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An Australian national is counted among the 115 persons hurt in a inferno that engulfed a busy tavern during a end-of-year festivities in the Swiss ski resort of Crans Montana, killing 40 people.

Government Confirmation on Australian Casualty

The Australian minister for climate and energy, Chris Bowen, announced this morning that an Australian national was hurt and was receiving medical and consular assistance.

“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,” Bowen stated on ABC RN radio.

He continued, “I can confirm that one Australian has been injured and is getting medical attention and the relatives are getting help, support from Australian diplomats. Further details cannot be shared for privacy reasons. The name of the individual is not being released at this point.”

Department Assistance and Continued Efforts

The nation's foreign affairs department stated this morning it was providing consular assistance to the injured person and their family.

A department representative said: “DFAT is currently offering consular support to the family of an Australian that has been hurt and is undergoing treatment following the fire. Because of our privacy commitments we are unable to provide further comment.”

The representative further stated, “The department is pursuing immediate inquiries with authorities on the ground to determine whether any further Australian nationals were involved. Our team is ready to give consular help.”

Nature of Diplomatic Support

Diplomatic aid often encompasses:

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

Circumstances Surrounding the Blaze

Authorities in Switzerland stated the fire started at about 1.30am, local time, in a tavern favored by holidaymakers called Le Constellation bar, 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. Shouts and loud tunes are discernible, and multiple persons were witnessed lying outside the building.

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

Cause and the Fire's Origin

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 family members who may have been caught up in the fire were advised to call Dfat’s 24/7 consular emergency support line on the number 1300 555 135.