Ho, Ho, Ho! – Health Minister exempts Santa from 14-day quarantine period

Nov 27, 2020

NSW Health Minister Brad Hazzard has sent a letter to Santa officially exempting him from the 14-day Covid quarantine period when he enters NSW.

The exemption also applies to nine named reindeers, including Prancer, Rudolph, Vixen, Dasher, Cupid and Blitzen, plus “any elves required to assist with delivery of presents”.

Great news – Santa can hardly believe it! He’s on his way, kids

The letter to Mr Claus – addressed to 123 Elf Rd, North Pole – does contain some conditions to ensure a Covid safe delivery method.

“I am aware you have safely delivered presents to children in Australia during previous pandemics and as a result I am confident you will take the necessary precautions to keep our community safe,” said Minister Hazzard in the letter.

“Accordingly, this exemption will include the following precautions:

All presents will be delivered after bedtime to minimise contact;
You and your elves maintain 1.5 metres physical distancing should you encounter others;
If you are unwell, you get a COVID-19 test and isolate right away;
You and your elves must wash your hands regularly and carry hand sanitiser;
Wear a mask if you or your elves are ever unable to maintain physical distancing.”

A spokeswoman for Santa Claus confirmed receipt of the special exemption and said Santa and his helpers were only too happy to comply, having secured a jumbo supply of hand and hoof sanitiser to last their journey.

“After a challenging year, Mr Claus wants this Christmas to be the best yet,” she said.

“Santa’s advice to the NSW community is to stay safe and look after each other as you reflect on how blessed NSW has been in keeping COVID-19 at bay.”

The exemption has been shared with NSW Police to ensure Santa is able to travel freely and safely across Australia’s most populous state.