust the administration of which is subject to the primary supervision of a court in the United States and for which one or more U.S. persons have the authority to control all substantial decisions.
     If a partnership holds ADSs or ordinary shares, the U.S. federal income tax treatment of a partner generally will depend on the status of the partner and the activities of the partnership. Partners of partnerships that will hold ADSs or ordinary shares should consult their tax advisors.
      You should consult your tax advisor with respect to the U.S. federal, as well as state, local and non-U.S., tax consequences to you of an investment in ADSs or ordinary shares.
      Ownership of ADSs in General
     A beneficial owner of ADSs will be treated as the beneficial owner of the ordinary shares represented by such ADSs for U.S. federal income tax purposes. Accordingly, no gain or loss will be recognized by a U.S. Holder upon the exchange of ADSs for the ordinary shares represented by such ADSs. A U.S. Holder’s tax basis in an ADS generally will equal the cost of such ADS to such U.S. Holder. A U.S. Holder’s tax basis in the ordinary shares received upon an exchange of ADSs for ordinary shares will be the same as its tax basis in the surrendered ADSs and the holding period for ordinary shares received will include the period during which the holder held such ADSs.
      Dividends
     Subject to the passive foreign investment company rules, discussed below, U.S. holders will include as dividend income gross amount of any distributions of cash or property (without deduction for any withholding tax), other than certain pro rata distributions of ordinary shares, with respect to ADSs or ordinary shares to the extent the distributions are made from our current or accumulated earnings and profits, as determined for U.S. federal income tax purposes. A U.S. holder will include the dividend income at the time of receipt, which, for a holder of ADSs, generally will be the date of receipt by the depositary. To the extent, if any, that the amount of any distribution by us exceeds our current and accumulated earnings and profits, as so determined, it will be treated first as a tax-free return of the U.S. holder’s tax basis in the ADSs or ordinary shares and thereafter as capital gain. Dividends paid by us will not be eligible for the dividends-received deduction generally allowed to U.S. corporate shareholders.
     For taxable years beginning before January 1, 2011, certain dividends received by an individual U.S. holder (as well as certain trusts and estates) from a “qualified foreign corporation” are eligible for preferential rates of taxation. We are considered to be a “qualified foreign corporation” with respect to the ADSs because our ADSs are listed on the NASDAQ Capital Market. Furthermore, we believe that we are a qualified foreign corporation with respect to our ordinary shares because we should be eligible for benefits under the Double Taxation Convention between Australia and the United States. The U.S. Treasury Department has announced its intention to promulgate rules pursuant to which U.S. Holders of the ordinary shares or ADSs and intermediaries through whom such ordinary shares or ADSs are held will be permitted to rely on certifications from issuers to establish that dividends are treated as qualified dividends. Because such rules have not yet been issued, it is not clear whether we will be in a position to comply with them. A “qualified foreign corporation” generally does not include any foreign corporation that is a passive foreign investment company for the taxable year in which the dividend is paid or for the preceding taxable year. Because we likely were not a passive foreign

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investment company for 2007 (as discussed below), we should be a qualified foreign corporation for 2008 unless we are a passive foreign investment company for 2008. If we are a qualified foreign corporation with respect to ADSs or ordinary shares, then dividends with respect to such shares generally would be eligible for the preferential tax rates, except to the extent that the individual (1) holds the relevant share of stock for 60 days or less during the 120-day period beginning 60 days before the ex-dividend date (or, in the case of certain preferred stock, 90 days or less during the 180-day period beginning 90 days before the ex-dividend date) as measured under Section 246(c) of the Code, (2) is under an obligation (whether pursuant to a short sale or otherwise) to make related payments with respect to positions in substantially similar or related property or (3) elects to treat the dividend as investment income for purposes of determining the amount of deductible investment interest under Section 163(d)(4)(B) of the Code. Further, if an individual receives, with respect to any share of stock, an extraordinary dividend (within the meaning of Section 1059(c) of the Code) eligible for the preferential tax rates, any loss on a subsequent sale of the stock is treated as a long-term capital loss to the extent of the extraordinary dividend.
     Includible distributions paid in Australian dollars, including any Australian withholding taxes, will be included in the gross income of a U.S. holder in a U.S. dollar amount calculated by reference to the exchange rate in effect on the date of receipt, regardless of whether the Australian dollars are converted into U.S. dollars at that time. If Australian dollars are converted into U.S. dollars on the date of receipt, a U.S. holder generally should not be required to recognize any foreign exchange gain or loss.
     If Australian dollars so received are not converted into U.S. dollars on the date of receipt, the U.S. holder will have a basis in the Australian dollars equal to their U.S. dollar value on the date of receipt. Any gain or loss on a subsequent conversion or other disposition of the Australian dollars generally will be treated as ordinary income or loss to such U.S. holder and generally such gain or loss will be income or loss from sources within the United States for foreign tax credit limitation purposes.
     Dividends received by a U.S. holder with respect to ADSs or ordinary shares will be treated as foreign source income, which may be relevant in calculating the holder’s foreign tax credit limitation. The limitation on foreign taxes eligible for credit is calculated separately with respect to specific classes of income. For this purpose, dividends paid with respect to ADSs or ordinary shares will generally constitute “passive income” or “financial services income” for taxable years beginning on or before December 31, 2007, and as “passive category income”, or in certain cases “general category income”, for taxable years beginning after December 31, 2007.
     Subject to certain complex limitations, a U.S. holder generally will be entitled to a credit against its U.S. federal income tax liability or a deduction in computing its U.S. federal taxable income in respect of any Australian taxes withheld by us. A U.S. holder who elects a deduction for Australian taxes withheld by us must do so with respect to all foreign taxes paid or accrued in such taxable year.
     You should consult your tax advisor as to the consequences of Australian withholding taxes and the availability of a foreign tax credit or deduction. See “Australian Tax Considerations—Taxation of Dividends.”
      Sale or Exchange of ADSs or Ordinary Shares
     Subject to the passive foreign investment company rules, discussed below, a U.S. holder generally will recognize gain or loss on a disposition, including a sale, exchange or redemption, of ADSs or ordinary shares equal to the difference between the amount realized on the disposition and the U.S. holder’s tax basis in the ADSs or ordinary shares. This gain or loss will generally be long-term capital gain or loss if the U.S. holder has held the ADSs or ordinary shares for more than one year and otherwise will be short-term capital gain or loss. Long-term capital gains of individuals are eligible for preferential rates of taxation, which have been reduced for long-term capital gains recognized on or after May 6, 2003, and before January 1, 2011. Short-term capital gains are taxed at the rates applicable to ordinary income, which, for gains recognized on or after May 6, 2003, and before January 1, 2011, are higher than the rates applicable to dividends. For foreign tax credit limitation purposes, gain or loss recognized upon a disposition generally will be treated as from sources within the United States. The deductibility of capital losses is subject to limitations for U.S. federal income tax purposes.
     You should consult your tax advisor regarding the availability of a foreign tax credit or deduction in respect of any Australian tax imposed on a sale or other disposition of ADSs or ordinary shares. See “Australian Tax Considerations — Tax on Sales or other Dispositions of Shares.”
      Passive Foreign Investment Company Status
     The Code provides special anti-deferral rules regarding certain distributions received by U.S. shareholders with respect to, and sales and other dispositions, including pledges, of shares of stock of, a passive foreign investment company (“PFIC”). A foreign

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corporation will be treated as a PFIC for any taxable year if 75% or more of its gross income for the taxable year is passive income or the average percentage of its assets, generally by value, that produce or are held for the production of passive income is at least 50%. Passive income for this purpose generally includes, among other things, dividends, interest, rents, royalties, and gains from commodities and securities transactions. In determining whether a foreign corporation is a PFIC, a pro-rata portion of the income and assets of each corporation in which it owns, at least a 25% interest (by value) is taken into account.
     We believe that we were a PFIC for U.S. federal income tax purposes in 2000, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005 and 2006, but not in 2001 and 2007. Metal Storm could become a PFIC again in the future.
     As noted above, dividends received by an individual from a “qualified foreign corporation” are eligible for preferential rates of taxation. A qualified foreign corporation generally does not include any foreign corporation that is a PFIC for the taxable year in which the dividend is paid or for the preceding taxable year.
     A U.S. shareholder that holds stock in a foreign corporation during any taxable year in which the corporation qualifies as a PFIC is subject to tax under the “excess distribution” rules unless the shareholder elects to treat the PFIC as a “qualified electing fund” (“QEF”) or makes a “mark-to-market” election, each as discussed below. An “excess distribution” is a distribution with respect to PFIC stock that exceeds 125% of the average of such distributions over the preceding three-year period or, if shorter, the shareholder’s holding period for its shares. Excess distributions are allocated ratably to each day of the U.S. shareholder’s holding period. Amounts allocated to the current taxable year and any years before the corporation was a PFIC are currently included in gross income as ordinary income. Amounts allocated to other taxable years are taxed at the highest ordinary income tax rates in effect for those years, and the tax for each such prior year is subject to an interest charge at the rate applicable to income tax deficiencies. In addition, the entire amount of any gain that a U.S. shareholder realizes upon a sale or other disposition of shares in a PFIC is considered an excess distribution subject to tax and interest as described above. A U.S. shareholder that acquires shares in a PFIC from a decedent generally will not receive a “stepped-up” fair market value tax basis in such shares but, instead, will receive a tax basis equal to the decedent’s basis, if lower. If a corporation is a PFIC for any taxable year during which a U.S. shareholder holds shares in the corporation, then the corporation generally will continue to be treated as a PFIC with respect to the shareholder’s shares, even if the corporation no longer satisfies either the passive income or passive assets test described above, unless the U.S. shareholder terminates this deemed PFIC status by electing to recognize gain, which will be taxed under the excess distribution rules as if such shares had been sold on the last day of the last taxable year for which the corporation was a PFIC.
     The excess distribution rules may be avoided if a U.S. shareholder makes a QEF election effective beginning with the first taxable year in the shareholder’s holding period in which the corporation is a PFIC. A U.S. shareholder that makes a QEF election is required to include in income its pro rata share of the PFIC’s ordinary earnings and net capital gain as ordinary income and long-term capital gain, respectively, subject to a separate election to defer payment of taxes, which deferral is subject to an interest charge. A U.S. shareholder whose QEF election is effective after the first taxable year during the shareholder’s holding period in which the corporation is a PFIC (an “unpedigreed QEF election”) will continue to be subject to the excess distribution rules for years beginning with such first taxable year and prior to the year in which the QEF election first becomes effective, unless the shareholder elects to recognize as an excess distribution any gain that the shareholder would have recognized if the shares were sold on the first day of the first taxable year for which the QEF election is effective. Although an option to acquire PFIC stock generally is treated as PFIC stock for purposes of the excess distribution rules, a QEF election with respect to a shareholder’s shares will not apply to the shareholder’s options. If a shareholder that owns PFIC shares subject to a QEF election acquires additional shares pursuant to the exercise of an option, the additional shares will be subject to the QEF election, but the election may be an unpedigreed QEF election with respect to those shares.
     In general, a U.S. shareholder makes a QEF election by attaching a completed Internal Revenue Service (“IRS”) Form 8621 to a timely filed (taking into account extensions) U.S. federal income tax return for the year beginning with which the QEF election is to be effective. (A U.S. shareholder of a PFIC must file an IRS Form 8621 annually regardless of whether or not it makes a QEF election.) In certain circumstances, a U.S. shareholder may be able to make a retroactive QEF election. In order for a U.S. shareholder to make a valid QEF election, the corporation must annually provide or make available to the shareholder certain information. A QEF election can be revoked only with the consent of the IRS. Metal Storm does not provide to U.S. holders the information required to make a valid QEF election, and makes no undertaking to provide such information in the future.
     As an alternative to making a QEF election, a U.S. shareholder may make a “mark-to-market” election with respect to its PFIC shares if the shares meet certain minimum trading requirements. A U.S. shareholder that makes a mark-to-market election will be required to include in income each year an amount equal to the excess of the fair market value of the shares that the shareholder owns as of the close of the taxable year over the shareholder’s adjusted tax basis in the shares. The U.S. shareholder will be entitled to a

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deduction for the excess, if any, of the shareholder’s adjusted tax basis in the shares over the fair market value of the shares as of the close of the taxable year; provided, however, that the deduction will be limited to the extent of any net mark-to-market gains with respect to the shares included by the U.S. shareholder under the election for prior taxable years. The U.S. shareholder’s basis in the shares will be adjusted to reflect the amounts included or deducted pursuant to the election. Amounts included in income pursuant to a mark-to-market election, as well as gain on the sale or exchange of the shares, will be treated as ordinary income. The deductible portion of any mark-to-market loss, as well as loss on a sale or exchange of shares to the extent that the amount of such loss does not exceed net mark-to-market gains previously included in income, will be treated as ordinary loss.
     The mark-to-market election applies to the taxable year for which the election is made and all subsequent taxable years, unless the shares cease to meet applicable trading requirements or the IRS consents to its revocation. The excess distribution rules generally do not apply to a U.S. shareholder for tax years for which a mark-to-market election is in effect. However, if a U.S. shareholder makes a mark-to-market election for PFIC stock after the beginning of the shareholder’s holding period for the stock, a coordination rule applies to ensure that the shareholder does not avoid the tax and interest charge with respect to amounts attributable to periods before the election.
     A mark-to-market election is available to a U.S. holder only if the shares are considered “marketable” for these purposes. Shares will be considered marketable if they are regularly traded on certain U.S. stock exchanges or certain non-U.S. stock exchanges. For these purposes, shares will be considered regularly traded during any calendar year during which they are traded, other than in negligible quantities, on at least 15 days during each calendar quarter. Any trades that have as their principal purpose, meeting these requirements will be disregarded. It is not clear whether our ADSs or ordinary shares will meet the minimum trading requirements necessary to permit a U.S. holder to make a mark-to-market election with respect to them.
      U.S. holders are urged to consult their tax advisors as to the effect on them of the PFIC rules and the desirability of making, and the availability of, either a QEF election or a mark-to-market election with respect to our ADSs or ordinary shares. Metal Storm provides no advice on your taxation matters. The above should not be taken as advice by the reader of this document.
Backup Withholding Tax and Information Reporting Requirements
     U.S. backup withholding tax and information reporting requirements generally apply to payments to non-corporate holders of ADSs or ordinary shares. Information reporting will apply to payments of dividends on, and to proceeds from the disposition of, ADSs or ordinary shares by a paying agent within the United States to a U.S. holder, other than an “exempt recipient,” including a corporation and certain other persons that, when required, demonstrate their exempt status. A paying agent within the United States will be required to withhold at the applicable statutory rate, currently 28%, in respect of any payments of dividends on, and the proceeds from the disposition of, ADSs or ordinary shares within the United States to a U.S. holder, other than an “exempt recipient,” if the holder fails to furnish its correct taxpayer identification number or otherwise fails to comply with applicable backup withholding requirements. U.S. holders who are required to establish their exempt status generally must provide IRS Form W-9 (Request for Taxpayer Identification Number and Certification).
     Backup withholding is not an additional tax. Amounts withheld as backup withholding may be credited against a U.S. holder’s U.S. federal income tax liability. A U.S. holder may obtain a refund of any amounts withheld under the backup withholding rules by filing the appropriate claim for refund with the Internal Revenue Service in a timely manner and furnishing any required information.
      The discussion above is not intended to constitute a complete analysis of all tax considerations applicable to an investment in ADSs or ordinary shares. You should consult with your tax advisor concerning the tax consequences to you in your particular situation.
      Australian Tax Considerations
     In this section we discuss the material Australian tax considerations related to the acquisition, ownership and disposal by the absolute beneficial owners of ADSs which are evidenced by ADRs, or ordinary shares. This discussion is based upon existing Australian tax law as of the date of this annual report, which is subject to change, possibly retrospectively. This discussion does not address all aspects of Australian income tax law which may be important to particular investors in light of their individual investment circumstances, such as ADSs or shares held by investors subject to special tax rules (for example, financial institutions, insurance companies or tax exempt organizations). In addition, this summary does not discuss any foreign or state tax considerations, other than stamp duty. Prospective investors are urged to consult their tax advisors regarding the Australian and foreign income and other tax

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considerations of the purchase, ownership and disposition of the ADSs or shares. This summary is based upon the premise that the holder is not an Australian tax resident.
      Nature of ADRs for Australian Taxation Purposes
     ADSs held by a U.S. holder will be treated for Australian taxation purposes as held under a ‘bare trust’ for such holder. Consequently, the underlying ordinary shares will be regarded as owned by the ADS holder for Australian income tax and capital gains tax purposes. Dividends paid on the underlying ordinary shares will also be treated as dividends paid to the ADS holder, as the person beneficially entitled to those dividends. Therefore, in the following analysis we discuss the tax consequences to non-Australian resident holders of ordinary shares which, for Australian taxation purposes, will be the same as to U.S. holders of ADSs.
      Taxation of Dividends
     Australia operates a dividend imputation system under which dividends may be declared to be ‘franked’ to the extent of tax paid on company profits. Fully franked dividends are not subject to dividend withholding tax. Dividends payable by Metal Storm to non-Australian resident shareholders will be subject to dividend withholding tax, to the extent the dividends are unfranked. Dividend withholding tax will be imposed at 30%, unless a shareholder is a resident of a country with which Australia has a double taxation agreement. Under the provisions of the current Double Taxation Convention between Australia and the United States, the Australian tax withheld on unfranked dividends paid by us to which a resident of the United States is beneficially entitled is limited to 15%, unless the shares are effectively connected to a permanent establishment or fixed base in Australia through which the shareholder carries on business or provides independent personal services, respectively.
     If a company that is a non-Australian resident shareholder owns a 10% or more interest, the Australian tax withheld on dividends paid by us to which a resident of the United States is beneficially entitled is limited to 5%.
      Tax on Sales or other Dispositions of Shares—Capital gains tax
     Non-Australian resident shareholders will not be subject to Australian capital gains tax on the gain made on a sale or other disposal of our shares, unless they, together with associates, hold 10% or more of our issued capital at any time during the five years before the disposal of the shares. There are proposed changes to the current legislation, which would exempt holdings of 10% or more of issued capital from Australian capital gains tax. At the present time it is uncertain when these proposed changes might take effect.
     Currently, a non-Australian resident shareholder who owns a 10% or more interest would be subject to Australian capital gains tax to the same extent as Australian resident shareholders. The Australian Taxation Office maintains the view that Australian capital gains tax is not limited by the Double Taxation Convention between the United States and Australia. Australian capital gains tax applies to net capital gains at a taxpayer’s marginal tax rate but for certain shareholders a discount of the capital gain may apply if the shares have been held for 12 months or more. For individuals, this discount is 50%. Net capital gains are calculated after reduction for capital losses, which may only be offset against capital gains.
      Tax on Sales or other Dispositions of Shares—Shareholders Holding Shares on Revenue Account
     Some non-Australian resident shareholders may hold shares on revenue rather than on capital account, for example, share traders. These shareholders may have the gains made on the sale or other disposal of the shares included in their assessable income under the ordinary income provisions of the income tax law, if the gains are sourced in Australia.
     Non-Australian resident shareholders assessable under these ordinary income provisions in respect of gains made on shares held on revenue account would be assessed for such gains at the Australian tax rates for non-Australian residents, which start at a marginal rate of 29%. Some relief from Australian income tax may be available to such non-Australian resident shareholders under the Double Taxation Convention between the United States and Australia, for example, because the shareholder does not have a permanent establishment in Australia.
     To the extent an amount would be included in a non-Australian resident shareholder’s assessable income under both the capital gains tax provisions and the ordinary income provisions, the capital gain amount would generally be reduced, so that the shareholder would not be subject to double tax on any part of the income gain or capital gain.
      Dual Residency

