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An Australian is among the 115 people injured in a inferno that engulfed a crowded bar during a New Year’s Eve party in the mountain resort of Crans Montana, killing 40 people.

Ministerial Statement on National Injured Person

Australia’s climate change and energy minister, Chris Bowen, announced this morning that an Australian citizen was among the injured and was receiving medical and consular assistance.

“This is undoubtedly a horrific, horrific 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 further stated, “I am able to verify an Australian was hurt and is obtaining hospital treatment and the relatives are getting help, Australian consular support. 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 Ongoing Inquiries

Australia’s Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade stated this morning it was giving consular help to the hurt national and their family.

A Dfat spokesperson said: “Consular aid is being given by the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade 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 not in a position to give more details.”

The spokesperson added, “The department is pursuing immediate inquiries with authorities on the ground to establish if any further Australian nationals were involved. We stand ready to provide consular assistance.”

Nature of Diplomatic Support

Diplomatic aid often encompasses:

• Reaching out to or attending medical facilities.
• Coordinating with Swiss authorities.
• Offering information on doctors and clinics.
• Assistance communicating with family members.

Details of the Tragic Fire

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

Footage from the event reveals fierce orange flames from inside the street-level bar and lounge. Screams and loud music can be heard, and several people were seen collapsed outside the building.

Some people who died in the blaze have not been able to be identified yet due to the severity of their burns.

Cause and the Fire's Origin

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

Advice for Concerned Australians

Australian nationals worried about relatives who might have been involved in the fire were advised to call the DFAT round-the-clock consular emergency line on the number 1300 555 135.