2.2.0.7 true Statement of Shareholders' Equity (USD $) 00600 - Statement - Statement of Shareholders' Equity true false In Millions, except Share data false false 1 USD true false false false us-gaap_CommonStockMember us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis xbrldi http://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldi us-gaap_CommonStockMember us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis explicitMember Shares Standard http://www.xbrl.org/2003/instance shares xbrli 0 Monetary Standard http://www.xbrl.org/2003/iso4217 USD iso4217 0 $ false 2 USD true false false false us-gaap_AdditionalPaidInCapitalMember us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis xbrldi http://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldi us-gaap_AdditionalPaidInCapitalMember us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis explicitMember Monetary Standard http://www.xbrl.org/2003/iso4217 USD iso4217 0 $ false 3 USD true false false false us-gaap_AccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeMember us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis xbrldi http://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldi us-gaap_AccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeMember us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis explicitMember Monetary Standard http://www.xbrl.org/2003/iso4217 USD iso4217 0 $ false 4 USD true false false false us-gaap_RetainedEarningsMember us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis xbrldi http://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldi us-gaap_RetainedEarningsMember us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis explicitMember Monetary Standard http://www.xbrl.org/2003/iso4217 USD iso4217 0 $ false 5 USD true false false false au_OtherReservesMember us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis xbrldi http://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldi au_OtherReservesMember us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis explicitMember Monetary Standard http://www.xbrl.org/2003/iso4217 USD iso4217 0 $ false 6 USD true false false false us-gaap_NoncontrollingInterestMember us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis xbrldi http://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldi us-gaap_NoncontrollingInterestMember us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis explicitMember Monetary Standard http://www.xbrl.org/2003/iso4217 USD iso4217 0 $ false 7 USD false false Monetary Standard http://www.xbrl.org/2003/iso4217 USD iso4217 0 EarninsPerShareUSD Divide http://www.xbrl.org/2003/iso4217 USD iso4217 http://www.xbrl.org/2003/instance shares xbrli 0 Shares Standard http://www.xbrl.org/2003/instance shares xbrli 0 $ 5 Opening balance at Dec. 31, 2006 3 us-gaap_StockholdersEquityIncludingPortionAttributableToNoncontrollingInterest us-gaap true credit instant No definition available. false false false true false false false false true false false periodstartlabel instant 2007-01-01T00:00:00 0001-01-01T00:00:00 false 1 true true false false 10000000 10.0 true false false 2 true true false false 5539000000 5539.0 true false false 3 true true false false -765000000 -765.0 true false false 4 true true false false -1476000000 -1476.0 true false false 5 true true false false 0 0 true false false 6 true true false false 61000000 61.0 true false false 7 true true false false 3369000000 3369.0 false false false xbrli:monetaryItemType monetary Total of Stockholders' Equity (deficit) items, net of receivables from officers, directors owners, and affiliates of the entity including portions attributable to both the parent and noncontrolling interests (previously referred to as minority interest), if any. The entity including portions attributable to the parent and noncontrolling interests is sometimes referred to as the economic entity. This excludes temporary equity and is sometimes called permanent equity. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher AICPA -Name Accounting Research Bulletin (ARB) -Number 51 -Paragraph 25 Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher AICPA -Name Accounting Research Bulletin (ARB) -Number 51 -Paragraph 26 Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher AICPA -Name Accounting Research Bulletin (ARB) -Number 51 -Paragraph A3 -Appendix A false 6 Opening balance (shares) at Dec. 31, 2006 3 us-gaap_CommonStockSharesOutstanding us-gaap true na instant No definition available. false false false true false false false false true false false periodstartlabel instant 2007-01-01T00:00:00 0001-01-01T00:00:00 false 1 false true false false 275307563 275307563 true false false 2 false false false false 0 0 true false false 3 false false false false 0 0 true false false 4 false false false false 0 0 true false false 5 false false false false 0 0 true false false 6 false false false false 0 0 true false false 7 false false false false 0 0 false false false xbrli:sharesItemType shares Total number of shares of common stock held by shareholders. May be all or portion of the number of common shares authorized. These shares represent the ownership interest of the common shareholders. Excludes common shares repurchased by the entity and held as Treasury shares. Shares outstanding equals shares issued minus shares held in treasury. Does not include common shares that have been repurchased. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher AICPA -Name Accounting Principles Board Opinion (APB) -Number 12 -Paragraph 10 Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher SEC -Name Regulation S-X (SX) -Number 210 -Section 04 -Article 3 Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher SEC -Name Regulation S-X (SX) -Number 210 -Section 02 -Paragraph 30 -Article 5 false 7 Net loss 3 us-gaap_ProfitLoss us-gaap true credit duration No definition available. false false false false false false false false false false false false 1 false false false false 0 0 true false false 2 false true false false 0 0 true false false 3 false true false false 0 0 true false false 4 false true false false -814000000 -814 true false false 5 false true false false 0 0 true false false 6 false true false false 28000000 28 true false false 7 false true false false -786000000 -786 false false false xbrli:monetaryItemType monetary The consolidated profit or loss for the period, net of income taxes, including the portion attributable to the noncontrolling interest. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher AICPA -Name Accounting Research Bulletin (ARB) -Number 51 -Paragraph A1, A4, A5 Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher AICPA -Name Accounting Research Bulletin (ARB) -Number 51 -Paragraph 5 -Subparagraph b Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher AICPA -Name Accounting Research Bulletin (ARB) -Number 51 -Paragraph 29 Reference 4: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher AICPA -Name Accounting Research Bulletin (ARB) -Number 51 -Paragraph 38 -Subparagraph a Reference 5: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher AICPA -Name Accounting Research Bulletin (ARB) -Number 51 -Paragraph 38 -Subparagraph c(1) false 8 Cumulative Effect Of Initial Adoption Of FIN 48 3 us-gaap_CumulativeEffectOfInitialAdoptionOfFIN48 us-gaap true credit duration No definition available. false false false false false false false false false false false false 1 false false false false 0 0 true false false 2 false true false false 0 0 true false false 3 false true false false 0 0 true false false 4 false true false false -25000000 -25 true false false 5 false true false false 0 0 true false false 6 false true false false 0 0 true false false 7 false true false false -25000000 -25 false false false xbrli:monetaryItemType monetary Cumulative net-of-tax effect of initial adoption of FIN 48 - Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes on the opening balance of retained earnings. The cumulative-effect adjustment does not include items that would not be recognized in earnings, such as the effect of adopting this Interpretation on tax positions related to business combinations. The amount of that cumulative-effect adjustment is the difference between the net amount of assets and liabilities recognized in the statement of financial position prior to the application of this Interpretation and the net amount of assets and liabilities recognized as a result of applying the provisions of this Interpretation. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name FASB Interpretation (FIN) -Number 48 -Paragraph 23, 24 false 9 Other Comprehensive Income Foreign Currency Transaction And Translation Gain Loss Arising During Period Net Of Tax 3 us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeForeignCurrencyTransactionAndTranslationGainLossArisingDuringPeriodNetOfTax us-gaap true credit duration No definition available. false false false false false false false false false false false false 1 false false false false 0 0 true false false 2 false true false false 0 0 true false false 3 false true false false 93000000 93 true false false 4 false true false false 0 0 true false false 5 false true false false 0 0 true false false 6 false true false false 2000000 2 true false false 7 false true false false 95000000 95 false false false xbrli:monetaryItemType monetary Change in the balance sheet adjustment that results from the process of translating subsidiary financial statements and foreign equity investments into functional currency of the reporting entity for the period being reported, net of tax. If an entity's functional currency is a foreign currency, translation adjustments result from the process of translating that entity's financial statements into the reporting currency. Includes gain (loss) on foreign currency forward exchange contracts. Includes foreign currency transactions designated as hedges of net investment in a foreign entity and intercompany foreign currency transactions that are of a long-term nature, when the entities to the transaction are consolidated, combined, or accounted for by the equity method in the reporting enterprise's financial statements. Includes the gain or loss on a derivative instrument or nonderivative financial instrument that may give rise to a foreign currency transaction gain or loss under FAS 52 and that have been designated and have qualified as hedging instruments for hedges of the foreign currency exposure of a net investment in a foreign operation. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 52 -Paragraph 13, 20, 31 Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 133 -Paragraph 45 Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher AICPA -Name Accounting Research Bulletin (ARB) -Number 51 -Paragraph 38 -Subparagraph c(3) Reference 4: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 130 -Paragraph 17 false 10 Cash Flow Hedge Gain Loss Reclassified To Earnings Net 3 us-gaap_CashFlowHedgeGainLossReclassifiedToEarningsNet us-gaap true credit duration No definition available. false false false false false false false false false false false false 1 false false false false 0 0 true false false 2 false true false false 0 0 true false false 3 false true false false 200000000 200 true false false 4 false true false false 0 0 true false false 5 false true false false 0 0 true false false 6 false true false false 2000000 2 true false false 7 false true false false 202000000 202 false false false xbrli:monetaryItemType monetary The amount of net gains (losses) on a cash flow hedge reclassified in the period to earnings from accumulated other comprehensive income. