Australia Cup Final marred by Welcome to Country jeers

Football Australia has condemned a section of the crowd who jeered during the Welcome to Country at the Australia Cup Final on Saturday.

South Melbourne became the first National Premier Leagues side to win the Australia Cup, beating Melbourne Victory on penalties at AAMI Park. However, the occasion was marred by the booing of Uncle Colin Hunter Jr's Welcome to Country by a section of the crowd at the south end of the stadium.

Football Australia chief executive Martin Kugeler said in a statement that the incident was "not reflective of the respect and inclusivity that define our game".

"Football has a proud connection with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and communities," he said. "Football is a game for everyone, and we remain committed to ensuring our matches are welcoming and respectful occasions for all."

Victoria's Minister for Sport and Major Events Steve Dimopoulos also criticised those fans who booed, saying it was "not our best moment".

"In Greek we have an important word for how we should act: filotimo, doing the right thing by others with dignity," he said in a social media statement. "Generations of migrants, including my own community, were welcomed into this country. We should show the same respect to the people who have been on these lands for many years before we got here."

Melbourne Lord Mayor Nicholas Reece said the match was a great occasion, but he was saddened by the jeering during the Welcome to Country.

"That was extremely disappointing to see. It was shameful actually," he said. "As Australians we show respect and people should show respect during the Welcome to Country."