It seems somebody in Barnaby Joyce’s office has a very clever wit, or has too much time on their hands.
In the lead-up to Christmas the Minister for Agriculture and Water Resources’ released “exclusive” information that Santa Claus will not be violating the country’s bio-security laws.
Santa said he wants to make sure he stays off the government's 'naughty list' this Christmas.
"Even I'm not entirely sure how many houses I visit every Christmas Eve, but I can tell you it's a busy night when one small delay could mean some very sad kids on Christmas morning," Mr Claus said.
No doubt Mr Claus has been put on notice in the wake of Hollywood actor Johnny Depp’s running battle with Mr Joyce regarding the illegal important of his pet dogs.
Mr Joyce said even Saint Nicholas does not get special treatment when he enters Australia on Christmas eve.
"You've got to admit, Santa Claus has a big job – but so do we in managing Australia's biosecurity system. We can't just let foreign animals, unknown packages and soiled vehicles into the country willy nilly, so we need to make some special considerations to help Santa get his job done," Minister Joyce said.
"That's why we work closely with Santa and his elves in the lead up to Christmas to make sure everything runs as it should.
Minister Joyce thanked Santa and his elves for their cooperation in meeting Australia's strict biosecurity rules at this busy time and in helping to ensure Christmas was as successful this year as in previous years.
"We've also got biosecurity officers on standby ready to check Santa's sleigh and boots—and then check them twice—for live insects, soil and other contaminants, which could unknowingly carry prohibited seeds and other pests and diseases,” he said.
