As Queensland further opens its borders to Australians while maintaining international border restrictions, it appears a high-profile exception has been made a month out from Christmas Day.
"We understand Santa has received a special global travel exemption to ensure he can deliver gifts who are on the nice list right across the world," a Queensland Health spokeswoman said.
Under national guidelines, Australia's borders are closed to everyone other than Australian citizens, residents, family members, and those who have spent the past two weeks in New Zealand.
There are also exceptions for those catching connecting flights and unaccompanied minors.
Even government officials and foreign diplomats must quarantine at home when they arrive.
But Santa Claus must still follow the state guidelines, even as he attempts once again to deliver presents across the state and the world.
"Just like we're asking all Queenslanders, we're asking Santa and his workers to adhere to the health directions in place on Christmas Eve," a spokeswoman said.
"Whether he's delivering presents or coal, Santa will keep 1.5 metres away from others, wash his hands before and after eating his milk and cookies, and carry extra hand sanitiser in his sleigh."
She said Santa would also be expected to take a COVID-19 test if he shows any symptoms, and ask Mrs Claus to take his place on the sleigh if need be.
Mr Claus has 'innate immunity'
The state health department is not the only one having to consider if Santa's annual efforts might be affected during a pandemic.
Head of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases in the United States, Dr Anthony Fauci, told media on Friday there were no concerns that Santa's travels could carry COVID-19 with him as he travels from house to house.
"Santa is exempt from this because Santa, of all the good qualities, has a lot of good, innate immunity," he said.
"Santa is not going to be spreading any infections to anybody."
He said Mr Claus had been conducting fewer public appearances in the US and has been spotted wearing a mask, as suggested by US health authorities.
