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One Australian is included in the 115 individuals wounded in a fire that tore through a crowded bar during a NYE celebration in the Alpine resort town of Crans-Montana, killing 40 people.

Ministerial Confirmation on National Casualty

A senior Australian government minister, Chris Bowen, confirmed on Friday morning 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’m sure all Australians send their condolences to the people of Switzerland, the victims and families,” the minister said during ABC RN radio.

He added, “I am able to verify an Australian was hurt and is getting medical attention and the relatives are getting help, support from Australian diplomats. Further details cannot be shared for reasons of personal privacy. The name of the individual is not being released at this point.”

Diplomatic Response and Continued Efforts

Australia’s Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade stated this morning it was providing consular assistance to the injured person and their family.

A foreign affairs official said: “Consular aid is being given by the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade to the family of an Australian that has been wounded and is in care following the fire. Because of our privacy commitments we are not in a position to give more details.”

The official continued, “The department is pursuing immediate inquiries with Swiss officials to determine whether any further Australian nationals were involved. Our team is ready to give consular help.”

Nature of Diplomatic Support

Consular assistance can include:

• Reaching out to or attending medical facilities.
• Coordinating with Swiss authorities.
• Offering information on doctors and clinics.
• Help in contacting relatives.

Circumstances Surrounding the Tragic Fire

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

Video of the incident shows orange flames billowing from inside the first-floor establishment. Shouts and loud tunes are discernible, and multiple persons were witnessed lying outside the building.

Certain victims in the blaze have not been able to be identified yet due to the extent of their injuries.

Cause and the Blaze's Cause

Investigators stated arson was not responsible for the inferno, which is considered to be the consequence of an unintentional act.

Advice for Worried Relatives

Citizens anxious regarding relatives who might have been involved in the fire were told to phone the DFAT round-the-clock consular emergency line on 1300 555 135.