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[2022] FCA 545
Federal Court of Australia
2022-05-13
Ms J, Mr J, O'Sullivan J
Original judgment source is linked above.
Discovery
INTRODUCTION 1 There are two applications for discovery, the first in time by the respondent filed on 18 March 2022, the second by the applicant filed on 21 March 2022.
PROCEDURAL HISTORY 2 On 11 February 2022, the Court made orders requiring any party requesting discovery and production of documents to do so adopting the Redfern Discovery Procedure set out in [8.4] to [8.7] of the Commercial and Corporations Practice Note of this Court. 3 Both parties have provided Redfern Schedules together with written submissions and affidavits in support of their respective applications. The parties requested the applications be determined on the papers. 4 I have determined each party's applications for discovery and production by making a ruling in the appropriate column in each of the Redfern Schedules, subject to one exception which is an objection by the respondent to production of categories 3 and 12 of documents sought by the applicant in its' Redfern Schedule on the grounds of litigation privilege. That objection may need to be the subject of evidence and/or argument and I will make procedural orders for that argument at the end of these reasons.
Documents relied upon 5 The applicant reads: (a) The third affidavit of Katarzyna Fidos sworn and filed on 21 March 2022 (third Fidos affidavit); and (b) The fourth affidavit of Katarzyna Fidos sworn and filed on 4 April 2022 (fourth Fidos affidavit). 6 The respondent reads: (c) The affidavit of Joseph Gerard of Mulcahy affirmed and filed on 16 June 2021 (first Mulcahy affidavit); (d) The affidavit of Joseph Gerard Mulcahy affirmed and filed on 18 March 2022 (second Mulcahy affidavit); and (e) The affidavit of Joseph Gerard Mulcahy affirmed and filed on 4 April 2022 (third Mulcahy affidavit).
Principles 7 The Federal Court Rules 2011 (Cth) (FCR) reflect the overarching purpose of the civil practice and procedure provisions pursuant to s 37M of the Federal Court of Australia Act 1976 (Cth) (Federal Court Act): Construction, Forestry, Mining and Energy Union v BHP Coal Pty Ltd (No 2) [2011] FCA 1396, [21] (Collier J). 8 FCR 20.14 deals with standard discovery. Such an order requires a party to discover documents: FCR 20.14(1)(a) (a) that are directly relevant to the issues raised by the pleadings or the affidavits; and (b) of which, after reasonable search, the party is aware; and (c) that are, or have been, in the party's control. 9 FCR 20.14(2) sets out the requirements for direct relevance for the purposes of FCR 20.14(1)(a). It provides: (2) For paragraph (1)(a), the documents must meet at least one of the following criteria: (a) the documents are those on which the party intends to rely; (b) the documents adversely affect the party's own case; (c) the documents support another party's case; (d) the documents adversely affect another party's case. 10 In this matter, the parties seek discovery by category of documents, which is non-standard discovery. The parties do not identify any of the criteria mentioned in FCR 20.14(1) and (2) that should not apply pursuant to FCR 20.15(1)(a), and so I incorporate into the orders for discovery by category, the requirements in FCR 20.14(1) and (2). 11 To obtain an order for discovery from this Court, the parties are required to establish one or more of the following circumstances: Central Practice Note: National Court Framework and Case Management (CPN) (CPN-1 at 10.6): (a) That the Discovery Request facilitates the just resolution of the proceedings as quickly, inexpensively and efficiently as possible; … (d) The Discovery Applicant has adequately justified the need for the Request including demonstrating: (i) the utility of the Request and the appropriateness of discovery occurring at that time; (ii) the relevance and importance of the documentation or information sought; (iii) the limited and targeted nature of the Request; and (iv) that the documents sought are, or are very likely to be, significantly probative in nature, or the documents materially support, or are materially adverse to, any party's case in the proceeding.
The applicant's application for discovery 12 I have attached as Annexure 1 to these reasons, the applicant's Redfern Schedule with my rulings. 13 I make the following points in addition to the matters in the Schedule:
14.1 Category 1 (a) The time period sought by the applicant is excessive. I accept the respondent's submissions and have limited the period within which the documents requested are to be discovered; and (b) Sub-category 4 will be limited to Variations and to the extent work alleged not to be the subject of a Variation Order, to work consequent upon a Change to Services as defined in [3.2] of the statement of claim.
14.2 Category 3 (a) It makes no difference that the respondent denies the allegation. That is not the touchstone of what is required for discovery; and (b) The respondent claims settlement privilege over the requested documents relying on s 131(1) of the Evidence Act 1995 (Cth). The privilege, if available, extends to prevent production of the documents discovered. It is not possible to determine the issue of whether the documents to be discovered are privileged from production until such time as a list is provided, any supporting evidence in support of that claim is filed and served, and further submissions are filed and served. 14 Consequently, although I have ordered discovery, the request for production of these documents is stood over.
