Melbourne, Australia – Former Construction, Forestry and Maritime Employees Union (CFMEU) branch secretary John Setka has been charged with sending threatening emails to the union’s administrator following a police investigation into alleged misconduct.
The 61-year-old was arrested on Wednesday morning in Footscray, in Melbourne’s inner west, by detectives from Taskforce Hawk — a specialist unit investigating allegations of criminal behaviour within the construction sector.
According to police, Australian Federal Police officers executed a Commonwealth search warrant, seizing a mobile phone and an iPad. Mr Setka was subsequently interviewed and charged with seven counts of using a telecommunications device to menace, harass, or offend.
Allegations and Investigation
Authorities allege that Mr Setka sent a series of threatening, offensive, and abusive emails to a CFMEU-appointed administrator after a legal notice was served in October 2024.
The investigation follows the federal government’s decision in August 2024 to place the CFMEU into administration amid serious allegations of bullying, corruption, and criminal infiltration within the union.
Mr Setka, a prominent union official for nearly four decades, resigned as head of the CFMEU’s construction division in July 2024, citing increasing pressure from intense media scrutiny and public criticism.
Court Proceedings and Police Statement
Mr Setka has been released on bail and is scheduled to appear before the Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on 30 January.
Victoria Police Assistant Commissioner Martin O’Brien said Taskforce Hawk remained committed to investigating all allegations of criminal conduct within the construction industry.
“We will not tolerate behaviour that seeks to intimidate or harass individuals who simply want to go to work and perform their duties safely,” Mr O’Brien said.
“We encourage anyone with information about concerning behaviour in the construction industry to come forward and speak with police. Reports can be made anonymously and will be treated in the strictest confidence.”
