MORE: Akermanis: "Adam Goodes has got to stop looking like a sook"
Thurston believes the AFL is lagging behind the NRL on combating racism after Sydney Swans star Goodes has been routinely booed by opposition fans since performing an Aboriginal war dance during a match in late May.
The Swans announced yesterday that Goodes would not play against Adelaide on Saturday, with the 35-year-old taking personal leave after being affected by the treatment from supporters.
"It’s very appalling that someone of Adam Goodes’ stature is copping this (treatment)," Thurston told Triple M.
"We got to remember this is starting to affect him mentally now.
"This is where we need to be supportive of him and stand for his mental welfare at the moment.
"It’s very appalling in this day and age that racism is still a part of sport and society."
The three-time Dally M medallist said he has never been racially abused by an opposition player or fan with the NRL leading the AFL on combating the issue.
"For many years, the NRL has looked toward the AFL as the leader in sport in the country," Thurston said.
"But I think on this (racism) issue the NRL are far beyond the AFL on this."
Thurston believes there is a place in the game for supporter discontent but not if the target was offended.
The Kangaroos half back maintains if NSW Origin captain Paul Gallen felt that Queensland supporter boos were racially motivated, he would be urging the fans to stop.
"There is still room for booing in the game for people staging for free kicks," he said.
"The crowd has the right to boo a player.
"This individual Adam Goodes thinks that these boos are racially towards him.
"That’s the difference."