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An Australian national is counted among the 115 people injured in a fire that tore through a busy tavern during a NYE celebration in the Alpine resort town of Crans Montana, claiming 40 lives.

Government Statement on Australian Injured Person

The Australian minister for climate and energy, Chris Bowen, confirmed on Friday morning that an Australian citizen was among the injured and was obtaining medical care and diplomatic support.

“It’s clearly a terrible, terrible tragedy and I’m sure all Australians send their condolences to the nation of Switzerland, the victims and families,” the minister said during ABC RN radio.

He further stated, “It can be confirmed an Australian national was injured and is getting medical attention and the family is receiving support, Australian consular support. Further details cannot be shared for reasons of personal privacy. The person's identity is not being disclosed at this point.”

Department Assistance and Continued Efforts

The Australian DFAT verified early Friday it was providing consular assistance to the affected individual and their relatives.

A foreign affairs official said: “The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (Dfat) is providing consular assistance to the family members of an Australian citizen that has been wounded and is in care following the fire. Due to our confidentiality duties we are prevented from commenting further.”

The official continued, “Dfat is making urgent inquiries with Swiss officials to determine whether any additional Australians were affected. Our team is ready to give consular help.”

Scope of Consular Assistance

Diplomatic aid often encompasses:

• Contacting or going to hospitals in the area.
• Working with officials on site.
• Supplying details of healthcare professionals.
• Help in contacting relatives.

Circumstances Surrounding the Blaze

Authorities in Switzerland stated the inferno ignited at approximately 1:30 am, local time, in a bar popular with tourists called the Constellation, which is situated in the heart of the Valais resort.

Video of the incident reveals fierce orange flames from inside the street-level bar and lounge. Cries and blaring music are audible, and several people were seen collapsed outside the building.

Some people who died in the fire have yet to be identified yet due to the seriousness of the burns.

Cause and the Blaze's Cause

Investigators stated arson was not responsible for the inferno, which is considered to be the result of an accident.

Information for Worried Relatives

Citizens anxious regarding loved ones potentially affected in the fire were instructed to contact the DFAT round-the-clock consular emergency line on 1300 555 135.