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An Australian national is counted among the 115 individuals wounded in a fire that tore through a busy tavern during a NYE celebration in the mountain resort of Crans Montana, which resulted in 40 fatalities.

Ministerial Confirmation on National Casualty

Australia’s climate change and energy minister, Chris Bowen, confirmed on Friday morning that an Australian citizen was among the injured and was obtaining medical care and diplomatic support.

“This is undoubtedly a horrific, horrific tragedy and I’m sure all Australians send their condolences to the people of Switzerland, the individuals affected,” Bowen told ABC RN radio.

He further stated, “I can confirm that one Australian has been injured and is obtaining hospital treatment and the family is receiving support, assistance from the Australian embassy. Further details cannot be shared for reasons of personal privacy. The person's identity is not being disclosed at this point.”

Diplomatic Assistance and Continued Efforts

The Australian DFAT stated this morning it was providing consular assistance to the hurt national and their family.

A foreign affairs official 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. Because of our privacy commitments we are not in a position to give more details.”

The representative further stated, “DFAT is conducting urgent checks with Swiss officials to establish if any additional Australians were affected. We are prepared to offer diplomatic support.”

Scope of Consular Assistance

Consular assistance can include:

• Communicating with or visiting local hospitals.
• Coordinating with Swiss authorities.
• Provision of lists of medical providers.
• Help in contacting relatives.

Details of the Blaze

Local police reported the inferno ignited at approximately 1:30 am, local time, in a nightclub frequented by visitors called Le Constellation, which is found in the downtown area of the resort in Valais.

Video of the incident depicts orange fire raging from inside the first-floor establishment. Shouts and loud tunes are discernible, and several people were seen collapsed outside the building.

Certain victims in the fire have yet to be identified yet due to the seriousness of the burns.

Cause and the Blaze's Cause

Investigators stated it was not a case of arson for the inferno, which is considered to be the result of an accident.

Information for Concerned Australians

Citizens anxious regarding relatives who might have been involved in the fire were advised to call Dfat’s 24/7 consular emergency support line on 1300-555-135.