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     If a shareholder were a resident of both Australia and the United States under those countries’ domestic taxation laws, that shareholder may be subject to tax as an Australian resident. If, however, the shareholder is determined to be a U.S. resident for the purposes of the Double Taxation Convention between the United States and Australia, the Australian tax would be subject to limitation by the Double Taxation Convention. Shareholders should obtain specialist taxation advice in these circumstances.
      Stamp Duty
     A transfer of shares through trading on the Australian Securities Exchange, whether by Australian residents or foreign residents, is not subject to Queensland stamp duty.
      Australian Death Duty
     Australia does not have estate or death duties. No capital gains tax liability is realized upon the inheritance of a deceased person’s shares. The disposal of inherited shares by beneficiaries, may, however, give rise to a capital gains tax liability.
      Goods and Services Tax
     The issue or transfer of shares will not incur Australian goods and services tax.
F. Dividends and Paying Agents
     Not applicable.
G. Statements by Experts
     Not applicable.
H. Documents on Display
     We are subject to the periodic reporting and other informational requirements of the Exchange Act. Under the Exchange Act, we are required to file reports and other information with the SEC. Copies of reports and other information, when so filed, may be inspected without charge and may be obtained at prescribed rates at the public reference facilities maintained by the SEC at Judiciary Plaza, 450 Fifth Street, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20549. The public may obtain information regarding the Washington, D.C. Public Reference Room by calling the SEC at 1-800-SEC-0330. The public may also view our annual reports and other documents filed with the SEC on the internet at www.sec.gov . As a foreign private issuer, we are exempt from the rules under the Exchange Act prescribing the furnishing and content of quarterly reports and proxy statements, and our officers, directors and principal shareholders are exempt from the reporting and short-swing profit recovery provisions in Section 16 of the Exchange Act.
Item 11. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosure about Market Risk
     We invest excess cash in term deposits with high-quality financial institutions. We do not utilize derivative financial instruments, derivative commodity instruments, positions or transactions in any material manner. Accordingly, we believe that we are not subject to any material risks arising from changes in interest rates, foreign currency exchange rates, commodity prices, equity prices or other market changes that affect market risk sensitive instruments. Since we do not invest in locations outside Australia, we are not subject to cross-border risks, with the exceptions of risk set out immediately below.
     We operate in Australia and the United States and, as a result, are subject to certain foreign currency exposure. Historically, currency translation gains and losses have been reflected as adjustments to shareholders’ equity, while transaction gains and losses have been reflected as components of income and loss. Transaction gains and losses could be material depending upon changes in the exchange rate relationships between the Australian dollar and the U.S. dollar. See Item 5A “Operating and Financial Review and Prospects — Operating Results—Effects of Currency Fluctuations” above for a detailed description of the impact of foreign currency translation on our financial statements.

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     In addition, convertible notes issued by Metal Storm have an embedded derivative which is required to be fair valued to market at each balance date. As such we are subject to fluctuations in our market price, interest rates and other market changes that affect market risk sensitive instruments.
     Refer footnote 3 on page F-21 for further information.
Item 12. Description of Securities Other than Equity Securities
     Not applicable.
PART II
Item 13. Defaults, Dividend Arrearages and Delinquencies
     Not applicable.
Item 14. Material Modifications to the Rights of Security Holders and the Use of Proceeds
     Not applicable.
Item 15T. Controls and Procedures
(a) Disclosure Controls and Procedures
     An evaluation as of December 31, 2007 was carried out under the supervision and with the participation of Metal Storm’s management, including its Chief Executive Officer and its Chief Financial Officer, of the effectiveness of the design and operations of Metal Storm’s disclosure controls and procedures, as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended.
     Based on that evaluation, Metal Storm’s Chief Executive officer and Chief Financial officer concluded that the design and operation of the company’s disclosure controls and procedures are not effective as of December 31, 2007, to ensure that information required to be disclosed in the reports that Metal Storm files and submits under the Exchange Act is (i) recorded, processed, summarized and reported, within the time periods specified in the SEC’s rules and forms and (ii) accumulated and communicated to management, including the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.
(b) Management’s Annual Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting
     The management of Metal Storm is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended). Metal Storm’s internal control system is a process designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with applicable accounting standards.
     Metal Storm’s internal control over financial reporting includes policies and procedures that: pertain to the maintenance of records that in reasonable detail accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of Metal Storm and its consolidated entities; provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, and that receipts and expenditures of Metal Storm are being made only in accordance with authorizations of management and directors of Metal Storm and its consolidated entities; and provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use or disposition of the assets of Metal Storm and its consolidated entities that could have a material effect on the financial statements.
     Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. Also, projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.
     With the participation of Metal Storm’s Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, management conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of Metal Storm’s internal control over financial reporting based on the framework in Internal Control — Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission.

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     Based on our evaluation, management has concluded that internal controls over financial reporting were not effective as of December 31, 2007. A material weakness is a deficiency, or combination of deficiencies, in internal control over financial reporting, such that there is a reasonable possibility that a material misstatement of Metal Storm’s annual or interim financial statements will not be prevented or detected on a timely basis.
     We did not maintain effective controls over derivative activities and the related accounts. Specifically, controls were not in place to ensure that embedded derivatives were valued accurately. This control deficiency resulted in an audit adjustment to Metal Storm’s liabilities and operating expenses account. Additionally, this control deficiency could result in misstatements to the aforementioned accounts and disclosures that would result in a material misstatement of the consolidated financial statements that would not be prevented and detected. Accordingly, our management has determined that this control deficiency constitutes a material weakness.
     This annual report does not include an attestation report of our registered public accounting firm regarding internal control over financial reporting. Management’s report was not subject to attestation by our registered public accounting firm pursuant to temporary rules of the Securities and Exchange Commission that permit Metal Storm to provide only management’s report in this annual report.
(c) Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting
     During the year ended December 31, 2007, we made the following material changes that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect to our internal control over financial reporting:
     In January 2007, we implemented a new accounting system. This allowed us to introduce automated controls at an operational level to mitigate some of the segregation of duties weaknesses we had previously reported and also facilitate the reporting and review processes to help mitigate our financial statement close process weakness.
     In March 2007, our Chief Financial Officer resigned and had not been replaced at the date of filing our 2006 Form 20-F. In August 2007, this position was filled and appropriate support staff hired, restoring the previous staff structure.
     The prior period weaknesses relating to segregation of duties and financial statement close process were remediated with the introduction of a new accounting system that allowed the introduction of automated controls over approvals and management review of input data. Reporting processes were also redesigned to incorporate regular independent review of financial statements. Financial statement close process was documented to incorporate operational checklists and subscription based disclosure checklists. Reconciliation processes were formalized and documented based on best practice guidelines provided by a professional accounting membership organization in Australia.
     The prior period material weakness relating to the design and operation of Metal Storm’s process for reporting in accordance with US GAAP was remediated with the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) adopted rules on December 21, 2007 to allow foreign private issuers that file on Form 20-F and other eligible entities (as defined below) to file financial statements with the SEC in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards (“IFRS”) as issued by the International Accounting Standards Board (“IASB”) without reconciliation to US GAAP. Metal Storm’s financial statements are in compliance with IFRS as issued by the IASB and the report of our registered public accounting firms will provide an unqualified auditor’s report that opines on that compliance. Accordingly, we will no longer be required to report under US GAAP.
Item 16A. Audit Committee Financial Expert
     Terence O’Dwyer is an “audit committee financial expert” (as defined in Item 16A of Form 20-F) and is “independent” (as defined in the rules of The Nasdaq Stock Market Inc.). Please see Item 6A “Directors, Senior Management and Employees — Directors and Senior Management” for details of his background.
     During 2007 and until his retirement from our Board of Directors at the annual meeting of shareholders in May 2008, James M. Crunk was an “audit committee financial expert” and was independent. He had been chief financial officer of a privately-held government contractor, the controller of a division of a large defense contractor and the chief financial officer of various start-up companies.
Item 16B. Code of Ethics
     We have adopted a code of conduct to guide executives, management and employees in carrying out their duties and responsibilities. The code of conduct covers such matters as:
    responsibilities to shareholders;

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    compliance with laws and regulations;
 
    relations with customers and suppliers;
 
    ethical responsibilities;
 
    employment practices; and
 
    responsibilities to the environment and the community.
     We undertake to provide to any person without charge, upon request, a copy of our code of conduct. Please contact our Company Secretary at 011- 61-7-3123-4700 to obtain a copy.
     In 2007, we did not (expressly or implicitly) grant a waiver under our code of conduct to our principal executive officer, our principal accounting officer or controller or persons performing similar functions.
Item 16C. Principal Accountant Fees and Services
PricewaterhouseCoopers
                          
    December 31,
    2007   2006
    A$   A$
Audit fees
    45,000      
Audit-related fees
    287,000      
Tax fees
         
All other fees
         
 
           
Total
    332,000          
 
           
Ernst & Young
                 
    December 31,
    2007   2006
    A$   A$
Audit fees
    353,458       387,550  
Audit-related fees
          41,926  
Tax fees
           
All other fees
           
 
               
Total
    353,458       429,476  
 
               
     Fees for audit services include fees associated with the annual audit of the consolidated financial statements, including reviews of our half-year reports. Audit —related fees principally include the performance of agreed-upon procedures in connection with capital raising activities and accounting consultation. Tax fees include tax compliance services. All other fees include reading press releases.
     The audit committee pre-approved the engagement of PricewaterhouseCoopers for all the services described in Item 16C.
Item 16D. Exemptions from the Listing Standards for Audit Committees.
     Not applicable.
Item 16E. Purchases of Equity Securities by the Issuer and Affiliated Purchasers
     Not applicable.
PART III
Item 17. Financial Statements
     Not applicable.

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Item 18. Financial Statements
     Not applicable.
Item 19. Exhibits
     
Exhibit    
Number   Description of Exhibit
 
   
1.1
  Constitution of Metal Storm*
 
   
4.1
  [not used]
 
   
4.2
  [not used]
 
   
4.3
  DSTO Technology License Agreement dated April 20, 2001, as amended (portions omitted pursuant to a request for confidential treatment; non-public information has been filed with the SEC)*
 
   
4.4
  Employment Agreement of Dr. Lee Finniear***
 
   
4.5
  Letter of Offer to P. D. Faulkner***
 
   
4.6
  Employment Agreement of Brett Farmer
 
   
4.7
  [not used]
 
   
4.8
  Employment Agreement of Dr. Joe Cronin***
 
   
4.9
  Cash Advance Facility Agreement, dated June 16, 2006, between Metal Storm and Harmony Investment Fund Limited**
 
   
4.10
  Discretionary Share Option Scheme*
 
   
4.11
  Convertible Note Trust Deed dated July 11, 2006***
 
   
8.0
  List of Subsidiaries of Metal Storm Limited
 
   
12.1
  Certification by the Chief Executive Officer of Metal Storm Limited in accordance with Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act
 
   
12.2
  Certification by the Chief Financial Officer of Metal Storm Limited in accordance with Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act
 
   
13.1
  Certification by the Chief Executive Officer in accordance with Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act
 
   
13.2
  Certification by the Chief Financial Officer in accordance with Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act
 
*   Incorporated by reference from our Registration Statement on Form 20-F filed on December 12, 2001, File No. 000-31212.
 
**   Incorporated by reference from our annual report on Form 20-F filed on July 17, 2006.
 
***   Incorporated by reference from our annual report on Form 20-F filed on May 18, 2007.

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Table of Contents

PRICEWATERHOUSECOOPERS LOGO
 
     
 
 









PricewaterhouseCoopers
Riverside Centre
123 Eagle Street
BRISBANE QLD 4000
GPO Box 150
BRISBANE QLD 4001
DX 77 Brisbane
Australia
www.pwc.com/au
Telephone +61 7 3257 5000
Facsimile +61 7 3257 5999
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
To the Board of Directors and Shareholders:
In our opinion, the accompanying consolidated balance sheets and the related consolidated Income Statements, Statements of Cash flows, Statements of Changes in Equity and notes to the financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of Metal Storm Limited and its subsidiaries at December 31, 2007, 2006 and 2005 and the results of their operations and their cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2007 in conformity with International Financial Reporting Standards as issued by the International Accounting Standards Board. These financial statements are the responsibility of the Company’s management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these financial statements based on our audits. We conducted our audits of these statements in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements, assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, and evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.
The accompanying financial statements have been prepared assuming that the Company will continue as a going concern. As discussed in Note 1 to the financial statements, the Company has suffered recurring losses from operations and has a net capital deficiency that raise substantial doubt about its ability to continue as a going concern. Management’s plans in regard to these matters are also described in Note 1. The financial statements do not include any adjustments that might result from the outcome of this uncertainty.
PricewaterhouseCoopers
/s/ Robert Roach
Robert Roach
Brisbane, Australia
June 30, 2008

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Table of Contents

Metal Storm Limited
Income Statements
For the years ended 31 December 2007, 2006 and 2005
                                 
            2007   2006   2005
    Note   A$   A$   A$
Continuing operations
                               
Revenue
    6       3,205,381       2,339,310       830,645  
 
                               
Expenses
                               
Fair value movement in embedded derivative
    17       2,421,388       (4,469,042 )      
Consumables used
            (469,579 )     (152,471 )     (4,360 )
Employee expenses
    7       (4,348,588 )     (5,342,348 )     (4,468,640 )
Finance costs
    7       (4,934,415 )     (2,183,013 )     (35,496 )
Professional fees
            (1,321,686 )     (1,731,913 )     (1,774,369 )
Research and development
            (1,671,057 )     (990,022 )     (1,146,364 )
Administrative expenditure
            (576,387 )     (831,647 )     (928,931 )
Facility expenses
            (790,874 )     (741,643 )     (522,693 )
Travel and entertainment
            (468,868 )     (523,432 )     (433,859 )
Communication and technology
            (360,501 )     (348,191 )     (306,335 )
Public relations and compliance
            (393,967 )     (339,206 )     (494,786 )
Foreign exchange differences
            (68,197 )     15,864       (27,022 )
Impairment expense
    7       (220,800 )            
             
Loss from continuing operations before Income tax
            (9,998,150 )     (15,297,754 )     (9,312,210 )
 
                               
Income tax benefit
    8                    
 
                               
             
Loss after tax from continuing operations
            (9,998,150 )     (15,297,754 )     (9,312,210 )
 
                               
Discontinued Operation
                               
Loss after tax from discontinued operation
    9             (39,256 )     (1,602,390 )
 
                               
             
Loss for the year
            (9,998,150 )     (15,337,010 )     (10,914,600 )
             
 
                               
Earnings per share (cents per share)
                               
- Basic and diluted loss for the year attributable to ordinary equity holders of the parent
    31       (1.69 )     (2.85 )     (2.09 )
Earnings per share (cents per share)
                               
- Basic and diluted loss for the year from continuing operations attributable to ordinary equity holders of the parent
    31       (1.69 )     (2.84 )     (1.78 )
The above Income Statements should be read in conjunction with the accompanying notes.

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Metal Storm Limited
Balance Sheets
As at 31 December 2007, 2006 and 2005
                                 
            2007   2006   2005
    Note   A$   A$   A$
Assets
                               
Current assets
                               
Cash and cash equivalents
    10       14,727,548       23,830,267       635,861  
Available-for-sale financial investments
    11       779,200       2,002,080       5,056,140  
Trade and other receivables
    12       1,563,218       773,130       1,423,553  
             
Total current assets
            17,069,966       26,605,477       7,115,554  
 
                               
Non-current assets
                               
Trade and other receivables
    13       987,902       510,795       30,600  
Property, plant and equipment
    14       656,260       627,985       231,629  
Intangible assets and goodwill
    15       74,149       111,824       51,938  
             
Total non-current assets
            1,718,311       1,250,604       314,167  
 
                               
Total assets
            18,788,277       27,856,081       7,429,721  
 
                               
Liabilities
                               
Current liabilities
                               
Trade and other payables
    16       2,605,145       1,942,525       933,574  
Conversion derivative
    17       5,963,793       10,811,057        
Interest-bearing loans and borrowings
    18       12,941,447       13,229,376       353,674  
Provisions
    19       302,161       441,997       277,448  
             
Total current liabilities
            21,812,546       26,424,955       1,564,696  
 
                               
Non-current liabilities
                               
Interest-bearing loans and borrowings
    20       215,036       255,845        
Other
            68,265       77,949       85,163  
             
Total non-current liabilities
            283,301       333,794       85,163  
 
                               
Total liabilities
            22,095,847       26,758,749       1,649,859  
             
Net assets (liabilities)
            (3,307,570 )     1,097,332       5,779,862  
             
 
                               
Equity
                               
Contributed equity
    21       65,428,400       59,985,634       56,559,039  
Reserves
    22       9,046,424       8,895,942       1,668,057  
Accumulated losses
    23       (77,782,394 )     (67,784,244 )     (52,447,234 )
             
Total equity (deficiency)
            (3,307,570 )     1,097,332       5,779,862  
             
The above Balance Sheets should be read in conjunction with the accompanying notes.

