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One Australian is included in the 115 individuals wounded in a inferno that engulfed a busy tavern during a NYE celebration in the Swiss ski resort of Crans Montana, killing 40 people.

Government Confirmation on Australian Injured Person

A senior Australian government minister, Chris Bowen, announced this morning that an Australian citizen was among the injured and was obtaining medical care and diplomatic support.

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

He added, “It can be confirmed an Australian national was injured and is obtaining hospital treatment and the family is being assisted, assistance from the Australian embassy. I am unable to provide more specifics for privacy reasons. The person's identity is not being disclosed at this point.”

Department Response and Continued Efforts

The nation's foreign affairs department stated this morning it was offering diplomatic support 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 members of an Australian citizen that has been wounded and is in care following the fire. Because of our privacy commitments we are unable to provide further comment.”

The spokesperson added, “Dfat is making urgent inquiries with Swiss officials to determine whether any other Australians were impacted. Our team is ready to give consular help.”

Scope of Diplomatic Support

Diplomatic aid often encompasses:

• Contacting or going to hospitals in the area.
• Working with officials on site.
• Provision of lists of medical providers.
• Assistance communicating with family members.

Details of the Tragic Fire

Authorities in Switzerland stated the fire started at about 1.30am, local time, in a tavern favored by holidaymakers called Le Constellation, which is found in the downtown area of the alpine resort.

Footage from the event reveals fierce orange flames from inside the ground-floor bar and lounge. Cries and blaring music are audible, and several people were seen collapsed outside the building.

Some people who died in the blaze have not been able to be identified yet due to the severity of their burns.

Cause and the Blaze's Cause

Swiss police said it was not a case of arson for the blaze, which is thought to be the outcome of a mishap.

Advice for Worried Relatives

Citizens anxious regarding 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.