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One Australian is included in the 115 people injured in a fire that tore through a crowded bar during a New Year’s Eve party in the Alpine resort town of Crans Montana, killing 40 people.

Ministerial Statement on National Casualty

Australia’s climate change and energy minister, 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 people of Switzerland, the victims and families,” Bowen told ABC RN radio.

He continued, “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 person's identity is not being disclosed at this point.”

Diplomatic Assistance and Continued Efforts

Australia’s Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade verified early Friday it was offering diplomatic support to the affected individual and their relatives.

A department representative said: “DFAT is currently offering consular support to the family members of an Australian citizen that has been wounded and is in care following the fire. Owing to our privacy obligations we are prevented from commenting further.”

The spokesperson added, “Dfat is making urgent inquiries with Swiss officials to establish if any other Australians were impacted. Our team is ready to give consular help.”

Scope of Consular Assistance

Such support may involve:

• Contacting or going to local hospitals.
• Liaising with local authorities.
• Provision of lists of medical providers.
• Help in contacting relatives.

Details of the Tragic Fire

Authorities in Switzerland stated the blaze began around 1:30 a.m., local time, in a tavern favored by holidaymakers called Le Constellation bar, which is located in the centre of the Valais resort.

Video of the incident shows orange flames billowing from inside the street-level bar and lounge. Cries and blaring music are audible, and a number of individuals were observed fallen 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 Fire's Origin

Swiss police said it was not a case of arson for the fire, which is believed to be the consequence of an unintentional act.

Advice for Worried Relatives

Australian nationals worried about family members who may have been caught up in the fire were told to phone Dfat’s 24/7 consular emergency support line on 1300 555 135.