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An Australian national is counted among the 115 people injured in a blaze that ripped through a crowded bar during a New Year’s Eve party in the Alpine resort town of Crans Montana, killing 40 people.

Government Statement on National Injured Person

The Australian minister for climate and energy, Chris Bowen, announced this morning that an Australian had been injured and was getting both hospital treatment and embassy aid.

“This is undoubtedly a horrific, horrific tragedy and undoubtedly all Australians offer their thoughts to the nation of Switzerland, the victims and families,” Bowen stated on ABC RN radio.

He added, “It can be confirmed an Australian national was injured and is receiving medical care and the family is receiving support, support from Australian diplomats. I can’t go into any further details for privacy reasons. The name of the individual is not being released at this point.”

Department Assistance and Continued Efforts

The nation's foreign affairs department stated this morning it was giving consular help to the affected individual and their relatives.

A Dfat spokesperson said: “The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (Dfat) is providing consular assistance to the family of an Australian that has been wounded and is in care following the fire. Owing to our privacy obligations we are unable to provide further comment.”

The official continued, “DFAT is conducting urgent checks with local authorities to establish if any further Australian nationals were involved. We are prepared to offer diplomatic support.”

Nature of Diplomatic Support

Consular assistance can include:

• Communicating with or visiting medical facilities.
• Coordinating with Swiss authorities.
• Offering information on doctors and clinics.
• Assistance communicating with family members.

Details of the Blaze

Swiss police said the inferno ignited at approximately 1:30 am, local time, in a bar popular with tourists called Le Constellation bar, which is located in the centre of the Valais resort.

Video of the incident depicts orange fire raging from inside the street-level bar and lounge. Screams and loud music can be heard, and multiple persons were witnessed lying outside the building.

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

Investigation into the Blaze's Cause

Authorities confirmed arson was not responsible for the blaze, which is thought to be the consequence of an unintentional act.

Information for Worried Relatives

Citizens anxious regarding relatives who might have been involved in the fire were instructed to contact the Australian diplomatic emergency hotline on 1300-555-135.