Australia Post apologises for 'inexcusable', offensive sign in Adelaide office

An Australia Post store in Adelaide has been forced to apologise after refusing to take photos for customers needing an Indian passport.

The choice of wording on a sign about passport services at the City Cross store has left members of the Indian community in shock and disbelief, and led to accusations of racism.

"Due to our lighting and quality of photo background, we unfortunately can not take Indian photos," the sign said.

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Community leader Rajendra Pandey said the way the sign read was "quite offensive".

"I thought this was actually talking about my colour," Pandey said.

"I took it personally and so have other people who have contacted me so far."

"It is unfortunate it was poorly worded," Pandey said.

Others questioned why the sign only mentioned Indian people.

"I would say it's discrimination," one person said.

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"In a developed country like Australia which promotes cultures and diverse people living here, it should not be like this," said another.

"We are humans."

Australia Post has since released a statement apologising unreservedly to the community for any offence caused.

"As soon as we were made aware, we immediately removed the sign and have spoken with the team member concerned," a spokesperson said.

"While the wording of the sign is inexcusable, we understand the Indian Consulate had rejected a number of customers' passport photos provided by this post office.

"Although no offence was intended, the lapse in judgement falls well below the standard we expect from Australia Post team members."

The store manager has told 9News while the sign was not intended to be racist, it has since been taken down.