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An Australian national is counted among the 115 persons hurt in a inferno that engulfed a crowded bar during a end-of-year festivities in the Alpine resort town of Crans-Montana, killing 40 people.

Ministerial Statement on Australian Injured Person

The Australian minister for climate and energy, Chris Bowen, stated early Friday that an Australian citizen was among the injured and was receiving medical and consular assistance.

“It’s clearly a terrible, terrible tragedy and I am confident every Australian extends their sympathies to the people 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 relatives are getting help, support from Australian diplomats. I am unable to provide more specifics for privacy reasons. The name of the individual is not being released at this point.”

Department Response and Continued Efforts

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

A Dfat spokesperson said: “DFAT is currently offering consular support to the family of an Australian that has been injured and is receiving medical care following the fire. Because of our privacy commitments we are prevented from commenting further.”

The spokesperson added, “DFAT is conducting urgent checks with local authorities to ascertain if any further Australian nationals were involved. We stand ready to provide consular assistance.”

Scope of Diplomatic Support

Consular assistance can include:

• Contacting or going to medical facilities.
• Coordinating with Swiss authorities.
• Supplying details of healthcare professionals.
• Assistance communicating with family members.

Circumstances Surrounding the Tragic Fire

Local police reported the inferno ignited at approximately 1:30 am, local time, in a tavern favored by holidaymakers called the Constellation, which is located in the centre of the resort in Valais.

Footage from the event shows orange flames billowing from inside the street-level bar and lounge. Cries and blaring music are audible, and multiple persons were witnessed lying outside the building.

A number of those who perished in the inferno remain unidentified yet due to the seriousness of the 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 Concerned Australians

Australian nationals worried about family members who may have been caught up in the fire were instructed to contact the Australian diplomatic emergency hotline on 1300-555-135.