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Metal Storm Limited
Cash Flow Statement
For the year ended 31 December 2007
                                 
            2007   2006   2005
    Note   A$   A$   A$
Cash Flows From Operating Activities
                               
Receipts from customers
            1,052,095       2,015,018       1,488,361  
Payments to suppliers and employees
            (9,516,201 )     (9,864,003 )     (12,237,520 )
Interest and other costs of finance paid
            (2,791,790 )     (287,027 )     (96,157 )
Government grant – research & development
                  679,673       310,755  
             
Net cash outflow from operating activities
    30       (11,255,896 )     (7,456,339 )     (10,534,561 )
Cash Flows From Investing Activities
                               
Purchase of property, plant and equipment
            (200,039 )     (824,299 )     (104,292 )
Proceeds from the disposal of property, plant and equipment
            2,127       318,695        
Purchase of intangible assets
            (42,847 )     (137,197 )     (74,007 )
Interest received
            1,455,190       673,435       613,030  
Proceeds from disposal of discontinued operation
                        2,256,721  
Purchase of available-for-sale financial assets
                        (8,633,480 )
Proceeds from sale of available-for-sale financial assets
            1,000,000       3,054,060       3,614,000  
Purchase of other financial asset
                  (480,798 )      
Proceeds from sale of other financial assets
                            857,536  
             
Net cash inflow (outflow) from investing activities
            2,214,431       2,603,896       (1,470,492 )
Cash Flows From Financing Activities
                               
Proceeds from issues of shares
            6,639       3,017,685        
Share issue costs
                  (268,696 )      
Proceeds from issuance of convertible notes
                  27,500,000        
Transaction costs of rights issue
                  (1,909,878 )      
Proceeds from borrowings
            419,703       306,180        
Repayment of borrowings
            (486,114 )     (598,442 )     (2,466,723 )
             
Net cash inflow (outflow) from financing activities
            (59,772 )     28,046,849       (2,466,723 )
Net cash movement in cash and cash equivalents
            (9,101,237 )     23,194,406       (14,471,776 )
Net foreign exchange differences
            (1,482 )           (1,959 )
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period
            23,830,267       635,861       15,109,596  
             
Cash and cash equivalents at year end
    10       14,727,548       23,830,267       635,861  
             
The above Cash Flow Statements should be read in conjunction with the accompanying notes.

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Table of Contents

Metal Storm Limited
Statements of Changes in Equity
For the year ended 31 December 2007
                                 
    Contributed           Accumulated    
    equity   Reserves   losses   Total equity
    A$   A$   A$   A$
     
At 1 January 2005
    56,559,039       1,173,588       (41,532,634 )     16,199,993  
 
                               
Net gains on available-for-sale financial assets
          36,660             36,660  
Currency translation differences
          48,081             48,081  
     
Total income and expense for the year recognised directly in equity
          84,741             84,741  
Loss for the year
                (10,914,600 )     (10,914,600 )
     
Total income/(expense) for the year
          84,741       (10,914,600 )     (10,829,859 )
     
Net increase in option reserves
          409,728               409,728  
     
At 31 December 2005
    56,559,039       1,668,057       (52,447,234 )     5,779,862  
     
 
                               
Net gains on available-for-sale financial assets
          (34,580 )           (34,580 )
Currency translation differences
          10,213             10,213  
     
Total income and expense for the year recognised directly in equity
          (24,367 )           (24,367 )
Loss for the year
                (15,337,010 )     (15,337,010 )
     
Total income/(expense) for the year
          (24,367 )     (15,337,010 )     (15,361,377 )
     
Net increase in option reserves
          358,686             358,686  
Attaching options issued on allotment of renounceable rights issue
          4,379,638             4,379,638  
Options paid as cost to Harmony
          3,262,000             3,262,000  
Options expense
          (748,072 )           (748,072 )
Share options exercised
    7,685                   7,685  
Issue of share capital
    3,035,031                   3,035,031  
Conversion of convertible notes to shares
    652,575                   652,575  
Share issue costs
    (268,696 )                 (268,696 )
     
At 31 December 2006
    59,985,634       8,895,942       (67,784,244 )     1,097,332  
     
 
                               
Realised gains on available-for-sale financial assets
          (1,040 )           (1,040 )
Fair value movement on available-for-sale financial assets
          (1,040 )           (1,040 )
Currency translation differences
          16,013             16,013  
     
Total income and expense for the year recognised directly in equity
          13,933             13,933  
Loss for the year
                (9,998,150 )     (9,998,150 )
     
Total income/(expense) for the year
          13,933       (9,998,150 )     (9,984,217 )
     
Net increase in option reserves
          136,549             136,549  
Share options exercised
    6,638                   6,638  
Conversion of convertible notes to shares
    5,436,128                   5,436,128  
     
At 31 December 2007
    65,428,400       9,046,424       (77,782,394 )     (3,307,570 )
     
The above Statements of Changes in Equity should be read in conjunction with the accompanying notes.

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Table of Contents

Metal Storm Limited
Notes to the financial statements
31 December 2007
Contents to the notes of the financial statements
         
    F-8  
    F-9  
    F-20  
    F-22  
    F-23  
    F-26  
    F-26  
    F-27  
    F-29  
    F-30  
    F-30  
    F-30  
    F-31  
    F-31  
    F-32  
    F-33  
    F-33  
    F-34  
    F-35  
    F-35  
    F-36  
    F-37  
    F-38  
    F-38  
    F-43  
    F-43  
    F-44  
    F-44  
    F-45  
    F-45  
    F-46  
    F-46  

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Table of Contents

Metal Storm Limited
Notes to the financial statements (continued)

31 December 2007
1. Going concern
The financial statements have been prepared on the basis of going concern which contemplates continuity of normal business activities and the realisation of assets and settlement of liabilities in the ordinary course of business.
Key financial data for the Consolidated Entity for the financial years to 31 December 2007 and 31 December 2006 respectively is disclosed below:
                 
    2007   2006
     
Loss for the year
    (9,998,150 )     (15,337,010 )
Net cash outflow from operating activities
    (11,255,896 )     (7,456,339 )
Net assets (liabilities)
    (3,307,570 )     1,097,332  
The continuing viability of the Company and the Group and their ability to continue as a going concern and to meet their debts and commitments as and when they fall due is dependent on the ability of the Company and the Group to meet the covenant terms of its Trust Deed.
The covenant terms in the Trust Deed must be met on an ongoing basis and consequently both the decisions of the Company itself and factors outside its control may impact ongoing compliance with the Trust Deed requirements.
It is therefore uncertain the Company and the Group will continue to comply with the terms of its Trust Deed in relation to the covenants set out for minimum cash levels.
The company will address the cash covenant requirements as an ongoing and critical part of its operations using an appropriate balance of business strategies. These strategies include:
  Monitoring cash flows to match the critical engineering resource demands and the timeliness of engineering delivery with cash availability.
  Taking action, where corrective action is needed on cash flows, to ensure the cash covenant is met in terms of the Note holders trust deed.
  Utilizing the conditions within the Trust Deed which allow the company to borrow, to enable timely delivery of resources where those expenditures will be allowable within future cash covenant limits. To that end the company has borrowed $2 M by short term unsecured facility to maintain its limits within the cash covenant now, where the post 30 June 2008 limit allows for the full repayment of the short term borrowing.
  Increasing contract revenue significantly. The company has traditionally obtained quality contract work in the USA which has increased its own intellectual property. That needs to be expanded and prospects for further contracts are good. Currently and additionally the company has contracting opportunities in embryonic negotiations in Australia.
  Developing the relationship with STK commenced with the recently contracted Agreement with them for 40mm ammunition and international marketing of the 3GL product.
Should a breach of the Trust Deed occur, the full balance of the borrowed funds could become due and payable immediately.
The uncertainty of compliance with the covenant terms creates a material uncertainty as to whether the Company and the Group will continue as a going concern and, therefore whether they will realise their assets and settle their liabilities in the normal course of business and at the amounts stated in the financial statements.
In the Directors’ opinion they have sufficient evidence to believe that the Company and the Group will be able to meet the terms of the Trust Deed and therefore be able to pay their debts and commitments as and when they fall due. The Company has been running to budget and so long as this continues, which the directors have no reason to believe will change, the Company will be able to meet its obligations as they fall due.
However, if the Company is not able to meet its obligations, there is material uncertainty as to whether the Company and the Group will continue as going concerns and, therefore they may realise their assets and settle their liabilities at amounts different from those stated in the financial report.
No adjustments have been made to the financial statements relating to the recoverability and classification of the asset carrying amounts or classification of liabilities that might be necessary should the Company and the Group not continue as a going concern.

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Table of Contents

Metal Storm Limited
Notes to the financial statements (continued)

31 December 2007
2. Summary of significant accounting policies
The principal accounting policies adopted in the preparation of the financial report are set out below. These policies have been consistently applied to all the years presented, unless otherwise stated. The financial report includes separate financial statements for Metal Storm Limited as an individual entity and the Group consisting of Metal Storm Limited and its subsidiaries.
(a) Compliance with IFRS and basis of preparation
This general purpose financial report has been prepared in accordance with Australian Accounting Standards, other authoritative pronouncements of the Australian Accounting Standards Board, Urgent Issues Group Interpretations and the Corporations Act 2001.
Compliance with IFRS
Australian Accounting Standards include Australian equivalents to International Financial Reporting Standards (AIFRS). Compliance with AIFRS ensures that the consolidated financial statements and notes of Metal Storm Limited comply with International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS). The consolidated financial statements of Metal Storm limited comply with IFRS as issued by the International Accounting Standards Board.
The Group’s financial statements are in compliance with IFRS as issued by the IASB.
Historical cost convention
These financial statements have been prepared under the historical cost convention, except for available-for-sale financial assets, which are at fair value through equity on the balance sheet, and embedded derivative, which is at fair value through profit and loss.
Critical accounting estimates
The preparation of financial statements in conformity with AIFRS requires the use of certain critical accounting estimates. It also requires management to exercise its judgement in the process of applying the Group’s accounting policies. The areas involving a higher degree of judgement or complexity, or areas where assumptions and estimates are significant to the financial statements are disclosed in note 4.
Change in accounting policy – financial instruments
On September 1, 2006, the company issued convertible notes for a face value of $27.5 million. The transaction costs incurred in relation to this capital raising were $4.6 million.
The accounting policy applied in preparing the 2006 financial statements was in accordance with the generally accepted practice whereby transaction costs are allocated entirely to the host debt contract if there is an embedded derivative. This practice recognises that these transaction costs are part of the cost of borrowing and should therefore be spread as part of the effective interest rate.
When reviewing the instruments for the 2007 financial statements it was clear that the embedded derivative in its own right was an unusually key feature of the fund raising. Investors saw this as a purchase of an option to buy shares rather than a debt instrument with a safety feature. As such, the policy was changed to link some of the transaction costs to the underlying derivative and thus to recognise them immediately.
The outcome of the change is that the annual borrowing costs are similar to a standard convertible debt where the embedded option is treated as equity. The costs relating to the derivative are expensed immediately.
On balance, we concluded that such a change in our accounting for the costs in 2007 was appropriate on the basis that the allocation of costs to the embedded derivative was reliable and more relevant than no allocation of costs.

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Table of Contents

Metal Storm Limited
Notes to the financial statements (continued)

31 December 2007
2. Summary of significant accounting policies (continued)
(a) Compliance with IFRS and basis of preparation (continued)
Transactions costs are allocated to the financial instrument in proportion to the allocation of proceeds.
The effect of this change in policy is summarised in the table below.
                                 
    2006   2006   2007   2007
    Original   Revised   Original   Revised
Income Statement
                               
Fair Value movement in Embedded Derivative
    (3,244,330 )     (4,469,042 )     2,241,388       2,241,388  
Net loss for the year
    (14,225,132 )     (15,337,010 )     (10,096,815 )     (9,998,150 )
Basic and diluted earning per share
    (2.65 )     (2.85 )     (1.71 )     (1.69 )
 
                               
Balance Sheet
                               
Interest bearing loans and borrowings
    11,903,152       13,229,376       12,030,408       12,941,447  
Contributed equity
    60,199,980       59,985,634       65,135,606       65,428,400  
The effect of the change in policy has been adjusted in this financial report by revising the affected financial statement line items for the comparative year.
Refer Note 18 for further details.
(b) Principles of consolidation
The consolidated financial statements incorporate the assets and liabilities of all subsidiaries of Metal Storm Limited (''Company’’) as at Monday 31 December 2007 and the results of all subsidiaries for the year then ended. Metal Storm Limited and its subsidiaries together are referred to in this financial report as the Group.
Subsidiaries are all those entities (including special purpose entities) over which the Group has the power to govern the financial and operating policies, generally accompanying a shareholding of more than one-half of the voting rights. The existence and effect of potential voting rights that are currently exercisable or convertible are considered when assessing whether the Group controls another entity.
Subsidiaries are fully consolidated from the date on which control is transferred to the Group. They are de-consolidated from the date that control ceases.
The purchase method of accounting is used to account for the acquisition of subsidiaries by the Group (refer to note 2(i)).
Inter-company transactions, balances and unrealised gains on transactions between Group companies are eliminated. Unrealised losses are also eliminated unless the transaction provides evidence of the impairment of the asset transferred. Accounting policies of subsidiaries have been changed where necessary to ensure consistency with the policies adopted by the Group.
Investments in subsidiaries are accounted for at cost in the individual financial statements of Metal Storm Limited.
(c) Segment reporting
A business segment is identified for a group of assets and operations engaged in providing products or services that are subject to risks and returns that are different to those of other business segments. A geographical segment is identified when products or services are provided within a particular economic environment subject to risks and returns that are different from those of segments operating in other economic environments.

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Table of Contents

Metal Storm Limited
Notes to the financial statements (continued)

31 December 2007
2. Summary of significant accounting policies (continued)
(d) Foreign currency translation
(i) Functional and presentation currency
Items included in the financial statements for Metal Storm Limited, Metal Storm Inc and Metal Storm USA of each of the Group’s entities are measured using the currency of the primary economic environment in which the entity operates (‘the functional currency’). The consolidated financial statements are presented in Australian dollars, which is Metal Storm Limited’s functional and presentation currency.
(ii) Transactions and balances
Foreign currency transactions are translated into the functional currency using the exchange rates prevailing at the dates of the transactions. Foreign exchange gains and losses resulting from the settlement of such transactions and from the translation at year end exchange rates of monetary assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies are recognised in the income statement.
Translation differences on non-monetary financial assets and liabilities are reported as part of the fair value gain or loss. Translation differences on non-monetary financial assets and liabilities such as equities held at fair value through profit or loss are recognised in profit or loss as part of the fair value gain or loss. Translation differences on non-monetary financial assets such as equities classified as available-for-sale financial assets are included in the fair value reserve in equity.
(iii) Group companies
The results and financial position of all the Group entities (none of which has the currency of a hyperinflationary economy) that have a functional currency different from the presentation currency are translated into the presentation currency as follows:
    assets and liabilities for each balance sheet presented are translated at the closing rate at the date of that balance sheet;
 
    income and expenses for each income statement are translated at average exchange rates (unless this is not a reasonable approximation of the cumulative effect of the rates prevailing on the transaction dates, in which case income and expenses are translated at the dates of the transactions); and
 
    all resulting exchange differences are recognised as a separate component of equity.
(e) Revenue recognition
Revenue is measured at the fair value of the consideration received or receivable. Amounts disclosed as revenue are net of returns, trade allowances, rebates and amounts collected on behalf of third parties.
The Group recognises revenue when the amount of revenue can be reliably measured, it is probable that future economic benefits will flow to the entity and specific criteria have been met for each of the Group’s activities as described below. The amount of revenue is not considered to be reliably measurable until all contingencies relating to the sale have been resolved. The Group bases its estimates on historical results, taking into consideration the type of customer, the type of transaction and the specifics of each arrangement.
Revenue is recognised for the major business activities as follows:
Construction contracts
Construction revenue and expenses are recognised in accordance with the percentage of completion method unless the outcome of the contract cannot be reliably estimated. Where it is probable that a loss will arise from a construction contract the excess of total expected contract costs over total expected contract revenue is recognised as an expense immediately.
Where the outcome of a contract cannot be reliably estimated, contract costs are recognised as an expense when incurred, and where it is probable that the costs will be recovered, revenue is recognised to the extent of costs incurred.

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Table of Contents

Metal Storm Limited
Notes to the financial statements (continued)

31 December 2007
2. Summary of significant accounting policies (continued)
(e) Revenue recognition (continued)
Depending on the type of the contract, the stage of completion is measured by reference to labour hours incurred to date as a percentage of estimated total labour hours or by costs incurred to date as a percentage of estimated total costs for each contract. Revenue from cost plus contracts is recognised by reference to the recoverable costs incurred during the reporting period plus the percentage of fees earned.
The percentage of fees earned is measured by the proportion that costs incurred to date bear to the estimated total costs of the contract.
Interest income
Interest income is recognised on a time proportion basis using the effective interest method. When a receivable is impaired, the Group reduces the carrying amount to its recoverable amount, being the estimated future cash flow discounted at the original effective interest rate of the instrument, and continues unwinding the discount as interest income. Interest income on impaired loans is recognised using the original effective interest rate.
(f) Government grants
Grants from the government are recognised at their fair value where there is a reasonable assurance that the grant will be received and the Group will comply with all attached conditions.
Government grants relating to costs are deferred and recognised in the income statement over the period necessary to match them with the costs that they are intended to compensate.
Government grants relating to the purchase of property, plant and equipment are included in non-current liabilities as deferred income and are credited to the income statement on a straight-line basis over the expected lives of the related assets.
(g) Income tax
The income tax expense or revenue for the period is the tax payable on the current period’s taxable income based on the national income tax rate for each jurisdiction adjusted by changes in deferred tax assets and liabilities attributable to temporary differences and to unused tax losses.
Deferred income tax is provided in full, using the liability method, on temporary differences arising between the tax bases of assets and liabilities and their carrying amounts in the consolidated financial statements. However, the deferred income tax is not accounted for if it arises from initial recognition of an asset or liability in a transaction other than a business combination that at the time of the transaction affects neither accounting nor taxable profit nor loss. Deferred income tax is determined using tax rates (and laws) that have been enacted or substantially enacted by the balance sheet date and are expected to apply when the related deferred income tax asset is realised or the deferred income tax liability is settled.
Deferred tax assets are recognised for deductible temporary differences and unused tax losses only if it is probable that future taxable amounts will be available to utilise those temporary differences and losses.
Deferred tax liabilities and assets are not recognised for temporary differences between the carrying amount and tax bases of investments in controlled entities where the parent entity is able to control the timing of the reversal of the temporary differences and it is probable that the differences will not reverse in the foreseeable future.
Deferred tax assets and liabilities are offset when there is a legally enforceable right to offset current tax assets and liabilities and when the deferred tax balances relate to the same taxation authority. Current tax assets and tax liabilities are offset where the entity has a legally enforceable right to offset and intends either to settle on a net basis, or to realise the asset and settle the liability simultaneously.
Current and deferred tax balances attributable to amounts recognised directly in equity are also recognised directly in equity.

