A nationwide Santa shortage may make your Christmas photos a no-ho-go

Kids across Australia could be left without a beloved festive tradition this year as the nation faces a Santa crisis, with Mr Claus himself in short supply.

As the holiday season approaches, finding someone to don the iconic red suit is no small task.

The Santa agency, Scene To Believe, is on a mission to bring ho-ho-hope to shopping centres nationwide, inviting Australians of all ages to step into Santa's boots and spread the joy.

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The Santa shortage a clause for concern

Head Christmas recruiter at Scene to Believe, Viviana Diaz, told news.com.au the shortage of Santas was nationwide, but the situation was particularly dire in Sydney.

With the agency finding enough Santa look-alikes to take up the task, they hope you can help.

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Think you can sleigh it as Santa?

Scene To Believe has extended an invitation for Australians from all walks of life, from grandparents to retirees and everyone in between, to become Santa Claus for a season. 

The job not only comes with perks like making kids' dreams come true and being everyone's favourite person, but it also pays well, too.

Starting mid-November, Santa roles offer a merry hourly wage between $30 and $34 for five-hour shifts during the week. 

There are also dozens of "Santa's Helper" positions available nationwide; you could be the messenger of happiness in your local community.

We ho-ho-hope this crisis doesn't last! Source: iStock

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The history of this iconic figure

Santa Claus, the rosy-cheeked gift-giver, has a rich history that dates back to Saint Nicholas, a fourth-century bishop renowned for his love for children and gift-giving tradition on December 6th. 

The modern image of Santa we know and love actually springs from Clement Clarke Moore's 1823 poem, "A Visit from St. Nicholas," better known as "The Night Before Christmas." Moore first introduced the jolly, rounded figure with a reindeer-pulled sleigh delivering gifts, but it was a fizzy drink that really cemented the icon's identity.

In the 1930s, the Coca-Cola Company's festive advertisements helped mould Santa's image into the plump, red-suited, white-bearded icon we know today, cementing his place in popular culture.

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A message from Santa himself... kind of

Santa veteran Tony Hooper shared his experience with Channel 9, "Being a Santa is the best work I've ever done. 

"I work when I want, and I spend my days talking to young families and getting in the festive spirit. It's also a great way to earn extra cash right before Christmas when I need it most."

Santa apply within

So, whether you're a grandparent looking for a fun gig or someone needing some jolly holiday cash, this could be the perfect opportunity.

Know someone who could fit the bill (or the beard), encourage them to don the red suit and embrace the spirit of Christmas. 

Remember, it's not just about cookies and milk; it's about making memories that last a lifetime.

Originally published as A nationwide Santa shortage may make your Christmas photos a no-ho-go