The Victorian Government has scrapped a Labor policy forcing ministers to acknowledge traditional Aboriginal landowners at public events.

The Brumby government introduced the practice for ministers and public servants at every function they spoke at, known as the acknowledgment to country.

But the Coalition has dumped the policy, saying it is too politically correct and it should be up to ministers to decide if they use the introduction.

Opposition Aboriginal affairs spokesman Richard Wynne says the decision will disappoint a lot of people.

"It's clear that many Aboriginal people expect it and would be quite upset if that custom and practice, that was part of the Labor government, is not continued," he said.

Wurundjeri elder Joy Murphy is the face of the welcome to country ceremonies at major events in Melbourne.

She says the move is a backwards step.

"They've really wiped us off the map, so to speak, by not acknowledging traditional owners," she said.

"But I would really prefer that if anyone is going to acknowledge anyone, then they must do it with heart and good intentions."

Ms Murphy says she is disappointed the discussion has taken place during the Indigenous round of the AFL.

Former Essendon player Michael Long says he hopes the traditional welcome is retained.

"I would say to organisations, don't stop doing what you're doing," he said.

"It's about embracing people, Indigenous and non-Indigenous, who are part of history."

Premier Ted Baillieu did, however, use the acknowledgment at the funeral of boxer Lionel Rose on Monday.

Demeaning

Three former premiers have spoken out about the decision.

Jeff Kennett says using the acknowledgment at every function is demeaning.

"Let's not just do it by rote, where people stand up there and mouth words without any feeling any passion," he told ABC Local Radio.

"I mean I think that's almost disrespectful to do that."

Steve Bracks introduced the welcome to country acknowledgment in Victoria and says dumping it would be a retrograde step.

"Because it really positions the Government and sets the tone for the future and it's a wrong step," he said.

"It wasn't a compulsory matter. It has been referred to as such and by saying it's being removed, it is effectively setting up a debate which I think will set us back."

Another former premier Joan Kirner says the decision is upsetting.

"I think it's really important that this doesn't become a political issue, that this becomes an issue of growing our understanding of why we have this particular protocol," she said.