John Setka

John Setka is the Victorian state secretary in the Construction, Forestry, Maritime, Mining and Energy Union (CFMEU). The CFMEU is a large and powerful Australian union with ties to the Australian Labor Party (ALP). The leader of the Australian Labor Party Anthony Albanese has recommended that Mr Setka be expelled from the ALP after Mr Setke was alleged to have said that Rosie Batty's campaigning had reduced the rights of men.

Setke denies the allegations and praised Rosie Batty during a press conference. Mr Setke is quoted as having said:

“Every time I see Rosie Batty I want to give her a hug,”

The ALP national executive was expected to address the matter on 5 July 2019.

On 26 June 2019 Setka pled guilty to harassing his wife via a carriage service and received a one-year good behaviour bond.

Following the hearing Setka's wife, Emma Walters, was stated:

"I want to be very clear though, that while John and I have at times deeply hurt one another, there has never been any form of physical violence in our marriage or in our home."

"Both of us are taking responsibility for our behaviour and we are getting help from professionals to be sure we never hit rock bottom again."

Following court action, Setka was expelled from the ALP on 23 October 2020.

See Also

• Emma Walters