Jeff Kennett talks to fans during a Hawthorn training session on April 17, 2021. Picture: AFL Photos

PRESIDENT Jeff Kennett has promised that Hawthorn is taking Cyril Rioli's claims against the club seriously, while giving no clue as to his immediate future.

In a letter to members on Wednesday, Kennett said the Hawks were trying to find out if there had been other incidents affecting past Indigenous players.

"Some will demand immediate answers and actions but, given how important these matters are, the best response is a measured and responsible one," Kennett said.

Rioli and his wife Shannyn Ah Sam-Rioli have said a number of race-related incidents contributed to the four-time premiership star's decision to retire from the AFL prematurely at 28.

Cyril Rioli celebrates a goal against Port Adelaide in R16, 2016. Picture: AFL Photos

They also made it clear they will not return to Hawthorn while Kennett remains president.

In response to the allegations, prominent Hawthorn supporters group Hawks for Change called on Kennett to immediately step down.

Former Victorian premier Kennett's second term as Hawks president is due to end in December next year.

Matters have been brought to our attention. We are taking them seriously and any failings will be addressed.

- Jeff Kennett

But in his first public comments since Rioli and his wife went public on Saturday, Kennett gave no indication of his future in the role.

"I can assure you that the board and the administration will not shirk our responsibility to work through these matters," Kennett said.

"We will firstly seek to establish the facts, before working through the best way of responding to the matters that require addressing.

"Matters have been brought to our attention. We are taking them seriously and any failings will be addressed."

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On Saturday, Hawthorn made a public apology to the Rioli family for racism they experienced at the club.

Rioli, who won the Norm Smith medal and was a crucial part of Hawthorn's four flags from 2008 to 2015, is a revered figure at the club.

"We were all saddened by the story that there had been incidents that had upset both he and his wife," Kennnett said.

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"We have taken those claims seriously and are conducting further inquiries to see if there might have been other incidents affecting our past First Nations players.

"Can I finally say on this matter: we all want Cyril back with us at Hawthorn. I hope that we can work through the hurt he feels and make him feel welcome and safe in the brown and gold family again."