Construction union boss John Setka faces domestic violence charges
John Setka, head of Australia's construction union, faces charges of stalking and terrorising his wife, with police showing he called her 25 times in one evening.
John Setka, leader of the construction union division of the CFMEU, faces charges of stalking and terrorising his wife Emma Walters. Police analysis revealed that on one evening he rang her 25 times and sent 45 text messages.
The messages called her a 'weak' person and a 'traitor', among other insults. Setka pleaded guilty to harassment and breaching a family violence order.
Public criticism came from union leaders and Labor figures, including Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Daniel Andrews, then-Victorian Premier. The Australian Council of Trade Unions called for his resignation.
Behind the scenes, however, Setka received support from several figures. These included Mick Gatto, a prominent former underworld figure.
Rail, Tram and Bus Union secretary Luba Grigorovitch, now a state Labor minister, promised union backing. Labor adviser Tanja Kovac advised him on messaging.
- 25 calls and 45 text messages
- Phone calls one evening
- Emma Walters
- Wife
- Early 2019
- Case leaked
- Construction division of CFMEU
- Union position
Why it mattersThe story reveals how powerful union and Labor figures privately supported a leader facing serious domestic violence allegations despite public calls for accountability.
Corroborated bytheage.com.au·watoday.com.au
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