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Table of Contents

Metal Storm Limited
Notes to the financial statements (continued)

31 December 2007
2. Summary of significant accounting policies (continued)
(h) Leases
Leases of property, plant and equipment where the Group, as lessee, has substantially all the risks and rewards of ownership are classified as finance leases (note 26(b)). Finance leases are capitalised at the lease’s inception at the fair value of the leased property or, if lower, the present value of the minimum lease payments. The corresponding rental obligations, net of finance charges, are included in other short-term and long-term payables. Each lease payment is allocated between the liability and finance cost. The finance cost is charged to the income statement over the lease period so as to produce a constant periodic rate of interest on the remaining balance of the liability for each period. The property, plant and equipment acquired under finance leases is depreciated over the shorter of the asset’s useful life and the lease term.
Leases in which a significant portion of the risks and rewards of ownership are not transferred to the Group as lessee are classified as operating leases (note 26(a)). Payments made under operating leases (net of any incentives received from the lessor) are charged to the income statement on a straight-line basis over the period of the lease.
(i) Business combinations
The purchase method of accounting is used to account for all business combinations, including business combinations involving entities or businesses under common control, regardless of whether equity instruments or other assets are acquired. Cost is measured as the fair value of the assets given, equity instruments issued or liabilities incurred or assumed at the date of exchange plus costs directly attributable to the acquisition. Where equity instruments are issued in an acquisition, the fair value of the instruments is their published market price as at the date of exchange unless, in rare circumstances, it can be demonstrated that the published price at the date of exchange is an unreliable indicator of fair value and that other evidence and valuation methods provide a more reliable measure of fair value. Transaction costs arising on the issue of equity instruments are recognised directly in equity.
Identifiable assets acquired and liabilities and contingent liabilities assumed in a business combination are measured initially at their fair values at the acquisition date, irrespective of the extent of any minority interest. The excess of the cost of acquisition over the fair value of the Group’s share of the identifiable net assets acquired is recorded as goodwill (refer to note 2(q)(i)). If the cost of acquisition is less than the Group’s share of the fair value of the identifiable net assets of the subsidiary acquired, the difference is recognised directly in the income statement, but only after a reassessment of the identification and measurement of the net assets acquired.
Where settlement of any part of cash consideration is deferred, the amounts payable in the future are discounted to their present value as at the date of exchange. The discount rate used is the entity’s incremental borrowing rate, being the rate at which a similar borrowing could be obtained from an independent financier under comparable terms and conditions.
(j) Impairment of assets
Goodwill and intangible assets that have an indefinite useful life are not subject to amortisation and are tested annually for impairment or more frequently if events or changes in circumstances indicate that they might be impaired. Other assets are reviewed for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount may not be recoverable. An impairment loss is recognised for the amount by which the asset’s carrying amount exceeds its recoverable amount. The recoverable amount is the higher of an asset’s fair value less costs to sell and value in use. For the purposes of assessing impairment, assets are grouped at the lowest levels for which there are separately identifiable cash inflows which are largely independent of the cash inflows from other assets or groups of assets (cash-generating units). Non-financial assets other than goodwill that suffered impairment are reviewed for possible reversal of the impairment at each reporting date.
(k) Cash and cash equivalents
For cash flow statement presentation purposes, cash and cash equivalents includes cash on hand, deposits held at call with financial institutions, other short-term, highly liquid investments with original maturities of three months or less that are readily convertible to known amounts of cash and which are subject to an insignificant risk of changes in value.

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Table of Contents

Metal Storm Limited
Notes to the financial statements (continued)

31 December 2007
2. Summary of significant accounting policies (continued)
(l) Trade receivables
Trade receivables are initially recognised at fair value and are stated net of any provisions for impairment. Trade receivables are generally due for settlement within 30 days.
Collectibility of trade receivables is reviewed on an ongoing basis. Debts which are known to be uncollectible are written off. A provision for impairment of trade receivables is established when there is objective evidence that the Group will not be able to collect all amounts due according to the original terms of the receivables. Significant financial difficulties of the debtor, probability that the debtor will enter bankruptcy or financial reorganisation, and default or delinquency in payments (more than 30 days overdue) are considered indicators that the trade receivable is impaired. The amount of the provision is the difference between the asset’s carrying amount and the present value of estimated future cash flows, discounted at the original effective interest rate. Cash flows relating to short-term receivables are not discounted if the effect of discounting is immaterial. The amount of the provision is recognised in the income statement in administrative expenditure.
The carrying amount of the asset is reduced through the use of an allowance account and the amount of the loss is recognised in the income statement within ‘administrative expenditure’. When a trade receivable is uncollectible, it is written off against the allowance account for trade receivables. Subsequent recoveries of amounts previously written off are credited against administrative expenditure in the income statement.
(m) Investments and other financial assets
Classification
The Group classifies its investments in the following categories: financial assets at fair value through profit or loss, loans and receivables, held-to-maturity investments and available-for-sale financial assets. The classification depends on the purpose for which the investments were acquired. Management determines the classification of its investments at initial recognition and, in the case of assets classified as held-to-maturity, re-evaluates this designation at each reporting date.
(i) Financial assets at fair value through profit or loss
Financial assets at fair value through profit or loss are financial assets held for trading. A financial asset is classified in this category if acquired principally for the purpose of selling in the short term. Derivatives are classified as held for trading unless they are designated as hedges. Assets in this category are classified as current assets.
(ii) Loans and receivables
Loans and receivables are non-derivative financial assets with fixed or determinable payments that are not quoted in an active market. They are included in current assets, except for those with maturities greater than 12 months after the balance sheet date which are classified as non-current assets. Loans and receivables are included in trade and other receivables in the balance sheet (note 12 and 13).
(iii) Held-to-maturity investments
Held-to-maturity investments are non-derivative financial assets with fixed or determinable payments and fixed maturities that the Group’s management has the positive intention and ability to hold to maturity. If the Group were to sell other than an insignificant amount of held-to-maturity financial assets, the whole category would be tainted and reclassified as available-for-sale. Held-to-maturity financial assets are included in non-current assets, except for those with maturities less than 12 months from the reporting date, which are classified as current assets.
(iv) Available-for-sale financial assets
Available-for-sale financial assets are those non-derivative financial assets that are designated as available for sale or that are not classified as any of the preceding categories. After initial recognition available-for-sale assets are measured at fair value with gains or losses being recognised as a separate component of equity until the investment is derecognised or until the asset is determined to be impaired, at which point time the cumulative gain or loss previously reported in equity is recognised in profit or loss.

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Table of Contents

Metal Storm Limited
Notes to the financial statements (continued)

31 December 2007
2. Summary of significant accounting policies (continued)
(m) Investments and other financial assets (continued)
Recognition and derecognition
Regular purchases and sales of financial assets are recognised on trade-date — the date on which the Group commits to purchase or sell the asset. Investments are initially recognised at fair value plus transaction costs for all financial assets not carried at fair value through profit or loss. Financial assets carried at fair value through profit or losses are initially recognised at fair value and transaction costs are expensed in the income statement. Financial assets are derecognised when the rights to receive cash flows from the financial assets have expired or have been transferred and the Group has transferred substantially all the risks and rewards of ownership.
When securities classified as available-for-sale are sold, the accumulated fair value adjustments recognised in equity are included in the income statement as gains and losses from investment securities.
Subsequent measurement
Loans and receivables and held-to-maturity investments are carried at amortised cost using the effective interest method.
Available-for-sale financial assets and financial assets at fair value through profit and loss are subsequently carried at fair value. Gains or losses arising from changes in the fair value of the ‘financial assets at fair value through profit or loss’ category are presented in the income statement within other income or other expenses in the period in which they arise. Dividend income from financial assets at fair value through profit and loss is recognised in the income statement as part of revenue when the Group’s right to receive payments is established.
Changes in the fair value of monetary securities denominated in a foreign currency and classified as available-for-sale are analysed between translation differences resulting from changes in amortised cost of the security and other changes in the carrying amount of the security. The translation differences related to changes in the amortised cost are recognised in profit or loss, and other changes in carrying amount are recognised in equity. Changes in the fair value of other monetary and non-monetary securities classified as available-for-sale are recognised in equity.
Fair value
The fair values of quoted investments are based on current bid prices. If the market for a financial asset is not active (and for unlisted securities), the Group establishes fair value by using valuation techniques. These include the use of recent arm’s length transactions, reference to other instruments that are substantially the same, discounted cash flow analysis, and option pricing models making maximum use of market inputs and relying as little as possible on entity-specific inputs.
Impairment
The Group assesses at each balance date whether there is objective evidence that a financial asset or group of financial assets is impaired. In the case of financial instruments classified as available-for-sale, a significant or prolonged decline in the fair value of a security below its cost is considered as an indicator that the securities are impaired. If any such evidence exists for available-for-sale financial assets, the cumulative loss — measured as the difference between the acquisition cost and the current fair value, less any impairment loss on that financial asset previously recognised in profit or loss — is removed from equity and recognised in the income statement. Impairment losses recognised in the income statement on instruments classified as available-for-sale are not reversed through the income statement.
(n) Derivatives
Derivatives are initially recognised at fair value on the date a derivative contract is entered into and are subsequently remeasured to their fair value at each reporting date.

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Table of Contents

Metal Storm Limited
Notes to the financial statements (continued)

31 December 2007
2. Summary of significant accounting policies (continued)
(o) Fair value estimation
The fair value of financial assets and financial liabilities must be estimated for recognition and measurement or for disclosure purposes.
The fair value of financial instruments traded in active markets (such as publicly traded derivatives, and trading and available-for-sale securities) is based on quoted market prices at the balance sheet date. The quoted market price used for financial assets held by the Group is the current bid price.
The fair value of financial instruments that are not traded in an active market (for example, over-the-counter derivatives) is determined using valuation techniques. The Group uses a variety of methods and makes assumptions that are based on market conditions existing at each balance date. Quoted market prices or dealer quotes for similar instruments are used for long-term debt instruments held.
The carrying value less impairment provision of trade receivables and payables are assumed to approximate their fair values due to their short-term nature. The fair value of financial liabilities for disclosure purposes is estimated by discounting the future contractual cash flows at the current market interest rate that is available to the Group for similar financial instruments.
(p) Property, plant and equipment
Property, plant and equipment is stated at historical cost less accumulated depreciation. Historical cost includes expenditure that is directly attributable to the acquisition of the items. Subsequent costs are included in the asset’s carrying amount or recognised as a separate asset, as appropriate, only when it is probable that future economic benefits associated with the item will flow to the Group and the cost of the item can be measured reliably. The carrying amount of the replaced part is derecognised. All other repairs and maintenance are charged to the income statement during the reporting period in which they are incurred.
Land is not depreciated. Depreciation on other assets is calculated using the straight-line method to allocate their cost or revalued amounts, net of their residual values, over their estimated useful lives, as follows:
     
- Machinery
  5 - 10 years
- Furniture, fittings and equipment
    2 - 5 years
- Leasehold improvements
            3 years
- Leased plant and equipment
    1 - 5 years
The assets’ residual values and useful lives are reviewed, and adjusted if appropriate, at each balance sheet date.
An asset’s carrying amount is written down immediately to its recoverable amount if the asset’s carrying amount is greater than its estimated recoverable amount (note 2(j)).
Gains and losses on disposals are determined by comparing proceeds with carrying amount. These are included in the income statement. When revalued assets are sold, it is Group policy to transfer the amounts included in other reserves in respect of those assets to retained earnings.
(q) Intangible assets
(i) Goodwill
Goodwill represents the excess of the cost of an acquisition over the fair value of the Group’s share of the net identifiable assets of the acquired subsidiary/associate at the date of acquisition. Goodwill on acquisitions of subsidiaries is included in intangible assets. Goodwill on acquisitions of associates is included in investments in associates. Goodwill is not amortised. Instead, goodwill is tested for impairment annually or more frequently if events or changes in circumstances indicate that it might be impaired, and is carried at cost less accumulated impairment losses. Gains and losses on the disposal of an entity include the carrying amount of goodwill relating to the entity sold.
Goodwill is allocated to cash-generating units for the purpose of impairment testing. Each of those cash-generating units represents the Group’s investment in each country of operation by each primary reporting segment.

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Table of Contents

Metal Storm Limited
Notes to the financial statements (continued)

31 December 2007
2. Summary of significant accounting policies (continued)
(q) Intangible assets (continued)
(ii) Research and development
Research expenditure is recognised as an expense as incurred. Costs incurred on development projects (relating to the design and testing of new or improved products) are recognised as intangible assets when it is probable that the project will, after considering its commercial and technical feasibility, be completed and generate future economic benefits and its costs can be measured reliably. The expenditure capitalised comprises all directly attributable costs, including costs of materials, services, direct labour and an appropriate proportion of overheads. Other development expenditures that do not meet these criteria are recognised as an expense as incurred. Development costs previously recognised as an expense are not recognised as an asset in a subsequent period. Capitalised development costs are recorded as intangible assets and amortised from the point at which the asset is ready for use on a straight-line basis over its useful life.
(iii) Software
Purchased computer software licences are capitalised as intangible non-current assets where they have a useful economic life of more than one year. They are amortised on a straight line basis over the shorter of the term of the license and their useful economic life. Impairment testing is carried out annually where an indicator of impairment exists.
Gains or losses arising from derecognition of an intangible asset are measured as the difference between the net disposal proceeds and the carrying amount of the asset and are recognised in profit or loss when the asset is derecognised. No gains or losses arising from derecognition of intangible assets were recognised in 2007 or 2006.
(r) Trade and other payables
These amounts represent liabilities for goods and services provided to the Group prior to the end of financial year which are unpaid. The amounts are unsecured and are usually paid within 30 days of recognition.
(s) Borrowings
Borrowings are initially recognised at fair value, net of transaction costs incurred. Borrowings are subsequently measured at amortised cost. Any difference between the proceeds (net of transaction costs) and the redemption amount is recognised in the income statement over the period of the borrowings using the effective interest method. Fees paid on the establishment of loan facilities, which are not an incremental cost relating to the actual draw-down of the facility, are recognised as prepayments and amortised on a straight-line basis over the term of the facility.
The fair value of the liability portion of a convertible bond is determined using a market interest rate for an equivalent non-convertible bond. This amount is recorded as a liability on an amortised cost basis until extinguished on conversion or maturity of the bonds. The remainder of the proceeds is allocated to the conversion option. This is recognised and included in shareholders’ equity, net of income tax effects.
Borrowings are removed from the balance sheet when the obligation specified in the contract is discharged, cancelled or expired. The difference between the carrying amount of a financial liability that has been extinguished or transferred to another party and the consideration paid, including any non-cash assets transferred or liabilities assumed, is recognised in other income or other expenses.
Borrowings are classified as current liabilities unless the Group has an unconditional right to defer settlement of the liability for at least 12 months after the balance sheet date.
(t) Borrowing costs
Borrowing costs are expensed as incurred.

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Table of Contents

Metal Storm Limited
Notes to the financial statements (continued)

31 December 2007
2. Summary of significant accounting policies (continued)
(u) Provisions
Provisions for legal claims, service warranties and make good obligations are recognised when the Group has a present legal or constructive obligation as a result of past events, it is probable that an outflow of resources will be required to settle the obligation and the amount has been reliably estimated. Provisions are not recognised for future operating losses.
Where there are a number of similar obligations, the likelihood that an outflow will be required in settlement is determined by considering the class of obligations as a whole. A provision is recognised even if the likelihood of an outflow with respect to any one item included in the same class of obligations may be small.
Provisions are measured at the present value of management’s best estimate of the expenditure required to settle the present obligation at the balance sheet date. The discount rate used to determine the present value reflects current market assessments of the time value of money and the risks specific to the liability. The increase in the provision due to the passage of time is recognised as interest expense.
(v) Employee benefits
(i) Wages and salaries, annual leave and sick leave
Liabilities for wages and salaries, including non-monetary benefits, annual leave and accumulating sick leave expected to be settled within 12 months of the reporting date are recognised in other payables in respect of employees’ services up to the reporting date and are measured at the amounts expected to be paid when the liabilities are settled.
(ii) Long service leave
The liability for long service leave is recognised in the provision for employee benefits and measured as the present value of expected future payments to be made in respect of services provided by employees up to the reporting date using the projected unit credit method. Consideration is given to expected future wage and salary levels, experience of employee departures and periods of service. Expected future payments are discounted using market yields at the reporting date on national government bonds with terms to maturity and currency that match, as closely as possible, the estimated future cash outflows.
(iii) Share-based payments
Share-based compensation benefits are provided to employees at the absolute discretion of the Board or via the Metal Storm Limited Employee Share Option Plan. Information relating to these schemes is set out in note 31.
The fair value of options granted under the Metal Storm Limited Employee Option Plan is recognised as an employee benefit expense with a corresponding increase in equity. The fair value is measured at grant date and recognised over the period during which the employees become unconditionally entitled to the options.
The fair value at grant date is independently determined using a Black-Scholes option pricing model that takes into account the exercise price, the term of the option, the impact of dilution, the share price at grant date and expected price volatility of the underlying share, the expected dividend yield and the risk free interest rate for the term of the option.
(iv) Post employment benefits
Superannuation is paid in Australia at a rate of 9% on the employee’s gross wage. No post employment benefits are provided to employees in the United States.
(w) Contributed equity
Ordinary shares are classified as equity.
Incremental costs directly attributable to the issue of new shares or options are shown in equity as a deduction, net of tax, from the proceeds. Incremental costs directly attributable to the issue of new shares or options for the acquisition of a business are not included in the cost of the acquisition as part of the purchase consideration.

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Table of Contents

Metal Storm Limited
Notes to the financial statements (continued)

31 December 2007
2. Summary of significant accounting policies (continued)
(x) Goods and services tax (GST)
Revenues, expenses and assets are recognised net of the amount of associated GST, unless the GST incurred is not recoverable from the taxation authority. In this case it is recognised as part of the cost of acquisition of the asset or as part of the expense.
Receivables and payables are stated inclusive of the amount of GST receivable or payable. The net amount of GST recoverable from, or payable to, the taxation authority is included with other receivables or payables in the balance sheet.
Cash flows are presented on a gross basis. The GST components of cash flows arising from investing or financing activities which are recoverable from, or payable to the taxation authority, are presented as operating cash flow.
(y) New accounting standards and interpretations
Certain new accounting standards and interpretations have been published that are not mandatory for 31 December 2007 reporting periods. The Group’s and the parent entity’s assessment of the impact of these new standards and interpretations is set out below.
(i) AASB 8 Operating Segments and 2007-3 Amendments to Australian Accounting Standards arising from AASB 8 and 2007-3.
AASB 8 and 2007-3 are effective for annual reporting periods commencing on or after 1 January 2009. AASB 8 will result in a significant change in the approach to segment reporting, as it requires adoption of a “management approach” to reporting on the financial performance. The information being reported will be based on what the key decision-makers use internally for evaluating segment performance and deciding how to allocate resources to operating segments. The Group has not yet decided when to adopt AASB 8. Application of AASB 8 may result in different segments, segment results and different type of information being reported in the segment note of the financial report. However, it will not affect any of the amounts recognised in the financial statements.
(ii) Revised AASB 123 Borrowing Costs and 2007-6 Amendments to Australian Accounting Standards arising from AASB 123 [AASB 1, AASB 101, AASB 107, AASB 111, AASB 116 & AASB 138 and Interpretations 1 & 12].
The revised AASB 123 is applicable to annual reporting periods commencing on or after 1 January 2009. It has removed the option to expense all borrowing costs and — when adopted — will require the capitalisation of all borrowing costs directly attributable to the acquisition, construction or production of a qualifying asset. There will be no impact on the financial report of the Group.
(iii) AASB-I 14 The Limit on a Defined Benefit Asset, Minimum Funding Requirements and their Interaction
AASB-I 14 will be effective for annual reporting periods commencing on or after 1 January 2008. It provides guidance on the maximum amount that may be recognised as an asset in relation to a defined benefit plan and the impact of minimum funding requirements on such an asset. None of the Group’s defined benefit plans are subject to minimum funding requirements and none of them is in a surplus position. The Group will apply AASB-I 14 from 1 July 2008, but it is not expected to have any impact on the Group’s financial statements.
(iv) Revised 101 Presentation of Financial Statements and 2007-8 Amendments to Australian Accounting Standards arising from AASB 101.
The revised AASB 101 that was issued in September 2007 is applicable for annual reporting periods beginning on or after 1 January 2009. It requires the presentation of a statement of comprehensive income and makes changes to the statement of changes in equity but will not affect any of the amounts recognised in the financial statements. If an entity has made a prior period adjustment or a reclassification of items in the financial statements, it will need to disclose a third balance sheet (statement of financial position), this one being as at the beginning of the comparative period.

