CFMEU leader John Setka investigated by police over alleged abuse of Emma Walters

Union boss John Setka is being investigated by police over the alleged abuse of his estranged wife Emma Walters.

CFMEU Victorian secretary John Setka is facing a new police investigation. Picture: AAP

A new police investigation has been launched into union boss John Setka over reports he abused his estranged wife Emma Walters.

Victoria Police has confirmed it is probing reports concerning the 57-year-old’s conduct on January 26 this year.

“The investigation is ongoing and at this time it would be inappropriate to comment further,’’ the police statement said.

Mr Setka, who is the Victorian secretary of the CFMEU, was allegedly recorded by Ms Walters during a phone call on January 26 in which he allegedly abused her and made threats.

Emma Walters. Picture: Jay Town

Mr Setka allegedly threatened Ms Walters. Picture: Jay Town

It is understood the pair has lived apart since an alleged assault in August last year.

Mr Setka, in 2019, faced court over a series of abusive text messages.

He pleaded guilty to harassing his wife and breaching a court order and was placed on a one-year good behaviour bond.

He was also ordered by the court to complete a men’s behavioural program.

John Setka addresses construction workers as protests turn violent in September 2021. Picture: David Crosling

Ms Walters has given a signed statement to police in which she alleges Mr Setka called her a “dog c--t” during the alleged heated phone call.

“He started calling my brother a ‘dog c--t’. He told me that I was a ‘give-up dog c--t’ for talking to Footscray Police (in the past).’’

It was also alleged Mr Setka said Ms Walters’ job could be “taken away”.

Ms Walters is employed as a traffic management officer on a CFMEU-controlled building site in Melbourne.