The booing of Swans player Adam Goodes is “unAustralian” and it would be a blight on the nation if it caused him to retire, federal Indigenous Affairs Minister Nigel Scullion says.

The indigenous AFL player and former Australian of the Year has taken leave after being targeted by constant booing while playing.

Mr Scullion told The Australian newspaper he was saddened by the abuse being heaped upon Goodes, whom he described as a great Australian prepared to call out racism.

“People use the word unAustralian too often but I can’t think of a better way to describe the behaviour of the crowd.

“There is definitely an element of bigotry and racism there and people should take a long look at themselves. This needs to be dealt with quickly. This is not just about Goodesey,” Mr Scullion said.

And he told the ABC “it would be a blight on this nation if this man was to retire because some mob … have decided to follow blithely in the footprints of ignorance”.