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An Australian is among the 115 people injured in a blaze that ripped through a busy tavern during a NYE celebration in the mountain resort of Crans-Montana, which resulted in 40 fatalities.

Government Confirmation on Australian Injured Person

The Australian minister for climate and energy, Chris Bowen, announced this 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 undoubtedly all Australians offer their thoughts to the people of Switzerland, the victims and families,” Bowen stated on 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. I can’t go into any further details for privacy reasons. The name of the individual is not being released at this point.”

Department Response and Ongoing Inquiries

The nation's foreign affairs department confirmed on Friday morning it was giving consular help to the affected individual and their relatives.

A department representative said: “Consular aid is being given by the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade to the family of an Australian 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 making urgent inquiries with Swiss officials to establish if any other Australians were impacted. Our team is ready to give consular help.”

Nature of Consular Assistance

Such support may involve:

• Contacting or going to hospitals in the area.
• Working with officials on site.
• Offering information on doctors and clinics.
• Support for reaching out to next of kin.

Circumstances Surrounding the Blaze

Swiss police said the blaze began around 1:30 a.m., local time, in a bar popular with tourists called the Constellation, which is situated in the heart of the Valais resort.

Footage from the event shows orange flames billowing from inside the street-level bar and lounge. Cries and blaring music are audible, and a number of individuals were observed fallen outside the building.

Some people who died in the inferno remain unidentified yet due to the seriousness of the burns.

Investigation into the Fire's Origin

Investigators stated it was not a case of arson for the inferno, which is considered to be the outcome of a mishap.

Information for Worried Relatives

Australians concerned about loved ones potentially affected in the fire were instructed to contact Dfat’s 24/7 consular emergency support line on 1300-555-135.