Setka Faces Charges for Harassing CFMEU Administrator
John Setka, the former head of the CFMEU, is facing new criminal charges. The allegations stem from a threatening message he sent to an official associated with the Albanese government. This incident occurred on Christmas Day last year and has escalated into serious legal trouble for Setka.
Details of the Charges Against Setka
Setka was arrested on the morning of February 25, 2026, in Footscray. He is scheduled to appear in court in early June. The charges are linked to a broader investigation by Victoria Police’s Taskforce Hawk, which targets criminal behavior in the construction industry.
- Age: 61 years old
- Arrest Date: February 25, 2026
- Court Appearance: Early June 2026
Background on Setka’s Legal Issues
Setka has previously been charged by Taskforce Hawk, with accusations of using electronic communication to threaten administration officials, including lawyer Geoffrey Watson, SC. Watson has publicly alleged that the Victorian Labor government has ignored corruption within the CFMEU, costing taxpayers an estimated $15 billion in infrastructure project mismanagement.
Operational Background
Taskforce Hawk was initiated in mid-2024 in response to investigative reports uncovering corruption and criminal practices within the CFMEU. The task force was upgraded in 2025, focusing on serious allegations of violent crimes.
Setka’s Defense and Claims
Setka disputes the allegations, claiming he merely expressed an opinion in his message, stating: “I hope you have a shit Christmas, because you are a bunch of sellout dogs.” He argues that there was no underlying threat in his comments and criticized CFMEU staff for what he perceives as overly sensitive reactions.
Additionally, Setka is under scrutiny for a separate incident involving a vehicle he contends he owns. He allegedly removed the car from a shopping center without authorization, leading to questions about potential domestic abuse claims, which he vehemently denies.
Conclusion
Setka’s ongoing legal troubles reflect significant controversies surrounding his leadership within the CFMEU and ongoing investigations into unethical practices within the union. His case remains a focal point in discussions about corruption and accountability in the labor sector.