14.4 Category 10 (a) The objections by the respondent are not to the point; and (b) The time period sought by the applicant is excessive. I accept the respondent's submissions and have limited the period within which the documents requested are to be discovered.
14.5 Category 17 (a) As for category 1, the date range will be limited; (b) To the extent there is duplication of categories 7, 8, 9 and 10, once discovered, there is no need to discover again other than by cross-reference if necessary; and (c) The sub-categories claimed are the same for category 1 sub-categories, however objection is taken to some of the sub-categories on this occasion. Hence the differences between the two.
The respondent's application for discovery 15 I have attached as Annexure 2 to these reasons, the respondent's Redfern Schedule with my rulings. 16 I make the following points in addition to the matters in the Schedule: 17 In each of the following categories, the applicant objects to discovering this category of documents on the basis that it is broad, oppressive and constitutes 'fishing'. The applicant also contends the documents are otherwise not directly relevant to issues in dispute as raised on the pleadings.
16.1 Category 1 18 The applicant does not object to the disclosure of documents relating to the development of the applicant's work methodology for the removal of asbestos and documents relating to the scheduling or planning of the Works (Services). 19 That there is some merit in the applicant's submission as to the breadth of the request, however, there is an issue in this matter as to the understanding by the applicant of the scope of the Services. The order for discovery reflects that issue.
16.2 Category 6 20 The applicant does not object to the discovery of information from the suppliers or manufacturers (of Specialised Demolition Equipment) in the applicant's possession, custody or control concerning the performance capabilities of the Specialised Demolition Equipment. 21 There is an issue in this matter concerning the applicant's Specialised Demolition Equipment and its suitability for the Services. The order for discovery reflects that issue.
16.3 Category 12 22 The applicant does not object to the discovery of: (a) Weekly Toolbox Meeting Minutes (recorded in McMahon Form F627); and (b) Daily Pre-Start Meeting Minutes (recorded in McMahon Form F235). 23 There is merit in the applicant's objection on the basis of the breadth of the request and relevance. I do not consider there is a basis for ordering discovery of the remaining documents sought by the respondent.
16.4 Category 13 24 The applicant does not object to the discovery of: (a) Documents reporting on or recording delays and disruptions arising out of mismanagement of the planning, timing and sequencing of the Services; and (b) Documents reporting on or recording delays and disruptions arising out of demolition equipment that was inadequate or not fit for purpose. 25 The applicant's attempt to limit discovery of these documents in the manner set out above does not reflect that the documents sought are relevant because of the global cost claim advanced by the applicant.
16.5 Category 26 26 There is an issue on the pleadings about internal plant hire. In my view, the request for discovery is, in general terms, appropriate although too wide in its compass. The order reflects that view.
Procedural orders for the claimed litigation privilege 27 Subject to hearing from the parties as to timeframe, I will make the following procedural orders in relation to the respondent's claim for litigation privilege: (1) The respondent is to file and serve such affidavit evidence as it may be advised and written submissions, not exceeding 10 pages in length, together with a table, in Word format, identifying each document upon which it claims litigation privilege and the basis for such claim. (2) The applicant is to file and serve such affidavit evidence as it may be advised and written submissions, not exceeding 10 pages in length, in opposition to the respondent's claim for litigation privilege. The applicant shall also respond to each claim for litigation privilege by completing its response in the table provided to it pursuant to (1) above. (3) The respondent is to file and serve any submissions in reply to the applicant's submissions in response provided pursuant to (2) above as well as indicating on the table provided pursuant to (1) and (2) above whether it maintains the claim for litigation privilege. (4) The Court will, at the request of the parties, either hear the claim for litigation privilege orally or determine it the papers. I certify that the preceding twenty-seven (27) numbered paragraphs are a true copy of the Reasons for Judgment of the Honourable Justice O'Sullivan.