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Table of Contents

Metal Storm Limited
Notes to the financial statements (continued)

31 December 2007
3. Financial risk management
The Company’s and Group’s activities expose it to a variety of financial risks: market risk, credit risk and liquidity risk. The Company’s and Group’s overall risk management program focuses on the unpredictability of financial markets and seeks to minimise potential adverse effects on the financial performance of the Company and Group.
The Company’s and Group’s principal financial instruments comprise cash, short-term deposits, available-for-sale financial assets, finance leases, convertible notes and related embedded derivatives. It is, and has been throughout the period under review, the Company’s policy that no trading in financial instruments shall be undertaken.
(a) Market risk
(i) Foreign exchange risk
The Group operates internationally and is exposed to foreign exchange risk arising from various currency exposures, primarily with respect to the US dollar.
The Group’s objective is to minimise the exposure to fluctuations in the foreign exchange rate on the Company’s monetary assets and liabilities. It is the Group’s policy to maintain minimum operating cash balance denominated in foreign currencies. Where practicable the Group will denominate is loans and receivables in Australian dollars.
At balance date the Group had cash balances equivalent to A$349,524 (2006: A$14,404), receivables equivalent to A$1,042,793 (2006: A$241,999) and payables equivalent A$93,082 (2006: A$139,235) to denominated in foreign currencies. The Company had no foreign currency denominated cash balances, receivables or payables (2006: all nil).
During 2007, had the Australian dollar been weaker/stronger by 10% against the US dollar with all other variables remaining constant, the groups net loss would have been $130,998 higher/lower (2006: $294,140 higher/lower) and equity would have been $115,234 higher/lower (2006: $307,651 higher, $274,809 lower) mainly as a result of the translation of foreign subsidiaries financial statements in to the functional and reporting currency of the parent.
The parent’s net loss and equity would remain unchanged.
(ii) Fair value interest rate risk
The Group has a significant level of interest bearing assets and liabilities which exposes it to interest rate risk.
The Groups objective is to minimise its exposure to interest rate risk. It is the Group’s policy to invest surplus funds in the short term market and source funds at fixed interest rates wherever possible.
At balance date the Group held deposits with a face value of $15,727,548 (2006: $25,830,267) and interest bearing loans of $21,100,652 ($27,191,463). The Company held deposits with a face value of $15,378,024 (2006: $25,815,416) and interest bearing loans of $21,075,896 ($27,191,463).
All interest bearing deposits are at market rates current at the time of the deposit and have the interest rate revised periodically every from 1 to 3 months. All interest bearing loans are at fixed rates.
During 2007, had interest rates risen/fallen proportionately by 10% on their actual 2007 levels with all other variables remaining constant, the Group’s net loss would have been $148,946 lower/higher (2006: $83,411) and the equity would have been $148,946 higher/lower (2006: $83,411).
(iii) Price risk of available-for-sale financial assets
The Company and Group hold Floating Rate Note investments where performance is linked to a credit portfolio with a ‘AA’ risk rating. The valuation of these investments at any one time is dependent upon prevailing market conditions including market liquidity. As at 31 December 2007 these investments had a face value of $1,000,000 (2006: $2,000,000) and a fair value based on market conditions of $779,200 ($2,002,080 at 31 December 2006). A 10% change in the market value of the investments would have increased/decreased the value of the investment by $22,288 (2006: $3,458), decreasing/increasing the group loss and equity by the same amount.
At balance date the Company’s and Group’s expose to price risk was $779,200 (2006: $2,002,080).

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Table of Contents

Metal Storm Limited
Notes to the financial statements (continued)

31 December 2007
3. Financial risk management (continued)
(a) Market risk (continued)
Sensitivity of loss to market risk (2007)
                 
    Increase in   Decrease in
Risk Factor   Group Loss   Group Loss
     
2007 actual loss
    (9,998,150 )     (9,998,150 )
(i) Australian Dollar (weaker)/stronger by 10% against the US Dollar
    (130,998 )     130,998  
(ii) Interest rate increase/(decrease) by 10%
    (148,946 )     148,946  
(iii) Change in fair value of available-for-sale financial assets (increased)/decreased by 10%
    (22,288 )     22,288  
     
2007 loss after adjusting for market risk sensitivity factors
    (10,300,382 )     (9,695,918 )
     
Sensitivity of shareholders deficiency to market risk (2007)
                 
    Increase in   Decrease in
    Group   Group
Risk Factor   Deficiency   Deficiency
     
2007 actual shareholders deficiency
    (3,307,570 )     (3,307,570 )
(i) Australian Dollar (weaker)/stronger by 10% against the US Dollar
    (115,234 )     115,234  
(ii) Interest rate increase/(decrease) by 10%
    (148,946 )     148,946  
(iii) Change in fair value of available-for-sale financial assets (increased)/decreased by 10%
    (22,288 )     22,288  
     
2007 total shareholder deficiency after adjusting for market risk sensitivity factors
    (3,594,038 )     (3,021,102 )
     
Sensitivity of loss to market risk (2006)
                 
    Increase in   Decrease in
Risk Factor   Group Loss   Group Loss
     
2006 actual loss
    (15,337,010 )     (15,337,010 )
(i) Australian Dollar (weaker)/stronger by 10% against the US Dollar
    (294,140 )     294,140  
(ii) Interest rate increase/(decrease) by 10%
    (83,411 )     83,411  
(iii) Change in fair value of available-for-sale financial assets (increased)/decreased by 10%
           
     
2006 loss after adjusting for market risk sensitivity factors
    (15,714,561 )     (14,959,459 )
     
Sensitivity of shareholders equity to market risk (2006)
                 
    Decrease   Increase in
    Group   Group
Risk Factor   Equity   Equity
     
2006 actual shareholders equity
    1,097,332       1,097,332  
(i) Australian Dollar (weaker)/stronger by 10% against the US Dollar
    (274,809 )     307,651  
(ii) Interest rate increase/(decrease) by 10%
    (83,411 )     83,411  
(iii) Change in fair value of available-for-sale financial assets (increased)/decreased by 10%
    (3,458 )     3,458  
     
2006 total shareholders equity after adjusting for market risk sensitivity factors
    735,654       1,491,852  
     
(b) Credit risk
Credit risk arises from deposits with banks and financial institutions as well as credit exposures to customers, including outstanding receivables and committed transactions. For banks and financial institutions, only independently rated parties with a minimum rating of ‘AA’ are accepted. Exposure is limited to the carrying value of these instruments.
At balance date the Group had receivables of $2,211,933 (2006: $1,021,409). The Company had receivables of $942,204 (2006: $749,463).
Customers are assessed individually on the credit quality of the customer, taking into account its financial position, past experience and other factors. All recognised contract revenues for 2007 were from Government agencies.
Credit risk on the floating rate notes arises from any defaults or deterioration in the underlying portfolio.
At balance date, no customers were outside terms.

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Table of Contents

Metal Storm Limited
Notes to the financial statements (continued)

31 December 2007
3. Financial risk management (continued)
(c) Liquidity risk
The Group has a number of short term payment commitments that present a liquidity risk. The Group has procedures in place that forecast cash requirements and age deposit maturity dates to correlate to cash out flow obligations. It is the Groups policy to maintain flexibility in its investment decisions to enable it close out positions as needed and meet credit requirements.
Management reviews cash flow forecasts in light of the operating requirements of the Group and its obligations under the Trust Deed.
The following contractual maturity analysis of financial liabilities has the value of each liability presented as undiscounted.
                                 
            Later than one        
            month and not   Later than three   Later than one
    Not later than one   later than three   months and not   year and not later
Financial liability   month   months   later than one year   than five years
 
2007
                               
Payables
    390,737       887,426              
Finance Leases
    7,052       14,104       63,470       232,487  
Convertible Notes
          512,402       1,548,466       21,908,709  
Loan
    36,465       72,931       109,396        
     
Total
    434,254       1,486,863       1,721,332       22,141,196  
     
 
                               
2006
                               
Payables
    394,933       927,109              
Finance Leases
    6,378       12,755       57,400       286,075  
Convertible Notes
          656,706       2,006,602       31,076,791  
Loan
    43,156       86,312       129,469        
     
Total
    444,467       1,682,882       2,193,471       31,362,866  
     
Refer note 10 for further details on the Trust Deed minimum cash levels.
There is no material difference between the fair value and the carrying value of receivables and payables.
(d) Fair value estimation
Refer note 2(o) for further information.
4. Critical accounting estimates and judgements
(a) Share-based payment transactions
The Company measures the cost of equity-settled transactions with employees and non-employees by reference to the fair value of the equity instruments at the date at which they are granted. The Company uses its judgment to select a variety of methods and make assumptions that are mainly based on market conditions existing at each balance sheet date. See note 32.
(b) Embedded derivatives and attached options
The fair value of financial instruments that are not traded in an active market is determined by using valuation techniques. The fair value is determined by an external valuer using a Black-Scholes options pricing model, using the assumptions detailed in note 32.
(c) Available-for-sale financial assets
The fair value of available-for-sale financial investments is estimated with reference to the credit spreads of the companies referenced in the underlying portfolio and the correlation between all companies referenced in the portfolio.

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Table of Contents

Metal Storm Limited
Notes to the financial statements (continued)

31 December 2007
4. Critical accounting estimates and judgements (continued)
(d) Revenue recognition
For revenue recognised on a percentage of completion basis the company must estimate the current stage to which each contract is complete. Depending on the type of the contract, the stage of completion is measured by reference to labour hours incurred to date as a percentage of estimated total labour hours or as costs incurred as a percentage of estimated total costs for each contract.
5. Segment information
(a) Description of segments
The group’s primary financial reporting format is Geographic segments. The Group operates in the research and development of ballistic technology in Australia and the United States.
Australia
The home country of the parent entity where the majority of research and development work is carried out.
United States
The home country of the Group’s subsidiaries.
(b) Geographical segments
                                         
                    Continuing   Discontinued    
    Australia   United States   operations   operation   Consolidated
2007   A$   A$   A$   A$   A$
     
Segment revenue
                                       
Total segment revenue
    1,192       1,874,802       1,875,994             1,875,994  
Unallocated revenue / interest income
                    1,329,387             1,329,387  
                     
Consolidated revenue
                    3,205,381             3,205,381  
                     
 
                                       
Segment result
                                       
Segment result
    (11,848,335 )     (1,383,714 )     (13,232,049 )           (13,232,049 )
Intersegment elimination
                    2,192,259             2,192,259  
Unallocated revenue less unallocated expenses
                    1,041,640             1,041,640  
                     
Loss before income tax
                    (9,998,150 )           (9,998,150 )
                     
 
                                       
Segment assets and liabilities
                                       
Segment assets
    17,070,834       1,720,363       18,791,197             18,791,197  
Intersegment elimination
                    (2,920 )           (2,920 )
Unallocated assets
                                 
                     
Total assets
                    18,788,277             18,788,277  
                     
 
                                       
Segment liabilities
    20,404,537       20,454,240       40,858,777             40,858,777  
Intersegment elimination
                    (18,762,930 )           (18,762,930 )
Unallocated liabilities
                                 
                     
Total liabilities
                    22,095,847             22,095,847  
                     
 
                                       
Other segment information
                                       
Acquisitions of property, plant and equipment, intangibles and other non-current segment assets
    192,604       50,282       242,886             242,886  
Unallocated
                                 
                     
Total Acquisitions
                    242,886             242,886  
                     
 
                                       
Depreciation and amortisation expense
    169,389       80,107       249,496             249,496  
Unallocated
                                 
                     
Total depreciation and amortisation
                    249,496             249,496  
                     

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Table of Contents

Metal Storm Limited
Notes to the financial statements (continued)

31 December 2007
5. Segment information (continued)
(b) Geographical segments (continued)
                                         
                    Continuing   Discontinued    
    Australia   United States   operations   operation   Consolidated
    A$   A$   A$   A$   A$
Segment cash flow information
                                       
Net cash flows from operating activities
    (11,592,912 )     337,016       (11,255,896 )           (11,255,896 )
Net cash flows from investing activities
    2,240,048       (25,617 )     2,214,431             2,214,431  
Net cash flows from financing activities
    (84,528 )     24,756       (59,772 )           (59,772 )
 
                                       
2006
                                       
 
                                       
Segment revenue
                                       
Total segment revenue
          1,581,030       1,581,030             1,581,030  
Unallocated revenue / interest income
                    758,280             758,280  
                     
Consolidated revenue
                    2,339,310             2,339,310  
                     
 
                                       
Segment result
                                       
Segment result
    (14,531,217 )     (2,904,561 )     (17,435,778 )     (39,256 )     (17,475,034 )
Intersegment elimination
                    2,550,596             2,550,596  
Unallocated revenue less unallocated expenses
                    (412,572 )           (412,572 )
                     
Loss before income tax
                    (15,297,754 )     (39,256 )     (15,337,010 )
                     
 
                                       
Segment assets and liabilities
                                       
Segment assets
    27,550,373       563,354       28,113,727       22,500       28,136,227  
Intersegment elimination
                    (280,146 )           (280,146 )
Unallocated assets
                                 
                     
Total assets
                    27,833,581       22,500       27,856,081  
                     
 
                                       
Segment liabilities
    25,654,616       14,889,584       40,544,200       3,381,799       43,925,999  
Intersegment elimination
                    (13,967,411 )     (3,199,839 )     (17,167,250 )
Unallocated liabilities
                                 
                     
Total liabilities
                    26,576,789       181,960       26,758,749  
                     
 
                                       
Other segment information
                                       
Acquisitions of property, plant and equipment, intangibles and other non-current segment assets
    881,351       80,145       961,496             961,496  
Unallocated
                                 
                     
Total Acquisitions
                    961,496             961,496  
                     
 
                                       
Depreciation and amortisation expense
    78,059       105,309       183,368       1,469       184,837  
Unallocated
                                   
                     
Total depreciation and amortisation
                    183,368       1,469       184,837  
                     
 
                                       
Segment cash flow information
                                       
Net cash flows from operating activities
    (6,510,489 )     (945,850 )     (7,456,339 )           (7,456,339 )
Net cash flows from investing activities
    2,670,027       (66,131 )     2,603,896             2,603,896  
Net cash flows from financing activities
    28,046,849             28,046,849             28,046,849  
 
                                       
2005
                                       
 
                                       
Segment revenue
                                       
Total segment revenue
          230,743       230,743       1,287,223       1,517,966  
Unallocated revenue / interest income
                    599,902       3,047       602,949  
                     
Consolidated revenue
                    830,645       1,290,270       2,120,915  
                     

F-24


Table of Contents

Metal Storm Limited
Notes to the financial statements (continued)

31 December 2007
5. Segment information (continued)
(b) Geographical segments (continued)
                                         
                    Continuing   Discontinued    
    Australia   United States   operations   operation   Consolidated
    A$   A$   A$   A$   A$
Segment result
                                       
Segment result
    (11,592,924 )     (3,570,5,22 )     (15,163,446 )     (1,609,830 )     (16,773,276 )
Intersegment elimination
                    6,197,640       68,101       6,265,741  
Unallocated revenue less unallocated expenses
                    (346,404 )     (60,661 )     (407,065 )
                     
Loss before income tax
                    (9,312,210 )     (1,602,390 )     (10,914,600 )
                     
 
                                       
Segment assets and liabilities
                                       
Segment assets
    7,388,241       512,550       7,900,791       25,731       7,926,522  
Intersegment elimination
                    (496,801 )           (496,801 )
Unallocated assets
                                 
                     
Total assets
                    7,403,990       25,731       7,429,721  
                     
 
                                       
Segment liabilities
    1,192,960       11,934,247       13,127,207       3,592,053       16,719,260  
Intersegment elimination
                    (11,641,089 )     (3,428,312 )     (15,069,401 )
Unallocated liabilities
                                 
                     
Total liabilities
                    1,486,118       163,741       1,649,859  
                     
 
                                       
Other segment information
                                       
Acquisitions of property, plant and equipment, intangibles and other non-current segment assets
    28,777       75,515       104,292             104,292  
Unallocated
                                 
                     
Total Acquisitions
                    104,292             104,292  
                     
 
                                       
Depreciation and amortisation expense
    59,192       58,708       117,900       141,859       259,759  
Unallocated
                                 
                     
Total depreciation and amortisation
                    117,900       141,859       259,759  
                     
 
                                       
Segment cash flow information
                                       
Net cash flows from operating activities
    (5,451,792 )     (4,194,162 )     (9,645,954 )     (888,607 )     (10,534,561 )
Net cash flows from investing activities
    (4,437,392 )     710,179       (3,727,213 )     2,256,721       (1,470,492 )
Net cash flows from financing activities
    (3,840,867 )     3,058,304       (782,563 )     (1,684,160 )     (2,466,723 )
(C) Notes to and forming part of the segment information
(i) Accounting policies
Segment information is prepared in conformity with the accounting policies of the entity as disclosed in note 2 and AASB 114 Segment Reporting .
Segment revenues, expenses, assets and liabilities are those that are directly attributable to a segment and the relevant portion that can be allocated to the segment on a reasonable basis. Segment assets include all assets used by a segment and consist primarily of operating cash, receivables, inventories, property, plant and equipment and goodwill and other intangible assets, net of related provisions. Segment liabilities consist primarily of trade and other creditors, employee benefits and provision for service warranties. Segment assets and liabilities do not include income taxes.
(ii) Inter-segment transfers
Segment revenues, expenses and results include transfers between segments. Such transfers are priced on an ''arm’s-length’’ basis and are eliminated on consolidation.

