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The Melbourne Storm have advised that they are to scale back Welcome to Country ceremonies as of the 2025 NRL season.

However, the club has hit back at weekend media reports saying the ceremonies were to be scrapped, today advising that they will continue to hold Welcome ceremonies at 'culturally significant' events.

The Storm held three Welcome to Country ceremonies in 2024, which included on ANZAC Day and during Indigenous Round.

In a statement the club advised "Melbourne Storm is not 'ditching' its Welcome to Country or acknowledgements as suggested by recent media.

"We will continue these acknowledgements at culturally significant celebrations."

The Storm’s statement highlighted its introduction of a new community strategy with First Nations communities as a priority in its planning and programs, alongside the Pasifika and All Abilities communities.

It will host the annual Men’s Gathering this year at AAMI Park, which will host Aboriginal men from across Australia while also supporting a full-time resource in its office to deliver the School to Work program, helping First Nations students in their transition from school to work.

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