Applicant's Redfern Schedule - Annexure 1 No. Document(s) or category of documents requested Relevance and materiality according to the requesting party Response / objection to document request Position as at 18.03.2022 Court's Decision Pleading ref Comments
Respondent's Redfern Schedule - Annexure 2 No. Document or category of document SOC ref Relevance Response/objection to document or category response Reply to objection to document request Court's Decision Methodology
All internal documents created by McMahon prior to the issue of its Tender Proposal relating to McMahon's analysis of the RFT and its understanding of the scope of work to be performed, including notes taken and internal communications inclusive of Board papers and Board committee papers: 26 These documents are directed to McMahon's understanding of the scope of the work and to the methodology formulated by it to undertake the Services. Consequently, they are material to AARP's defences that McMahon: The Applicant objects to disclosing the documents requested on the basis that the request is too broad, oppressive and constitutes fishing, and the documents are otherwise not directly relevant to issues in dispute as raised on the pleadings subject to the qualification that the Applicant does not object to disclosure of: The Respondent maintains this request. The applicant is to discover documents relating to:
• arising out of the 130 hours (including 60 hours of site visits) alleged at para 26.2; • under estimated the time required to perform the Services (see the further particulars provided by letter dated 8 June 2021 from Russell Kennedy to McMahon (FURTHER PARTICULARS) reproduced at [6] of McMahon Services Australia Pty Ltd v Howmet Systems Australia Pty Ltd [2022] FCA 31); and • documents relating to the development of McMahon's work methodology for the removal of asbestos; and 1. The formulation of its work method statement for carrying out the Services (as defined in [3.14] of the statement of claim);
• relating to the detailed risk assessments alleged at para 26.2; • under estimated the equipment requirements to perform the Services (see para 114(d) of the DEFENCE). • documents relating to scheduling or planning of the works. 2. Its schedule and/or planning and/or programming for the Services (as defined in [3.14] of the statement of claim) prepared for tender purposes;
• relating to the development of McMahon's work methodologies to mitigate the delivery of the project using a 'minimal risk" approach alleged at para 26.2. 3. It's assessment of the scope of the Services (as defined in [3.14] of the statement of claim), the preparation of its detailed risk assessment and work method statement.
All internal documents created by McMahon prior to the issue of its Tender Proposal (including notes, risk assessments, contingency plans and internal communications inclusive of Board papers and Board committee papers) relating to McMahon's assessment of the extent of asbestos and hazardous materials to be encountered on the Site, including the alleged assumptions (or allegation that McMahon anticipated) that: 29 The allegation that McMahon assumed that the Asbestos Register constituted a comprehensive identification of all asbestos and hazardous materials to be encountered on the site is contested (see para 29© of the DEFENCE). The documents are material to whether the assumption was made or, if it was made, whether it ought reasonably to have been made. The Applicant does not object to the requested disclosure. No reply - category accepted by the Applicant. Not applicable
• the Asbestos Register completely and accurately identified all asbestos and hazardous materials that may be encountered on the site alleged at para 29.1; and The suitability of McMahon's chosen methodology of mechanical demolition for the project is also in issue. Interim details of the failures of McMahon's mechanical methodology have been provided in the FURTHER PARTICULARS.
• the hazardous materials in the Asbestos Register could be removed primarily by mechanical demolition alleged at para 29.2. Further, at para 30 of the Defence AARP denies that the resources set out in the Tender Proposal were adequate and, at para 114(d) of the DEFENCE, AARP alleges that McMahon under estimated the equipment requirements to perform the demolition work.
All internal documents created by McMahon prior to the issue of its Tender Proposal (including reviews, notes, assessments and internal communications inclusive of Board papers and Board committee papers) concerning Addendum No. 1 to the RFT issued on 16 December 2015 by AARP. 27 This request is material to whether McMahon was put on notice of the potential for additional asbestos (in addition to that identified in the Asbestos Register) to be encountered on the Site or whether Addendum No. 1 concerned a discrete area of the Site only (see para 27 of the DEFENCE). The Applicant objects to disclosing the documents requested on the basis that the request is too broad, and oppressive (insofar as the request relates to internal documents created in response to the whole of Addendum No.1), and the documents are otherwise not directly relevant to issues in dispute as raised on the pleadings subject to the qualification that the Applicant does not object to disclosure of: The Respondent accepts the limitation of this category as set out in the Applicant's Response. Not applicable
• documents concerning the potential for additional asbestos (in addition to that identified in the Asbestos Register) to be encountered on the Site in relation to Addendum No. 1
All internal documents created by McMahon prior to the award of the Contract (including notes, risk assessments and internal communications inclusive of Board papers and Board committee papers) relating to McMahon's assessment of the extent of asbestos and hazardous materials to be encountered on the Site, including its assumptions that: 29 The allegation that McMahon assumed that the Asbestos Register constituted a comprehensive identification of all asbestos and hazardous materials to be encountered on the site is contested (see para 29© of the DEFENCE). The documents are material to whether the assumption was made or, if it was made, whether it ought reasonably to have been made. The Applicant does not object to the requested disclosure. No reply - category accepted by the Applicant. Not applicable
• the Asbestos Register completely and accurately identified all asbestos and hazardous materials that may be encountered on the site; and
• the hazardous materials in the Asbestos Register could be removed primarily by mechanical demolition.
