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An Australian is among the 115 persons hurt in a inferno that engulfed a busy tavern during a New Year’s Eve party in the Swiss ski resort of Crans-Montana, claiming 40 lives.

Government Confirmation on National Injured Person

Australia’s climate change and energy minister, Chris Bowen, announced this morning that an Australian had been injured and was obtaining medical care and diplomatic support.

“It is plainly a dreadful, dreadful disaster and I am confident every Australian extends their sympathies to the people of Switzerland, the victims and families,” the minister said during ABC RN radio.

He continued, “It can be confirmed an Australian national was injured and is obtaining hospital treatment and the relatives are getting help, assistance from the Australian embassy. I am unable to provide more specifics for reasons of personal privacy. The person's identity is not being disclosed at this point.”

Department Assistance and Continued Efforts

The Australian DFAT stated this morning it was offering diplomatic support to the hurt national and their family.

A department representative said: “DFAT is currently offering consular support to the relatives of an Australian national that has been injured and is receiving medical care following the fire. Owing to our privacy obligations we are not in a position to give more details.”

The representative further stated, “DFAT is conducting urgent checks with Swiss officials to determine whether any other Australians were impacted. We stand ready to provide consular assistance.”

Scope of Diplomatic Support

Consular assistance can include:

• Communicating with or visiting medical facilities.
• Working with officials on site.
• Offering information on doctors and clinics.
• Help in contacting relatives.

Details of the Blaze

Authorities in Switzerland stated the inferno ignited at approximately 1:30 am, local time, in a tavern favored by holidaymakers called Le Constellation bar, which is found in the downtown area of the alpine resort.

Footage from the event shows orange flames billowing from inside the street-level bar and lounge. Cries and blaring music are audible, and several people were seen collapsed outside the building.

Certain victims in the inferno remain unidentified yet due to the severity of their burns.

Investigation into the Blaze's Cause

Investigators stated the fire was not deliberately set for the inferno, which is considered 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 DFAT round-the-clock consular emergency line on 1300-555-135.