The stage is set for the 2025 NRL Grand Final, and for the first time in five seasons, the Penrith Panthers will not be part of the decider. In another twist, Sydney will also be unrepresented, with the Melbourne Storm and Brisbane Broncos earning their places after thrilling preliminary final wins.
After seven months of hard-fought rugby league, it all comes down to these two powerhouse clubs in what promises to be a captivating contest for the Premiership crown.
Melbourne secured their sixth Grand Final berth in the past decade with a composed display at AAMI Park, dispatching the Cronulla Sharks to seal their spot. A year on from falling short against Penrith, Craig Bellamy’s men return with redemption firmly in mind.
The Storm’s mix of experience and resilience has carried them through another gruelling campaign, and they’ll look to replicate their Round 23 triumph over the Broncos — a commanding 22-2 victory — as they aim to reclaim the premiership glory.
Brisbane, meanwhile, arrive at Accor Stadium riding a wave of belief after pulling off one of the comebacks of the season to dethrone the Panthers at Suncorp Stadium.
Trailing by 14 points at half-time, Michael Maguire’s side roared back with Adam Reynolds’ composure and Payne Haas’ dominance leading the charge.
Now preparing for their first Grand Final appearance since 2015, the Broncos are brimming with confidence after exacting revenge on the Storm in Round 27, when they triumphed 30-14. With their attack firing and momentum on their side, Brisbane will fancy their chances of ending a decade-long title drought.
The Sporting News looks at the key details ahead of this game, including how to watch the match and kickoff times.
What time does Melbourne Storm vs. Brisbane Broncos kick off?
This NRL Grand Final takes place at the Accor Stadium in Sydney, Australia and kicks off on Sunday, October 5 at 7:30 p.m. local time.
Here's how that time translates across Australia:
| Date | Kickoff time | |
| Australian Eastern Daylight Time | Sun, Oct. 5 | 7:30 p.m. |
| Australian Central Daylight Time | Sun, Oct. 5 | 7:00 p.m. |
| Australian Western Standard Time | Sun, Oct. 5 | 4:30 p.m. |
Melbourne Storm vs. Brisbane Broncos live stream, TV channel
Here's how to watch the NRL Grand Final in Australia:
TV channel: Channel 9 (free-to-air)
Live stream: 9Now, Kayo (delayed stream)
This game is available for free live TV broadcast on Channel 9. Live streaming options are available on 9Now.
The 2025 grand final will be shown on Kayo Sports — but not live.
Instead, a grand final replay will be on Kayo once the game has wrapped up, which won't be before 9:00 pm AEST.