All documents relating to the failures, breakdowns and maintenance of its specialised demolition excavators being the high reach PC1250 and the regular PC1250 and Genesis shear (Specialised Demolition Equipment) during the periods in which they were on site. Such documents to include all communications, reports and invoices with entities which repaired and/or maintained those machines, including Pirtek, Komatsu and Genesis. 114.3, 114.4 These documents are relevant to AARP's contention that McMahon under estimated the equipment requirements to perform the demolition work (see paragraph 114(d) of the DEFENCE). They are also material to the reasons for the frequent failures of the specialised demolition excavators and the change of methodology (see the FURTHER PARTICULARS). The Applicant does not object to the requested disclosure. No reply - category accepted by the Applicant. Not applicable
All documents (including technical information from the suppliers or manufacturers of that equipment) in the possession, custody or control of McMahon concerning the performance capabilities of the Specialised Demolition Equipment. 30.1.3 McMahon's allegation that the resources set out in the Tender Proposal (which included the Specialised Demolition Equipment) were sufficient is contested (see para 30 and 114(d) of the DEFENCE). AARP maintains that McMahon under-estimated the equipment requirements to perform the demolition work. The Applicant objects to disclosing the documents requested on the basis that the request is too broad, and oppressive (insofar as the request includes performance capability of the machinery on unrelated projects), and the documents are otherwise not directly relevant to issues in dispute as raised on the pleadings subject to the qualification that the Applicant does not object to disclosure of: The Respondent maintains this request. The applicant is to discover:
• information from the suppliers or manufacturers in McMahon's possession, custody or control concerning the performance capabilities of the Specialised Demolition Equipment. 1. All documents from the suppliers and/or manufacturers of the specialised demolition equipment used on the Project (as defined in [3.8] of the statement of claim) concerning the Performance Capabilities of such Specialised Demolition Equipment;
2. All documents produced or used by the applicant concerning the Performance Capabilities of the Specialised Demolition Equipment in connection with the preparation of its tender for, and performance of, the Services (as defined in [3.14] of the statement of claim) .
All internal documents: 114.3, 114.4 These documents are relevant to AARP's defence that McMahon under estimated the equipment requirements to perform the demolition work (see paragraph 114(d) of the DEFENCE) and the failures of the Specialised Demolition Equipment which resulted in a change of methodology (see the FURTHER PARTICULARS). The Applicant does not object to the requested disclosure. No reply - category accepted by the Applicant. Not applicable
• concerning the uses to which the Specialised Demolition Equipment were intended to be put during the periods in which they were on site as at the date on which the Contract was awarded; REPLY 15b, 16civ It should also be noted that paras 15b and 16civ of McMahon's REPLY alleges that "it was reasonable to assume that any additional asbestos on the Site not recorded in the Asbestos Register (if any) would not be so significant as to require a change of methodology".
• concerning mechanical difficulties and failures encountered with the Specialised Demolition Equipment; While there is no express concession that a change of methodology occurred the logical inference of the identified paras of the REPLY is that McMahon contends that a change of methodology occurred as a consequence of unidentified asbestos being encountered.
• in relation to the decision to remove the regular PC1250 and Genesis shear in February 2017; and The Project Risk Assessment Register (as the name suggests) identifies risks and was reviewed and updated if methodology was altered. These registers are relevant to explain the reasons for any change to methodology.
• in relation to the decision to remove the high reach PC1250 in September 2016.
Such documents also to include all versions of the Project Risk and Assessment Register.
Asbestos Register and Hazardous Materials Audit 8. The consultancy agreement, purchase order or other documents concerning Prensa's engagement by McMahon in relation to the project (in particular the scope of works to be performed by Prensa) and all subsequent correspondence, instructions and/or directions passing between those parties in relation to the preparation of the Hazardous Materials Audit as required by the first bullet point of Appendix F to the Contract. 29, 33 McMahon alleges that it assumed that the Asbestos Register (provided as part of the RFT) completely and accurately identified all asbestos and hazardous materials on Site (see para 29.1 of the SOC). The Applicant objects to disclosing the documents requested on the basis that the request is too broad, oppressive and constitutes fishing, and the documents are otherwise not directly relevant to issues in dispute as raised on the pleadings. The Applicant has accepted the revised category of documents proposed by the Respondent which is limited to the consultancy agreement between McMahon and Prensa. Not applicable McMahon engaged Prensa to prepare the Hazardous Materials Audit required by Appendix F of the Contract. AARP maintains that the documents requested are relevant to the truth or otherwise of the assumption set out in para 29.1 which McMahon asserts it relied