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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 Swiss ski resort of Crans-Montana, claiming 40 lives.

Ministerial Confirmation on Australian Injured Person

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.

“It’s clearly a terrible, terrible tragedy and I’m sure all Australians send their condolences to the Swiss people, the victims and families,” Bowen told ABC RN radio.

He further stated, “I am able to verify an Australian was hurt and is getting medical attention and the family is receiving support, assistance from the Australian embassy. Further details cannot be shared for reasons of personal privacy. The individual's name is being withheld at this point.”

Diplomatic Assistance and Continued Efforts

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

A Dfat spokesperson said: “DFAT is currently offering consular support to the relatives of an Australian national that has been hurt and is undergoing treatment following the fire. Due to our confidentiality duties we are prevented from commenting further.”

The spokesperson added, “The department is pursuing immediate inquiries with Swiss officials to ascertain if any further Australian nationals were involved. We stand ready to provide consular assistance.”

Nature of Consular Assistance

Diplomatic aid often encompasses:

• Reaching out to or attending hospitals in the area.
• Liaising with local authorities.
• Provision of lists of medical providers.
• Assistance communicating with family members.

Circumstances Surrounding the Tragic Fire

Local police reported the blaze began around 1:30 a.m., local time, in a nightclub frequented by visitors called Le Constellation, which is situated in the heart of the resort in Valais.

Footage from the event depicts orange fire raging from inside the street-level bar and lounge. Screams and loud music can be heard, 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

Investigators stated the fire was not deliberately set for the inferno, which is considered to be the result of an accident.

Information for Concerned Australians

Australian nationals worried about relatives who might have been involved in the fire were advised to call the Australian diplomatic emergency hotline on the number 1300 555 135.