Outgoing CMFEU boss John Setka has received an icy farewell from Prime Minister Anthony Albanese following revelations that alleged organised crime figures had infiltrated the group.
When asked about the abrupt resignation, Albanese replied: “Good.”
“John Setka has no legitimate place in the Labor movement,” the prime minister said at a press conference today.
“It should be condemned, it should be isolated, should be stamped out.”
A months-long investigation has revealed bikies and criminals have been acting as CFMEU delegates and working on both state and federal projects.
In one instance, a convicted criminal and bikie figure was on a $250,000 government-funded salary on a Big Build worksite and even used a Hurstbridge Line Upgrade vehicle to engage in gang activities.
Among the underworld figures linked to the union are former Hells Angels bikie Luke Moloney, Hells Angel Enforcer Sammy “The Turk” Erkan, Mick Gatto, convicted criminal Johnny “Two Guns” Walker and Mongols boss Tyrone “Little Ty” Bell.
Setka has knocked backed the allegations, which he claims are false, saying “we’re not a criminal organisation, we’re a union”.
“I’m just sick and tired of these stories,” he told 9News.
Setka was due to leave the union at the end of the year but resigned, effective immediately, last night after the union was sent detailed questions relating to the investigation.
He weathered many storms over his 12 years as CFMEU secretary. He has also been convicted of domestic violence offences.
Last month he helped secure members a 21 per cent pay rise.
In light of the news, South Australian Premier Peter Malinauskas has asked police to investigate potential union-bikie links in his state and pressure is now growing on Victoria Premier Jacinta Allan to act.
A government spokesperson said: “Our expectations are clear. There is zero tolerance for illegal behaviour. John Setka has resigned, as he should.”