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An Australian is among the 115 people injured in a blaze that ripped through a busy tavern during a New Year’s Eve party in the mountain resort of Crans-Montana, killing 40 people.

Ministerial Confirmation on National Casualty

Australia’s climate change and energy minister, Chris Bowen, stated early Friday that an Australian citizen was among the injured and was getting both hospital treatment and embassy aid.

“It’s clearly a terrible, terrible tragedy and I am confident every Australian extends their sympathies to the people of Switzerland, the people involved,” Bowen told ABC RN radio.

He further stated, “I can confirm that one Australian has been injured and is getting medical attention and the family is receiving support, assistance from the Australian embassy. I am unable to provide more specifics for privacy reasons. The name of the individual is not being released at this point.”

Diplomatic Assistance and Ongoing Inquiries

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

A foreign affairs official said: “The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (Dfat) is providing consular assistance to the family members of an Australian citizen that has been injured and is receiving medical care following the fire. Because of our privacy commitments we are prevented from commenting further.”

The representative further stated, “The department is pursuing immediate inquiries with Swiss officials 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 local hospitals.
• Liaising with local authorities.
• Supplying details of healthcare professionals.
• Support for reaching out to next of kin.

Details of the Tragic Fire

Local police reported the inferno ignited at approximately 1:30 am, local time, in a nightclub frequented by visitors 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 first-floor establishment. Shouts and loud tunes are discernible, and a number of individuals were observed fallen outside the building.

A number of those who perished in the inferno remain unidentified yet due to the extent of their injuries.

Cause and the Blaze's Cause

Swiss police said the fire was not deliberately set for the blaze, which is thought to be the outcome of a mishap.

Information for Worried Relatives

Australians concerned about family members who may have been caught up in the fire were advised to call the Australian diplomatic emergency hotline on the number 1300 555 135.