upon. Programs, delays and documents relevant to the dates on which work was carried out 9. All programs (and updated programs) provided by McMahon to AARP from the date of the Tender Proposal to October 2017 in native format, including: 29, 33.1 The programs provided by McMahon to AARP during the course of the project were not given to AARP in electronic or native format (they were received in pdf format only). The programs are relevant and necessary to assist the delay expert (to be engaged by AARP) to analyse and/or prepare an as built program and address the extent to which: The Applicant does not object to the requested disclosure. No reply - category accepted by the Applicant. Not applicable • the program described as the McMahon Programme (in para 29 of the SOC) created as part of the Tender Proposal; • McMahon did not follow the contract program and its updates; • the program attached to the Contract as file CW2093665 Attachment 4 - Schedule; • McMahon under estimated the time to perform the Services; and • the weekly or fortnightly updates of the program provided by McMahon; and • there was no proper sequence adopted by McMahon. the programs attached to the Aquenta Report dated 9 October 2017 (commissioned by McMahon) as Appendices 4, 5, 6, 7, 9, 10, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21 22, 23, 24, 25 and 26 to that document which was previously provided to AARP. See [15] of McMahon Services Australia Pty Ltd v Howmet Systems Australia Pty Ltd [2022] FCA 31. Also see the FURTHER PARTICULARS - which alleges, among other things, that McMahon failed to follow the contract program from the outset. 10. All site diaries or centralised documents kept by McMahon which record the progress of the works. 114 These documents are relevant to factual questions concerning the dates that work on site actually occurred and will also be required for the purposes of assisting AARP's delay expert to analyse the delays alleged by McMahon and/or prepare an as built program. The Applicant does not object to the requested disclosure. No reply - category accepted by the Applicant. Not applicable 11. All signed daily work permits, including all: 114 These documents are relevant to factual questions concerning the dates that work on site actually occurred and will also be required for the purposes of assisting AARP's delay expert to analyse the delays alleged by McMahon and/or prepare an as built program. The Applicant does not object to the requested disclosure. No reply - category accepted by the Applicant. Not applicable • General Work Permits; • Hot Work Permits; • Working at Height Permits; and • Crane Lift Permits. 12. The following work activity categories of documents: 114 These documents summarise the work to be performed, when and how the work crews performed various activities. The documents are relevant to factual questions concerning the dates that work on site actually occurred and will also be required for the purposes of assisting AARP's delay expert to analyse the delays alleged by McMahon and/or prepare an as built program. The Applicant objects to disclosing the documents requested on the basis that the request is too broad, oppressive and constitutes fishing, and the documents are otherwise not directly relevant to issues in dispute as raised on the pleadings subject to the qualification that the Applicant does not object to disclosure of: The Respondent maintains this request. The applicant is to discover: All signed Safe Work Method Statements issued in respect of the Services. • Weekly Toolbox Meeting Minutes (recorded in McMahon Form F627); and 1. Weekly Toolbox Meeting Minutes (recorded in McMahon Form F627); All signed Job Safety Analyses (referred to as JSAs) issued in respect of the Services. • Daily Pre-Start Meeting Minutes (recorded in McMahon Form F235). 2. Daily Pre-Start Meeting Minutes (recorded in McMahon Form F235). Weekly Toolbox Meeting Minutes (recorded in McMahon Form F627). There is no basis for discovery of the remaining documents sought Daily Pre-Start Meeting Minutes (recorded in McMahon Form F235). 13. All internal reporting and internal recording (generated by McMahon site personnel at Yennora) of delays encountered on site during the course of the project including documents reporting on delays and disruptions: 114 AARP contends that McMahon: The Applicant objects to disclosing the documents requested on the basis that the request is too broad, oppressive and constitutes fishing, and the documents are otherwise not directly relevant to issues in dispute as raised on the pleadings subject to the qualification that the Applicant does not object to disclosure of: The Respondent maintains this request. The applicant is to discover: • for internal purposes; and • mismanaged the planning, timing and sequencing of the Services; and • documents reporting on or recording delays and disruptions arising out of mismanagement of the planning, timing and sequencing of the Services; and 1. All documents reporting on or recording delays and disruption to the planning and/or programming and/or sequencing of the Services (as defined in [3.14] of the statement of claim). • to McMahon's head office or management, • utilised demolition equipment that was inadequate or not fit for purposes, • documents reporting on or recording delays and disruptions arising out of demolition equipment that was inadequate or not fit for purposes. (see para 114 of the DEFENCE). 14. All documents relevant to the application for and obtaining of the permit from NSW WorkCover (or other relevant agency) required to begin asbestos removal work including the NSW WorkCover Permit itself. 