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One Australian is included in the 115 persons hurt in a blaze that ripped through a busy tavern during a end-of-year festivities in the Swiss ski resort of Crans Montana, claiming 40 lives.

Government Confirmation on Australian Injured Person

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

“It’s clearly a terrible, terrible tragedy and I am confident every Australian extends their sympathies to the Swiss people, the victims and families,” Bowen stated on ABC RN radio.

He added, “I can confirm that one Australian has been injured and is getting medical attention and the family is receiving support, support from Australian diplomats. I am unable to provide more specifics for reasons of personal privacy. The name of the individual is not being released at this point.”

Diplomatic Assistance and Continued Efforts

The nation's foreign affairs department verified early Friday it was providing consular assistance to the hurt national and their family.

A Dfat spokesperson 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 official continued, “Dfat is making urgent inquiries with local authorities to ascertain if any other Australians were impacted. Our team is ready to give consular help.”

Scope of Consular Assistance

Consular assistance can include:

• Contacting or going to hospitals in the area.
• Working with officials on site.
• Offering information on doctors and clinics.
• Support for reaching out to next of kin.

Circumstances Surrounding the Tragic Fire

Local police reported the fire started at about 1.30am, local time, in a bar popular with tourists called Le Constellation bar, which is found in the downtown area of the Valais resort.

Recordings of the tragedy shows orange flames billowing from inside the first-floor establishment. Shouts and loud tunes are discernible, and multiple persons were witnessed lying outside the building.

A number of those who perished in the fire have yet to be identified yet due to the seriousness of the burns.

Investigation into the Blaze's Cause

Authorities confirmed the fire was not deliberately set for the fire, which is believed to be the result of an accident.

Advice for Worried Relatives

Australians concerned about family members who may have been caught up in the fire were advised to call the DFAT round-the-clock consular emergency line on the number 1300 555 135.