F-25


Table of Contents

Metal Storm Limited
Notes to the financial statements (continued)

31 December 2007
6. Revenue
                         
    2007   2006   2005
    A$   A$   A$
     
Contract Revenue
    1,847,399       1,581,030       230,743  
Interest Revenue
    1,354,048       758,280       599,902  
Other
    3,934              
     
 
    3,205,381       2,339,310       830,645  
     
7. Expenses
Net loss attributable to members of the parent includes the following expenses:
                         
    2007   2006   2005
    A$   A$   A$
     
Employee expenses
                       
Wages and salaries
    (3,531,444 )     (4,077,717 )     (3,089,934 )
Termination benefits
    (47,581 )     (319,950 )     (500,000 )
Superannuation
    (161.904 )     (134,766 )     (126,187 )
Share-based payments
    (136,549 )     (358,686 )     (409,728 )
Directors fees
    (297,608 )     (412,572 )     (310,908 )
Other
    (173,502 )     (38,657 )     (31,883 )
     
Total employee expenses
    (4,348,588 )     (5,342,348 )     (4,468,640 )
     
 
                       
Finance costs
                       
Interest expense
    (2,184,507 )     (962,751 )     (35,496 )
Transaction cost amortisation
    (865,465 )     (288,488 )      
Accretion expense
    (1,884,443 )     (464,774 )      
Amortisation of options for short term loan
          (467,000 )      
     
Total finance costs
    (4,934,415 )     (2,183,013 )     (35,496 )
     
 
                       
Depreciation and Amortisation
                       
Depreciation
    (168,974 )     (109,248 )     (211,545 )
Amortisation
    (80,522 )     (75,589 )     (48,214 )
Impairment of goodwill
                (1,834,152 )
   
Lease payments
                       
Operating lease payments
    (449,439 )     (590,197 )     441,817  
     
Total lease payments
    (449,439 )     (590,197 )     441,817  
     
 
                       
Impairment expense
                       
Impairment of floating rate notes
    (220,800 )            
     
 
    (220,800 )            
     

F-26


Table of Contents

Metal Storm Limited
Notes to the financial statements (continued)

31 December 2007
8. Income tax
(a) Income tax expense
                         
    2007   2006   2005
    A$   A$   A$
Current tax
    (2,976,306 )     (2,300,203 )     (1,728,142 )
Deferred tax
    81,032       (64,275 )     (1,307,778 )
Deferred tax assets not recognised
    2,895,274       2,364,478       3,035,920  
     
 
                 
     
 
                       
(b) Numerical reconciliation of income tax expense to prima facie tax payable
 
                       
Loss before income tax
    (9,998,150 )     (15,337,010 )     (10,914,600 )
 
                       
Tax at the Australia tax rate of 30% (2006:30%)
    (2,999,445 )     (4,601,103 )     (3,274,380 )
 
                       
Tax effect of amounts which are not deductible (taxable) in calculating taxable income:
                       
Research and development accounting costs
    297,809       269,897       266,774  
Research and development grant received
    (117,086 )     (102,632 )     (194,496 )
Entertainment
    873       2,131       625  
Fair value movement in embedded derivative
    (726,416 )     636,416        
Non-deductible interest expense
    51,664              
Option costs expensed — employees
    40,965       133,922       58,066  
Option costs expensed — Harmony Capital
          111,900        
Borrowing costs accretion
    564,738       367,240        
Other
    (8,376 )     817,751       107,492  
     
 
    (2,895,274 )     (2,364,478 )     (3,035,920 )
 
                       
Deferred tax assets not recognised
    2,895,274       2,364,478       3,035,920  
     
Income tax expense
                 
     

F-27


Table of Contents

Metal Storm Limited
Notes to the financial statements (continued)

31 December 2007
8. Income tax (continued)
(c) Unrecognised temporary differences
(i) Temporary differences for which deferred tax assets or deferred liabilities have not been recognised.
                         
    2007   2006   2005
    A$   A$   A$
     
Sundry creditors and accruals
    46,300       46,197       55,230  
Employee entitlements
    118,800       133,297       42,040  
Asset retirement obligation
    29,207       27,790       13,508  
Deferred rent
    68,267       77,950       25,549  
S40-880 costs
    866,140       1,193,090       388,848  
Patent costs
    3,870,873       3,562,600       964,568  
Unrealised foreign exchange differences
    29,903       236,093        
Losses available for offset against future income
    58,635,673       48,714,653       12,915,808  
     
Gross deferred income tax assets
    63,665,163       53,991,670       14,405,551  
Deferred tax liabilities
                       
Interest receivable on available-for-sale financial assets
    (1,400 )     (102,540 )      
     
Deferred tax assets not recognisable
    63,663,763       53,889,130       14,405,551  
     
 
                       
     
Potential tax benefit @ 30%
    19,099,129       16,166,739       4,321,665  
     
 
                       
(ii) Temporary differences for which deferred tax assets or deferred liabilities have not been recognised in relation to potential capital loss items.
 
                       
Provision – investment in ProCam Machine LLC
    1,917,387       1,917,387       575,216  
Intercompany receivables
                 
Fair value movement in Available-for-sale financial assets
          2,080        
Impairment — Available-for-sale financial assets
    220,800              
     
Deferred tax assets not recognisable
    2,138,187       1,919,467       575,216  
     
(d) Tax losses
The Group has the following tax losses arising in Australia and United States federal and state net operating loss carryforwards:
                         
    2007   2006   2005
    A$   A$   A$
     
Australian tax losses
    40,579,789       32,377,936       26,992,892  
United States federal net operating loss carryforwards
    14,651,197       15,538,802       13,124,360  
United States state net operating loss carryforwards
    11,031,293       11,548,201       9,160,116  
Australian tax losses are available indefinitely for offset against future taxable profits subject to satisfying the relevant income tax loss carry forward rules.
The U.S. federal and state net operating loss carryforwards expire at various dates through 2026 and 2011, respectively.

F-28


Table of Contents

Metal Storm Limited
Notes to the financial statements (continued)

31 December 2007
9. Discontinued operation
The Company announced on 25 May 2005, that it had entered into a formal agreement to sell the ProCam Machine LLC (ProCam) business to Monroe Machined Products Inc. (MMP) of Seattle, Washington.  The sale was completed on 1 June 2005.  Under the terms of the sale agreement, MMP paid $1,922,510 for the fixed assets, current order book, inventory and the net of accounts receivable and accounts payable of ProCam.  An additional amount of $65,615 was retained in trust contingent on the satisfaction of the conditions of the agreement. This amount has subsequently been paid to MMP.
The decision to sell ProCam was made to release valuable cash resources and management time to support the Company’s main focus in commercialising Metal Storm’s 40mm weapons system.
The results of ProCam for the period have been presented below:
                         
    2007     2006     2005  
    A$     A$     A$  
Revenue
                1,290,270  
Expenses
          (39,256 )     (2,831,999 )
     
Gross loss
          (39,256 )     (1,541,729 )
Finance costs
                (60,661 )
     
Net loss attributable to discontinued operation
          (39,256 )     (1,602,390 )
     
 
                       
Earnings per share (cents per share):
                       
Basic and diluted from discontinued operation
                (0.31 )
 
                       
The major classes of assets and liabilities of Procam measured at the lower of carrying amount and fair value less costs to sell at 31 December are as follows:
 
                       
Assets
                       
Trade and other receivables
          21,768       23,373  
Other
          732       2,358  
     
Total Assets
          22,500       25,731  
Liabilities
                       
Trade and other payables
          3,199,839       3,445,485  
Provisions* (note 18)
          181,960       146,594  
     
Total Liabilities
          3,381,799       3,592,079  
Net Liabilities
          (3,359,029 )     (3,566,348 )
 
                       
* Make Good Provision and Onerous Lease Contract
                       
 
                       
The net cash flows incurred by ProCam are as follows:
                       
 
                       
Operating
                (888,607 )
Investing
                2,256,722  
Financing
                (1,684,160 )
     
Net cash outflow
                (316,045 )
     
 
                       
Details of disposal of ProCam are as follows:
                       
 
                       
Book value of the assets sold at 1 June 2005:
                       
 
                       
Trade and other receivables
                360,182  
Inventory
                456,510  
Property plant and equipment
                2,212,631  
Trade and other payables
                (77,946 )
Accrued property tax
                (36,681 )
Net assets attributable to discontinued operation
                2,915,326  
Consideration received as cash and cash equivalents
                2,256,721  
     
Loss on sale of the assets and liabilities
                (658,605 )
     

F-29


Table of Contents

Metal Storm Limited
Notes to the financial statements (continued)

31 December 2007
10. Current assets — Cash and cash equivalents
                         
    2007   2006   2005
    A$   A$   A$
     
Cash at bank and on hand
    1,727,548       1,097,448       635,861  
Short term deposits
    13,000,000       22,732,819        
     
 
    14,727,548       23,830,267       635,861  
     
(a) Cash at bank and on hand
These accounts earn interest at standard business banking operating account rates.
(b) Short term deposits
These deposits have terms of less than 3 months and are bearing floating interest rates at commercial rates.
(c) Trust Deed minimum cash levels
Under the terms of the Trust Deed the total amount of cash held in the Group’s bank accounts and in marketable securities must not fall below the following minimum cash levels:
                                         
Period to:   31 Dec 2006   30 Jun 2007   31 Dec 2007   30 Jun 2008   31 Dec 2008
Minimum balance
  $22.5m       $19.5m     $15.0m     $12.5m       $7.5m  
Available-for-sale financial investments are included as marketable securities.
11. Current assets — Available-for-sale financial investments
                         
    2007   2006   2005
    A$   A$   A$
     
Floating rate notes:
                       
Opening fair value
    2,002,080       5,056,140        
Purchase of investments
                8,633,480  
Disposal of investments
    (1,000,000 )     (3,019,480 )     (3,614,000 )
Fair value adjustments
          (34,580 )     36,660  
Impairment loss
    (222,880 )              
     
Closing Fair Value
    779,200       2,002,080       5,056,140  
     
These securities have a maturity date ranging from one to eight years from the issue date. All securities at closing date were issued in May 2006. The Company does not intend to hold the securities until maturity. Interest is paid quarterly in arrears and the securities can be redeemed upon three days notice.
12. Current assets — Trade and other receivables
                         
    2007   2006   2005
    A$   A$   A$
     
Trade receivables
    762,625       154,321       98,532  
Other receivables
    4,144       120,013       66,399  
Allowance for doubtful debts
                (27,750 )
Goods and services tax recoverable
    65,576       46,061       107,564  
Interest receivable
    1,400       102,540       17,695  
Research and development tax concession receivable
    390,286             337,565  
Prepayments
    339,187       350,195       810,112  
Related party receivable – key management personnel
                13,436  
     
 
    1,563,218       773,130       1,423,553  
     

F-30


Table of Contents

Metal Storm Limited
Notes to the financial statements (continued)

31 December 2007
12. Current assets – Trade and other receivables (continued)
The creation and release of the provision for impaired receivables has been included in ‘administrative expenses’ in the income statement. There were no allowance accounts in operation during 2007.
The other classes within trade and other receivables do not contain impaired assets and are not past due. Based on the credit history of these other classes, it is expected that these amounts will be received when due.
Other receivables generally arise from transactions outside the usual operating activities of the Group. Interest may be charged at commercial rates where the terms of repayment exceed six months. Collateral is not normally obtained.
13. Non-current assets – Trade and other receivables
                                 
            2007   2006   2005
        A$   A$   A$
             
Trade receivables
    (i )     480,145              
Security deposits
    (ii )     507,757       510,795       30,600  
Related party receivables
                         
             
 
            987,902       510,795       30,600  
             
 
(i)   Due at various intervals from January 2009 to June 2009.
 
(ii)   Represents restricted cash deposits held as security for operating and finance lease commitments.
14. Non-current assets — Property, plant and equipment
                                 
    Leasehold           Leased    
    improve-   Plant and   plant and    
    ments   equipment   equipment   Total
    A$   A$   A$   A$
At 1 January 2005
                               
Cost
    62,658       4,021,626             4,084,284  
Accumulated depreciation
    (27,599 )     (1,108,881 )           (1,136,480 )
 
                               
Net book amount
    35,059       2,912,745             2,947,804  
 
                               
 
                               
Year ended 31 December 2005
                               
Opening net book amount
    35,059       2,912,745             2,947,804  
Additions
    726       103,566             104,292  
Attributable to discontinued operation
          (2,608,922 )           (2,608,922 )
Depreciation charge
    (15,715 )     (195,830 )           (211,545 )
 
                               
Closing net book amount
    20,070       211,559             231,629  
 
                               
 
                               
At 1 January 2006
                               
Cost
    63,384       492,216             555,600  
Accumulated depreciation
    (43,314 )     (280,657 )           (323,971 )
 
                               
Net book amount
    20,070       211,559             231,629  
 
                               
 
                               
Year ended 31 December 2006
                               
Opening net book amount
    20,070       211,559             231,629  
Additions
    183,629       334,490       306,180       824,299  
Disposals
    (73,173 )     (245,522 )           (318,695 )
Depreciation charge
    (30,459 )     (78,789 )           (109,248 )
 
                               
Closing net book amount
    100,067       221,738       306,180       627,985  
 
                               

F-31


Table of Contents

Metal Storm Limited
Notes to the financial statements (continued)

31 December 2007
14. Non-current assets – Property, plant and equipment (continued)
                                 
    Leasehold           Leased    
    improve-   Plant and   plant and    
    ments   equipment   equipment   Total
    A$   A$   A$   A$
At 1 January 2007
                               
Cost
    113,903       467,786       306,180       887,869  
Accumulated depreciation
    (13,836 )     (246,048 )           (259,884 )
 
                               
Net book amount
    100,067       221,738       306,180       627,985  
 
                               
 
                               
Year ended 31 December 2007
                               
Opening net book amount
    100,067       221,738       306,180       627,985  
Additions
    81,588       91,058       27,393       200,039  
Disposals
    (117 )     (2,673 )           (2,790 )
Depreciation charge
    (49,830 )     (85,932 )     (33,212 )     (168,974 )
 
                               
Closing net book amount
    131,708       224,191       300,361       656,260  
 
                               
 
                               
At 31 December 2007
                               
Cost
    188,536       556,170       333,573       1,078,279  
Accumulated depreciation
    (56,828 )     (331,979 )     (33,212 )     (422,019 )
 
                               
Net book amount
    131,708       224,191       300,361       656,260  
 
                               
15. Non-current assets – Intangible assets
                         
    Software   Goodwill   Total
    A$   A$   A$
At 1 January 2005
                       
Cost
    48,882       1,861,726       1,910,608  
Accumulated amortisation
    (22,737 )     (27,574 )     (50,311 )
Accumulated impairment losses
          (1,834,152 )     (1,834,152 )
 
                       
Net book amount
    26,145             26,145  
 
                       
 
Year ended 31 December 2005
                       
Opening net book amount
    26,145             26,145  
Additions
    74,007             74,007  
Disposals
                 
Amortisation charge
    (48,214 )           (48,214 )
 
                       
Closing net book amount
    51,938             51,938  
 
                       
 
At 1 January 2006
                       
Cost
    122,889       1,861,726       1,984,615  
Accumulated amortisation
    (70,951 )     (27,574 )     (98,525 )
Accumulated impairment losses
          (1,834,152 )     (1,834,152 )
 
                       
Net book amount
    51,938             51,938  
 
                       
 
Year ended 31 December 2006
                       
Opening net book amount
    51,938             51,938  
Additions
    137,197             137,197  
Disposals
    (1,722 )           (1,722 )
Amortisation charge
    (75,589 )           (75,589 )
 
                       
Closing net book amount
    111,824             111,824  
 
                       

F-32


Table of Contents

Metal Storm Limited
Notes to the financial statements (continued)

31 December 2007
15. Non-current assets – Intangible assets (continued)
                         
    Software   Goodwill   Total
    A$   A$   A$
At 1 January 2007
                       
Cost
    211,204       1,861,726       2,072,930  
Accumulated amortisation
    (99,380 )     (27,574 )     (126,954 )
Accumulated impairment losses
          (1,834,152 )     (1,834,152 )
 
                       
Net book amount
    111,824             111,824  
 
                       
 
                       
Year ended 31 December 2007
                       
Opening net book amount
    111,824             111,824  
Additions
    42,847             42,847  
Amortisation charge
    (80,522 )           (80,522 )
 
                       
Closing net book amount
    74,149             74,149  
 
                       
 
                       
At 31 December 2007
                       
Cost
    254,051       1,861,726       2,115,777  
Accumulated amortisation
    (179,902 )     (27,574 )     (207,476 )
Accumulated impairment losses
          (1,834,152 )     (1,834,152 )
 
                       
Net book amount
    74,149             74,149  
 
                       
All capitalised software represents externally acquired software with a useful life of between 2 and 5 years amortised on a straight line basis.
No research and development costs have been capitalised as product maturation is still within the research stage, refer note 2(q)(ii).
16. Current liabilities — Trade and other payables
                         
    2007   2006   2005
    A$   A$   A$
     
Trade payables
    228,679       272,627       259,508  
Deferred revenue
    1,326,985       620,483       43,024  
Other payables
    1,013,648       1,011,203       511,482  
     
 
    2,569,312       1,904,313       814,014  
 
                       
Related party payables:
                       
Directors fees payable*
    35,833       38,212       119,560  
     
 
    2,605,145       1,942,525       933,574  
     
 
*   Refer note 24(f) for further details.
17. Current liabilities — Conversion derivative
                         
    2007   2006   2005
    A$   A$   A$
     
Balance at beginning of year
    10,811,057              
Initial Notional Value of Derivative on 1 September 2006
          6,584,036        
Conversion of convertible notes to shares
    (2,425,876 )     (242,021 )      
Fair value movement
    (2,421,388 )     4,469,042        
     
Balance at end of year
    5,963,793       10,811,057       -  
     

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Table of Contents

Metal Storm Limited
Notes to the financial statements (continued)

31 December 2007
18.   Current liabilities – Interest bearing loans and borrowings
                                 
            2007   2006   2005
        A$   A$   A$
             
Obligations under finance leases
    (i )     63,907       50,335        
Convertible notes
    (ii )     12,664,510       12,926,837        
Other loan
    (iii )     213,030       252,204       353,674  
             
 
            12,941,447       13,229,376       353,674  
             
 
(i)   Secured, matures 2008. See note 20 for non-current details.
 
(ii)   Unsecured, matures 2009.
 
(iii)   Unsecured, matures 2008.
Convertible Notes
The parent entity issued 203,703,704 10% convertible notes to existing shareholders at the rate of one convertible note for every 2.675 existing shares to raise $27.5 million on 1 September 2006 under a renounceable rights issue. The issue was not fully subscribed by existing share holders and Harmony Investment Fund Limited or its nominees (“Harmony”) acquired 81.6% of the issue. This issue was made together with the offer of one new share option for every two convertible notes allotted, which resulted in 101,852,055 listed options being granted. In addition, 10 million options were issued to Harmony in consideration of a short term working capital loan and 65 million were issued as payment for Harmony’s commitment to underwrite the transaction under the Facilitation Agreement.
At the maturity date (1 September 2009), the Company must repay the face value of A$0.135 to the Note Holders, unless the Note Holders have elected to convert some or all of their convertible notes into ordinary shares at a conversion price which is the lesser of A$0.135 cents per share, and 90% of the volume weighted average price of ordinary shares during the 30 business days immediately preceding the conversion date. Note Holders can elect to convert some or all of their convertible notes into ordinary shares at the beginning of each quarter, at the maturity date and at certain other times. 
                         
