Former CFMEU leader John Setka has been arrested and faces charges related to allegedly threatening and harassing emails directed at a union administrator.
Authorities, including Victoria Police and the Australian Federal Police, apprehended Setka at his Footscray residence early this morning, around 6:40 AM.
Setka was subsequently interviewed and charged with seven counts related to the use of a device for menacing, harassing, and offending purposes.
During the arrest, detectives confiscated a mobile phone and an iPad as part of their investigation.
According to police allegations, Setka sent a series of emails containing threats, offensive language, and abuse to a CFMEU administrator after receiving a notice to produce documents on October 27, followed by a reminder letter on October 28.
Setka has been released on bail and is scheduled to appear before the Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on January 30.
The charges were laid following an investigation by Taskforce Hawk, which was set up in July 2024 to probe alleged criminal behaviour within the construction industry.
Assistant Commissioner Martin O’Brien from Victoria Police’s Crime Command urged people with information on concerning behaviours within the construction industry to contact police.
“As always, it can be done anonymously and reports will be treated with the strictest of confidence,” O’Brien said.
“I also want to be clear that any piece of information provided to police will be thoroughly investigated and we will continue to work closely with any other relevant agency as required.
“We will not tolerate behaviour that aims to intimidate and harass people who simply want to be able to go to work and perform their job to the best of their ability.”
At the time, Setka told 9News he decided to step down to “stop the barrage and all the false accusations” about the scandal-riddled union.
He has always denied all allegations of misconduct.
“If my stepping down can stop these malicious attacks on our members and officials and allow this great union to continue to fight for our members, for their wages and conditions, so that they go home safely to their families each day, then I’m happy,” Setka said.
Barrister Mark Irving KC was appointed as the union’s administrator to oversee its financial, legal and business affairs.
The union could remain under administration for up to five years.
