New Trouble for Ex-CFMEU Boss, Setka Charged Over Abusive Emails to Union Administrator

Darwin, Australia: The legal and industrial turmoil surrounding the Construction, Forestry, Maritime and Energy Union (CFMEU) has escalated with the arrest and charging of controversial former Victorian boss, John Setka.

Setka, 61, was arrested by state and federal police at his Footscray residence on Wednesday morning and charged with seven counts of using a communications device to menace, harass, and offend. Police allege the charges stem from a series of threatening and abusive emails sent to the union’s administrator following the issuing of internal compliance notices.

The arrest adds a sensational chapter to the ongoing crisis within the CFMEU. Setka had previously resigned in 2024 after 12 years at the helm of the Victorian branch, following explosive media reports alleging criminal links and corruption.

These reports claimed that major Victorian and NSW construction projects were being infiltrated by underworld figures and bikies posing as union delegates. The fallout led to the construction and general division of the union, across all its state branches, being placed into administration in mid-2024 to address allegations of serious misconduct and violence.

Known for his powerful influence and dedicated following, Setka’s career has been dogged by controversy.

His leadership was severely tested in 2019 following attempts by then-Opposition Leader Anthony Albanese to expel him from the Labor Party. That same year, Setka was convicted of harassing his now-estranged wife, leading to his eventual removal from the party months later.

The current charges related to the union’s administrator serve as a stark reminder of the deep internal divisions and serious allegations the CFMEU is currently facing under external control.