114 This permit was not obtained until the end of May 2016 notwithstanding that McMahon had been on site since early April 2016. The failure to obtain the permit forms part of the defences concerning its mismanagement of the Services. The Applicant does not object to the requested disclosure. No reply - category accepted by the Applicant. Not applicable February 2017 Meeting 15. All documents including notes, minutes and communications (internal documents inclusive of Board papers and Board committee papers and external documents) in relation to the meeting that occurred on 13 February 2017. 63 - 69, 71, 72.2, 72.3.3 The outcome and matters discussed during the meeting on 13 February 2017 are contested. The requested documents are relevant to what transpired at the meeting and the effect of any agreement or understanding (if any) reached at that meeting. The Applicant does not object to the requested disclosure. No reply - category accepted by the Applicant. Not applicable Project close out documentation 16. All documents said to constitute the project close out documentation and documents relevant to the transfer and delivery of those documents to AARP. 78 There is a live question as to whether McMahon provided the project close out documentation and is therefore entitled to recover the relevant milestone payment for this work which is claimed by McMahon in this proceeding. The Applicant does not object to the requested disclosure. No reply - category accepted by the Applicant. Not applicable The Tender Sum 17. All documents relating to the amounts included or allowances made in the tender sum offered by McMahon. Such documents to include the following categories: 30 McMahon advances what it describes as a "modified total costs claim" (see paragraph 2 of McMahon's submissions dated 25 June 2021). As such, McMahon has put in issue the reasonableness of its tender offer. See, for example, the Hon. Justice Byrne "Total costs and global claims" (1995) 11 BCL 297 at 404. The Applicant does not object to the requested disclosure. No reply - category accepted by the Applicant. Not applicable These documents are relevant to McMahon's assertion at para 30 of the SOC that the Tender Proposal was sufficiently priced with the resources set out in the Tender Proposal being sufficient to meet the duration for performance as set out in the McMahon Programme. AARP wishes to review the reasonableness of the tender offer. AARP has also previously signalled the possibility that it will enlist the assistance of a "quantum" expert in relation to the make-up (and adequacy) of the tender offer to test this assertion. Consequently, in order to adequately instruct the quantum expert it is necessary to obtain documents relating to the composition of the tender offer. See McMahon Services Australia Pty Ltd v Howmet Systems Australia Pty Ltd [2022] FCA 31 at [16]. All documents relating to McMahon's estimates or calculations allowed in the Tender Proposal in respect of internal and labour hire costs. 57.1, 117 All documents relating to McMahon's estimates or calculations allowed in the Tender Proposal in respect of subcontractor costs. 121 All documents relating to McMahon's estimates or calculations allowed in the Tender Proposal in respect of consultant costs. 124 All documents relating to McMahon's estimates or calculations allowed in the Tender Proposal in respect of airfare and accommodation costs. 128 All documents relating to McMahon's estimates or calculations allowed in the Tender Proposal in respect of plant costs; 132, 133 All documents relating to McMahon's estimates or calculations allowed in the Tender Proposal in respect of material and tool costs. 137 All documents relating to McMahon's estimates or calculations allowed in the Tender Proposal in respect of waste disposal costs. 140, 141 All documents relating to McMahon's estimates or calculations allowed in the Tender Proposal in respect of the net return on the Project. 30.1.4 Internal and labour hire costs 18. Payroll records of the employees/internal labour resources named in Annexure 5. 119, 156 This Item and Items 19 and 20 relate to costs actually incurred by McMahon in relation to internal and labour hire companies. As a modified total cost claim, McMahon has put in issue the reasonableness of the actual costs incurred. See, for example, the Hon. Justice Byrne "Total costs and global claims" (1995) 11 BCL 297 at 404. The Applicant objects to disclosing the documents requested on the basis that the request is too broad and, oppressive, and the documents are otherwise not directly relevant to issues in dispute as raised on the pleadings, subject to the qualification that the Applicant does not object to disclosure of: The Respondent accepts the limitation of this category as set out in the Applicant's Response. Not applicable Annexure 5 McMahon alleges that it reasonably incurred $5,093,608.39 in respect of internal labour costs which it seeks to recover from AARP. The requested information is relevant to the reasonableness of the actual costs incurred. • documents relevant to payments made to the employees/internal labour resources named in Annexure 5 for the hours worked on the Project as set out in Annexure 5. 19. All invoices referred to in Annexure 5 in respect of labour hire costs amounting to $2,916,178.61. 119, 156 McMahon alleges that it reasonably incurred $2,916,178.61 in respect of labour hire costs which it seeks to recover from AARP. The requested information is relevant to the reasonableness of the actual costs incurred. The Applicant does not object to the requested disclosure. No reply - category accepted by the Applicant. Not applicable Annexure 5 20. Copy labour hire agreements between McMahon and each entity listed in Annexure 5 in respect of labour hire costs. 