    2007   2006   2005
    A$   A$   A$
     
Balance at beginning of year
    12,926,837              
Fair value of new issues
          12,579,524        
Accretion expense
    1,882,440       460,955        
Transaction cost amortisation
    865,465       288,488 *      
Conversion of convertible notes to shares
    (3,010,232 )     (402,130 )      
     
Balance at end of year
    12,664,510       12,926,837        
     
                         
    2007   2006   2005
    Number   Number   Number
     
Balance at beginning of year
    197,282,070              
New issues
          203,703,704        
Conversion of convertible notes to shares
    (44,625,186 )     (6,421,634 )      
     
Balance at end of year
    152,656,884       197,282,070        
     
 
*   As revised per change in policy refer note 2(a)

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Table of Contents

Metal Storm Limited
Notes to the financial statements (continued)

31 December 2007
19. Current liabilities — Provisions
                                 
            Onerous        
            Lease        
    Make Good   Contracts   Payroll   Total
    A$   A$   A$   A$
Carrying amount at 1 January 2006
    45,026       136,203       96,219       277,448  
Additional provisions recognised
    17,078       35,045       398,715       450,838  
Amounts used during the year
    (37,541 )           (257,022 )     (294,563 )
Reclassified as other receivables
                5,047       5,047  
Foreign Exchange movements
                       
Unwinding and discount rate adjustment
    3,227                   3,227  
 
                               
Carrying amount at 1 January 2007
    27,790       171,248       242,959       441,997  
 
                               
Additional provisions recognised
                161,328       161,328  
Amounts used during the year
                (264,579 )     (264,579 )
Bonus not paid
                (20,909 )     (20,909 )
Foreign Exchange movements
    (568 )     (17,091 )           (17,659 )
Unwinding and discount rate adjustment
    1,983                   1,983  
 
                               
Carrying amount at 31 December 2007
    29,205       154,157       118,799       302,161  
 
                               
Make good provision
A provision is recognised to restore leased premises to their original condition as required by the lease agreements. The amount recognised represents the present value of the estimated cost to restore the premises. Because of the long-term nature of the liability, the greatest uncertainty in estimating the provision is the costs that will ultimately be incurred. The provision has been calculated using a pre-tax discount rate of 11.035%.
Onerous Lease Contract
Due to the sale of the assets of ProCam Machine LLC in 2005, the company ceased using the premises in Seattle WA, United States at that time. The Company then commenced discussions with the lessor who has indicated that they are prepared to terminate the lease early. The lease for these premises expired in June 2007 and to date the negotiations have not been finalised.
Payroll
A provision has been recognised for payroll liabilities that include amounts payable for leave entitlements loaded for on costs.
20. Non-current liabilities — Interest bearing loans and borrowings
                         
    2007   2006   2005
    A$   A$   A$
     
Obligations under finance leases
    215,036       255,845        
     
Finance leases have a lease term of 3 years with no option to renew the leases or purchase the assets at the completion of the lease term. Some finance leases are secured through a cash deposit, see note 13.

F-35


Table of Contents

Metal Storm Limited
Notes to the financial statements (continued)

31 December 2007
21. Contributed equity
                         
    2007   2006   2005
    A$   A$   A$
     
Ordinary shares — issued and fully paid
    65,428,400       59,985,634       56,559,039  
     
Movement in ordinary share capital
                                     
                Number of   Issue   Value
Date   Details   Note   shares   price   A$
 
01/01/2005  
Opening Balance
            521,970,978               56,559,039  
   
 
                               
   
 
                               
31/12/2005  
Closing Balance
            521,970,978               56,559,039  
   
 
                               
21/02/2006  
Settle employee bonus
            89,396     $ 0.280       25,031  
22/05/2006  
Shares issued through plan
    (i )     22,648,691     $ 0.133       3,010,000  
22/05/2006  
Transaction costs on share issue
    (i )                     (268,696 )
19/09/2006  
Exercise listed options
  (ii)     23,249     $ 0.150       3,487  
20/09/2006  
Exercise listed options
  (ii)     561     $ 0.150       84  
21/09/2006  
Exercise listed options
  (ii)     431     $ 0.150       65  
26/09/2006  
Exercise listed options
  (ii)     1,870     $ 0.150       281  
28/09/2006  
Exercise listed options
  (ii)     6,315     $ 0.150       947  
29/09/2006  
Exercise listed options
  (ii)     3,220     $ 0.150       483  
02/10/2006  
Conversion of notes
  (iii)     7,881,096     $ 0.110       652,575  
05/10/2006  
Exercise listed options
  (ii)     982     $ 0.150       147  
09/10/2006  
Exercise listed options
  (ii)     328     $ 0.150       49  
16/10/2006  
Exercise listed options
  (ii)     115     $ 0.150       17  
25/10/2006  
Exercise listed options
  (ii)     1,870     $ 0.150       281  
03/11/2006  
Exercise listed options
  (ii)     12,292     $ 0.150       1,844  
   
 
                               
31/12/2006  
Closing Balance
            552,641,394               59,985,634  
   
 
                               
   
 
                               
04/01/2007  
Exercise listed options
  (ii)     758     $ 0.150       119  
04/01/2007  
Conversion of notes
  (iii)     1,706,709     $ 0.135       205,359  
16/01/2007  
Exercise listed options
  (ii)     12,173     $ 0.150       1,826  
16/01/2007  
Conversion of notes
  (iii)     14,518,842     $ 0.135       1,746,974  
17/01/2007  
Conversion of notes
  (iii)     14,000,000     $ 0.135       1,684,545  
19/01/2007  
Exercise listed options
  (ii)     10,983     $ 0.150       1,647  
24/01/2007  
Exercise listed options
  (ii)     3,127     $ 0.150       469  
08/03/2007  
Exercise listed options
  (ii)     4,684     $ 0.150       703  
14/03/2007  
Exercise listed options
  (ii)     7,760     $ 0.150       1,164  
01/04/2007  
Conversion of notes
  (iii)     4,807,843     $ 0.135       595,354  
19/04/2007  
Exercise listed options
  (ii)     850     $ 0.150       128  
29/05/2007  
Exercise listed options
  (ii)     603     $ 0.150       90  
14/06/2007  
Conversion of notes
  (iii)     8,775,000     $ 0.120       986,406  
26/06/2007  
Exercise listed options
  (ii)     3,188     $ 0.150       478  
01/07/2007  
Conversion of notes
  (iii)     136,913     $ 0.120       14,246  
25/07/2007  
Exercise listed options
  (ii)     94     $ 0.150       14  
01/10/2007  
Conversion of notes
  (iii)     2,049,658     $ 0.110       203,244  
   
 
                               
31/12/2007  
Closing Balance
            598,680,579               65,428,400  
   
 
                               
 
(i)   New share issue for cash under a Share Purchase Plan as part of a capital raising plan.
 
(ii)   Issued under the 2006 Renounceable Rights Issue Prospectus.
 
(iii)   Convertible notes issued under the 2006 Renounceable Rights Issue Prospectus converted at the lesser of $0.135 or 90% of the volume weighted average price of shares during the 30 business days immediate preceding the conversion date.

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Table of Contents

Metal Storm Limited
Notes to the financial statements (continued)

31 December 2007
21. Contributed equity (continued)
Movement in Listed Options
                 
Details   Note Number of options
 
At 1 January 2006
             
Issued under Renounceable Rights Issue
    (i )     101,852,055  
Issued as payment for transactions costs
    (i )     65,000,000  
Issued as payment for Facilitation Agreement
            10,000,000  
Exercise of options
            (51,231 )
 
               
At 31 December 2006
            176,800,824  
Exercise of options
            (44,220 )
 
               
At 31 December 2007
            176,756,604  
 
               
 
(i)   Issued under the terms of the 28 July 2006 Renounceable Rights Issue Prospectus.
22. Reserves
                         
    2007   2006   2005
    A$   A$   A$
     
Unlisted option reserve
    2,221,417       2,084,868       1,726,182  
Listed option reserve
    6,893,566       6,893,566        
Revaluation reserve
          2,080       36,660  
Accumulated translation reserve
    (68,559 )     (84,572 )     (94,785 )
     
 
    9,046,424       8,895,942       1,668,057  
     
 
                       
Movements:
                       
 
                       
Unlisted option reserve
                       
Balance at 1 January
    2,084,868       1,726,182       1,316,454  
New Issues
                 
Expenses recognised
    136,549       358,686       409,728  
     
Balance at 31 December
    2,221,417       2,084,868       1,726,182  
     
 
                       
Listed option reserve
                       
Balance at 1 January
    6,893,566              
Attached options issued on allotment of renounceable rights issue
          4,379,638        
Option issue costs
          (748,072 )      
Options paid as fees to Harmony
          3,262,000        
     
Balance at 31 December
    6,893,566       6,893,566        
     
 
                       
Revaluation reserve
                       
Balance at 1 January
    2,080       36,660        
Net gains on available-for-sale financial assets
          (34,580 )     36,660  
Realised gains
    (1,040 )            
Net movement on revaluation
    (1,040 )            
     
Balance at 31 December
          2,080       36,660  
     
 
                       
Accumulated translation reserve
                       
Balance at 1 January
    (84,572 )     (94,785 )     (142,886 )
Currency translation differences
    16,013       10,213       48,101  
     
Balance at 31 December
    (68,559 )     (84,572 )     (94,785 )
     

F-37


Table of Contents

Metal Storm Limited
Notes to the financial statements (continued)

31 December 2007
22. Reserves (continued)
Nature and purpose of reserves
Unlisted options reserve
The options reserve is used to record the share options issued to Directors, employees and consultants.
Listed options reserve
The listed options reserve is used to record the receipt on allotment of listed options issued under the renounceable rights issue.
Revaluation reserve
The bond reserve is used to record the unrealised gain or loss on available-for-sale financial investments.
Accumulated translation reserve
The accumulated translation reserve is used to record the unrealised exchange differences arising from the translation of the financial statements of foreign subsidiaries whose functional currencies are different from the parent.
23. Accumulated losses
                         
    2007   2006   2005
    A$   A$   A$
Balance at 1 January
    (67,784,244 )     (52,447,234 )     (41,532,634 )
Net loss
    (9,998,150 )     (15,337,010 )     (10,914,600 )
     
Balance at 31 December
    (77,782,394 )     (67,784,244 )     (52,447,234 )
     
24. Key management personnel disclosures
(a) Directors
The following persons were directors of Metal Storm Limited during the financial year:
     
T J O’Dwyer
  Chairman
L J Finniear
  Managing Director (appointed 24 May 2007),
 
  Chief Executive Officer (appointed 19 February 2007)
B S McComish
  Non-executive Director (resigned 8 March 2007)
J M Crunk
  Non-executive Director
P D Jonson
  Non-executive Director
J R Nicholls
  Non-executive Director
All of the above persons were also Directors during the year ended 31 December 2006, except for L J Finniear who commenced employment with the Group on 19 February 2007.
W A Downing, D A Smith and D L Alspach were directors for part of the year ended 31 December 2006.

F-38


Table of Contents

Metal Storm Limited
Notes to the financial statements (continued)

31 December 2007
24. Key management personnel disclosures (continued)
(b) Other key management personnel
The following persons also had authority and responsibility for planning, directing and controlling the activities of the Group, directly or indirectly, during the financial year:
         
Name   Position   Employer
P R Wetzig
  Company Secretary   Metal Storm Limited
B I Farmer
  Chief Financial Officer (from 17 August 2007)   Metal Storm Limited
P D Faulkner
  Senior VP – Director US Operations   Metal Storm Inc
J Cronin
  Managing Engineer   Metal Storm Limited
J D MacDonald
  Chief Financial Officer (resigned 13 April 2007)   Metal Storm Limited
G L Bergeron III
  Chief Technical Officer (resigned 31 January 2007)   Metal Storm Inc
All of the above persons were also key management persons during the year ended 31 December 2006, except for P R Wetzig who commenced employment with the Group on 16 April 2007 and B I Farmer who was appointed CFO on 17 August 2007.
I A Gillespie — Chief Operating Officer and J C Chehansky – Senior VP Business Development were key management persons for part of the year ended 31 December 2006.
(c) Key management personnel compensation
                         
    2007   2006   2005
    A$   A$   A$
     
Short-term employee benefits
    1,305,045       2,111,346       1,326,496  
Post-employment benefits
    56,205       75,907       61,182  
Termination benefits
          304,140       500,000  
Share-based payments
    99,923       263,085       422,626  
     
 
    1,461,173       2,754,478       2,310,304  
     
(d) Equity instrument disclosures relating to key management personnel
Option holdings
The numbers of options over ordinary shares in the company held during the financial year by each director of Metal Storm Limited and other key management personnel of the Group, including their personally related parties, are set out below.

F-39


Table of Contents

Metal Storm Limited
Notes to the financial statements (continued)

31 December 2007
24. Key management personnel disclosures (continued)
(d) Equity instrument disclosures relating to key management personnel (continued)
2007
                                                 
    Balance at   Granted as           Balance at        
    start of the   compen-           end of the   Vested and    
Name   year   sation   Exercised   year   exercisable   Unvested
 
Directors
                                               
TJ O’Dwyer
    33,819                   33,819       33,819        
L J Finniear
          1,000,000             1,000,000       500,000       500,000  
J M Crunk
                                   
P D Jonson
                                   
J R Nicholls
                                   
B S McComish
                                   
 
                                               
Other key management personnel of the group                                
P R Wetzig
                                   
B I Farmer
                                   
P D Faulkner
    200,000                   200,000       200,000        
J Cronin
    200,000                   200,000       200,000        
J D MacDonald
    500,000                   500,000       500,000        
G L Bergeron III
    250,000                   250,000       250,000        
     
 
    1,183,819       1,000,000             2,183,819       1,683,819       500,000  
     
All vested options are exercisable at the end of the year.
2006
                                                 
    Balance at   Granted as           Balance at        
    start of the   compen-           end of the   Vested and    
Name   year   sation   Exercised   year   exercisable   Unvested
 
Directors
                                               
T J O’Dwyer
                33,819       33,819       33,819        
W A Downing
    3,400,000       490,000             3,890,000       1,390,000       2,500,000  
D A Smith
          625,000             625,000       625,000        
D L Alspach
    1,350,000       450,000             1,800,000       1,800,000        
B S McComish
                                   
J M Crunk
                                   
P D Jonson
                                   
J R Nicholls
                                   
 
                                               
Other key management personnel of the group                                
I A Gillespie
    1,100,000                   1,100,000       1,100,000        
J D MacDonald
    500,000                   500,000       500,000        
G L Bergeron III
    250,000                   250,000       250,000        
P D Faulkner
          200,000             200,000       125,000       75,000  
J Cronin
    200,000                   200,000       200,000        
J C Chahansky
          75,000             75,000       75,000        
     
 
    6,800,000       1,840,000       33,819       8,673,819       6,098,819       2,575,000  
     

F-40


Table of Contents

Metal Storm Limited
Notes to the financial statements (continued)

31 December 2007
24. Key management personnel disclosures (continued)
(d) Equity instrument disclosures relating to key management personnel (continued)
2005
                                                 
    Balance at   Granted as           Balance at        
    start of the   compen-           end of the   Vested and    
Name   year   sation   Exercised   year   exercisable   Unvested
 
Directors
                                               
T J O’Dwyer
                                   
W A Downing
    2,950,000       450,000             3,400,000       900,000       2,500,000  
D A Smith
                                   
D L Alspach
    675,000       675,000             1,350,000       1,350,000        
B S McComish
                                   
J M Crunk
                                   
J M O’Dwyer
    450,000       450,000             900,000       900,000        
J D Heipt
                                   
W A Ownes
    2,950,000       150,000             3,100,000       600,000       2,500,000  
D W Christman
    915,000       618,750             1,533,750       1,533,750        
Other key management personnel of the group                                
I A Gillespie
    1,100,000                       1,100,000       1,100,000          
J D MacDonald
            500,000               500,000       312,500       187,500  
G L Bergeron III
    250,000                       250,000       187,500       62,500  
J C Chahansky C A Vehlow
    1,850,000       225,000               2,075,000       2,075,000          
     
 
    11,140,000       3,068,750               14,208,750       8,958,750       5,250,000  
     
(iii) Share holdings
The numbers of shares in the company held during the financial year by each director of Metal Storm Limited and other key management personnel of the Group, including their personally related parties, are set out below. There were no shares granted during the reporting period as compensation.
                         
    Balance at   Changes   Balance at
    start of the   during the   end of the
Name   year   year   year
 
2007
                       
Directors
                       
T J O’Dwyer
    180,855             180,855  
L Finniear
                 
J M Crunk
                 
P D Jonson
    340,000             340,000  
J R Nicholls
                 
B S McComish
                 
Other key management personnel of the group
                       
P R Wetzig
    400             400  
B I Farmer
                   
P D Faulkner
                 
J Cronin
                 
J D MacDonald
                 
G L Bergeron III
                 
     
 
    521,255             521,255  
     

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Table of Contents

Metal Storm Limited
Notes to the financial statements (continued)

31 December 2007
24. Key management personnel disclosures (continued)
(d) Equity instrument disclosures relating to key management personnel (continued)
                         
    Balance at   Changes   Balance at
    start of the   during the   end of the
Name   year   year   year
 
2006
                       
Directors
                       
T J O’Dwyer
    63,611       117,244       180,855  
W A Downing
    500,000             500,000  
D A Smith
                 
D L Alspach
                 
B S McComish
                 
J M Crunk
                 
P D Jonson
          340,000       340,000  
J R Nicholls
                 
Other key management personnel of the group        
I A Gillespie
          89,396       89,396  
J D MacDonald
                 
G L Bergeron III
                 
P D Faulkner
                 
J Cronin
                 
J C Chahansky
                 
     
 
    563,611       546,640       1,110,251  
     
2005
                       
Directors
                       
T J O’Dwyer
    63,611             63,611  
W A Downing
    500,000             500,000  
D A Smith
                 
D L Alspach
                 
B S McComish
                 
J M Crunk
                 
J M O’Dwyer
    199,729,559             199,729,559  
J D Heipt
                 
W A Owens
                 
D W Christman
                 
Other key management personnel of the group        
I A Gillespie
                 
J D MacDonald
                 
G L Bergeron III
                 
J C Chahansky
                 
C A Vehlow
                 
     
 
    200,293,170             200,293,170  
     
(e) Loans to key management personnel
There were no loans to key management at 31 December 2007 or 31 December 2006.

