A press release this morning:

Santa Claus is coming to town

A special visa issued by the Department of Immigration and Citizenship (DIAC) will bring happiness to the children of Australia at Christmas.

Santa Claus will be authorised to engage in limited work, of a highly specialised and non‑ongoing nature whilst in Australia under the conditions of the Business (Short Stay) visa (Subclass 456).

In approving the visa, a DIAC spokesman noted the happiness and economic benefits that had resulted from previous visits and his excellent record of compliance with past visa conditions.

Secretary of DIAC, Andrew Metcalfe said the whole department was supporting Santa’s visit and the spirit of Christmas with more than $50 000 raised for charity by departmental social clubs during the year.

Meanwhile, on Christmas Island:

 … the Minister for Home Affairs, Bob Debus, said the patrol boat acted quickly to intercept the vessel and ensure the safety and security of all on board.

After being transferred to Christmas Island the newcomers will join 127 others, mainly Afghans, who have sought to sail to Australia in recent months. More than 160 people have been caught this year; 148 were caught last year.

Accommodation for the detainees is in two temporary sites on Christmas Island, including a construction camp, while a new $400 million purpose-built detention centre there remains idle.

What a ridiculous, painful, tasteless farce.