119 At Annexure 5, McMahon lists invoices from various labour hire companies. The agreements are relevant to the allegation that McMahon incurred these expenses and also relevant the reasonableness of the amounts alleged to have been incurred. The Applicant does not object to the requested disclosure. No reply - category accepted by the Applicant. Not applicable Annexure 5 Subcontractor costs 21. All invoices referred to in Annexure 7 in respect of subcontractor costs amounting to $1,997,782.37. 123, 156 This Item and Item 22 relate to costs actually incurred by McMahon in relation to subcontractors. AARP repeats the comments in the first para of item 18 concerning the reasonableness of the costs incurred. The Applicant does not object to the requested disclosure. No reply - category accepted by the Applicant. Not applicable Annexure 7 McMahon alleges that it reasonably incurred $1,997,782.37 in respect of subcontractor costs which it seeks to recover from AARP. The requested information is relevant to the reasonableness of the actual costs incurred. 22. Copy subcontracts, purchase orders or agreements between McMahon and each entity listed in Annexure 7 in respect of subcontractor costs. 123 At Annexure 7 of the SOC, McMahon lists invoices from various subcontractor entities. The agreements are relevant to the allegation that McMahon incurred these expenses and also relevant the reasonableness of the amounts alleged to have been incurred. The Applicant does not object to the requested disclosure. No reply - category accepted by the Applicant. Not applicable Annexure 7 Consultant costs 23. All invoices referred to in Annexure 8 in respect of consultant costs amounting to $85,946.60. 126, 156 This Item and Item 24 relate to costs actually incurred by McMahon in relation to consultants' costs. AARP repeats the comments in the first para of item 18 concerning the reasonableness of the costs incurred. The Applicant does not object to the requested disclosure. No reply - category accepted by the Applicant. Not applicable Annexure 8 McMahon alleges that it reasonably incurred $85,946.60 in respect of consultant costs which it seeks to recover from AARP. The requested information is relevant to the reasonableness of the actual costs incurred. 24. Copy subcontracts, purchase orders or agreements between McMahon and each entity listed in Annexure 8 in respect of consultant costs. 126 At Annexure 8, McMahon lists invoices from various entities. The agreements are relevant to the allegation that McMahon incurred these expenses and also relevant the reasonableness of the amounts alleged to have been incurred. The Applicant does not object to the requested disclosure. No reply - category accepted by the Applicant. Not applicable Annexure 8 Airfare and accommodation costs 25. All invoices referred to in Annexure 9 in respect of airfares and accommodation costs amounting to $1,815,469.40. 130, 156 This Item relates to costs actually incurred by McMahon in relation to airfare and accommodation costs. AARP repeats the comments in the first para of item 18 concerning the reasonableness of the costs incurred. The Applicant does not object to the requested disclosure. No reply - category accepted by the Applicant. Not applicable Annexure 9 McMahon alleges that it reasonably incurred airfares and accommodation costs amounting to $1,815,469.40 which it seeks to recover from AARP. The requested information is relevant to the reasonableness of the actual costs incurred. Plant costs 26. In respect of each item of internal plant hire referred to in Annexure 11: 132, 135 This Item and Items 27 and 28 relate to costs actually incurred by McMahon in relation to plant. AARP repeats the comments in the first para of item 18 concerning the reasonableness of the costs incurred. The Applicant objects to disclosing the documents requested on the basis that the request is too broad, oppressive and constitutes fishing, and the documents are otherwise not directly relevant to issues in dispute as raised on the pleadings. The Respondent maintains this request. The applicant is to discover: • Financial information including depreciation schedules or other documentation used to establish the hire charges in respect of the relevant periods; Annexure 11 McMahon alleges that it reasonably incurred internal plant hire charges of $3,940,060.64 in respect of internal plant costs which it seeks to claim from AARP. It is unclear how this sum has been calculated. The requested information is relevant to the quantum of the total cost claim and McMahon's entitlement to claim these sums. 1. All documents, including (without limitation) any depreciation schedules and any agreement or arrangement between the applicant and other entities related to the applicant and used by it to calculate the hire charges for internal plant hire particularised in annexure 11 to the statement of claim. • documentary proof of ownership by McMahon. 27. All invoices referred to in Annexure 11 in respect of: 133, 135, 156 McMahon alleges that it reasonably incurred these amounts in respect of material and tool costs which it seeks to recover from AARP. The requested information is relevant to the reasonableness of the actual costs incurred. The Applicant does not object to the requested disclosure. No reply - category accepted by the Applicant. Not applicable • External plant costs amounting to $1,378,639.36; Annexure 11 • Fuel costs amounting to $440,406.96; • Transport costs amounting to $185,117.11. 