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Table of Contents

Metal Storm Limited
Notes to the financial statements (continued)

31 December 2007
24. Key management personnel disclosures (continued)
(f) Other transactions and balances with key management personnel
Directors’ fees
At 31 December the following Directors’ fees were payable to directors in relation to the financial year then ended:
                         
    2007   2006   2005
    A$   A$   A$
     
T J O’Dwyer
    6,666       6,666        
W A Downing
                44,560  
D L Alspach
          15,000       75,000  
B S McComish
          1,667        
J M Crunk
    10,000       14,879        
P D Jonson
    15,000              
J R Nicholls
    4,167              
     
 
    35,833       38,212       119,560  
     
25. Remuneration of auditors
During the year the following fees were paid or payable for services provided by the auditor of the parent entity, its related practises and non-related firms:
(a) Audit Services
                         
    2007   2006   2005
    A$   A$   A$
     
PricewaterhouseCoopers
                       
Audit and review of financial reports
    332,000              
Non-PricewaterhouseCoopers
                       
Audit and review of financial reports
    353,458 (1)     387,550 (2)     385,410 (3)
     
 
    685,458       387,500       384,410  
     
 
(1)   Relates to audit services performed during 2007 for the 2006 financial year.
 
(2)   Includes audit services performed during 2006 for the 2005 financial year plus some 2006 audit services.
 
(3)   Includes audit services performed during 2005 for the 2004 financial year plus some 2005 audit services.
(b) Non-audit Services
                         
    2007   2006   2005
    A$   A$   A$
     
PricewaterhouseCoopers
                       
Non-audit services
                 
Non-PricewaterhouseCoopers
                       
Non-audit services
          132,726       31,500  
     
 
          132,726       31,500  
     
26. Commitments
(a) Operating leases
Future minimum rental payments under non-cancellable operating leases as at 31 December are as follows:
                         
    2007   2006   2005
    A$   A$   A$
     
Within one year
    443,858       459,785       468,068  
After one year but not more than 5 years
    476,093       966,503       1,085,904  
More than 5 years
                 
     
Total minimum lease payments
    919,951       1,426,288       1,553,972  
     

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Table of Contents

Metal Storm Limited
Notes to the financial statements (continued)

31 December 2007
26. Commitments (continued)
(b) Finance leases
The Company has finance leases contracts for workshop equipment and demountable buildings with a carrying amount of $300,361 (2006: $306,180). These leases contracts expire within 3 years with no option to renew the leases or purchase the assets at the completion of the lease term. Refer to note 14, 18 and 20 for further details.
Future minimum lease payments under finance leases together with the present value of the net minimum lease payments are as follows:
                                 
    2007   2006
            Present           Present
    Minimum   value of   Minimum   value of
    lease   lease   lease   lease
    payments   payments   payments   payments
    A$   A$   A$   A$
         
Within one year
    84,626       63,907       76,533       50,335  
After one year but not more than 5 years
    232,487       215,036       286,075       255,845  
         
Total minimum lease payments
    317,113       278,943       362,608       306,180  
Less amounts representing finance charges
    (38,170 )           (56,428 )      
         
 
    278,943       278,943       306,180       306,180  
         
There were no finance leases during 2005.
27. Related party transactions
Inter-company loans
Loans made to controlled entities, including wholly owned subsidiaries, outstanding at 31 December 2007 totalled $18,175,243. At 31 December 2006 these totalled $16,377,269. Loans were non-interest bearing and had no set repayment terms. At year end a provision for diminution in value has been taken up to the amount of $18,175,243.
The expense recorded in the financial statements of the Parent to 31 December 2007 was $1,797,973 and to 31 December 2006 was $2,314,504.
There have been no related party transactions between the company and its Directors or Key Management Personnel, or ‘close members’ of their family, or any entities that they control, jointly control or significantly influence, that require disclosure in the financial report under accounting standard AASB 124.
During the year Backwell Lombard Capital Pty Ltd, of which T J O’Dwyer is a principal, were appointed to undertake consultancy work. As at 31 December 2007, no fees were paid or payable to Backwell Lombard Capital Pty Ltd. Subsequent to year end, services have been performed resulting in a fee payable of $30,000.
28. Subsidiaries
                                                         
    Country of   Percentage of equity held by    
    Incorporation   the Group   Investment
            2007   2006   2005   2007   2006   2005
Metal Storm Inc.
  USA     49 %     49 %     49 %     2,920       2,920       2,920  
ProCam Machine LLC
  USA     100 %     100 %     100 %                  
Metal Storm USA Limited
  USA     100 %     100 %     100 %                  
Digigun LLC
  USA     100 %     100 %     100 %                  
The structure of Metal Storm Inc. allows the Company to bid directly on US defence projects under the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) program as the ‘prime’ contractor, thus enabling revenue flows directly into the company. To be compliant with the requirements of the US Department of Defence, it was necessary to create Metal Storm Inc. as a 49% owned entity by Metal Storm Limited, and place the other 51% in trust for the benefit of Metal Storm Inc.’s US resident employees. For the purposes of financial reporting, Metal Storm continues to control Metal Storm Inc. and consolidates 100% of the assets and liabilities of this subsidiary.

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Table of Contents

Metal Storm Limited
Notes to the financial statements (continued)

31 December 2007
29. Events occurring after the balance sheet date
On 16 January, Metal Storm Limited announced that Metal Storm Inc had been awarded a contract by a major US Defence Company in relation to significant defense program. The contract is valued at approximately USD220,000 and the company believes it has further potential longer term.
On 22 February, Metal Storm Limited announced it had entered into a Collaboration Agreement with Singapore Technologies Kinetics (ST Kinetics) to take its 3GL three-shot grenade launcher and 40mm ammunition to manufacture. Under the terms of the Agreement, Metal Storm and ST Kinetics have agreed to collaborate in the design, development, testing, qualification, manufacture of prototypes and demonstration of weapons and munitions as well as the commercial production and marketing of munitions and selected Metal Storm ballistic weapons that only use those munitions.
On 26 February, the Company received a $2,000,000 unsecured short term loan with commercial terms and conditions. 
On 4 June, the Company announced that Metal Storm Inc had been awarded a contract for USD936,695 by the Office of Naval Research for the further development of 12-gauge, Multi-shot Accessory Under-barrel Launcher (MAUL).
30. Reconciliation of profit after income tax to net cash inflow from operating activities
                         
    2007   2006   2005
    A$   A$   A$
     
Net Loss
    (9,998,150 )     (15,337,010 )     (10,914,600 )
Adjustments for:
                       
Depreciation and amortisation
    249,496       184,837       259,759  
Amortisation of options issued for short term loan
          467,000        
Accretion expense
    1,884,443       757,866        
Amortisation of transaction costs
    865,465              
Net loss on disposal of discontinued operation
                658,605  
Net loss on disposal of intangible assets
          1,722        
Foreign exchange differences
    17,495       10,213       27,022  
Impairment loss on receivables
                 
Fair value of services paid for via issue of options
    136,549       358,686       409,728  
Fair value of services paid for via issue of shares
          25,031        
Fair value adjustment to conversion derivative
    (2,421,388 )     4,469,042        
Fair value adjustment to available-for-sale assets
    (2,080 )     (34,580 )      
Impairment loss on available-for-sale assets
    220,800              
Interest received
    (1,354,047 )     (758,280 )     (602,949 )
Other
    758       607        
 
                       
Changes in assets and liabilities:
                       
(Increase) / decrease in trade and other receivables
    (1,379,346 )     275,352       (412,492 )
(Increase) / decrease in inventories
                250,982  
(Increase) / decrease in prepayments
    11,009       956,889       451,569  
(Decrease) / increase in trade and other payables
    662,620       431,492       (700,396 )
(Decrease) / increase in provisions
    (139,836 )     164,549       (55,049 )
(Decrease) / increase in other current liabilities
    (9,684 )     570,245       93,260  
     
Net cash used in operating activities
    (11,255,896 )     (7,456,339 )     (10,534,561 )
     

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Table of Contents

Metal Storm Limited
Notes to the financial statements (continued)

31 December 2007
31. Earnings per share
(a) Basic and diluted earnings per share
                         
    2007   2006   2005
    A$   A$   A$
     
Loss for the year from continuing operations
    (9,998,150 )     (15,297,754 )     (9,312,210 )
Loss for the year attributable to members of the parent
    (9,998,150 )     (15,337,010 )     (10,914,600 )
   
Basic and diluted earnings per share from continuing operations (cents per share)
    (1.69 )     (2.84 )     (1.78 )
Basic and diluted earnings per share (cents per share)
    (1.69 )     (2.85 )     (2.09 )
(b) Weighted average number of shares used as the denominator
                         
    2007 Number   2006 Number   2005 Number
     
Weighted average number of ordinary shares for basic and diluted earning per share
    590,721,934       537,796,067       521,970,978  
(c) Information concerning the classification of securities
The following table summarises the convertible notes, listed options and unlisted options that were not included in the calculation of weighted average number of ordinary shares because they are anti-dilutive.
                         
    2007 Number   2006 Number   2005 Number
     
Convertible notes
    152,656,884       173,478,153        
Listed options
    176,756,604       176,800,824        
Unlisted options
    18,569,688       18,100,938       15,463,938  
32. Share-based payments
(a) Employee share option plan
The Company operates a discretionary Employee Share Option Plan (ESOP) to enable the Board to provide an incentive and to reward full time executives and employees for the key role that they will play in the future success of the Company. A summary of the terms of the plan is as follows:
Invitations to participate in the ESOP are at the absolute discretion of the Board. Any invitation shall specify the precise details of the invitation, such as maximum number of shares, date by which application must be made by the invitee, the exercise price and any conditions attached to the exercise of the option. The exercise price shall not be less than the market price of the Company’s shares on the date determined by the Board. The aggregate number of shares subject to options shall not exceed 5% of the Company’s shares then on issue. There are also individual limits on the number of options, which may be granted to employees.
The exercise period is the earlier of: (a) the third anniversary of the date of grant of the option; (b) the date on which any special circumstances including death, disability, redundancy, retirement or cessation of employment arise; (c) a takeover, compulsory acquisition, reconstruction, amalgamation or liquidation; and ending on the earliest of (d) the date which is 2 days before the tenth anniversary of the date of grant; (e) the last day before the first anniversary of the date on which any special circumstance arises; (f) the expiry of specific time frames set out in the Plan in relation to the circumstances in (c) above.
An option shall lapse upon expiry of the exercise period.
The Board may, at any time, cease making further offers or invitations but the subsisting rights of option holders shall not be affected.
There are currently no options issued under the ESOP.

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Table of Contents

Metal Storm Limited
Notes to the financial statements (continued)

31 December 2007
32. Share-based payments (continued)
(b) Options issued under the constitution
The Board issues options not pursuant to the Employee Share Option Plan as part of executive and senior employee remuneration packages. Inclusion of options as part of a remuneration package is at the absolute discretion of the Board. Each employment contract or offer letter contains the specific details of the employees’ entitlement to options issued in this manner. Specifically the number of options the employee is entitled to, the exercise price, the vesting date and the expiry date of the options are all outlined in the employee contract.
The exercise price shall not be less than the market price of the Company’s shares on the date of signing the employment contract. The aggregate number of shares subject to options shall not exceed 5% of the Company’s shares then on issue. There are also individual limits on the number of options, which may be granted to employees.
An option shall lapse upon expiry of the exercise period.
The fair value of employee benefits are estimated at the date of grant using the Black-Scholes option pricing model. The following inputs were used in determining the value of options.
Expected volatility — calculated using historical information for a period equivalent to the expected life of the option dated back from the grant date of the options. This has a range between 54% and 72% depending on grant date and expected life of the options.
Risk-free interest rate – based on the implied yield on zero coupon Australian Government bonds with a maturity equal to the expected life of the option.
Expected life of the option – range from four to eight years determined by the terms of the option agreement and managements’ assessment of when the option will be exercised.
Option exercise price — as per option terms.
Share price – share price at grant date of the option.
The following table illustrates the number and weighted average exercise price (WAEP) of share options granted during the year under the constitution.
                                                 
    2007   2006   2005
    Number   WAEP   Number   WAEP   Number   WAEP
     
Outstanding at the beginning of the year
    18,100,938       0.31       15,463,938       0.30       12,399,353       0.28  
Granted during the year
    1,000,000       0.19       3,547,500       0.40       3,268,750       0.40  
Expired during the year
    (56,250 )     0.54       (910,500 )     0.57       (204,165 )     0.87  
     
Outstanding at the end of the year
    19,044,688       0.30       18,100,938       0.31       15,463,938       0.30  
     
 
                                               
Exercisable at the end of the year
    13,207,188       0.41       11,313,438       0.42       10,113,438       0.32  
No unlisted options were exercised during the period.

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Table of Contents

Metal Storm Limited
Notes to the financial statements (continued)

31 December 2007
32. Share-based payments (continued)
(b) Options issued under the constitution (continued)
The outstanding balance at 31 December is represented by:
                                 
    Exercise Price   2007   2006   2005
Expiry Date   A$   Number   Number   Number
8 January 2006
    1.162                   62,500  
3 March 2006
    0.400                   55,000  
4 June 2006
    1.162                   62,500  
3 September 2006
    0.556                   12,500  
3 September 2006
    1.162                   62,500  
19 October 2006
    0.400                   118,000  
31 October 2006
    0.400                   500,000  
31 October 2006
    0.556                   12,500  
31 December 2006
    0.556                   25,000  
06 February 2007
    0.556             12,500       12,500  
14 April 2007
    0.556             12,500       12,500  
14 September 2007
    0.556             12,500       12,500  
14 December 2007
    0.556             12,500       12,500  
31 December 2007
    0.400             6,250       6,250  
31 March 2008
    0.556       12,500       12,500       12,500  
04 June 2008
    0.388       5,000       5,000       5,000  
30 June 2008
    0.556       12,500       12,500       12,500  
30 September 2008
    0.556       12,500       12,500       12,500  
31 December 2008
    0.556       12,500       12,500       12,500  
14 January 2009
    0.400       125,000       125,000       125,000  
02 February 2009
    0.400       100,000       100,000       100,000  
16 February 2009
    0.400       14,438       14,438       14,438  
24 February 2009
    0.400       81,250       81,250       81,250  
10 March 2009
    0.400       8,250       8,250       8,250  
31 March 2009
    0.400       62,500       62,500       62,500  
05 April 2009
    0.400       29,500       29,500       29,500  
14 April 2009
    0.400       1,100,000       1,100,000       1,100,000  
10 May 2009
    0.400       25,000       25,000       25,000  
08 June 2009
    0.400       25,000       25,000       25,000  
21 June 2009
    0.400       3,225,000       3,225,000       3,225,000  
21 June 2009
    1.100       40,000       40,000       40,000  
21 June 2009
    1.150       200,000       200,000       200,000  
30 June 2009
    0.400       62,500       62,500       62,500  
05 July 2009
    0.400       75,000       75,000       75,000  
14 July 2009
    0.400       125,000       125,000       125,000  
04 September 2009
    0.400       31,250       31,250       31,250  
30 September 2009
    0.400       62,500       62,500       62,500  
14 October 2009
    0.400       125,000       125,000       125,000  
24 November 2009
    0.400       6,250       6,250       6,250  
04 December 2009
    0.400       31,250       31,250       31,250  
07 December 2009
    0.400       12,500       12,500       12,500  
31 December 2009
    0.400       150,000       150,000       150,000  
18 March 2010
    0.400       20,000       20,000        
31 March 2010
    0.400       200,000       200,000       200,000  
21 June 2010
    0.400       578,750       578,750       578,750  

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Table of Contents

Metal Storm Limited
Notes to the financial statements (continued)

31 December 2007
32. Share-based payments (continued)
(b) Options issued under the constitution (continued)
                                 
    Exercise Price   2007   2006   2005
Expiry Date   A$   Number   Number   Number
24 June 2010
    0.400       1,990,000       1,990,000       1,990,000  
30 June 2010
    0.400       200,000       200,000       200,000  
30 September 2010
    0.400       200,000       200,000       200,000  
31 December 2010
    0.400       218,750       218,750       193,750  
31 March 2011
    0.400       193,750       193,750       131,250  
28 April 2011
    0.400       940,000       940,000        
30 June 2011
    0.400       818,750       818,750       131,250  
02 July 2011
    0.010       5,000,000       5,000,000       5,000,000  
30 September 2011
    0.400       125,000       125,000       100,000  
27 October 2011
    0.400       506,250       506,250        
31 December 2011
    0.400       193,750       193,750        
08 March 2012
    0.180       1,000,000              
31 March 2012
    0.400       193,750       193,750        
30 June 2012
    0.400       193,750       193,750        
30 September 2012
    0.400       193,750       193,750        
31 December 2012
    0.400       168,750       168,750        
31 March 2013
    0.400       168,750       168,750        
30 June 2013
    0.400       168,750       168,750        
             
 
            19,044,688       18,100,938       15,463,938  
             

F-49


Table of Contents

SIGNATURES
     Pursuant to the requirements of Section 12 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant certifies that it meets all of the requirements for filing on Form 20-F and has duly caused this annual report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.
         
  METAL STORM LIMITED
 
 
  By:   /s/ LEE FINNIEAR    
    Name Lee Finniear   
    Title:   Chief Executive Officer   
 
Date: June 30, 2008

 


Table of Contents

EXHIBIT INDEX
     
Exhibit    
Number   Description of Exhibit
1.1
  Constitution of Metal Storm*
 
   
4.1
  [not used]
 
   
4.2
  [not used]
 
   
4.3
  DSTO Technology License Agreement dated April 20, 2001, as amended (portions omitted pursuant to a request for confidential treatment; non-public information has been filed with the SEC)*
 
   
4.4
  Employment Agreement of Dr. Lee Finniear***
 
   
4.5
  Letter of Offer to Mr. Peter D. Faulkner***
 
   
4.6
  Employment Agreement of Brett Farmer
 
   
4.7
  [not used]
 
   
4.8
  Employment Agreement of Dr. Joe Cronin***
 
   
4.9
  Cash Advance Facility Agreement, dated June 16, 2006, between Metal Storm and Harmony Investment Fund Limited**
 
   
4.10
  Discretionary Share Option Scheme*
 
   
4.11
  Convertible Note Trust Deed dated July 11, 2006***
 
   
8.0
  List of Subsidiaries of Metal Storm Limited
 
   
12.1
  Certification by the Chief Executive Officer of Metal Storm Limited in accordance with Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act
 
   
12.2
  Certification by the Chief Financial Officer of Metal Storm Limited in accordance with Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act
 
   
13.1
  Certification by the Chief Executive Officer of Metal Storm Limited in accordance with Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act
 
   
13.2
  Certification by the Chief Financial Officer of Metal Storm Limited in accordance with Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act
 
*   Incorporated by reference from our Registration Statement on Form 20-F filed on December 12, 2001, File No. 000-31212.
 
**   Incorporated by reference from our Annual Report on Form 20-F filed on July 17, 2006.
 
***   Incorporated by reference from our Annual Report on Form 20-F filed on May 18, 2007.

 

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