Sydney:
A new controversy over racism in Australia has stemmed from the allegations made by a model of Indian origin.
The Sydney Morning Herald reports that Kema Rajandran was told by a national modelling agency that her "non-Caucasian heritage" would make it difficult for her to land work in Perth.
The article states that Ms Rajandran sent her photos to Chadwick Model Agency on Monday. The response, in an email, stunned her. "We think you are very photogenic and would be suitable for our Casting Division," the email said.
"Please note however that as you are of non-caucasian heritage that your work opportunities in Perth would be extrremely [sic] limited."
The Sydney paper states that Ms Rajandran has said she wants to go public with her story to prevent further discrimination against minorities. She has worked in the past as a model in the United Kingdom.
The modeling agency claims its response is being misinterpreted. "This is just ridiculous. I don't see that this is race related," Tanya Muia said to the paper.
"If we don't feel that she's going to secure work in the Perth market...then we tell [her] about it...we have the liberty to give an honest opinion."