28. Copy subcontracts, purchase orders or agreements between McMahon and each entity listed in Annexure 12 in respect of: 133, 135 At Annexure 12 of the SOC, McMahon lists invoices from various entities. The agreements are relevant to the allegation that McMahon incurred these expenses and also relevant the reasonableness of the amounts alleged to have been incurred. The Applicant does not object to the requested disclosure. No reply - category accepted by the Applicant. Not applicable • External plant costs; Annexure 11 • Fuel costs; and • Transport costs. Material and tool costs 29. All invoices referred to in Annexure 12 in respect of: 139, 156 This Item and Item 30 relate to costs actually incurred by McMahon in relation to material and tool costs. AARP repeats the comments in the first para of item 18 concerning the reasonableness of the costs incurred. The Applicant does not object to the requested disclosure. No reply - category accepted by the Applicant. Not applicable • Material costs amounting to $979,706.09; and Annexure 12 McMahon alleges that it reasonably incurred $1,200,450.12 in respect of material and tool costs which it seeks to recover from AARP. The requested information is relevant to the reasonableness of the actual costs incurred. • Tools amounting to $220,744.03. 30. Copy subcontracts, purchase orders or agreements between McMahon and each entity listed in Annexure 12 in respect of: 39 At Annexure 12 of the SOC, McMahon lists invoices from various supplier entities. The agreements are relevant to the allegation that McMahon incurred these expenses and also relevant the reasonableness of the amounts alleged to have been incurred. The Applicant does not object to the requested disclosure. No reply - category accepted by the Applicant. Not applicable • Material costs; and Annexure 12 • Tool costs. Waste disposal costs 31. All invoices referred to in Annexure 13 in respect of waste disposal costs amounting to $650,054.69. 143, 156 This Item and Item 32 relate to costs actually incurred by McMahon in relation to waste disposal costs. AARP repeats the comments in the first para of item 18 concerning the reasonableness of the costs incurred. The Applicant does not object to the requested disclosure. No reply - category accepted by the Applicant. Not applicable Annexure 13 McMahon alleges that it reasonably incurred $650,054.69 in respect of waste disposal costs which it seeks to recover from AARP. The requested information is relevant to the reasonableness of the actual costs incurred. 32. Copy subcontracts, purchase orders or agreements between McMahon and each entity listed in Annexure 13 in respect of waste disposal costs. 143 At Annexure 13 of the SOC, McMahon lists invoices from various entities. The agreements are relevant to the allegation that McMahon incurred these expenses and also relevant the reasonableness of the amounts alleged to have been incurred. The Applicant does not object to the requested disclosure. No reply - category accepted by the Applicant. Not applicable Annexure 13 Profit 33. Financial records of McMahon including annual returns and profit and loss statements for the years ending 30 June 2016, 2017 and 2018. 152 McMahon alleges that it is entitled to a reasonable profit margin claimed at 10% of the actual cost of the works. These documents are sought to determine the profit earned by McMahon during the relevant period. The requested information is relevant to the quantum of the total cost claim. The Applicant objects to disclosing the documents requested on the basis that the request is too broad, oppressive and constitutes fishing, and the documents are otherwise not directly relevant to issues in dispute as raised on the pleadings subject to the qualification that the Applicant does not object to disclosure of: The Respondent accepts the limitation of this category as set out in the Applicant's Response. Not applicable • annual returns for the years ending 30 June 2016, 2017 and 2018; and • profit and loss statements for the years ending 30 June 2016, 2017 and 2018. Scrap metal 34. All documents including receipts and invoices relating to the sale of scrap metal by McMahon. 153, 154 The total cost claim includes a deduction of $846,211.20 being the difference between the amount McMahon alleges that it sold scrap metal recovered from the Project ($2,220,334.52) and the amount paid to AARP ($1,374,123.32). AARP wishes to verify the amount of the deduction. The Applicant objects to disclosing the documents requested on the basis that the request is too broad, oppressive and constitutes fishing, and the documents are otherwise not directly relevant to issues in dispute as raised on the pleadings subject to the qualification that the Applicant does not object to disclosure of: The Respondent accepts the limitation of this category as set out in the Applicant's Response. Not applicable Annexure 15 • receipts for the sale of scrap metal by McMahon; and • invoices for the sale of scrap metal by McMahon. Variation Claims 35. The following Purchase Orders: Annexure 2 These Purchase Orders are referenced in Annexure 2 to the SOC, however, AARP has been unable to locate a copy of these documents. The Applicant does not object to the requested disclosure. No reply - category accepted by the Applicant. Not applicable • VO14: Purchase Order 1092525 • VO15: Purchase Order 1092531 • VO16c: Purchase Order 1092516 • VO85a: Purchase Order 1092752 • VO108: Purchase Order 1092775 • VO110: Purchase Order 1092782 • VO124: Purchase Order 1092817 • VO130: Purchase Order 1092841 • VO132: Purchase Order 1092844 • VO133: Purchase Order 1092845 • VO136: Purchase Order 1092825 • VO138: Purchase Order 1092448 • VO139: Purchase Order 1092850
McMahon Services Australia Pty Ltd
Howmet Systems Australia Pty Ltd, formerly Alcoa Australia Rolled Products Pty Ltd