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 133 -Paragraph 45 -Subparagraph b(1) false 11 Other Comprehensive Income Unrealized Gain Loss On Derivatives Arising During Period Net Of Tax 3 us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeUnrealizedGainLossOnDerivativesArisingDuringPeriodNetOfTax us-gaap true credit duration No definition available. false false false false false false false false false false false false 1 false false false false 0 0 true false false 2 false true false false 0 0 true false false 3 false true false false -166000000 -166 true false false 4 false true false false 0 0 true false false 5 false true false false 0 0 true false false 6 false true false false -2000000 -2 true false false 7 false true false false -168000000 -168 false false false xbrli:monetaryItemType monetary Change in accumulated gains and losses from derivative instrument designated and qualifying as the effective portion of cash flow hedges, net of tax effect. The after tax effect change includes an entity's share of an equity investee's increase (decrease) in deferred hedging gains or losses. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 130 -Paragraph 17, 20 Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 130 -Paragraph 121 Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher AICPA -Name Accounting Research Bulletin (ARB) -Number 51 -Paragraph 38 -Subparagraph c(3) Reference 4: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 130 -Paragraph 24 -Subparagraph b Reference 5: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 133 -Paragraph 46 false 12 Gain Loss On Cash Flow Hedge Ineffectiveness Net 3 us-gaap_GainLossOnCashFlowHedgeIneffectivenessNet us-gaap true credit duration No definition available. false false false false false false false false false false false false 1 false false false false 0 0 true false false 2 false true false false 0 0 true false false 3 false true false false 10000000 10 true false false 4 false true false false 0 0 true false false 5 false true false false 0 0 true false false 6 false true false false 0 0 true false false 7 false true false false 10000000 10 false false false xbrli:monetaryItemType monetary The net gain or loss recognized in earnings during the reporting period representing the amount of the cash flow hedges' ineffectiveness. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 133 -Paragraph 45 -Subparagraph b(1) false 13 Net loss on available-for-sale financial assets arising during the period, net of tax 3 us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeAvailableForSaleSecuritiesAdjustmentNetOfTaxPeriodIncreaseDecrease us-gaap true na duration No definition available. false false false false false false false false false false false false 1 false false false false 0 0 true false false 2 false true false false 0 0 true false false 3 false true false false 3000000 3 true false false 4 false true false false 0 0 true false false 5 false true false false 0 0 true false false 6 false true false false 0 0 true false false 7 false true false false 3000000 3 false false false xbrli:monetaryItemType monetary Gross appreciation or the gross loss in value of the total unsold securities at the end of an accounting period, after tax. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 130 -Paragraph 14, 17, 19, 22, 26 Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 115 -Paragraph 13 Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher AICPA -Name Accounting Research Bulletin (ARB) -Number 51 -Paragraph 38 -Subparagraph c(3) Reference 4: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 130 -Paragraph 24 -Subparagraph b false 16 Other Comprehensive Income Loss Net Of Tax Period Increase Decrease 3 us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeLossNetOfTaxPeriodIncreaseDecrease us-gaap true na duration No definition available. false false false false false false false false false false false totallabel false 1 false false false false 0 0 true false false 2 false false false false 0 0 true false false 3 false false false false 0 0 true false false 4 false false false false 0 0 true false false 5 false false false false 0 0 true false false 6 false false false false 0 0 true false false 7 false true false false 117000000 117 false false false xbrli:monetaryItemType monetary This element represents Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, for the period. Includes deferred gains (losses) on qualifying hedges, unrealized holding gains (losses) on available-for-sale securities, minimum pension liability, and cumulative translation adjustment. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher AICPA -Name Accounting Research Bulletin (ARB) -Number 51 -Paragraph 38 -Subparagraph c(3) Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 130 -Paragraph 22, 23, 24, 25 Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher AICPA -Name Accounting Principles Board Opinion (APB) -Number 12 -Paragraph 10 Reference 4: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher SEC -Name Regulation S-X (SX) -Number 210 -Section 02 -Paragraph 31 -Article 5 Reference 5: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher SEC -Name Regulation S-X (SX) -Number 210 -Section 04 -Article 3 true 17 Comprehensive Income Net Of Tax 3 us-gaap_ComprehensiveIncomeNetOfTaxIncludingPortionAttributableToNoncontrollingInterest us-gaap true credit duration No definition available. false false false false false false false false false false false totallabel false 1 false false false false 0 0 true false false 2 false false false false 0 0 true false false 3 false false false false 0 0 true false false 4 false false false false 0 0 true false false 5 false false false false 0 0 true false false 6 false false false false 0 0 true false false 7 false true false false -669000000 -669 false false false xbrli:monetaryItemType monetary The change in equity [net assets] of a business enterprise during a period from transactions and other events and circumstances from non-owner sources which are attributable to the economic entity, including both controlling (parent) and noncontrolling interests. It includes all changes in equity during a period except those resulting from investments by owners and distributions to owners, including any and all transactions which are directly or indirectly attributable to that ownership interest in subsidiary equity which is not attributable to the parent. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher AICPA -Name Accounting Research Bulletin (ARB) -Number 51 -Paragraph A5 -Appendix A Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher AICPA -Name Accounting Research Bulletin (ARB) -Number 51 -Paragraph 29 Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher AICPA -Name Accounting Research Bulletin (ARB) -Number 51 -Paragraph 38 -Subparagraph a true 18 Minority Interest Decrease From Redemptions 3 us-gaap_MinorityInterestDecreaseFromRedemptions us-gaap true debit duration No definition available. false false false false false false false false false false false false 1 false false false false 0 0 true false false 2 false false false false 0 0 true false false 3 false false false false 0 0 true false false 4 false false false false 0 0 true false false 5 false false false false 0 0 true false false 6 false true false false -9000000 -9 true false false 7 false true false false -9000000 -9 false false false xbrli:monetaryItemType monetary Decrease in noncontrolling interest as a result of redeeming or purchasing the interests of noncontrolling shareholders. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher AICPA -Name Accounting Research Bulletin (ARB) -Number 51 -Paragraph 38 -Subparagraph c(2) false 28 Stock Issued During Period Shares Employee Stock Ownership Plan (shares) 3 us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesEmployeeStockOwnershipPlan us-gaap true na duration No definition available. false false false false false false false false false false false false 1 false true false false 1181882 1181882 true false false 2 false false false false 0 0 true false false 3 false false false false 0 0 true false false 4 false false false false 0 0 true false false 5 false false false false 0 0 true false false 6 false false false false 0 0 true false false 7 false false false false 0 0 false false false xbrli:sharesItemType shares Number of stock issued during the period as a result of employee stock ownership plan (ESOP). Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher AICPA -Name Accounting Principles Board Opinion (APB) -Number 12 -Paragraph 10 Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher SEC -Name Regulation S-X (SX) -Number 210 -Section 04 -Article 3 Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher SEC -Name Regulation S-X (SX) -Number 210 -Section 02 -Paragraph 29, 30 -Article 5 false 29 Stock Issued During Period v Employee Stock Ownership Plan 3 us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueEmployeeStockOwnershipPlan us-gaap true credit duration No definition available. false false false false false false false false false false false false 1 false true false false 0 0 true false false 2 false true false false 37000000 37 true false false 3 false true false false 0 0 true false false 4 false true false false 0 0 true false false 5 false true false false 0 0 true false false 6 false true false false 0 0 true false false 7 false true false false 37000000 37 false false false xbrli:monetaryItemType monetary Aggregate value of stock issued during the period as a result of employee stock ownership plan (ESOP). Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher AICPA -Name Accounting Principles Board Opinion (APB) -Number 12 -Paragraph 10 Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher SEC -Name Regulation S-X (SX) -Number 210 -Section 04 -Article 3 Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher SEC -Name Regulation S-X (SX) -Number 210 -Section 02 -Paragraph 29, 30, 31 -Article 5 false 30 Stock issues in exchange for E Ordinary shares cancelled (shares) 3 au_StockIssuesInExchangeForEOrdinarySharesCancelledShares au false na duration Reduction in the number of shares due to a conversion of stock from one class to another during the period. Conversion may be... false false false false false false false false false false false false 1 false true false false 8026 8026 true false false 2 false false false false 0 0 true false false 3 false false false false 0 0 true false false 4 false false false false 0 0 true false false 5 false false false false 0 0 true false false 6 false false false false 0 0 true false false 7 false false false false 0 0 false false false xbrli:sharesItemType shares Reduction in the number of shares due to a conversion of stock from one class to another during the period. Conversion may be among classes of common or nonredeemable preferred stock or from common stock or nonredeemable preferred stock to nonredeemable preferred stock or common stock, respectively. No authoritative reference available. false 31 Stock issues in exchange for E Ordinary shares cancelled Value 3 au_StockIssuesInExchangeForEOrdinarySharesCancelledValue au false debit duration Value of stock that was converted from one type or class to another during the period. Conversion may be among classes of... false false false false false false false false false false false false 1 false true false false 0 0 true false false 2 false true false false 2000000 2 true false false 3 false true false false 0 0 true false false 4 false true false false 0 0 true false false 5 false true false false 0 0 true false false 6 false true false false 0 0 true false false 7 false true false false 2000000 2 false false false xbrli:monetaryItemType monetary Value of stock that was converted from one type or class to another during the period. Conversion may be among classes of common or nonredeemable preferred stock or from common stock or nonredeemable preferred stock to nonredeemable preferred stock or common stock, respectively. No authoritative reference available. false 32 Stock Issued During Period Shares Stock Options Exercised (shares) 3 us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesStockOptionsExercised us-gaap true na duration No definition available. false false false false false false false false false false false false 1 false true false false 46590 46590 true false false 2 false false false false 0 0 true false false 3 false false false false 0 0 true false false 4 false false false false 0 0 true false false 5 false false false false 0 0 true false false 6 false false false false 0 0 true false false 7 false false false false 0 0 false false false xbrli:sharesItemType shares Number of shares issued during the period as a result of the exercise of stock options. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher AICPA -Name Accounting Principles Board Opinion (APB) -Number 12 -Paragraph 10 Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher SEC -Name Regulation S-X (SX) -Number 210 -Section 04 -Article 3 Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher SEC -Name Regulation S-X (SX) -Number 210 -Section 02 -Paragraph 29, 30 -Article 5 false 33 Stock Issued During Period Value Stock Options Exercised 3 us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueStockOptionsExercised us-gaap true credit duration No definition available. false false false false false false false false false false false false 1 false true false false 0 0 true false false 2 false true false false 2000000 2 true false false 3 false true false false 0 0 true false false 4 false true false false 0 0 true false false 5 false true false false 0 0 true false false 6 false true false false 0 0 true false false 7 false true false false 2000000 2 false false false xbrli:monetaryItemType monetary Value stock issued during the period as a result of the exercise of stock options. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher AICPA -Name Accounting Principles Board Opinion (APB) -Number 12 -Paragraph 10 Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher SEC -Name Regulation S-X (SX) -Number 210 -Section 04 -Article 3 Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher SEC -Name Regulation S-X (SX) -Number 210 -Section 02 -Paragraph 29, 30, 31 -Article 5 false 34 Stock based compensation expense 3 us-gaap_AdjustmentsToAdditionalPaidInCapitalSharebasedCompensationRequisiteServicePeriodRecognitionValue us-gaap true credit duration No definition available. false false false false false false false false false false false terselabel false 1 false false false false 0 0 true false false 2 false true false false 27000000 27 true false false 3 false true false false 0 0 true false false 4 false true false false 0 0 true false false 5 false true false false 0 0 true false false 6 false true false false 0 0 true false false 7 false true false false 27000000 27 false false false xbrli:monetaryItemType monetary This element represents the amount of recognized share-based compensation during the period, that is, the amount recognized as expense in the income statement (or as asset if compensation is capitalized). Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 123R -Paragraph 39 Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 123R -Paragraph 64 -Subparagraph b Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 123R -Paragraph A91 false 35 Dividends Cash 3 us-gaap_DividendsCash us-gaap true debit duration No definition available. false false false false false false false false false false true negated false 1 false false false false 0 0 true false false 2 false false false false 0 0 true false false 3 false false false false 0 0 true false false 4 false true false false -125000000 -125 true false false 5 false false false false 0 0 true false false 6 false true false false -19000000 -19 true false false 7 false true false false -144000000 -144 false false false xbrli:monetaryItemType monetary Cash dividends declared by an entity during the period for all classes of stock (common, preferred). This element includes paid and unpaid dividends declared during the period. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher SEC -Name Regulation S-X (SX) -Number 210 -Section 04 -Article 3 Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher AICPA -Name Statement of Position (SOP) -Number 01-6 -Paragraph 14 -Subparagraph l false 36 Closing balance at Dec. 31, 2007 3 us-gaap_StockholdersEquityIncludingPortionAttributableToNoncontrollingInterest us-gaap true credit instant No definition available. false false false true false false false false false true false periodendlabel instant 2007-12-31T00:00:00 0001-01-01T00:00:00 false 1 false true false false 10000000 10.0 true false false 2 false true false false 5607000000 5607.0 true false false 3 false true false false -625000000 -625.0 true false false 4 false true false false -2440000000 -2440.0 true false false 5 false true false false 0 0 true false false 6 false true false false 63000000 63.0 true false false 7 false true false false 2615000000 2615.0 false false false xbrli:monetaryItemType monetary Total of Stockholders' Equity (deficit) items, net of receivables from officers, directors owners, and affiliates of the entity including portions attributable to both the parent and noncontrolling interests (previously referred to as minority interest), if any. The entity including portions attributable to the parent and noncontrolling interests is sometimes referred to as the economic entity. This excludes temporary equity and is sometimes called permanent equity. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher AICPA -Name Accounting Research Bulletin (ARB) -Number 51 -Paragraph 25 Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher AICPA -Name Accounting Research Bulletin (ARB) -Number 51 -Paragraph 26 Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher AICPA -Name Accounting Research Bulletin (ARB) -Number 51 -Paragraph A3 -Appendix A false 37 Closing balance (shares) at Dec. 31, 2007 3 us-gaap_CommonStockSharesOutstanding us-gaap true na instant No definition available. false false false true false false false false false true false periodendlabel instant 2007-12-31T00:00:00 0001-01-01T00:00:00 false 1 false true false false 276544061 276544061 true false false 2 false false false false 0 0 true false false 3 false false false false 0 0 true false false 4 false false false false 0 0 true false false 5 false false false false 0 0 true false false 6 false false false false 0 0 true false false 7 false false false false 0 0 false false false xbrli:sharesItemType shares Total number of shares of common stock held by shareholders. May be all or portion of the number of common shares authorized. These shares represent the ownership interest of the common shareholders. Excludes common shares repurchased by the entity and held as Treasury shares. Shares outstanding equals shares issued minus shares held in treasury. Does not include common shares that have been repurchased. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher AICPA -Name Accounting Principles Board Opinion (APB) -Number 12 -Paragraph 10 Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher SEC -Name Regulation S-X (SX) -Number 210 -Section 04 -Article 3 Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher SEC -Name Regulation S-X (SX) -Number 210 -Section 02 -Paragraph 30 -Article 5 false 7 Net loss 3 us-gaap_ProfitLoss us-gaap true credit duration No definition available. false false false false false false false false false false false false 1 false false false false 0 0 true false false 2 false true false false 0 0 true false false 3 false true false false 0 0 true false false 4 false true false false -563000000 -563 true false false 5 false true false false 0 0 true false false 6 false true false false 42000000 42 true false false 7 false true false false -521000000 -521 false false false xbrli:monetaryItemType monetary The consolidated profit or loss for the period, net of income taxes, including the portion attributable to the noncontrolling interest. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher AICPA -Name Accounting Research Bulletin (ARB) -Number 51 -Paragraph A1, A4, A5 Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher AICPA -Name Accounting Research Bulletin (ARB) -Number 51 -Paragraph 5 -Subparagraph b Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher AICPA -Name Accounting Research Bulletin (ARB) -Number 51 -Paragraph 29 Reference 4: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher AICPA -Name Accounting Research Bulletin (ARB) -Number 51 -Paragraph 38 -Subparagraph a Reference 5: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher AICPA -Name Accounting Research Bulletin (ARB) -Number 51 -Paragraph 38 -Subparagraph c(1) false 9 Other Comprehensive Income Foreign Currency Transaction And Translation Gain Loss Arising During Period Net Of Tax 3 us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeForeignCurrencyTransactionAndTranslationGainLossArisingDuringPeriodNetOfTax us-gaap true credit duration No definition available. false false false false false false false false false false false false 1 false false false false 0 0 true false false 2 false true false false 0 0 true false false 3 false true false false -597000000 -597 true false false 4 false true false false 0 0 true false false 5 false true false false 0 0 true false false 6 false true false false -8000000 -8 true false false 7 false true false false -605000000 -605 false false false xbrli:monetaryItemType monetary Change in the balance sheet adjustment that results from the process of translating subsidiary financial statements and foreign equity investments into functional currency of the reporting entity for the period being reported, net of tax. If an entity's functional currency is a foreign currency, translation adjustments result from the process of translating that entity's financial statements into the reporting currency. Includes gain (loss) on foreign currency forward exchange contracts. Includes foreign currency transactions designated as hedges of net investment in a foreign entity and intercompany foreign currency transactions that are of a long-term nature, when the entities to the transaction are consolidated, combined, or accounted for by the equity method in the reporting enterprise's financial statements. Includes the gain or loss on a derivative instrument or nonderivative financial instrument that may give rise to a foreign currency transaction gain or loss under FAS 52 and that have been designated and have qualified as hedging instruments for hedges of the foreign currency exposure of a net investment in a foreign operation. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 52 -Paragraph 13, 20, 31 Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 133 -Paragraph 45 Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher AICPA -Name Accounting Research Bulletin (ARB) -Number 51 -Paragraph 38 -Subparagraph c(3) Reference 4: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 130 -Paragraph 17 false 10 Cash Flow Hedge Gain Loss Reclassified To Earnings Net 3 us-gaap_CashFlowHedgeGainLossReclassifiedToEarningsNet us-gaap true credit duration No definition available. false false false false false false false false false false false false 1 false false false false 0 0 true false false 2 false true false false 0 0 true false false 3 false true false false 157000000 157 true false false 4 false true false false 0 0 true false false 5 false true false false 0 0 true false false 6 false true false false 3000000 3 true false false 7 false true false false 160000000 160 false false false xbrli:monetaryItemType monetary The amount of net gains (losses) on a cash flow hedge reclassified in the period to earnings from accumulated other comprehensive income. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 133 -Paragraph 45 -Subparagraph b(1) false 11 Other Comprehensive Income Unrealized Gain Loss On Derivatives Arising During Period Net Of Tax 3 us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeUnrealizedGainLossOnDerivativesArisingDuringPeriodNetOfTax us-gaap true credit duration No definition available. false false false false false false false false false false false false 1 false false false false 0 0 true false false 2 false true false false 0 0 true false false 3 false true false false -61000000 -61 true false false 4 false true false false 0 0 true false false 5 false true false false 0 0 true false false 6 false true false false 0 0 true false false 7 false true false false -61000000 -61 false false false xbrli:monetaryItemType monetary Change in accumulated gains and losses from derivative instrument designated and qualifying as the effective portion of cash flow hedges, net of tax effect. The after tax effect change includes an entity's share of an equity investee's increase (decrease) in deferred hedging gains or losses. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 130 -Paragraph 17, 20 Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 130 -Paragraph 121 Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher AICPA -Name Accounting Research Bulletin (ARB) -Number 51 -Paragraph 38 -Subparagraph c(3) Reference 4: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 130 -Paragraph 24 -Subparagraph b Reference 5: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 133 -Paragraph 46 false 12 Gain Loss On Cash Flow Hedge Ineffectiveness Net 3 us-gaap_GainLossOnCashFlowHedgeIneffectivenessNet us-gaap true credit duration No definition available. false false false false false false false false false false false false 1 false false false false 0 0 true false false 2 false true false false 0 0 true false false 3 false true false false 8000000 8 true false false 4 false true false false 0 0 true false false 5 false true false false 0 0 true false false 6 false true false false 0 0 true false false 7 false true false false 8000000 8 false false false xbrli:monetaryItemType monetary The net gain or loss recognized in earnings during the reporting period representing the amount of the cash flow hedges' ineffectiveness. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 133 -Paragraph 45 -Subparagraph b(1) false 13 Net loss on available-for-sale financial assets arising during the period, net of tax 3 us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeAvailableForSaleSecuritiesAdjustmentNetOfTaxPeriodIncreaseDecrease us-gaap true na duration No definition available. false false false false false false false false false false false false 1 false false false false 0 0 true false false 2 false true false false 0 0 true false false 3 false true false false -29000000 -29 true false false 4 false true false false 0 0 true false false 5 false true false false 0 0 true false false 6 false true false false 0 0 true false false 7 false true false false -29000000 -29 false false false xbrli:monetaryItemType monetary Gross appreciation or the gross loss in value of the total unsold securities at the end of an accounting period, after tax. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 130 -Paragraph 14, 17, 19, 22, 26 Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 115 -Paragraph 13 Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher AICPA -Name Accounting Research Bulletin (ARB) -Number 51 -Paragraph 38 -Subparagraph c(3) Reference 4: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 130 -Paragraph 24 -Subparagraph b false 14 Release on disposal of available-for-sale financial assets during the period, net of tax 3 au_ReleaseOnDisposalOfAvailableForSaleFinancialAssetsDuringPeriodNetOfTax au false credit duration Realized after tax gains and losses removed from accumulated other comprehensive income and reported in income on... false false false false false false false false false false false terselabel false 1 false false false false 0 0 true false false 2 false false false false 0 0 true false false 3 false true false false -1000000 -1 true false false 4 false false false false 0 0 true false false 5 false false false false 0 0 true false false 6 false false false false 0 0 true false false 7 false true false false -1000000 -1 false false false xbrli:monetaryItemType monetary Realized after tax gains and losses removed from accumulated other comprehensive income and reported in income on derecognition of available-for-sale securities. No authoritative reference available. false 16 Other Comprehensive Income Loss Net Of Tax Period Increase Decrease 3 us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeLossNetOfTaxPeriodIncreaseDecrease us-gaap true na duration No definition available. false false false false false false false false false false false totallabel false 1 false false false false 0 0 true false false 2 false false false false 0 0 true false false 3 false false false false 0 0 true false false 4 false false false false 0 0 true false false 5 false false false false 0 0 true false false 6 false false false false 0 0 true false false 7 false true false false -528000000 -528 false false false xbrli:monetaryItemType monetary This element represents Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, for the period. Includes deferred gains (losses) on qualifying hedges, unrealized holding gains (losses) on available-for-sale securities, minimum pension liability, and cumulative translation adjustment. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher AICPA -Name Accounting Research Bulletin (ARB) -Number 51 -Paragraph 38 -Subparagraph c(3) Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 130 -Paragraph 22, 23, 24, 25 Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher AICPA -Name Accounting Principles Board Opinion (APB) -Number 12 -Paragraph 10 Reference 4: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher SEC -Name Regulation S-X (SX) -Number 210 -Section 02 -Paragraph 31 -Article 5 Reference 5: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher SEC -Name Regulation S-X (SX) -Number 210 -Section 04 -Article 3 true 17 Comprehensive Income Net Of Tax 3 us-gaap_ComprehensiveIncomeNetOfTaxIncludingPortionAttributableToNoncontrollingInterest us-gaap true credit duration No definition available. false false false false false false false false false false false totallabel false 1 false false false false 0 0 true false false 2 false false false false 0 0 true false false 3 false false false false 0 0 true false false 4 false false false false 0 0 true false false 5 false false false false 0 0 true false false 6 false false false false 0 0 true false false 7 false true false false -1049000000 -1049 false false false xbrli:monetaryItemType monetary The change in equity [net assets] of a business enterprise during a period from transactions and other events and circumstances from non-owner sources which are attributable to the economic entity, including both controlling (parent) and noncontrolling interests. It includes all changes in equity during a period except those resulting from investments by owners and distributions to owners, including any and all transactions which are directly or indirectly attributable to that ownership interest in subsidiary equity which is not attributable to the parent. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher AICPA -Name Accounting Research Bulletin (ARB) -Number 51 -Paragraph A5 -Appendix A Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher AICPA -Name Accounting Research Bulletin (ARB) -Number 51 -Paragraph 29 Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher AICPA -Name Accounting Research Bulletin (ARB) -Number 51 -Paragraph 38 -Subparagraph a true 19 Share of capital transaction at equity accounted joint venture 3 au_ShareOfCapitalTransactionAtEquityAccountedJointVenture au false credit instant Surplus on additional 10 percent interest on Kibali gold project. false false false false false false false false false false false false 1 false false false false 0 0 true false false 2 false true false false 0 0 true false false 3 false true false false 0 0 true false false 4 false true false false 0 0 true false false 5 false true false false 0 0 true false false 6 false true false false 1000000 1 true false false 7 false true false false 1000000 1 false false false xbrli:monetaryItemType monetary Surplus on additional 10 percent interest on Kibali gold project. No authoritative reference available. false 20 Stock issues as part of rights offer (shares) 3 us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesNewIssues us-gaap true na duration No definition available. false false false false false false false false false false false terselabel false 1 false true false false 69470442 69470442 true false false 2 false false false false 0 0 true false false 3 false false false false 0 0 true false false 4 false false false false 0 0 true false false 5 false false false false 0 0 true false false 6 false false false false 0 0 true false false 7 false false false false 0 0 false false false xbrli:sharesItemType shares Number of new stock issued during the period. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher AICPA -Name Accounting Principles Board Opinion (APB) -Number 12 -Paragraph 10 Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher SEC -Name Regulation S-X (SX) -Number 210 -Section 04 -Article 3 Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher SEC -Name Regulation S-X (SX) -Number 210 -Section 02 -Paragraph 29, 30 -Article 5 false 21 Stock issues as part of rights offer 3 us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueNewIssues us-gaap true credit duration No definition available. false false false false false false false false false false false terselabel false 1 false true false false 2000000 2 true false false 2 false true false false 1664000000 1664 true false false 3 false true false false 0 0 true false false 4 false true false false 0 0 true false false 5 false true false false 0 0 true false false 6 false true false false 0 0 true false false 7 false true false false 1666000000 1666 false false false xbrli:monetaryItemType monetary Value of new stock issued during the period. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher AICPA -Name Accounting Principles Board Opinion (APB) -Number 12 -Paragraph 10 Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher SEC -Name Regulation S-X (SX) -Number 210 -Section 04 -Article 3 Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher SEC -Name Regulation S-X (SX) -Number 210 -Section 02 -Paragraph 29, 30, 31 -Article 5 false 24 Stock issues as part of Golden Cycle acquisition (shares) 3 au_StockIssuesAsPartOfGoldenCycleAcquisition au false na duration Stock issued in acquisition of Golden Cycle funded by equity offerings false false false false false false false false false false false terselabel false 1 false true false false 3181198 3181198 true false false 2 false false false false 0 0 true false false 3 false false false false 0 0 true false false 4 false false false false 0 0 true false false 5 false false false false 0 0 true false false 6 false false false false 0 0 true false false 7 false false false false 0 0 false false false xbrli:sharesItemType shares Stock issued in acquisition of Golden Cycle funded by equity offerings No authoritative reference available. false 25 Stock issues as part of Golden Cycle acquisition value 3 au_StockIssuesAsPartOfGoldenCycleAcquisitionValue au false credit instant Stock issued in acquisition of Golden Cycle funded by equity offerings false false false false false false false false false false false false 1 false true false false 0 0 true false false 2 false true false false 118000000 118 true false false 3 false true false false 0 0 true false false 4 false true false false 0 0 true false false 5 false true false false 0 0 true false false 6 false true false false 0 0 true false false 7 false true false false 118000000 118 false false false xbrli:monetaryItemType monetary Stock issued in acquisition of Golden Cycle funded by equity offerings No authoritative reference available. false 26 Stock issued in acquisition of Sao Bento funded by equity offerings (shares) 3 au_StockIssuesAsPartOfSaoBentoAcquisition au false na duration Stock issued in acquisition of Sao Bento funded by equity offerings false false false false false false false false false false false terselabel false 1 false true false false 2701660 2701660 true false false 2 false false false false 0 0 true false false 3 false false false false 0 0 true false false 4 false false false false 0 0 true false false 5 false false false false 0 0 true false false 6 false false false false 0 0 true false false 7 false false false false 0 0 false false false xbrli:sharesItemType shares Stock issued in acquisition of Sao Bento funded by equity offerings No authoritative reference available. false 27 Stock issues as part of Sao Bento acquisition value 3 au_StockIssuesAsPartOfSaoBentoAcquisitionValue au false credit instant Stock issued in acquisition of Sao Bento funded by equity offerings false false false false false false false false false false false false 1 false true false false 0 0 true false false 2 false true false false 70000000 70 true false false 3 false true false false 0 0 true false false 4 false true false false 0 0 true false false 5 false true false false 0 0 true false false 6 false true false false 0 0 true false false 7 false true false false 70000000 70 false false false xbrli:monetaryItemType monetary Stock issued in acquisition of Sao Bento funded by equity offerings No authoritative reference available. false 28 Stock Issued During Period Shares Employee Stock Ownership Plan (shares) 3 us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesEmployeeStockOwnershipPlan us-gaap true na duration No definition available. false false false false false false false false false false false false 1 false true false false 672545 672545 true false false 2 false false false false 0 0 true false false 3 false false false false 0 0 true false false 4 false false false false 0 0 true false false 5 false false false false 0 0 true false false 6 false false false false 0 0 true false false 7 false false false false 0 0 false false false xbrli:sharesItemType shares Number of stock issued during the period as a result of employee stock ownership plan (ESOP). Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher AICPA -Name Accounting Principles Board Opinion (APB) -Number 12 -Paragraph 10 Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher SEC -Name Regulation S-X (SX) -Number 210 -Section 04 -Article 3 Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher SEC -Name Regulation S-X (SX) -Number 210 -Section 02 -Paragraph 29, 30 -Article 5 false 29 Stock Issued During Period v Employee Stock Ownership Plan 3 us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueEmployeeStockOwnershipPlan us-gaap true credit duration No definition available. false false false false false false false false false false false false 1 false true false false 0 0 true false false 2 false true false false 14000000 14 true false false 3 false true false false 0 0 true false false 4 false true false false 0 0 true false false 5 false true false false 0 0 true false false 6 false true false false 0 0 true false false 7 false true false false 14000000 14 false false false xbrli:monetaryItemType monetary Aggregate value of stock issued during the period as a result of employee stock ownership plan (ESOP). Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher AICPA -Name Accounting Principles Board Opinion (APB) -Number 12 -Paragraph 10 Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher SEC -Name Regulation S-X (SX) -Number 210 -Section 04 -Article 3 Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher SEC -Name Regulation S-X (SX) -Number 210 -Section 02 -Paragraph 29, 30, 31 -Article 5 false 30 Stock issues in exchange for E Ordinary shares cancelled (shares) 3 au_StockIssuesInExchangeForEOrdinarySharesCancelledShares au false na duration Reduction in the number of shares due to a conversion of stock from one class to another during the period. Conversion may be... false false false false false false false false false false false false 1 false true false false 94 94 true false false 2 false false false false 0 0 true false false 3 false false false false 0 0 true false false 4 false false false false 0 0 true false false 5 false false false false 0 0 true false false 6 false false false false 0 0 true false false 7 false false false false 0 0 false false false xbrli:sharesItemType shares Reduction in the number of shares due to a conversion of stock from one class to another during the period. Conversion may be among classes of common or nonredeemable preferred stock or from common stock or nonredeemable preferred stock to nonredeemable preferred stock or common stock, respectively. No authoritative reference available. false 31 Stock issues in exchange for E Ordinary shares cancelled Value 3 au_StockIssuesInExchangeForEOrdinarySharesCancelledValue au false debit duration Value of stock that was converted from one type or class to another during the period. Conversion may be among classes of... false false false false false false false false false false false false 1 false true false false 0 0 true false false 2 false true false false 3000000 3 true false false 3 false true false false 0 0 true false false 4 false true false false 0 0 true false false 5 false true false false 0 0 true false false 6 false true false false 0 0 true false false 7 false true false false 3000000 3 false false false xbrli:monetaryItemType monetary Value of stock that was converted from one type or class to another during the period. Conversion may be among classes of common or nonredeemable preferred stock or from common stock or nonredeemable preferred stock to nonredeemable preferred stock or common stock, respectively. No authoritative reference available. false 32 Stock Issued During Period Shares Stock Options Exercised (shares) 3 us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesStockOptionsExercised us-gaap true na duration No definition available. false false false false false false false false false false false false 1 false true false false 57761 57761 true false false 2 false false false false 0 0 true false false 3 false false false false 0 0 true false false 4 false false false false 0 0 true false false 5 false false false false 0 0 true false false 6 false false false false 0 0 true false false 7 false false false false 0 0 false false false xbrli:sharesItemType shares Number of shares issued during the period as a result of the exercise of stock options. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher AICPA -Name Accounting Principles Board Opinion (APB) -Number 12 -Paragraph 10 Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher SEC -Name Regulation S-X (SX) -Number 210 -Section 04 -Article 3 Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher SEC -Name Regulation S-X (SX) -Number 210 -Section 02 -Paragraph 29, 30 -Article 5 false 33 Stock Issued During Period Value Stock Options Exercised 3 us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueStockOptionsExercised us-gaap true credit duration No definition available. false false false false false false false false false false false false 1 false true false false 0 0 true false false 2 false true false false 2000000 2 true false false 3 false true false false 0 0 true false false 4 false true false false 0 0 true false false 5 false true false false 0 0 true false false 6 false true false false 0 0 true false false 7 false true false false 2000000 2 false false false xbrli:monetaryItemType monetary Value stock issued during the period as a result of the exercise of stock options. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher AICPA -Name Accounting Principles Board Opinion (APB) -Number 12 -Paragraph 10 Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher SEC -Name Regulation S-X (SX) -Number 210 -Section 04 -Article 3 Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher SEC -Name Regulation S-X (SX) -Number 210 -Section 02 -Paragraph 29, 30, 31 -Article 5 false 34 Stock based compensation expense 3 us-gaap_AdjustmentsToAdditionalPaidInCapitalSharebasedCompensationRequisiteServicePeriodRecognitionValue us-gaap true credit duration No definition available. false false false false false false false false false false false terselabel false 1 false false false false 0 0 true false false 2 false true false false 24000000 24 true false false 3 false true false false 0 0 true false false 4 false true false false 0 0 true false false 5 false true false false 0 0 true false false 6 false true false false 0 0 true false false 7 false true false false 24000000 24 false false false xbrli:monetaryItemType monetary This element represents the amount of recognized share-based compensation during the period, that is, the amount recognized as expense in the income statement (or as asset if compensation is capitalized). Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 123R -Paragraph 39 Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 123R -Paragraph 64 -Subparagraph b Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 123R -Paragraph A91 false 35 Dividends Cash 3 us-gaap_DividendsCash us-gaap true debit duration No definition available. false false false false false false false false false false true negated false 1 false false false false 0 0 true false false 2 false false false false 0 0 true false false 3 false false false false 0 0 true false false 4 false true false false -41000000 -41 true false false 5 false false false false 0 0 true false false 6 false true false false -17000000 -17 true false false 7 false true false false -58000000 -58 false false false xbrli:monetaryItemType monetary Cash dividends declared by an entity during the period for all classes of stock (common, preferred). This element includes paid and unpaid dividends declared during the period. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher SEC -Name Regulation S-X (SX) -Number 210 -Section 04 -Article 3 Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher AICPA -Name Statement of Position (SOP) -Number 01-6 -Paragraph 14 -Subparagraph l false 36 Closing balance at Dec. 31, 2008 3 us-gaap_StockholdersEquityIncludingPortionAttributableToNoncontrollingInterest us-gaap true credit instant No definition available. false false false true false false false false false true false periodendlabel instant 2008-12-31T00:00:00 0001-01-01T00:00:00 false 1 false true false false 12000000 12.0 true false false 2 false true false false 7502000000 7502.0 true false false 3 false true false false -1148000000 -1148.0 true false false 4 false true false false -3044000000 -3044.0 true false false 5 false true false false 0 0 true false false 6 false true false false 84000000 84.0 true false false 7 false true false false 3406000000 3406.0 false false false xbrli:monetaryItemType monetary Total of Stockholders' Equity (deficit) items, net of receivables from officers, directors owners, and affiliates of the entity including portions attributable to both the parent and noncontrolling interests (previously referred to as minority interest), if any. The entity including portions attributable to the parent and noncontrolling interests is sometimes referred to as the economic entity. This excludes temporary equity and is sometimes called permanent equity. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher AICPA -Name Accounting Research Bulletin (ARB) -Number 51 -Paragraph 25 Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher AICPA -Name Accounting Research Bulletin (ARB) -Number 51 -Paragraph 26 Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher AICPA -Name Accounting Research Bulletin (ARB) -Number 51 -Paragraph A3 -Appendix A false 37 Closing balance (shares) at Dec. 31, 2008 3 us-gaap_CommonStockSharesOutstanding us-gaap true na instant No definition available. false false false true false false false false false true false periodendlabel instant 2008-12-31T00:00:00 0001-01-01T00:00:00 false 1 false true false false 352627761 352627761 true false false 2 false false false false 0 0 true false false 3 false false false false 0 0 true false false 4 false false false false 0 0 true false false 5 false false false false 0 0 true false false 6 false false false false 0 0 true false false 7 false false false false 0 0 false false false xbrli:sharesItemType shares Total number of shares of common stock held by shareholders. May be all or portion of the number of common shares authorized. These shares represent the ownership interest of the common shareholders. Excludes common shares repurchased by the entity and held as Treasury shares. Shares outstanding equals shares issued minus shares held in treasury. Does not include common shares that have been repurchased. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher AICPA -Name Accounting Principles Board Opinion (APB) -Number 12 -Paragraph 10 Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher SEC -Name Regulation S-X (SX) -Number 210 -Section 04 -Article 3 Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher SEC -Name Regulation S-X (SX) -Number 210 -Section 02 -Paragraph 30 -Article 5 false 7 Net loss 3 us-gaap_ProfitLoss us-gaap true credit duration No definition available. false false false false false false false false false false false false 1 false false false false 0 0 true false false 2 false true false false 0 0 true false false 3 false true false false 0 0 true false false 4 false true false false -825000000 -825 true false false 5 false true false false 0 0 true false false 6 false true false false 48000000 48 true false false 7 false true false false -777000000 -777 false false false xbrli:monetaryItemType monetary The consolidated profit or loss for the period, net of income taxes, including the portion attributable to the noncontrolling interest. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher AICPA -Name Accounting Research Bulletin (ARB) -Number 51 -Paragraph A1, A4, A5 Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher AICPA -Name Accounting Research Bulletin (ARB) -Number 51 -Paragraph 5 -Subparagraph b Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher AICPA -Name Accounting Research Bulletin (ARB) -Number 51 -Paragraph 29 Reference 4: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher AICPA -Name Accounting Research Bulletin (ARB) -Number 51 -Paragraph 38 -Subparagraph a Reference 5: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher AICPA -Name Accounting Research Bulletin (ARB) -Number 51 -Paragraph 38 -Subparagraph c(1) false 9 Other Comprehensive Income Foreign Currency Transaction And Translation Gain Loss Arising During Period Net Of Tax 3 us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeForeignCurrencyTransactionAndTranslationGainLossArisingDuringPeriodNetOfTax us-gaap true credit duration No definition available. false false false false false false false false false false false false 1 false false false false 0 0 true false false 2 false true false false 0 0 true false false 3 false true false false 320000000 320 true false false 4 false true false false 0 0 true false false 5 false true false false 0 0 true false false 6 false true false false 6000000 6 true false false 7 false true false false 326000000 326 false false false xbrli:monetaryItemType monetary Change in the balance sheet adjustment that results from the process of translating subsidiary financial statements and foreign equity investments into functional currency of the reporting entity for the period being reported, net of tax. If an entity's functional currency is a foreign currency, translation adjustments result from the process of translating that entity's financial statements into the reporting currency. Includes gain (loss) on foreign currency forward exchange contracts. Includes foreign currency transactions designated as hedges of net investment in a foreign entity and intercompany foreign currency transactions that are of a long-term nature, when the entities to the transaction are consolidated, combined, or accounted for by the equity method in the reporting enterprise's financial statements. Includes the gain or loss on a derivative instrument or nonderivative financial instrument that may give rise to a foreign currency transaction gain or loss under FAS 52 and that have been designated and have qualified as hedging instruments for hedges of the foreign currency exposure of a net investment in a foreign operation. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 52 -Paragraph 13, 20, 31 Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 133 -Paragraph 45 Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher AICPA -Name Accounting Research Bulletin (ARB) -Number 51 -Paragraph 38 -Subparagraph c(3) Reference 4: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 130 -Paragraph 17 false 10 Cash Flow Hedge Gain Loss Reclassified To Earnings Net 3 us-gaap_CashFlowHedgeGainLossReclassifiedToEarningsNet us-gaap true credit duration No definition available. false false false false false false false false false false false false 1 false false false false 0 0 true false false 2 false true false false 0 0 true false false 3 false true false false 97000000 97 true false false 4 false true false false 0 0 true false false 5 false true false false 0 0 true false false 6 false true false false 1000000 1 true false false 7 false true false false 98000000 98 false false false xbrli:monetaryItemType monetary The amount of net gains (losses) on a cash flow hedge reclassified in the period to earnings from accumulated other comprehensive income. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 133 -Paragraph 45 -Subparagraph b(1) false 11 Other Comprehensive Income Unrealized Gain Loss On Derivatives Arising During Period Net Of Tax 3 us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeUnrealizedGainLossOnDerivativesArisingDuringPeriodNetOfTax us-gaap true credit duration No definition available. false false false false false false false false false false false false 1 false false false false 0 0 true false false 2 false true false false 0 0 true false false 3 false true false false -12000000 -12 true false false 4 false true false false 0 0 true false false 5 false true false false 0 0 true false false 6 false true false false 0 0 true false false 7 false true false false -12000000 -12 false false false xbrli:monetaryItemType monetary Change in accumulated gains and losses from derivative instrument designated and qualifying as the effective portion of cash flow hedges, net of tax effect. The after tax effect change includes an entity's share of an equity investee's increase (decrease) in deferred hedging gains or losses. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 130 -Paragraph 17, 20 Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 130 -Paragraph 121 Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher AICPA -Name Accounting Research Bulletin (ARB) -Number 51 -Paragraph 38 -Subparagraph c(3) Reference 4: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 130 -Paragraph 24 -Subparagraph b Reference 5: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 133 -Paragraph 46 false 12 Gain Loss On Cash Flow Hedge Ineffectiveness Net 3 us-gaap_GainLossOnCashFlowHedgeIneffectivenessNet us-gaap true credit duration No definition available. false false false false false false false false false false false false 1 false false false false 0 0 true false false 2 false true false false 0 0 true false false 3 false true false false 5000000 5 true false false 4 false true false false 0 0 true false false 5 false true false false 0 0 true false false 6 false true false false 0 0 true false false 7 false true false false 5000000 5 false false false xbrli:monetaryItemType monetary The net gain or loss recognized in earnings during the reporting period representing the amount of the cash flow hedges' ineffectiveness. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 133 -Paragraph 45 -Subparagraph b(1) false 13 Net loss on available-for-sale financial assets arising during the period, net of tax 3 us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeAvailableForSaleSecuritiesAdjustmentNetOfTaxPeriodIncreaseDecrease us-gaap true na duration No definition available. false false false false false false false false false false false false 1 false false false false 0 0 true false false 2 false true false false 0 0 true false false 3 false true false false 72000000 72 true false false 4 false true false false 0 0 true false false 5 false true false false 0 0 true false false 6 false true false false 0 0 true false false 7 false true false false 72000000 72 false false false xbrli:monetaryItemType monetary Gross appreciation or the gross loss in value of the total unsold securities at the end of an accounting period, after tax. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 130 -Paragraph 14, 17, 19, 22, 26 Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 115 -Paragraph 13 Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher AICPA -Name Accounting Research Bulletin (ARB) -Number 51 -Paragraph 38 -Subparagraph c(3) Reference 4: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 130 -Paragraph 24 -Subparagraph b false 15 Realized loss in earnings on available-for-sale financial assets during the period, net of tax 3 us-gaap_AvailableForSaleSecuritiesGrossRealizedGainLossNet us-gaap true credit duration No definition available. false false false false false false false false false false false false 1 false false false false 0 0 true false false 2 false true false false 0 0 true false false 3 false true false false 12000000 12 true false false 4 false true false false 0 0 true false false 5 false true false false 0 0 true false false 6 false true false false 0 0 true false false 7 false true false false 12000000 12 false false false xbrli:monetaryItemType monetary This item represents the difference between the gross realized gains and losses realized on the sale of debt or equity securities categorized neither as held-to-maturity nor trading securities. Additionally, this item would include any losses recognized for other than temporary impairments of the subject investments in debt and equity securities. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 115 -Paragraph 16 false 16 Other Comprehensive Income Loss Net Of Tax Period Increase Decrease 3 us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeLossNetOfTaxPeriodIncreaseDecrease us-gaap true na duration No definition available. false false false false false false false false false false false totallabel false 1 false false false false 0 0 true false false 2 false false false false 0 0 true false false 3 false false false false 0 0 true false false 4 false false false false 0 0 true false false 5 false false false false 0 0 true false false 6 false false false false 0 0 true false false 7 false true false false 501000000 501 false false false xbrli:monetaryItemType monetary This element represents Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, for the period. Includes deferred gains (losses) on qualifying hedges, unrealized holding gains (losses) on available-for-sale securities, minimum pension liability, and cumulative translation adjustment. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher AICPA -Name Accounting Research Bulletin (ARB) -Number 51 -Paragraph 38 -Subparagraph c(3) Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 130 -Paragraph 22, 23, 24, 25 Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher AICPA -Name Accounting Principles Board Opinion (APB) -Number 12 -Paragraph 10 Reference 4: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher SEC -Name Regulation S-X (SX) -Number 210 -Section 02 -Paragraph 31 -Article 5 Reference 5: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher SEC -Name Regulation S-X (SX) -Number 210 -Section 04 -Article 3 true 17 Comprehensive Income Net Of Tax 3 us-gaap_ComprehensiveIncomeNetOfTaxIncludingPortionAttributableToNoncontrollingInterest us-gaap true credit duration No definition available. false false false false false false false false false false false totallabel false 1 false false false false 0 0 true false false 2 false false false false 0 0 true false false 3 false false false false 0 0 true false false 4 false false false false 0 0 true false false 5 false false false false 0 0 true false false 6 false false false false 0 0 true false false 7 false true false false -276000000 -276 false false false xbrli:monetaryItemType monetary The change in equity [net assets] of a business enterprise during a period from transactions and other events and circumstances from non-owner sources which are attributable to the economic entity, including both controlling (parent) and noncontrolling interests. It includes all changes in equity during a period except those resulting from investments by owners and distributions to owners, including any and all transactions which are directly or indirectly attributable to that ownership interest in subsidiary equity which is not attributable to the parent. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher AICPA -Name Accounting Research Bulletin (ARB) -Number 51 -Paragraph A5 -Appendix A Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher AICPA -Name Accounting Research Bulletin (ARB) -Number 51 -Paragraph 29 Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher AICPA -Name Accounting Research Bulletin (ARB) -Number 51 -Paragraph 38 -Subparagraph a true 19 Share of capital transaction at equity accounted joint venture 3 au_ShareOfCapitalTransactionAtEquityAccountedJointVenture au false credit instant Surplus on additional 10 percent interest on Kibali gold project. false false false false false false false false false false false false 1 false false false false 0 0 true false false 2 false true false false 0 0 true false false 3 false true false false 0 0 true false false 4 false true false false 0 0 true false false 5 false true false false 37000000 37 true false false 6 false true false false 0 0 true false false 7 false true false false 37000000 37 false false false xbrli:monetaryItemType monetary Surplus on additional 10 percent interest on Kibali gold project. No authoritative reference available. false 22 Stock issues as part of equity offering value 3 us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueAcquisitions us-gaap true credit duration No definition available. false false false false false false false false false false false terselabel false 1 false true false false 0 0 true false false 2 false true false false 280000000 280 true false false 3 false true false false 0 0 true false false 4 false true false false 0 0 true false false 5 false true false false 0 0 true false false 6 false true false false 0 0 true false false 7 false true false false 280000000 280 false false false xbrli:monetaryItemType monetary Value of stock issued pursuant to acquisitions during the period. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher AICPA -Name Accounting Principles Board Opinion (APB) -Number 12 -Paragraph 10 Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher SEC -Name Regulation S-X (SX) -Number 210 -Section 04 -Article 3 Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher SEC -Name Regulation S-X (SX) -Number 210 -Section 02 -Paragraph 29, 30, 31 -Article 5 false 23 Stock issued as part of equity offering (shares) 3 us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesAcquisitions us-gaap true na duration No definition available. false false false false false false false false false false false terselabel false 1 false true false false 7624162 7624162 true false false 2 false false false false 0 0 true false false 3 false false false false 0 0 true false false 4 false false false false 0 0 true false false 5 false false false false 0 0 true false false 6 false false false false 0 0 true false false 7 false false false false 0 0 false false false xbrli:sharesItemType shares Number of shares of stock issued during the period pursuant to acquisitions. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 141 -Paragraph 53 -Subparagraph b Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher SEC -Name Regulation S-X (SX) -Number 210 -Section 04 -Article 3 Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 141 -Paragraph 51 -Subparagraph d Reference 4: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher SEC -Name Regulation S-X (SX) -Number 210 -Section 02 -Paragraph 29, 30 -Article 5 false 28 Stock Issued During Period Shares Employee Stock Ownership Plan (shares) 3 us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesEmployeeStockOwnershipPlan us-gaap true na duration No definition available. false false false false false false false false false false false false 1 false true false false 1131916 1131916 true false false 2 false false false false 0 0 true false false 3 false false false false 0 0 true false false 4 false false false false 0 0 true false false 5 false false false false 0 0 true false false 6 false false false false 0 0 true false false 7 false false false false 0 0 false false false xbrli:sharesItemType shares Number of stock issued during the period as a result of employee stock ownership plan (ESOP). Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher AICPA -Name Accounting Principles Board Opinion (APB) -Number 12 -Paragraph 10 Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher SEC -Name Regulation S-X (SX) -Number 210 -Section 04 -Article 3 Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher SEC -Name Regulation S-X (SX) -Number 210 -Section 02 -Paragraph 29, 30 -Article 5 false 29 Stock Issued During Period v Employee Stock Ownership Plan 3 us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueEmployeeStockOwnershipPlan us-gaap true credit duration No definition available. false false false false false false false false false false false false 1 false true false false 0 0 true false false 2 false true false false 25000000 25 true false false 3 false true false false 0 0 true false false 4 false true false false 0 0 true false false 5 false true false false 0 0 true false false 6 false true false false 0 0 true false false 7 false true false false 25000000 25 false false false xbrli:monetaryItemType monetary Aggregate value of stock issued during the period as a result of employee stock ownership plan (ESOP). Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher AICPA -Name Accounting Principles Board Opinion (APB) -Number 12 -Paragraph 10 Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher SEC -Name Regulation S-X (SX) -Number 210 -Section 04 -Article 3 Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher SEC -Name Regulation S-X (SX) -Number 210 -Section 02 -Paragraph 29, 30, 31 -Article 5 false 30 Stock issues in exchange for E Ordinary shares cancelled (shares) 3 au_StockIssuesInExchangeForEOrdinarySharesCancelledShares au false na duration Reduction in the number of shares due to a conversion of stock from one class to another during the period. Conversion may be... false false false false false false false false false false false false 1 false true false false 1181 1181 true false false 2 false false false false 0 0 true false false 3 false false false false 0 0 true false false 4 false false false false 0 0 true false false 5 false false false false 0 0 true false false 6 false false false false 0 0 true false false 7 false false false false 0 0 false false false xbrli:sharesItemType shares Reduction in the number of shares due to a conversion of stock from one class to another during the period. Conversion may be among classes of common or nonredeemable preferred stock or from common stock or nonredeemable preferred stock to nonredeemable preferred stock or common stock, respectively. No authoritative reference available. false 31 Stock issues in exchange for E Ordinary shares cancelled Value 3 au_StockIssuesInExchangeForEOrdinarySharesCancelledValue au false debit duration Value of stock that was converted from one type or class to another during the period. Conversion may be among classes of... false false false false false false false false false false false false 1 false true false false 0 0 true false false 2 false true false false 3000000 3 true false false 3 false true false false 0 0 true false false 4 false true false false 0 0 true false false 5 false true false false 0 0 true false false 6 false true false false 0 0 true false false 7 false true false false 3000000 3 false false false xbrli:monetaryItemType monetary Value of stock that was converted from one type or class to another during the period. Conversion may be among classes of common or nonredeemable preferred stock or from common stock or nonredeemable preferred stock to nonredeemable preferred stock or common stock, respectively. No authoritative reference available. false 32 Stock Issued During Period Shares Stock Options Exercised (shares) 3 us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesStockOptionsExercised us-gaap true na duration No definition available. false false false false false false false false false false false false 1 false true false false 189787 189787 true false false 2 false false false false 0 0 true false false 3 false false false false 0 0 true false false 4 false false false false 0 0 true false false 5 false false false false 0 0 true false false 6 false false false false 0 0 true false false 7 false false false false 0 0 false false false xbrli:sharesItemType shares Number of shares issued during the period as a result of the exercise of stock options. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher AICPA -Name Accounting Principles Board Opinion (APB) -Number 12 -Paragraph 10 Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher SEC -Name Regulation S-X (SX) -Number 210 -Section 04 -Article 3 Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher SEC -Name Regulation S-X (SX) -Number 210 -Section 02 -Paragraph 29, 30 -Article 5 false 33 Stock Issued During Period Value Stock Options Exercised 3 us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueStockOptionsExercised us-gaap true credit duration No definition available. false false false false false false false false false false false false 1 false true false false 0 0 true false false 2 false true false false 7000000 7 true false false 3 false true false false 0 0 true false false 4 false true false false 0 0 true false false 5 false true false false 0 0 true false false 6 false true false false 0 0 true false false 7 false true false false 7000000 7 false false false xbrli:monetaryItemType monetary Value stock issued during the period as a result of the exercise of stock options. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher AICPA -Name Accounting Principles Board Opinion (APB) -Number 12 -Paragraph 10 Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher SEC -Name Regulation S-X (SX) -Number 210 -Section 04 -Article 3 Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher SEC -Name Regulation S-X (SX) -Number 210 -Section 02 -Paragraph 29, 30, 31 -Article 5 false 34 Stock based compensation expense 3 us-gaap_AdjustmentsToAdditionalPaidInCapitalSharebasedCompensationRequisiteServicePeriodRecognitionValue us-gaap true credit duration No definition available. false false false false false false false false false false false terselabel false 1 false false false false 0 0 true false false 2 false true false false 19000000 19 true false false 3 false true false false 0 0 true false false 4 false true false false 0 0 true false false 5 false true false false 0 0 true false false 6 false true false false 0 0 true false false 7 false true false false 19000000 19 false false false xbrli:monetaryItemType monetary This element represents the amount of recognized share-based compensation during the period, that is, the amount recognized as expense in the income statement (or as asset if compensation is capitalized). Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 123R -Paragraph 39 Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 123R -Paragraph 64 -Subparagraph b Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 123R -Paragraph A91 false 35 Dividends Cash 3 us-gaap_DividendsCash us-gaap true debit duration No definition available. false false false false false false false false false false true negated false 1 false false false false 0 0 true false false 2 false false false false 0 0 true false false 3 false false false false 0 0 true false false 4 false true false false -45000000 -45 true false false 5 false false false false 0 0 true false false 6 false true false false -11000000 -11 true false false 7 false true false false -56000000 -56 false false false xbrli:monetaryItemType monetary Cash dividends declared by an entity during the period for all classes of stock (common, preferred). This element includes paid and unpaid dividends declared during the period. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher SEC -Name Regulation S-X (SX) -Number 210 -Section 04 -Article 3 Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher AICPA -Name Statement of Position (SOP) -Number 01-6 -Paragraph 14 -Subparagraph l false 36 Closing balance at Dec. 31, 2009 3 us-gaap_StockholdersEquityIncludingPortionAttributableToNoncontrollingInterest us-gaap true credit instant No definition available. false false false true false false false false false true false periodendlabel instant 2009-12-31T00:00:00 0001-01-01T00:00:00 false 1 true true false false 12000000 12.0 true false false 2 true true false false 7836000000 7836.0 true false false 3 true true false false -654000000 -654.0 [1] true false false 4 true true false false -3914000000 -3914.0 [2] true false false 5 true true false false 37000000 37.0 true false false 6 true true false false 128000000 128.0 true false false 7 true true false false 3445000000 3445.0 false false false xbrli:monetaryItemType monetary Total of Stockholders' Equity (deficit) items, net of receivables from officers, directors owners, and affiliates of the entity including portions attributable to both the parent and noncontrolling interests (previously referred to as minority interest), if any. The entity including portions attributable to the parent and noncontrolling interests is sometimes referred to as the economic entity. This excludes temporary equity and is sometimes called permanent equity. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher AICPA -Name Accounting Research Bulletin (ARB) -Number 51 -Paragraph 25 Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher AICPA -Name Accounting Research Bulletin (ARB) -Number 51 -Paragraph 26 Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher AICPA -Name Accounting Research Bulletin (ARB) -Number 51 -Paragraph A3 -Appendix A false 37 Closing balance (shares) at Dec. 31, 2009 3 us-gaap_CommonStockSharesOutstanding us-gaap true na instant No definition available. false false false true false false false false false true false periodendlabel instant 2009-12-31T00:00:00 0001-01-01T00:00:00 false 1 false true false false 361574807 361574807 true false false 2 false false false false 0 0 true false false 3 false false false false 0 0 true false false 4 false false false false 0 0 true false false 5 false false false false 0 0 true false false 6 false false false false 0 0 true false false 7 false false false false 0 0 false false false xbrli:sharesItemType shares Total number of shares of common stock held by shareholders. May be all or portion of the number of common shares authorized. These shares represent the ownership interest of the common shareholders. Excludes common shares repurchased by the entity and held as Treasury shares. Shares outstanding equals shares issued minus shares held in treasury. Does not include common shares that have been repurchased. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher AICPA -Name Accounting Principles Board Opinion (APB) -Number 12 -Paragraph 10 Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher SEC -Name Regulation S-X (SX) -Number 210 -Section 04 -Article 3 Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher SEC -Name Regulation S-X (SX) -Number 210 -Section 02 -Paragraph 30 -Article 5 false 1 The cumulative translation loss included in accumulated other comprehensive income amounted to $765 million (2008: $1,085 million). The translation loss has no tax effect. The cumulative charge, net of deferred taxation of $33 million (2008: $68 million), included in accumulated other comprehensive income in respect of cash flow hedges amounted to $22 million (2008: $112 million). The cumulative gain, net of deferred taxation of $3 million (2008: $1 million), included in accumulated other comprehensive income in respect of available for sale financial assets amounted to $69 million (2008: $15 million loss). The cumulative gain included in accumulated other comprehensive income in respect of the hedge of a net investment in foreign entities amounted to $64 million (2008: $64 million). This gain is offset by $64 million (2008: $64 million) arising from translation of net investments in foreign entities. 2 As at December 31, 2009 and 2008, $254 million and $453 million, respectively, of retained earnings arising from the Company's equity accounted joint ventures and certain subsidiaries may not be remitted without third-party shareholder consent. 7 70 false HundredThousands NoRounding UnKnown false true